Combining Gravity Box-Coverage with Effective Distance to Identify Key Nodes in Complex Networks

Contemporary techniques for identifying key nodes in complex networks typically rely on the static topology of the network, often neglecting the potential dynamic information available. We introduce a novel centrality measurement approach named gravity box-coverage and effective distance (GBED). It capitalizes on the notion that the internal structure of the gravity box encapsulates crucial information about nodes. It transforms static Euclidean distance into dynamic effective distance (ED), extracting concealed insights through an analysis of both static and dynamic topological paths. Initially, the ED between nodes is computed based on node arrival probabilities. Subsequently, the box-coverage algorithm defines the influence area of nodes. The improved gravity model is then applied to estimate the interaction ability between nodes. Finally, the local influence capability score of the node's box, covering the influence region, is calculated. The global influence capability score of the node is aggregated according to the neighborhood rule. We compare it with five established methods based on nine real-world networks. In the SIR epidemic spreading, the nodes identified by GBED exhibit a broader range of influence, and the correlation between estimated influences of nodes from GBED and real influences by simulation is higher than correlations associated with other algorithms

Evaluation of the recent seasonal variations of the composition and enantiomeric distribution of volatiles and of polymethoxyflavone in Sicilian cold-pressed mandarin (C. deliciosa Ten.)

Cold-pressed mandarin (Citrus deliciosa Ten.) essential oil is prized for its aroma and bioactive properties, yet its composition varies seasonally. This study assessed the volatile profile, enantiomeric distribution, and polymethoxyflavone (PMF) content of Sicilian mandarin oils across different harvests. A total of 111 samples were collected over three consecutive seasons (2020–2024) in Sicily. Volatile compounds were analyzed using gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometer (GC–MS) for identification and flame ionization detector (GC–FID) for quantification. Enantiomeric ratios of selected chiral monoterpenes were determined via dual-detection enantioselective GC–(FID)2, improving separation of critical pairs. PMF content was measured by HPLC-PDA. Results revealed significant seasonal variation in volatile and PMF profiles, highlighting the influence of harvest timing on oil quality. Enantiomeric ratios also varied, confirming their role as reliable quality indicators

Studio delle alterazioni biochimiche e molecolari indotte dal perfluorottano sulfonato (PFOS) in modelli sperimentali di neurodegenerazione

Il perfluorottano sulfonato (PFOS), contaminante persistente della classe dei PFAS, è in grado di bioaccumularsi nel sistema nervoso centrale e contribuire a processi neurodegenerativi. Questo studio ha valutato le alterazioni biochimiche e molecolari indotte dal PFOS in modelli sperimentali di neurodegenerazione

Evaluation of Polyphenol-Rich Lemon Peel Extract Use in a Zebrafish Model of Spinal Cord Injury: Morphology, Repair-Associated Markers, and Inflammatory Profile

Flavonoids are a diverse group of natural polyphenolic compounds, recognized for their ability to modulate cellular pathways and mitigate the pathological processes of many neurodegenerative diseases. This study investigates the neurotrophic potential of a polyphenolic-rich lemon peel extract (Lpe) in a Zebrafish larvae spinal cord injury (SCI) model. To evaluate its potential effects, embryos were divided into six experimental groups: a baseline control group in which larvae were neither subjected to spinal cord injury nor treated (Ctrl Group); a group with larvae subjected to spinal cord injury at 3 dpf without treatment (SCI Group); a group treated continuously with Lpe (25 μg/mL) from 0 to 5 dpf without injury (Continuous Group); a group treated continuously with Lpe and injured at 3 dpf (Continuous SCI Group); a group treated with Lpe starting at 3 dpf without injury (Curative Group); and finally, a group injured at 3 dpf and treated simultaneously with Lpe (Curative SCI Group). Lpe treatment significantly downregulated proinflammatory cytokines (tnfa, il1b, and xcl8), and modulated the neuroregenerative pathways Wnt/β catenin, and neurotrophic factor Bdnf. Immunohistochemical analysis further revealed Sox2-positive cells localized around the central canal, consistent with activation of ependymal progenitor populations involved in injury-induced repair processes. These findings support the exploration of Lpe for mitigating SCI-induced damage

Filoviridae: classificazione, proprietà dei virus, replicazione, caratteristiche delle infezioni

I Filoviridae prendono il nome dall'aspetto allungato dei virioni. Alcuni sono tra i virus a più elevata mortalità conosciuti al mondo. Per studiarli sono necessari laboratori con livelli di biosicurezza BL4

Tra speranze successi e delusioni: l’eversione della feudalità nella Calabria del primo Ottocento

Il contributo, sulla scorta della storiografia più recente, formula alcune coniderazioni sugli effetti nelle Calabrie delle leggi eversive della feudalità emanate dal regime napoleonico durante il cosiddetto "Decennio francese" nel Regno di Napoli (1806-1815), sottolieando risultati e limiti

Decarbonising Summer Cooling in Residential Buildings: Integrating Occupant Summer Thermal Comfort into the Smart Readiness Indicator

The decarbonisation of the building sector is increasingly challenged by rising summer temperatures and the growing demand for cooling, especially in high-density residential buildings. University residences (UR) are a critical building type where overheating, poor indoor air quality (IAQ), and occupant vulnerability converge, directly impacting health, well-being, and energy demand. In this context, the Smart Readiness Indicator (SRI), introduced at the European level, aims to promote climate-responsive building management. However, the current methodology primarily reflects technological readiness rather than the actual performance of indoor environments. This study proposes a methodological framework to assess the correspondence between summer thermal comfort (defined by UNI EN 16798-1) and IAQ considerations in relation to the SRI score. This would enhance the SRI’s role as a decision-making and policy support tool. The approach involves reviewing the European regulatory framework on summer comfort, defining comfort- and IAQ-oriented indicators in line with the SRI structure, and applying dynamic energy simulations to a representative UR case study. The results reveal a consistent overall SRI score for the case study, reflecting different indoor summer conditions, while scores linked to “Comfort” and “Health, Well-being” criteria align with dynamic simulation outcomes. This suggests an initial correspondence between comfort, IAQ indicators, and SRI impact criteria

Partial Fishmeal Replacement with Defatted Hermetia illucens Meal in Offshore-Farmed Gilthead Seabream (Sparus aurata): Effects on Fillet Quality and Microbiological Stability

The search for sustainable alternatives to fishmeal (FM) in aquafeeds represents a major challenge for modern aquaculture. This study evaluated the effects of replacing 35% of FM with defatted Hermetia illucens larvae meal (HIM35) in diets of gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata) reared under full-scale commercial offshore farming conditions. Fillet nutritional quality, fatty acid and amino acid profiles, mineral composition, and microbiological stability during refrigerated storage were assessed. Dietary HIM35 significantly modified the fatty acid profile, increasing saturated fatty acids, particularly lauric and myristic acids, and n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids. Despite reductions in eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acids (EPA and DHA), total PUFA and lipid health indices remained within recommended ranges and EPA + DHA levels were above 8%, supporting both fillet nutritional value and fish physiological requirements. Enzymatic indices based on product-to-precursor fatty acid ratios suggested reduced Δ5 + Δ6-desaturase activity. The amino acid profile showed increases in selected essential and non-essential amino acids, while overall protein quality was preserved. HIM35 fillets showed lower sodium and higher zinc contents, whereas increased aluminum levels warrant further investigation. Microbiological analyses confirmed the absence of foodborne pathogens and no effects on spoilage dynamics. Overall, HIM35 represents a safe and effective partial replacement for FM supporting sustainable aquafeed strategies

Gliosarcoma: A Reappraisal of Neuroradiological, Surgical, Morphological, and Radiotherapeutic Characteristics of a Cohort From South Italy Single-Center

Gliosarcoma (GS) is a rare and aggressive variant of glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), characterized by a biphasic histopathological pattern featuring both glial and mesenchymal components. Accounting for 2% of all GBM cases, this brain tumor is known for its poor prognosis, rapid progression, and resistance to conventional treatments. Despite advances in molecular profiling and multimodal treatment strategies, GS remains a therapeutic challenge due to their highly invasive nature and limited response to standard regimens. The purpose of this study was to characterize the neuroradiological, surgical, clinicopathological, and radiotherapeutic profiles of a cohort of patients affected by GS, including two recurrences of disease