Search Results (40,570)

Background/Objectives: To evaluate the modality-specific impact of cataracts on the detection of hydroxychloroquine retinopathy. Methods: In this retrospective cohort study, 202 eyes (101 patients) with confirmed HCQ retinopathy were included; analyses focused on 141 cataractous eyes from 72 patients. At each visit, the severity of cataracts in 141 eyes was graded using the Lens Opacities Classification System III (LOCS III), with clinically significant cataracts defined as a LOCS III grade ≥ 3. Screening was performed using swept source optical coherence tomography (OCT), ultrawide field fundus autofluorescence (FAF), and Humphrey visual field (HVF) tests. The detection rates of abnormalities on OCT, FAF, and HVF were compared between minimal (at the time of diagnosis or after cataract surgery) and maximal cataract severity as well as between eyes with clinically significant cataracts and others. Multivariate logistic regression was performed to identify the factors associated with the detection of retinopathy-associated abnormalities across each screening modality. Results: Of the 141 eyes with cataracts, 52 (36.9%) developed clinically significant opacities during the monitoring period, and 23 (16.3%) underwent cataract surgery. OCT detected ellipsoid zone disruptions in 100% of cataractous eyes, while visual fields revealed characteristic paracentral scotomas with comparable sensitivity regardless of cataract severity. In contrast, FAF sensitivity was significantly lower in eyes with clinically significant cataracts (61.5%) compared to those with mild cataracts (92.1%, p < 0.001). Sensitivities were also reduced at maximal versus minimal severity in eyes with clinically significant cortical opacities and nuclear opalescence (both p < 0.05). Multivariate analysis demonstrated that higher cortical opacity (odds ratio [OR] 0.43 per grade increase, 95% CI 0.22–0.85) and nuclear opalescence (OR 0.21, 95% CI 0.07–0.66) independently decreased FAF detection, whereas greater retinopathy severity was positively associated with detection on both FAF (OR 4.85, 95% CI 1.40–16.9) and HVF (OR 3.37, 95% CI 1.17–9.71). Conclusions: Cataracts impaired the FAF-based detection of hydroxychloroquine retinopathy, while OCT and HVF remained reliable despite significant lens opacities. Therefore, clinicians should consider cataract severity when interpreting FAF results and prioritize OCT and HVF assessments in patients with clinically significant cataracts. Full article

In this study, Enterococcus faecalis strains isolated from raw cow’s milk were examined for genetic diversity, ability to produce biogenic amines (including histamine, tyramine, putrescine, cadaverine, 2-phenylethylamine) and the presence of corresponding amino acid decarboxylase genes. Identification of 29 strains obtained from Polish farms was carried out by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and matrix-assisted laser desorption and ionization time of flight (MALDI-TOF MS) methods, and their genetic relationships were assessed by the Enterobacterial Repetitive Intergenic Consensus Polymerase Chain Reaction (ERIC-PCR) technique. Amine production capacity was assessed in vitro on synthetic medium, while the presence of decarboxylase genes (hdcA, tyrS, tyrDC, Odc, ldc) was detected by molecular assays, with the use of optimized primers enabling the detection of tyrDC in strains previously considered negative. The results showed high variability between strains and the ability of some isolates to produce high concentrations of tyrDC (max. > 1000 mg/kg); the presence of the tyrDC gene was strongly correlated with high production, although tyrDC-positive strains with low production were also reported, suggesting the influence of regulatory or environmental factors. The study underscores the need for precise molecular tools and systematic monitoring of biogenic amines to ensure the safety and quality of dairy products. Full article

Mechanical draft cooling towers are among the most critical water-consuming equipment in industries such as thermal power and petrochemicals. Strengthening their water usage performance is therefore crucial for alleviating China’s water resource pressure. To this end, this study employs the makeup water rate indicator to analyze the core factors influencing water-use efficiency in mechanical draft cooling towers, utilizing Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient analysis and partial least squares regression (PLSR) methods. The results reveal that ambient temperature and inlet pressure exhibit significant negative correlations with the makeup water rate, while blowdown pressure and concentration multiple show significant positive correlations. Gray correlation analysis indicates that blowdown pressure (correlation degree: 0.923) and concentration multiple (correlation degree: 0.897) are the key driving factors. The PLSR-based prediction model for the makeup water rate demonstrates a strong goodness of fit, with explanatory power exceeding 80%. This research provides a modeling foundation for optimizing the operational control of mechanical draft cooling towers, thereby promoting sustainable management of industrial water use. Full article

Background/Objectives: Despite a wealth of research on potential socio-emotional outcomes of child care participation, results have been mixed, likely reflecting between-study differences in confounding variables assessed. Moreover, there is a need for updated studies using Canadian population data. The purpose of this study was to assess associations between child care participation between the ages of 1 and 5 years and socio-emotional outcomes four years later, accounting for a wide range of potential confounding variables. Methods: This study uses data from 8929 children ages 1–5 who participated in the 2019 Canadian Health Survey on Children and Youth, for whom follow-up data were available from the 2023 collection cycle. Parents reported on their use of child care for the target child in 2019; children’s socio-emotional functioning was assessed via a parent report in 2023. Associations between child care participation and outcomes were assessed using logistic and linear regression, adjusting for confounding factors including child age and gender, low family income, parental education, parental marital status, positive parenting, and education disruptions due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Results: Child care participation among 1–5 year olds was associated with higher scores for symptoms of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), and internalizing problems but a lower likelihood of having functional difficulty making friends four years later. Differences in these associations were noted based on the type of child care attended and family income, with centre-based care showing the most robust associations with ODD and internalizing symptoms, particularly among those living above the low-income threshold. Conclusions: These results highlight important contextual differences in associations between child care participation in early childhood and socio-emotional outcomes four years later. Associations with socio-emotional outcomes persisted after adjusting for important contextual factors, including positive parenting and COVID-related school disruptions. Full article

Electric vehicles (EVs) are widely recognized as a critical component of strategies for a more sustainable transportation sector. However, adoption remains uneven across communities, in part due to the concern that limited charging availability and long commutes discourage EV use. This paper evaluates the following two hypotheses: (H1) census tracts with longer average commute durations exhibit lower levels of EV adoption, and (H2) greater availability of local charging infrastructure is associated with higher levels of adoption. Using a cross-sectional dataset of 2024 EV registrations in Washington State merged with census tract demographic characteristics, we estimate ordinary least squares models of per capita adoption. The results show that longer average commutes are negatively associated with adoption, while greater charger density is positively associated with adoption. Demographic factors such as income, education, and race also shape adoption patterns. While the cross-sectional design does not permit causal inference, the analysis highlights how behavioral constraints related to range anxiety and infrastructural provision jointly influence EV uptake, providing evidence to guide more equitable and effective EV policies for sustainable transportation. Full article

Background: Tumor necrosis factor−alpha (TNF−α) serves as a central mediator of inflammation and represents key therapeutic target in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). This study investigates the protective effects of salidroside (Sal) against inflammation and explores its underlying molecular mechanisms. Methods: We employed network pharmacology to identify potential targets of Sal. The anti−inflammatory effects of Sal were evaluated in LPS−induced cellular models using NCM460 colonic epithelial cells and RAW264.7 macrophages, as well as in a murine model of acute colonic inflammation. Direct target engagement was confirmed through cellular thermal shift assay (CETSA) and co−immunoprecipitation (Co−IP). The mechanism was further elucidated via site−directed mutagenesis and analysis of the IKK/NF−κB signaling pathway. Results: Network pharmacology predicted TNF−α as a key target. Sal significantly attenuated LPS−induced inflammation in vitro and ameliorated colitis symptoms in vivo. Notably, CETSA and Co−IP assays confirmed direct interaction between Sal and TNF−α. Mutagenesis studies identified Arg179, Lys188, and Tyr191 as critical residues for this binding. Mechanistically, Sal inhibited TNF−α−mediated activation of the IKK/NF−κB pathway and the subsequent production of pro−inflammatory cytokines. Conclusion: Our findings demonstrate that Sal alleviates inflammation by directly binding to TNF−α and suppressing the downstream NF−κB signaling cascade, thereby positioning it as a promising therapeutic candidate for TNF−α−driven inflammatory diseases. Full article

Arid inland basins represent critical hotspots of intensified conflict among water resources, ecological integrity, and economic development on a global scale. The coevolution of groundwater systems and land use patterns plays a pivotal role in shaping regional sustainability trajectories. This study synthesizes multi-source data spanning 2000 to 2020 from the Wuwei Basin, located within the Shiyang River watershed in China, to elucidate the synergistic dynamics between hydrological and land use transformations. Key findings reveal: (1) Around 2010, a significant structural shift in land use occurred, transitioning from production-oriented expansion to ecologically driven priorities. This shift was characterized by a reduction in cultivated land, increased utilization of artificial surfaces, and accelerated ecological restoration efforts. These changes were jointly influenced by enhanced water governance frameworks and spatial planning policies. (2) Groundwater levels exhibit marked spatial variability. While stability is maintained in piedmont and discharge zones, persistent overdraft has led to pronounced declines in transitional and distal recharge areas. This heterogeneity is primarily governed by the interplay of hydrogeological factors—such as recharge capacity and aquifer permeability—and anthropogenic pressures, including the extent of cultivated land and intensity of groundwater extraction. Notably, these patterns cannot be explained solely by the proportion of cultivated land or total extraction volumes. (3) A positive feedback mechanism—termed the “gain-loss regime shift”—has been identified in the discharge zone, where simultaneous increases in groundwater extraction and water-level recovery are observed. However, human activities have disrupted the natural coupling between precipitation and groundwater recharge, resulting in a significant attenuation of recharge rates (exceeding 80%). These findings offer a robust scientific basis for implementing spatially differentiated water resource management strategies and optimizing land use in arid basin environments. The implications extend beyond regional contexts, contributing to broader efforts in harmonizing human–environment interactions globally. Full article

This paper addresses the very important and topical issue of the effective and efficient implementation of green and energy transition processes, taking into account social aspects and energy security. Due to climate change and the geopolitical situation, these processes are currently priorities for most countries and regions of the world. The opportunity to achieve success in their implementation lies in the implementation of the Open Innovation concept in a new model developed and presented in this paper. Its essence is an identified group of stakeholders in the processes under study (science, business, state, society, environment) and their specific positions, roles, and relationships. It was also important to analyze the mechanisms of cooperation and interaction between stakeholders, defining key forms and directions, as well as ways of harmonizing them, leading to synergy in innovation processes. A significant stage of the work was also the development of a RACI role and responsibility matrix, which enabled the precise assignment of functions to individual stakeholders in the developed model. Key challenges, barriers (technological, regulatory, organizational, and social), and factors conducive to the coordination of cooperation and interests of the identified stakeholder groups were also identified. To deepen knowledge and better understand the dynamics of this cooperation, a matrix was also developed to assess priorities and their impact on the energy sector within the open innovation model. This tool enables the identification of diverse perspectives in relation to key criteria such as energy security, innovation, social participation, and sustainable development. In addition, a set of indicators (in five key categories of the innovation ecosystem) was developed to enable multidimensional measurement of the effectiveness, efficiency, and scalability of the open innovation model in the energy sector. They also allow for the study of the impact of these factors on the sustainable development, security, and resilience of energy systems. The developed and presented concept of a model of cooperation between stakeholders using the Open Innovation model in the energy industry is universal in nature and can also be used in other sectors. Its application offers broad opportunities to support the management of transformation processes, taking into account the innovative solutions that are necessary for the success of these processes. Full article

The dynamic development of autonomous vehicle (AV) technologies has intensified the need to understand the factors influencing their acceptance. This study aims to develop user profiles reflecting different levels of enthusiasm toward autonomous buses in Warsaw. A quantitative research design was employed, using a survey of 385 residents collected via CAPI, CATI, and CAWI methods. Cluster analysis (k-means method) identified distinct user profiles based on attitudes toward autonomous buses and general trust in technology: Cluster 1—Enthusiastic Adopters, Cluster 2—Sceptical Opponents, and Cluster 3—Cautious Optimists. The study confirmed that demographic characteristics (age, gender, education level, occupational status) significantly influence the level of enthusiasm for autonomous buses. Younger, highly educated, and professionally active individuals showed highest levels of acceptance. Furthermore, a higher level of general trust in technology was positively associated with greater acceptance of autonomous buses. The research highlights important implications and recommends focusing on districts with a higher concentration of Enthusiastic Adopters and targeted communication strategies for Sceptical Opponents and Cautious Optimists. However, study limitations include the geographic restriction to Warsaw and the absence of data capturing changes in attitudes over time. Future research should be expanded to other cities, exploring ongoing dynamics of trust and acceptance. Despite limiting the research to one specific city, the research tool used and the research itself can be applied to similar cities regardless of their geographical location or size. Full article

(1) Background: Attending universities in foreign countries is a great challenge for international students, especially when adapting to a new culture and meeting specific university requirements. In this context, the present study investigates the relationship between students’ personal (i.e., psychological capital) and social resources (i.e., teachers’ support, perceived support of family, friends, and significant others), the satisfaction and frustration of their psychological needs (i.e., autonomy, competence, and relatedness), and how these factors contribute to their overall well-being (i.e., academic engagement and burnout). (2) Methods: A sample of 185 international students enrolled at a medical university in Romania completed six questionnaires. Stepwise linear regression analysis was conducted to verify the study’s hypotheses. (3) Results: The results indicated that students’ engagement was positively associated with psychological capital, teachers and family support, and autonomy need satisfaction. Also, autonomy needs’ satisfaction was negatively related to burnout, while autonomy and relatedness needs’ frustrations were positively associated. (4) Conclusions: Based on these findings, specific strategies were proposed to significantly enhance international students’ well-being in the medical university environment. Full article

Scientific assessment of sustainable development potential (SDP) and analysis of spatial heterogeneity mechanisms of traditional villages are crucial for promoting the synergy between cultural heritage conservation and rural revitalization strategies. With an emphasis on traditional villages in the Cantonese region, this study develops a thorough evaluation methodology that combines spatial analysis and multi-criteria decision-making. It aims to (1) systematically reveal the spatial differentiation characteristics of sustainable development potential; (2) develop and validate a combined weighting method that effectively integrates both subjective and objective weights; and (3) identify key driving factors and their interaction mechanisms influencing the formation of this potential. To achieve these objectives, the research sequentially conducted the following steps: First, an evaluation indicator system encompassing socioeconomic, cultural, ecological, and infrastructural dimensions was developed. Second, the Analytic Hierarchy Process and the Entropy Weight Method were employed to calculate subjective and objective weights, respectively, followed by integration of these weights using a combined weighting model. Subsequently, the potential assessment results were incorporated into a Geographic Information System, and spatial autocorrelation analysis was applied to identify agglomeration patterns. Finally, the Geographical Detector model was utilized to quantitatively analyze the explanatory power of various influencing factors and their interactions on the spatial heterogeneity of potential. The main findings are as follows: First, the sustainable development potential of traditional Cantonese villages exhibits a significant “core–periphery” spatial structure, forming a high-potential corridor in the Zhongshan–Jiangmen–Foshan border area, while peripheral areas generally display “low–low” agglomeration characteristics. Second, the combined weighting model effectively reconciled 81.0% of case discrepancies, significantly improving assessment consistency (Kappa coefficient above 0.85). Third, we identified economic income (q = 0.661) and ecological baseline (q = 0.616) were identified as key driving factors. Interaction detection revealed that the interaction between economic income and transportation accessibility had the strongest explanatory power (q = 0.742), followed by the synergistic effect between ecological baseline and architectural heritage (q = 0.716), highlighting the characteristic of multi-factor synergistic driving. The quantitative and spatially explicit evaluation framework established in this study not only provides methodological innovation for research on the sustainable development of traditional villages but also offers a scientific basis for formulating regionally differentiated revitalization strategies. The research findings hold significant theoretical and practical importance for achieving a positive interaction between the conservation and development of traditional villages. Full article

This study aims to examine the fundamental determinants of economic growth in G20 countries in the context of institutional structure, innovation, and education. The significance of the research lies in revealing that sustainable economic growth is shaped not only by traditional macroeconomic factors but also by the effectiveness of institutions, innovation capacity, and human capital investments. The existing literature contains limited studies that comprehensively address the interactions between these three variables and economic growth, specifically in G20 countries. The study applies panel data analysis to G20 countries for the period 2005–2024 and performs panel Granger causality analysis using fixed and random effects models after horizontal section dependence, unit root, and cointegration tests. Empirical findings show that institutions, innovation, and education variables have significant and positive effects on economic growth. Granger causality test results reveal that these variables unidirectionally drive growth, while growth has no feedback effect on these factors. The findings indicate that strengthening institutional reforms, encouraging R&D and innovation investments, and increasing human capital capacity are critical for sustainable and high-quality economic growth for policymakers. Full article

Zero-sum beliefs about human–nature relations represent a relatively understudied psychological construct that can shape prosocial behaviours directed toward both the natural environment and humans. Yet, little is known about the individual difference factors that contribute to these beliefs. This study investigates whether Need for Cognition, Tolerance of Ambiguity, and Social Dominance Orientation (SDO) predict zero-sum beliefs about the human–nature relationship (ZSB-NH). A cross-sectional, online survey (N = 355 Australians, M_Age = 52.77) assessed Need for Cognition, Tolerance of Ambiguity, SDO, and ZSB-NH, with hierarchical multiple regression revealing that together, Need for Cognition, Tolerance of Ambiguity, and SDO explained 29.9% of the variance in ZSB-NH. However, only SDO, and specifically SDO-Anti-Egalitarianism, significantly predicted ZSB-NH, with a positive and large effect. Need for Cognition and Tolerance of Ambiguity were not significant predictors of ZSB-NH, despite significant negative correlations with ZSB-NH, highlighting the importance of multivariate research to reveal the true effects of these predictors. The findings contribute to the limited research on ZSB-NH, suggesting that interventions should target hierarchical attitudes to influence zero-sum beliefs about the human relationship with nature. Full article

Background/Objectives: The use of dentin grafts in bone regeneration has gained increasing attention as an alternative to conventional grafting materials. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), known for their osteogenic potential, have been combined with various biomaterials to enhance regenerative outcomes. This study aimed to evaluate the regenerative potential of dentin grafts and bovine-derived xenografts, with or without MSCs, in experimentally created bone defects in a rat model. Methods: A total of 25 male rats were randomly assigned to five groups: control, dentin graft, dentin graft and MSC, xenograft, and xenograft and MSC. Standardized 2-mm cortical defects were created bilaterally in the femoral shafts. Histological and immunohistochemical analyses were performed after a 90-day healing period. Statistical evaluation was carried out using the Kruskal–Wallis H test and Bonferroni-adjusted pairwise comparisons. Results: Complete healing was achieved in all groups without evidence of complications or inflammatory reactions. Immunohistochemical staining demonstrated no positive vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), collagen type I (COL1), or osteopontin (OPN) reactions in defect areas, consistent with complete maturation, although collagen type 3 (COL3) positivity was observed in residual xenograft material. Quantitative analysis showed that the dentin graft and MSC group achieved the highest degree of new bone formation (M = 92.88%, SD = 6.09), significantly greater than the control (p = 0.002) and xenograft groups (p = 0.013). Conclusions: Both dentin grafts and xenografts demonstrated enhanced bone defect healing when combined with MSCs. Nevertheless, dentin grafts in conjunction with MSCs yielded the most favorable regenerative outcomes, suggesting their clinical superiority over conventional xenografts. Full article

Opioid misuse and suicide among youth remain pressing public health challenges. This scoping review examined studies published between 2020 and 2024 on associations between opioid misuse and suicidal ideation, suicide attempts, or non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) among adolescents and young adults aged 12–30, emphasizing sex and racial or ethnic differences. Guided by Arksey and O’Malley’s framework and PRISMA-ScR, we searched MEDLINE (PubMed), PsycINFO, Scopus, Embase, and CINAHL for peer-reviewed cross-sectional studies in English. Eligible studies assessed nonmedical prescription or illicit opioid use and excluded clinical or incarcerated samples and those with older participants. Seventeen studies met the inclusion criteria. Fifteen analyzed U.S. national or state data, one examined youth in the Northern Mariana Islands, and one used Canadian data. Sixteen studies identified a positive association between opioid misuse and suicide-related outcomes, while one showed a recency gradient, with current misuse carrying the highest risk. Other findings showed that frequent misuse increased risk, multiple substance use heightened danger, and females and youth from racial and ethnic minority groups were more vulnerable. Opioid misuse is strongly associated with suicide risk. Integrated, sex- and culturally responsive prevention strategies are needed, alongside further research clarifying mechanisms and protective factors. Full article