bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Chemical Composition on the Microstructure and Properties of Multicomponent Nickel-Based Boride Layers Produced on C45 Steel by the Hybrid Method
Authors: Tacikowski Michał , Łukaszewicz Grzegorz , Kulka Michał , Diduszko Ryszard , Wierzchoń Tadeusz
Published: February 2024

Layers of iron–nickel Fe-Ni-B-type borides were produced on C45 steel using a new hybrid treatment variant which combines boriding under glow discharge conditions with galvanic nickel precoating. The aim was to investigate whether these layers could constitute an alternative to the previously developed multicomponent Fe-Ni-B-P-type layers produced by a hybrid treatment variant using chemical nickel precoating. The basis for assessing the effects of both alternative treatments was a comparative analysis of the microstructure and performance properties of three model boride layers: iron–nickel boride layers of the Fe-Ni-B and Fe-Ni-B-P types, and reference iron Fe-B-type boride layer. It was demonstrated that the new variant of hybrid treatment produces Fe-Ni-B layers with the highest thickness, slight porosity, the optimal structure of Ni2B boride in the near-surface zone and the best performance properties. These layers show good adhesion, a much higher hardness of 2200 HV0.05 and near-surface compressive stresses of −450 MPa. Fe-Ni-B-P layers show slightly better wear resistance for higher loads, but like Fe-B layers, they are susceptible to spalling. It was demonstrated that Fe-Ni-B layers produced using boriding with nickel galvanic steel precoating could find application in heavy-duty elements of nanobainitic steel processing.
Lung Ultrasonography Does Not Distinguish between Interstitial and Alveolar Pulmonary Edema
Authors: Liu Jing
Published: February 2024

For a long time, lung diseases have been considered the “forbidden zone” for ultrasound diagnosis because the lung is filled with gas, and the ultrasound waves are totally reflected when they encounter gas [...]
Use of Diode Laser in Hysteroscopy for the Management of Intrauterine Pathology: A Systematic Review
Authors: Etrusco Andrea , Buzzaccarini Giovanni , Laganà Antonio Simone , Chiantera Vito , Vitale Salvatore Giovanni , Angioni Stefano , D’Alterio Maurizio Nicola , Nappi Luigi , Sorrentino Felice , Vitagliano Amerigo , Difonzo Tommaso , Riemma Gaetano , Mereu Liliana , Favilli Alessandro , Peitsidis Panagiotis , D’Amato Antonio
Published: February 2024

Background: Hysteroscopy currently represents the gold standard for the diagnosis and treatment of intrauterine pathologies. Recent technological progress has enabled the integration of diagnostic and operative time, leading to the “see and treat” approach. Diode laser technology is emerging as one of the most innovative and intriguing techniques in this context. Methods: A comprehensive search of the literature was carried out on the main databases. Only original studies reporting the treatment of intrauterine pathologies using diode laser were deemed eligible for inclusion in this systematic review (PROSPERO ID: CRD42023485452). Results: Eight studies were included in the qualitative analysis for a total of 474 patients undergoing laser hysteroscopic surgery. Eighty-three patients had female genital tract abnormalities, 63 had submucosal leiomyomas, 327 had endometrial polyps, and one patient had a scar pregnancy. Except for leiomyomas, whose technique already included two surgical times at the beginning, only seven patients required a second surgical step. Cumulative rates of intraoperative and postoperative complications of 2.7% and 0.6%, respectively, were reported. Conclusions: Diode laser through “see and treat” hysteroscopy appears to be a safe and effective method. However, additional studies with larger sample sizes and improved designs are needed to consolidate the evidence currently available in the literature.
The Role of Neutrophil Extracellular Traps in the Outcome of Malignant Epitheliomas: Significance of CA215 Involvement
Authors: Himcinschi Mihai Emanuel , Uscatescu Valentina , Gherghe Georgiana , Stoian Irina , Vlad Adelina , Popa Delia Codruța , Coriu Daniel , Anghel Andrei
Published: February 2024

Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) were originally discovered as a part of the innate immune response of the host to bacteria. They form a web-like structure that can immobilize microorganisms or exhibit direct antimicrobial properties, such as releasing reactive oxygen species (ROS). NETs are established when neutrophils undergo a sort of cellular death following exposure to ROS, chemokines, cytokines, or other soluble factors. This process results in the release of the neutrophil’s DNA in a web-like form, which is decorated with citrullinated histones (H3/H4-cit), neutrophil elastase (NE), and myeloperoxidase (MPO). Emerging studies have put into perspective that NETs play an important role in oncology as they were shown to influence tumor growth, malignant initiation, and proliferation, mediate the transition from endothelial to mesenchymal tissue, stimulate angiogenesis or metastasis, and can even help cancer cells evade the immune response. The role of NETs in cancer therapy resides in their ability to form and act as a mechanical barrier that will provide the primary tumor with a reduced response to irradiation or pharmaceutical penetration. Subsequently, cancer cells are shown to internalize NETs and use them as a strong antioxidant when pharmaceutical treatment is administered. In this review, we explored the role of NETs as part of the tumor microenvironment (TME), in the context of malignant epitheliomas, which are capable of an autonomous production of CA215, a subvariant of IgG, and part of the carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) superfamily. Studies have shown that CA215 has a functional Fc subdivision able to activate the Fc-gamma-RS receptor on the surface of neutrophils. This activation may afterward stimulate the production of NETs, thus indicating CA215 as a potential factor in cancer therapy surveillance.
Emotionally Based School Avoidance in the Aftermath of the COVID-19 Pandemic: Neurodiversity, Agency and Belonging in School
Authors: Hamilton Lorna G.
Published: February 2024

Lockdowns at the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic led to extended school closures globally, and in many countries school attendance has not recovered to pre-pandemic levels. In England, education leaders have expressed concern both about increased anxiety among pupils and chronic absenteeism post-pandemic, against a backdrop of over a decade of increasing mental health need among children and young people. This article presents a narrative review with the aims of (a) conceptualising emotionally based school avoidance (EBSA), and (b) identifying strategies for supporting children and young people experiencing psychological barriers to attending school. The underlying reasons for school being experienced as a hostile environment by a minority of pupils are explored, with research findings specifically relating to the school experiences of neurodivergent pupils in mainstream settings included as an illustrative example. The psychological constructs of belongingness and agency are discussed as potential mechanisms of change. Finally, psychologically informed strategies to address EBSA are reviewed, drawing on the framework of multiple systems of support. To reduce absenteeism in pupils experiencing EBSA, and thus avoid exacerbating educational inequalities in disadvantaged groups, it is essential to understand psychological barriers to school attendance and to work collaboratively and compassionately with pupils and families towards solutions.
Bracing Ourselves: Embracing Policy Changes through a Long-Standing University–Schools Teacher Education Partnership in England
Authors: Warren-Lee Nicola , Smith Lorna , Orchard Janet , Kelly Lucy , James Jon , Coles Alf
Published: February 2024

We articulate the principles behind our practices as teacher educators for an Initial Teacher Education (ITE) provider in South-West England working in partnership with local schools. We position them as ‘braces’ that enable us not only to withstand but ‘embrace’ the challenges of the current policy environment, which imposes braces of its own. All ITE providers in England must present their curriculum and teaching plans for approval by the Department for Education, one of many significant changes to ITE required in England over the last decade. Furthermore, for such plans to be approved they must assume a model of schooling based on knowledge acquisition in tension with not only our own motivations but also a broader (global) conversation among teacher educators critical of policy priorities for schooling and professional teacher formation that prioritise success in high-stakes tests and international league tables. The braces/principles emerge through articulating our collective understandings of and concerns with the policy braces. Our principles connect to the processes we feel confident are necessary aspects of ‘becoming’ teachers and can hold our Post Graduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) together, going forwards. The braces—becoming an informed educator; becoming an ethical actor; becoming a reflective practitioner—have a distinctive form of reflexivity at their heart and should apply to everyone across our partnership: us, as university-based teacher educators; school-based colleagues; and pre-service teachers. We offer our approach and the braces/principles we have developed to others also struggling to reconcile their own notions of good teacher education with national policy imperatives.
Detection of Underground Dangerous Area Based on Improving YOLOV8
Authors: Ni Yunfeng , Huo Jie , Hou Ying , Wang Jing , Guo Ping
Published: February 2024

In order to improve the safety needs of personnel in the dark environment under the well, this article adopts the improved YOLOV8 algorithm combined with the ray method to determine whether underground personnel are entering dangerous areas and to provide early warning. First of all, this article introduces the coordinate attention mechanism on the basis of YOLOV8 target detection so that the model pays attention to the location information of the target area so as to improve the detection accuracy of obstruction and small target areas. In addition, the Soft-Non-Maximum Suppression (SNMS) module is introduced to further improve accuracy. The improved model is then combined with the ray method to be deployed and applied under a variety of angles and different scenic information cameras. The experimental results show that the proposed method obtains 99.5% of the identification accuracy and a frame speed of 45 Frames Per Second (FPS) on the self-built dataset. Compared with the YOLOV8 model, it has a higher accuracy and can effectively cope with the changes and interference factors in the underground environment. Further, it meets the requirements for real-time testing in dangerous underground areas.
An Evolved Transformer Model for ADME/Tox Prediction
Authors: Shao Changheng , Shao Fengjing , Huang Song , Sun Rencheng , Zhang Tao
Published: February 2024

Drug discovery aims to keep fueling new medicines to cure and palliate many ailments and some untreatable diseases that still afflict humanity. The ADME/Tox (absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion/toxicity) properties of candidate drug molecules are key factors that determine the safety, uptake, elimination, metabolic behavior and effectiveness of drug research and development. The predictive technique of ADME/Tox drastically reduces the fraction of pharmaceutics-related failure in the early stages of drug development. Driven by the expectation of accelerated timelines, reduced costs and the potential to reveal hidden insights from vast datasets, artificial intelligence techniques such as Graphormer are showing increasing promise and usefulness to perform custom models for molecule modeling tasks. However, Graphormer and other transformer-based models do not consider the molecular fingerprint, as well as the physicochemicals that have been proved effective in traditional computational drug research. Here, we propose an enhanced model based on Graphormer which uses a tree model that fully integrates some known information and achieves better prediction and interpretability. More importantly, the model achieves new state-of-the-art results on ADME/Tox properties prediction benchmarks, surpassing several challenging models. Experimental results demonstrate an average SMAPE (Symmetric Mean Absolute Percentage Error) of 18.9 and a PCC (Pearson Correlation Coefficient) of 0.86 on ADME/Tox prediction test sets. These findings highlight the efficacy of our approach and its potential to enhance drug discovery processes. By leveraging the strengths of Graphormer and incorporating additional molecular descriptors, our model offers improved predictive capabilities, thus contributing to the advancement of ADME/Tox prediction in drug development. The integration of various information sources further enables better interpretability, aiding researchers in understanding the underlying factors influencing the predictions. Overall, our work demonstrates the potential of our enhanced model to expedite drug discovery, reduce costs, and enhance the success rate of our pharmaceutical development efforts.
Predicting Highway Risk Event with Trajectory Data: A Joint Approach of Traffic Flow and Vehicle Kinematics
Authors: Huang Shichun , Chen Haiyu , Wen Xin , Zhang Hui
Published: February 2024

Real-time collision risk prediction is essential for improving highway safety and reducing traffic accidents. However, previous studies have mainly used crash data and associated spatially discrete and temporally continuous traffic data, overlooking the potential of vehicle trajectory data, which provides comprehensive spatio-temporal information to characterize traffic near a specific location. Moreover, researchers have typically focused on either traffic flow characteristics or inter-vehicle microscopic kinematic characteristics for real-time risk prediction, with a dearth of studies integrating these two aspects. Given that risk events transpire more frequently than accidents and exhibit a strong correlation with them, it is imperative to concentrate more on risk events to proactively diminish crash probabilities. This study introduces a novel approach that extracts traffic flow and inter-vehicle kinematic features from risk events. It also provides a comparative analysis of the effectiveness of five machine-learning methods (Logistic Regression, K-Nearest Neighbors, eXtreme Gradient Boosting, Random Forests, and Multilayer Perceptron) and two data-processing strategies (oversampling and undersampling) in addressing risk identification and prediction issues. The results showed that (1) the synergistic use of traffic flow and inter-vehicle kinematic features surpasses the use of a single feature in identifying and predicting risks; (2) The eXtreme Gradient Boosting model, trained on the undersampled dataset, emerges as the optimal model for risk identification, boasting an Area Under the Receiver Operating Characteristic Curve (AUC) of 0.976 and an F1 score of 0.604; (3) The RF model exhibits commendable performance under both risk prediction conditions (5 s ahead prediction and 10 s prediction), demonstrating the highest performance with F1 scores of 0.377 and 0.374, respectively. Additionally, it was discovered that the resampling strategy does not always prove effective in developing risk analysis models and should be chosen based on the model’s characteristics and target metrics. This offers valuable insights into the selection of data-processing strategies when handling unbalanced data. Finally, the study’s limitations and potential enhancements are discussed.
Learning Spatio-Temporal Radon Footprints for Assessment of Parkinson’s Dyskinesia
Authors: Theofilou Paraskevi Antonia , Tsatiris Georgios , Kollias Stefanos
Published: February 2024

Parkinson’s disease is a severe neurodegenerative disorder that leads to loss of control over various motor and mental functions. Its progression can be limited with medication, particularly through the use of levodopa. However, prolonged administration of levodopa often results in disorders independent of those caused by the disease. The detection of these disorders is based on the clinical examination of patients, through different type of activities and tasks, using the Unified Dyskinesia Rating Scale (UDysRS). In the present work, our aim is to develop a state-of-the-art assessment system for levodopa-induced dyskinesia (LID) using the joint coordinate data of a human skeleton body depicted on videotaped activities related to UDysRS. For this reason, we combine a robust mathematical method for encoding action sequences known as Spatio-temporal Radon Footprints (SRF) with a Convolutional Neural Network (CNN), in order to estimate dyskinesia’s ratings for six body parts. We introduce two different methodological approaches: Global SRF-CNN and Local SRF-CNN, based on the set of skeletal points used in the encoding scheme. A comparison between these approaches reveals that Local SRF-CNN demonstrates better performance than the Global one. Finally, Local SRF-CNN outperforms the state-of-the-art technique, on both tasks, for UDysRS dyskinesia assessment, using joint coordinate data of the human body, achieving an overall performance in mean RMSE value of 0.6198 for Drinking task and 0.4885 for Communication, compared to 0.6575 and 0.5175, respectively. This illustrates the ability of the proposed machine learning system to successfully assess LID.
Physiological Activity of Quercus suber with a High Presence of Cerambyx welensii
Authors: Sánchez-Osorio Israel , López-Pantoja Gloria , Tapias Raúl , Pareja-Sánchez Evangelina , Domínguez Luis
Published: February 2024

The wood borer Cerambyx welensii Küster is a key contributor to Quercus open woodland (dehesa) decline. Among other factors, olfactory and visual cues could influence host colonisation by this species. In this study, we investigated whether the physiological performance and morphological features of Q. suber trees under summer stress are affected by C. welensii infestation. Additionally, we analysed the relation between morpho-physiological variables and the emission of monoterpenes that potentially mediate host selection by C. welensii. Thirty-six Q. suber trees with known monoterpene emission profiles were selected: 18 trees highly visited by C. welensii, and 18 neighbouring trees not visited or at least not visibly damaged by this wood borer. For each tree, we assessed photosynthesis, stomatal conductance, and transpiration during the early evening, and also the perimeter and crown projection. Trees visited by C. welensii maintained higher photosynthetic activity than non-visited trees (1.5–2.15 times) from 19:35 to 20:45 h. Visited trees had larger perimeters and smaller crown projection area-to-perimeter ratios than non-visited trees. Results suggest that, under stress conditions, the physiological performance of trees infested by C. welensii could have favoured foliar emission of certain monoterpenes influencing intraspecific host selection by this species.
Adaptation of Tree Species in the Greater Khingan Range under Climate Change: Ecological Strategy Differences between Larix gmelinii and Quercus mongolica
Authors: Du Bingyun , Wang Zeqiang , Li Xiangyou , Zhang Xi , Wang Xuetong , Zhang Dongyou
Published: February 2024

Global warming significantly affects forest ecosystems in the Northern Hemisphere’s mid-to-high latitudes, altering tree growth, productivity, and spatial distribution. Additionally, spatial and temporal heterogeneity exists in the responses of different tree species to climate change. This research focuses on two key species in China’s Greater Khingan Range: Larix gmelinii (Rupr.) Kuzen. (Pinaceae) and Quercus mongolica Fisch. ex Ledeb. (Fagaceae). We utilized a Maxent model optimized by the kuenm R package to predict the species’ potential habitats under various future climate scenarios (2050s and 2070s) considering three distinct Shared Socioeconomic Pathways: SSP1-2.6, SSP2-4.5, and SSP5-8.5. We analyzed 313 distribution records and 15 environmental variables and employed geospatial analysis to assess habitat requirements and migration strategies. The Maxent model demonstrated high predictive accuracy, with Area Under the Curve (AUC) values of 0.921 for Quercus mongolica and 0.985 for Larix gmelinii. The high accuracy was achieved by adjusting the regularization multipliers and feature combinations. Key factors influencing the habitat of Larix gmelinii included the mean temperature of the coldest season (BIO11), mean temperature of the warmest season (BIO10), and precipitation of the driest quarter (BIO17). Conversely, Quercus mongolica’s habitat suitability was largely affected by annual mean temperature (BIO1), elevation, and annual precipitation (BIO12). These results indicate divergent adaptive responses to climate change. Quercus mongolica’s habitable area generally increased in all scenarios, especially under SSP5-8.5, whereas Larix gmelinii experienced more complex habitat changes. Both species’ distribution centroids are expected to shift northwestward. Our study provides insights into the divergent responses of coniferous and broadleaf species in the Greater Khingan Range to climate change, contributing scientific information vital to conserving and managing the area’s forest ecosystems.
Genome-Wide Classification of Myb Domain-Containing Protein Families in Entamoeba invadens
Authors: Cuellar Patricia , Castañeda-Ortiz Elizabeth J. , Rosales-Zarza César , Martínez-Rodríguez Carlos E. , Canela-Pérez Israel , Rodríguez Mario Alberto , Valdés Jesús , Azuara-Liceaga Elisa
Published: February 2024

Entamoeba histolytica, the causative agent of amebiasis, is the third leading cause of death among parasitic diseases globally. Its life cycle includes encystation, which has been mostly studied in Entamoeba invadens, responsible for reptilian amebiasis. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying this process are not fully understood. Therefore, we focused on the identification and characterization of Myb proteins, which regulate the expression of encystation-related genes in various protozoan parasites. Through bioinformatic analysis, we identified 48 genes in E. invadens encoding MYB-domain-containing proteins. These were classified into single-repeat 1R (20), 2R-MYB proteins (27), and one 4R-MYB protein. The in-silico analysis suggests that these proteins are multifunctional, participating in transcriptional regulation, chromatin remodeling, telomere maintenance, and splicing. Transcriptomic data analysis revealed expression signatures of eimyb genes, suggesting a potential orchestration in the regulation of early and late encystation–excystation genes. Furthermore, we identified probable target genes associated with reproduction, the meiotic cell cycle, ubiquitin-dependent protein catabolism, and endosomal transport. In conclusion, our findings suggest that E. invadens Myb proteins regulate stage-specific proteins and a wide array of cellular processes. This study provides a foundation for further exploration of the molecular mechanisms governing encystation and unveils potential targets for therapeutic intervention in amebiasis.
Strategies and Best Practices That Enhance the Physical Activity Levels of Undergraduate University Students: A Systematic Review
Authors: Johannes Chanté , Roman Nicolette V. , Onagbiye Sunday O. , Titus Simone , Leach Lloyd L.
Published: February 2024

Significant numbers of undergraduate university students are not meeting the physical activity guidelines recommended by the World Health Organisation. These guidelines suggest that university students should aim for 150–300 min of moderate or 75–150 min of vigorous physical activity. Strategic interventions need to be implemented to address this global public health concern. The aim of this study was to review the strategies and best practices to enhance the physical activity levels of undergraduate university students. Utilising the PRISMA guidelines, electronic databases—PubMed, Science Direct, Academic Search Complete, ERIC, Web of Science, CINAHL, SAGE, and SPORTDiscus—were searched between September 2022 and February 2023 using terms and synonyms related to physical activity, strategies, best practices, and undergraduate university students. Studies were critically assessed for their quality using an adapted version of the CASP and RE-AIM frameworks. Eleven articles met the inclusion criteria for the review. The studies reported the use of social media platforms, mobile phone applications, web-based technology, online text messages, in-person classes, and an “exergame” as methods to increase engagement in physical activity. Findings from this review indicated that validated questionnaires emerged as the predominant measurement tool. Furthermore, the frequent use of social network sites served as a best practice for implementing and promoting physical activity interventions. It is recommended that universities promote health-enhancing physical activities based on current trends and strategies, such as technology-based interventions and the use of social media, that are relevant to contemporary university students.
Predictors of Free Sugars Intake Trajectories across Early Childhood—Results from the SMILE Birth Cohort Study
Authors: Bell Lucinda K. , Nguyen Huy V. , Ha Diep H. , Devenish-Coleman Gemma , Golley Rebecca K. , Do Loc G. , Scott Jane A.
Published: February 2024

Foods and beverages high in free sugars can displace healthier choices and increase the risk of weight gain, dental caries, and noncommunicable diseases. Little is known about the intake of free sugars across early childhood. This study aimed to examine the longitudinal intake from 1 to 5 years of free sugars and identify the independent maternal and child-related predictors of intake in a cohort of Australian children participating in the Study of Mothers’ and Infants’ Life Events Affecting Oral Health (SMILE). Free sugars intake (FSI) was previously estimated at 1, 2, and 5 years of age, and three distinct FSI trajectories were determined using group-based trajectory modelling analysis. This study utilized multinomial logistic regression to identify the maternal and child-related predictors of the trajectories. The risk of following the ‘high and increasing’ trajectory of FSI compared to the ‘low and fast increasing’ trajectory was inversely associated with socio-economic disadvantage (aRRR 0.83; 95% CI 0.75–0.92; p < 0.001), lower for females (aRRR 0.56; 95% CI 0.32–0.98; p = 0.042), and higher in children with two or more older siblings at birth (aRRR 2.32; 95% CI 0.99–5.42; p = 0.052). Differences in trajectories of FSI were evident from an early age and a high trajectory of FSI was associated primarily with socio-economic disadvantage, providing another example of diet quality following a social gradient.
How Information and Communications Technology Affects the Micro-Location Choices of Stores on On-Demand Food Delivery Platforms: Evidence from Xinjiekou’s Central Business District in Nanjing
Authors: Hu Xinyu , Zhang Gutao , Shi Yi , Yu Peng
Published: February 2024

The digitization of consumption, led by information and communications technology (ICT), has reshaped the urban commercial spatial structure (UCSS) of restaurants and retailers. However, the impacts of ICT on UCSS and location selection remain unclear. In this study, based on on-demand food delivery data and real-time traffic data, we used two types of machine learning algorithms, random forest regression (RFR) and the density-based spatial clustering of applications with noise (DBSCAN), to study the spatial distribution patterns, driving factors, and new geographical location phenomena of ‘brick-and-click’ (B&C) stores in Xinjiekou’s central business district (CBD) in Nanjing, China. The results show that the UCSS in the CBD is being decentralized, but the degree of influence is related to the business type. Additionally, the scale of demand and the distance from core commercial nodes greatly affect the scales of B&C stores. Moreover, the agglomeration of high-sales B&C stores seems to indicate a micro-location advantage, characterized by the concentration of delivery riders, which is usually located in the commercial hinterland with dense traffic. This makes stores situated in traditionally advantageous locations more attractive for online sales. Thus, ICT enhances the Matthew effect in business competition. These findings deepen our understanding of urban digital planning management and business systems.
A Novel Visual Narrative Framework for Tourist Map Design Based on Local Chronicles: A Case Study of the Songshan Scenic Area
Authors: Zhen Wenjie , Huang Shifang , Tian Zhihui , Yang Xiaoyue
Published: February 2024

Tourist maps provide tourists with destination information that reflects their unique characteristics and cultural connotations and play an important role in attracting tourists and serving marketing purposes. However, existing designs of tourist maps often ignore the importance of cultural resource selection and the relationship between maps and structural linguistics, thereby affecting the narrative function and representativeness of tourist maps. This study utilizes the local chronicle as a data source and proposes a novel visual narrative framework (VNF) for tourist maps. The VNF combines Todorov’s narrative hierarchy and Roth’s visual storytelling tropes to establish a mapping between map elements and narrative elements. To demonstrate the effectiveness of the VNF, the Songshan Scenic Area was selected as a case study. By applying the VNF, highly characteristic and meaningful colors, figurative hand-painted symbols, and scene symbols are selected and integrated into the map design to enhance the artistic value and narrative of the map. This framework reveals the potential cultural value of local chronicles and can serve as a reference for other historical tourist cities, contributing to the preservation of local cultural heritage.
Impact of Levosimendan and Its Metabolites on Platelet Activation Mechanisms in Patients during Antiplatelet Therapy—Pilot Study
Authors: Sikora Joanna , Pstrągowski Krzysztof , Karczmarska-Wódzka Aleksandra , Wszelaki Patrycja , Buszko Katarzyna , Włodarczyk Zbigniew
Published: February 2024

Levosimendan is used for the short-term treatment of severe heart failure or other cardiac conditions. The area of existing clinical applications for levosimendan has increased significantly. This study aimed to assess whether levosimendan and its metabolites impact the mechanisms related to platelet activation. In this study, we included patients with coronary artery disease receiving antiplatelet therapy. We analyzed the pharmacodynamic profile using three independent methods to assess platelet activity. The results of the conducted studies indicate a mechanism of levosimendan that affects the function of platelets, causing higher inhibition of platelet receptors and, thus, their aggregation. It is essential to clarify whether levosimendan may affect platelets due to the need to maintain a balance between bleeding and thrombosis in patients treated with levosimendan. This is especially important in the case of perioperative bleeding. This study was conducted in vitro; the research should be continued and carried out in patients to check the complete pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profile.
Design of a 130 MW Axial Turbine Operating with a Supercritical Carbon Dioxide Mixture for the SCARABEUS Project
Authors: Abdeldayem Abdelrahman S. , Salah Salma I. , Aqel Omar A. , White Martin T. , Sayma Abdulnaser I.
Published: February 2024

Supercritical carbon dioxide (sCO2) can be mixed with dopants such as titanium tetrachloride (TiCl4), hexafluoro-benzene (C6F6), and sulphur dioxide (SO2) to raise the critical temperature of the working fluid, allowing it to condense at ambient temperatures in dry solar field locations. The resulting transcritical power cycles have lower compression work and higher thermal efficiency. This paper presents the aerodynamic flow path design of a utility-scale axial turbine operating with an 80–20% molar mix of CO2 and SO2. The preliminary design is obtained using a mean line turbine design method based on the Aungier loss model, which considers both mechanical and rotor dynamic criteria. Furthermore, steady-state 3D computational fluid dynamic (CFD) simulations are set up using the k-ω SST turbulence model, and blade shape optimisation is carried out to improve the preliminary design while maintaining acceptable stress levels. It was found that increasing the number of stages from 4 to 14 increased the total-to-total efficiency by 6.3% due to the higher blade aspect ratio, which reduced the influence of secondary flow losses, as well as the smaller tip diameter, which minimised the tip clearance losses. The final turbine design had a total-to-total efficiency of 92.9%, as predicted by the CFD results, with a maximum stress of less than 260 MPa and a mass flow rate within 1% of the intended cycle’s mass flow rate. Optimum aerodynamic performance was achieved with a 14-stage design where the hub radius and the flow path length are 310 mm and 1800 mm, respectively. Off-design analysis showed that the turbine could operate down to 88% of the design reduced mass flow rate with a total-to-total efficiency of 80%.
Approach to Decompensated Right Heart Failure in the Acute Setting
Authors: Levitt Catherine V. , Williams Caitlin A. , Ahari Jalil , Pourmand Ali
Published: February 2024

Acute right heart failure (ARHF) arises when the right ventricle fails to pump blood efficiently to the pulmonary circulation. This inefficiency leads to a decreased blood supply to various organs. ARHF is a significant health concern, often leading to increased hospital admissions and being associated with a higher risk of mortality. This condition underscores the importance of effective cardiac care and timely intervention to manage its complications and improve patient outcomes. Diagnosing ARHF involves a comprehensive approach that includes a physical examination to evaluate the patient’s fluid status and heart-lung function, blood tests to identify potential triggers and help forecast patient outcomes and various imaging techniques. These imaging techniques include electrocardiograms, point-of-care ultrasounds, computed tomography, cardiac magnetic resonance imaging, and other advanced monitoring methods. These diagnostic tools collectively aid in a detailed assessment of the patient’s cardiac and pulmonary health, essential for effective management of ARHF. The management of ARHF focuses on addressing the underlying causes, regulating fluid balance, and enhancing cardiac function through pharmacological treatments or mechanical support aimed at boosting right heart performance. This management strategy includes the use of medications that modulate preload, afterload, and inotropy; vasopressors; anti-arrhythmic drugs; ensuring proper oxygenation and ventilation; and the utilization of heart and lung assist devices as a bridge to potential transplantation. This review article is dedicated to exploring the pathophysiology of ARHF, examining its associated morbidity and mortality, evaluating the various diagnostic tools available, and discussing the diverse treatment modalities. The article seeks to provide a comprehensive understanding of ARHF, its impact on health, and the current strategies for its management.
Ventilation Management in a Patient with Ventilation–Perfusion Mismatch in the Early Phase of Lung Injury and during the Recovery
Authors: Cicvarić Ana , Glavaš Tahtler Josipa , Turk Tajana , Škrinjarić-Cincar Sanda , Koulenti Despoina , Nešković Nenad , Edl Mia , Kvolik Slavica
Published: February 2024

Chest trauma is one of the most serious and difficult injuries, with various complications that can lead to ventilation–perfusion (V/Q) mismatch and systemic hypoxia. We are presenting a case of a 53-year-old male with no chronic therapy who was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit due to severe respiratory failure after chest trauma. He developed a right-sided pneumothorax, and then a thoracic drain was placed. On admission, the patient was hemodynamically unstable and tachypneic. He was intubated and mechanically ventilated, febrile (38.9 °C) and unconscious. A lung CT showed massive non-ventilated areas, predominantly in the right lung, guiding repeated therapeutic and diagnostic bronchoalveolar lavages. He was ventilated with PEEP of 10 cmH2O with a FiO2 of 0.6–0.8. Empirical broad-spectrum antimicrobial therapy was immediately initiated. Both high FiO2 and moderate PEEP were maintained and adjusted according to the current blood gas values and oxygen saturation. He was weaned from mechanical ventilation, and non-invasive oxygenation was continued. After Stenotrophomonas maltophilia was identified and treated with sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim, a regression of lung infiltrates was observed. In conclusion, both ventilatory and antibiotic therapy were needed to improve the oxygenation and outcome of the patient with S. maltophilia pneumonia and V/Q mismatch.
Evolution of Severe Closed Head Injury: Assessing Ventricular Volume and Behavioral Measures at 30 and 90 Days Post-Injury
Authors: Campana Serena , Cecchetti Luca , Venturi Martina , Buemi Francesco , Foti Cristina , Cerasa Antonio , Vicario Carmelo Mario , Carboncini Maria Chiara , Tomaiuolo Francesco
Published: February 2024

Background: Assessing functional outcomes in Severe Closed Head Injury (SCHI) is complex due to brain parenchymal changes. This study examines the Ventricles to Intracranial Volume Ratio (VBR) as a metric for these changes and its correlation with behavioral scales. Methods: Thirty-one SCHI patients were included. VBR was derived from CT scans at 3, 30, and 90 days post-injury and compared with Levels of Cognitive Functioning (LCF), Disability Rating Scale (DRS), and Early Rehabilitation Barthel Index (ERBI) assessments at 30 and 90 days. Results: Ten patients were excluded post-decompressive craniectomy or ventriculoperitoneal shunt. Findings indicated a VBR decrease at 3 days, suggesting acute phase compression, followed by an increase from 30 to 90 days, indicative of post-acute brain atrophy. VBR correlated positively with the Marshall score in the initial 72 h, positioning it as an early indicator of subsequent brain atrophy. Nevertheless, in contrast to the Marshall score, VBR had stronger associations with DRS and ERBI at 90 days. Conclusions: VBR, alongside behavioral assessments, presents a robust framework for evaluating SCHI progression. It supports early functional outcome correlations informing therapeutic approaches. VBR’s reliability underscores its utility in neurorehabilitation for ongoing SCHI assessment and aiding clinical decisions.
The Atlas of the Inferior Mesenteric Artery and Vein under Maximum-Intensity Projection and Three-Dimensional Reconstruction View
Authors: Zhang Hongwei , Liu Shurong , Dong Bingqi , Liu Jing , Guo Xiaochao , Chen Guowei , Jiang Yong , Wu Yingchao , Zhang Junling , Wang Xin
Published: February 2024

(1) Background: Understanding vascular patterns is crucial for minimizing bleeding and operating time in colorectal surgeries. This study aimed to develop an anatomical atlas of the inferior mesenteric artery (IMA) and vein (IMV). (2) Methods: A total of 521 patients with left-sided colorectal cancer were included. IMA and IMV patterns were identified using maximum-intensity projection (MIP) and three-dimensional (3D) reconstruction techniques. The accuracy of these techniques was assessed by comparing them with surgical videos. We compared the amount of bleeding and operating time for IMA ligation across different IMA types. (3) Results: Most patients (45.7%) were classified as type I IMA, followed by type II (20.7%), type III (22.6%), and type IV (3.5%). Newly identified type V and type VI patterns were found in 6.5% and 1% of patients, respectively. Of the IMVs, 49.9% drained into the superior mesenteric vein (SMV), 38.4% drained into the splenic vein (SPV), 9.4% drained into the SMV–SPV junction, and only 2.3% drained into the first jejunal vein (J1V). Above the root of the left colic artery (LCA), 13.1% of IMVs had no branches, 50.1% had one, 30.1% had two, and 6.7% had three or more branches. Two patients had two main IMV branches, and ten had IMVs at the edge of the mesocolon with small branches. At the IMA root, 37.2% of LCAs overlapped with the IMV, with 34.0% being lateral, 16.9% distal, 8.7% medial, and both the marginal type of IMV and the persistent descending mesocolon (PDM) type represented 1.4%. MIP had an accuracy of 98.43%, and 3D reconstruction had an accuracy of 100%. Blood loss and operating time were significantly higher in the complex group compared to the simple group for IMA ligation (p < 0.001). (4) Conclusions: A comprehensive anatomical atlas of the IMA and IMV was provided. Complex IMA patterns were associated with increased bleeding and operating time.
From Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease to Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease: Out with the Old, in with the New
Authors: Alabdul Razzak Iyiad , Noureddin Mazen , Trivedi Hirsh
Published: February 2024

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common cause of chronic liver disease (CLD) affecting a quarter of the global population [...]
Pain Assessment in Patients Undergoing Maggot Debridement Therapy in the Process of Local Treatment of Chronic Wounds
Authors: Bazaliński Dariusz , Sieńczak Karol , Pytlak Kamila , Przybek-Mita Joanna , Pelczar Klaudia , Leppert Wojciech , Więch Paweł
Published: February 2024

(1) Background: Developing and implementing strategies for local wound care focused on improving the quality of life related to health status and reducing treatment costs for this patient group poses a challenge to contemporary healthcare systems. The utilization of Maggot Debridement Therapy (MDT) is one potential form of local therapy for preparing wounds for the healing process. The debridement of the wound bed with medical maggots is highly precise, and the defensins produced by the larvae eliminate bacteria and stimulate tissue regeneration. However, the presence of larvae in the wound may lead to the occurrence of pain symptoms. The aim of the study was to assess the intensity of pain during larval therapy in patients with chronic wounds treated in outpatient settings. (2) Patients and Methods: The study employed a diagnostic survey and estimation; the tool consisted of a research protocol comprising three parts (questionnaires). Inclusion criteria for the study were voluntary consent to participate (completion of the MDT acceptance questionnaire), chronic wounds of vascular etiology or pressure injuries, full-thickness skin or deep tissue damage, and pain intensity not exceeding four on the NRS (Numerical Rating Scale: 0—no pain, 10—the most severe pain) at the time of the study. Patient observation during the 3-day treatment was conducted by a wound care clinic nurse, assessing pain intensity once every 24 h during the larval dressing changes. (3) Results: Out of 348 individuals who qualified for MDT during the study period, 215 individuals participated in the study: 94 women (43.7%) and 121 men (56.3%). The age of the participants ranged from 28 to 97 years (mean 69.87 ± 12.95). Each participant experienced mild pain (2.26 ± 1.60 on the NRS) on the day of qualification for the study. An increase in pain intensity, according to subjective assessments, was reported by 29.3% of participants (n = 63). On the third day of MDT therapy, an increase in pain intensity was observed, reaching a mean value of 4.79 ± 2.12 (p < 0.0001). Participants with pressure injuries showed the lowest pain intensity, which increased in consecutive days for all types of wounds. Additionally, the increase in pain intensity in patients with vascular etiology wounds was greater compared to patients with pressure injuries (p < 0.001). (4) Conclusions: Local wound therapy with Lucilia sericata larvae increases pain intensity in the consecutive days of treatment. The wound area and the time since its occurrence may determine pain symptoms.
CoCuMgAl-Mixed-Oxide-Based Catalysts with Fine-Tunable Composition for the Hydrogenation of Furan Compounds
Authors: Stepanova Liudmila N. , Mironenko Roman M. , Trenikhin Mikhail V. , Serkova Aleksandra N. , Salanov Aleksei N. , Lavrenov Aleksandr V.
Published: February 2024

Catalysts based on CoCuMgAl mixed oxides were synthesized and studied in the hydrogenations of furfural and 5-hydroxymethylfurfural under different conditions. The changes in the structural properties of the catalysts at different stages of their preparation were studied using a set of physical methods (XRD, SEM, and TEM). It was shown that the fine regulation of the chemical compositions of the mixed oxides (i.e., changes in the Co/Cu ratio) made it possible to vary the structure, morphology, and catalytic properties of the samples. The phase composition of catalysts with Co/Cu = 1 did not change during the catalytic reaction, although the initial catalysts had a less-homogeneous morphology. 5-hydroxymethylfurfural conversion was higher for the samples with Co/Cu = 1. Furfural conversion increased when raising the Co/Cu ratio. The selectivity toward furfuryl alcohol for the catalyst with Co/Cu = 2 under mild conditions of furfural hydrogenation was more than 99%. The results obtained are important for the development of the scientific foundations of the preparation of hydrogenation catalysts with a fine-tunable composition in order to obtain the desired hydrogenation products.
The Incidence of Perioperative Hypotension in Patients Undergoing Major Abdominal Surgery with the Use of Arterial Waveform Analysis and the Hypotension Prediction Index Hemodynamic Monitoring—A Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Szrama Jakub , Gradys Agata , Bartkowiak Tomasz , Woźniak Amadeusz , Nowak Zuzanna , Zwoliński Krzysztof , Lohani Ashish , Jawień Natalia , Smuszkiewicz Piotr , Kusza Krzysztof
Published: February 2024

Intraoperative hypotension (IH) is common in patients receiving general anesthesia and can lead to serious complications such as kidney failure, myocardial injury and increased mortality. The Hypotension Prediction Index (HPI) algorithm is a machine learning system that analyzes the arterial pressure waveform and alerts the clinician of an impending hypotension event. The purpose of the study was to compare the frequency of perioperative hypotension in patients undergoing major abdominal surgery with different types of hemodynamic monitoring. The study included 61 patients who were monitored with the arterial pressure-based cardiac output (APCO) technology (FloTrac group) and 62 patients with the Hypotension Prediction Index algorithm (HPI group). Our primary outcome was the time-weighted average (TWA) of hypotension below < 65 mmHg. The median TWA of hypotension in the FloTrac group was 0.31 mmHg versus 0.09 mmHg in the HPI group (p = 0.000009). In the FloTrac group, the average time of hypotension was 27.9 min vs. 8.1 min in the HPI group (p = 0.000023). By applying the HPI algorithm in addition to an arterial waveform analysis alone, we were able to significantly decrease the frequency and duration of perioperative hypotension events in patients who underwent major abdominal surgery.