bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluating Anesthesia Practices, Patient Characteristics, and Outcomes in Electroconvulsive Therapy: A Two-Year Retrospective Study
Authors: Vintilă Bogdan Ioan , Anghel Claudia Elena , Sava Mihai , Bereanu Alina-Simona , Codru Ioana Roxana , Stoica Raul , Vulcu Mihai Alexandra-Maria , Grama Andreea-Maria , Cătană Alina Camelia , Boicean Adrian Gheorghe , Hașegan Adrian , Mihețiu Alin , Băcilă Ciprian-Ionuț
Published: October 2024

Background: Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is a well-established treatment for various psychiatric disorders. This retrospective study evaluates anesthesia practices, patient characteristics, and outcomes in ECT over a two-year period at the “Dr. Gheorghe Preda” Clinical Psychiatry Hospital in Sibiu, Romania. Methods: From March 2022 to July 2024, the Neuroscience Scientific Research Collective at our institution carried out a retrospective observational study on patients who underwent ECT. The evaluation and treatment protocol involved patients from all over the country. Results: The study involved 30 patients aged between 22 and 67 years and a mean age of 39.4 years; among them, 57% were male. The majority of the patients (68%) lived in urban areas, and 80% came from a different county. Schizophrenia was the most prevalent diagnosis (56.6%), followed by depression (40%) and bipolar disorder (3.4%). Common comorbidities included obesity/overweight, high blood pressure, and sinus tachycardia. A total of 330 ECT sessions were conducted, with an average of 11 sessions per patient, and 10 patients underwent multiple treatment courses. The reported adverse events included arterial hypertension, agitation, tachycardia, and shivering. Conclusions: This study underlines the safety and effectiveness of ECT when patients are closely monitored. Our results are consistent with the global data, suggesting that ECT is a good treatment option for severe psychiatric conditions with a manageable incidence of adverse events.
Prescribing Hydroxyurea in Sickle Cell Disease Patients: The Pattern and Association with Co-Prescribed Medications Used to Manage the Disease Complications
Authors: Alsaffar Nida , Alsaleh Mohammed Ali , Alsaleh Abdulmonem Ali , Ghanem Neda Z. , Al khamees Mohammad Hussain , Alqurain Mohammed A. , Almatouq Jenan , AlAlwan Bader , Alqurain Aymen A.
Published: October 2024

Background and Objectives: Hydroxyurea (HU) is an effective medication used to reduce the frequency of painful crises associated with sickle cell disease (SCD). However, data describing its prevalence among SCD patients in the Eastern Region of Saudi Arabia are scarce. This is a multi-center, retrospective, cross-sectional study that aims to investigate the pattern of prescribing HU in SCD patients and to determine the association between prescribing HU and other co-prescribed medications used to manage SCD complications. Methods: Data were collected from patients who visited the hematology clinics of Al-Qatif Central Hospital (QCH) and King Fahad Hospital in Hofuf (KFHH) between June 2021 to May 2023. The data included demographics, prescribed medications, and recent laboratory test results, all of which were collected from patients’ medical records. Descriptive statistics were utilized to assess the difference between HU users vs. non-users. A binary logistic regression model was used to determine the association between prescribing HU and co-prescribed medications used to manage SCD complications. The results are presented as the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (95% CI). Results: This study included 2816 SCD patients with a 56% prevalence of HU prescription. HU was prescribed for young age groups more often compared to old age group patients. Young males were more likely to be prescribed with HU compared to females, and it becomes dominant in females after the age of 36. HU users were more likely to have paracetamol (69% vs. 53%, OR = 1.9, 95% CI 1.6–2.2), NSAIDs (50% vs. 35%, OR = 1.7, 95% CI 1.5–2), and opioids (41% vs. 37%, OR = 1.3, 95% CI 1.1–1.6) co-prescribed, and less often to have laxatives (8% vs. 5%, OR = 0.66, 95% CI 0.48–0.9) and anticoagulants (22% vs. 15%, OR = 0.56, 95% CI 0.46–0.68) co-prescribed compared to non-users. Conclusions: The pattern of prescribing HU, supported by the association findings, raises concerns about patients’ compliance and adherence to HU therapy. Early health education, specifically to young female SCD patients, is warranted to increase the success rate of HU therapy.
An Analysis of the Time Required for the Diagnosis of ASD and the Factors Influencing Its Duration in a Sample of the Pediatric Population from Poland
Authors: Wilczyński Krzysztof M. , Cichoń Lena , Stasik Aleksandra , Kania Katarzyna , Rodak Natalia , Wizner Michał , Janas-Kozik Małgorzata
Published: October 2024

Background/Objectives: Early diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a very important factor for improving the quality of life of people on the spectrum, but it still remains a major problem in Europe, especially concerning girls. In this study, we tried to answer the question of what factors affect the age of diagnosis in Poland. Additionally, we tried to establish the time between the first visit to the mental health center (MHC) and the diagnosis in this population, and what factors affect its length. Methods: 77 children were randomly recruited among the patients who came to local MHC at the Child and Family Health Centre in Sosnowiec. All participants were tested using the ADOS-2 protocol. In addition, the study used the TAS-20 test and BDI. Results: The mean age of the first enrollment in the MHC was 9.09 years for girls and 6.42 for the boys. The time needed to obtain a diagnosis from the first visit was consecutively 2.90 years and 4.29 years, but the difference was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Obtaining a different psychiatric diagnosis did not affect the average time to diagnosis and the age of diagnosis. Conclusions: The results of the study indicate that the diagnosis of ASD is still a significant problem both in Poland and in the world. Obtaining an accurate diagnosis requires significant time, and it frequently involves consulting multiple specialists. The diagnostic process should be flexible, and the specialist should always take into account the axial symptoms but remain aware that the “overdiagnosis” of ASD can also have harmful consequences for the child.
Increased Risk of Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma in Autoimmune Hepatitis: A Large Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Tatour Mifleh , Neeman Ziv , Aviv Ariel , Hazzan Rawi
Published: October 2024

Background/Objectives: Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a chronic inflammatory liver disease caused by an autoimmune attack on hepatocytes. The first-line treatment for AIH comprises two core components: glucocorticoids and thiopurine analog inhibitors and mycophenolate mofetil (MMF). Numerous studies have suggested an increased risk for lymphoma among patients with either rheumatoid arthritis or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) who are treated with azathioprine/6-mercaptopurine (6-MP). The relative risk of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) among autoimmune hepatitis patients treated with these immunosuppressive drugs remains unclear. We aimed at investigating the risk of NHL across a large retrospective AIH cohort after a long-term follow-up. Methods: This retrospective, population-based study comprised approximately 2.7 million adults over two decades. It included adult patients aged 20 years or older at the time of autoimmune hepatitis diagnosis who had initiated treatment with azathioprine, 6-MP, or MMF. The primary outcome was the development of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Results: The study initially included 834 patients diagnosed with AIH. A total of 685 patients remained in the research cohort after matching the data to the local cancer registry. Compared to the predicted NHL rate in the general population, NHL incidence was considerably higher in AIH patients (Standardized Incidence Ratio, SIR = 36.5). Subgroup studies showed that lymphoma mainly affected patients 45 years of age and over and was detected primarily during the first seven years following the AIH diagnosis. No correlation was found between the incidence of NHL and the treatment drug used. Conclusions: Patients with AIH exhibit a markedly higher risk of NHL compared to the general population.
Key Factors Driving Physiotherapy Use in Patients with Nonspecific Low Back Pain: Retrospective Clinical Data Analysis
Authors: Alimam Dalia M. , Alqarni Muteb J. , Aljohani Mawaddah H. , Alqarni Mohammed A. , Alsubiheen Abdulrahman M. , Alrushud Asma S.
Published: October 2024

Background/objectives: Understanding the factors that influence physiotherapy (PT) service use among patients with nonspecific lower back pain (LBP) is necessary to optimize treatment strategies, healthcare resource allocation, and the planning of value-based initiatives. We report factors that influence the number of PT visits per episode of care (defined as a referral from a physician) for an LBP population in Saudi Arabia, and compare them with patients experiencing their first and recurrent episodes of LBP. Methods: LBP patients were retrospectively enrolled from a clinical dataset derived from an outpatient PT clinic in Saudi Arabia. The primary outcome variable was the number of PT visits performed per episode of care. Multiple linear regression analysis was performed to examine the relationships between the numbers of PT visits per episode of care and independent variables. Results: The number of PT sessions per week (β 0.34, p < 0.001), compliance with PT sessions (β 0.31, p < 0.001), and pre-pain scores (β 0.29, p < 0.001) explained 41.8% (adjusted R2 0.32) of the variance in the total number of PT visits per episode of care (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Factors that might improve value-based care for LBP patients are reported. The more PT sessions per week, compliance with these sessions, and higher baseline pain scores predict a higher number of PT visits per episode of care among these patients. While reported for a Saudi Arabian population, there is no reason to believe that these findings do not apply internationally.
Association Between Arch-Shaped Hypo-Autofluorescent Lesions Detected Using Fundus Autofluorescence and Postoperative Hypotony
Authors: Yoshikawa Yuji , Takeuchi Jun , Takahashi Aya , Mizuno Masaharu , Ishida Tomoka , Koto Takashi , Inoue Makoto
Published: October 2024

Background: Chorioretinal folds are observed after vitrectomy due to ocular collapse caused by low intraocular pressure. The purpose of this study is to investigate the relationship between the postoperative hypotony, chorioretinal folds, and the fundus autofluorescence (FAF) findings. Methods: Two-hundred-and-seventy consecutive eyes that had undergone 25- or 27-gauge vitrectomy were examined. The associations between the arch-shaped hypo-autofluorescent lesions in the FAF images and the postoperative hypotony with intraocular pressure (IOP) ≤ 4 mmHg were determined on the day after the surgery. Results: Arch-shaped hypo-autofluorescent lesions were seen in 4 of the 270 eyes (1.5%), and hypo-autofluorescence was observed in 3 of 14 hypotonic eyes (18.5%). This was significantly more frequent than in the non-hypotony group (0.4%, p = 0.0004). Optical coherence tomography showed a loss of the ellipsoid zone and retinal pigment epithelial layer in the region of the arch-shaped lesions. None of the arch-shaped hypo-autofluorescent lesions involved the fovea, and the vision recovered in all cases. The hypo-autofluorescent lesions did not disappear during the 4 to 16 month observation period. Conclusions: The postoperative arch-shaped hypo-autofluorescent lesions were associated with postoperative hypotony and RPE damage due to chorioretinal folds. These findings remained even when the IOP was normalized and chorioretinal folds disappeared.
Odontoid Fractures: A Review of the Current State of the Art
Authors: Nouri Aria , Da Broi Michele , May Adrien , Janssen Insa , Molliqaj Granit , Davies Benjamin , Pandita Naveen , Schaller Karl , Tessitore Enrico , Kotter Mark
Published: October 2024

Odontoid fractures (OFs) represent up to 15% of all cervical fractures encountered and present most commonly amongst elderly patients, typically in the setting of low energy trauma such as falls. The Anderson and D’Alonzo classification and Roy-Camille subtype description are the most clinically noteworthy descriptions of OFs used. Even though most patients will not present with neurological injury, mechanical instability can occur with type II and type III (Anderson and D’Alonzo) fractures, particularly if the transverse ligament of the atlas is ruptured; however, this is very rare. Conservative treatment is usually employed for type I and type III injuries, and to a varying degree for non-displaced type II injuries. Surgical treatment is typically reserved for type II fractures, patients with neurological injury, and in the setting of other associated fractures or ligamentous injury. Anterior screw fixation is a viable option in the setting of a favorable fracture line orientation in type II fractures, whereas posterior C1–C2 screw fixation is an option for any type II or type III fracture presentation. There is evidence that surgery for type II fractures has higher rates of union and lower mortality than nonoperative treatments. While surgical options have increased over the decades and the management of OF has been optimized by considering fracture subtypes and patient factors, there remains a significant morbidity and mortality associated with OFs. The aging population and changing demographics suggest that there will be an ongoing rise in the incidence of OFs. Therefore, the appropriate management of these cases will be essential for ensuring optimization of health care resources and the quality of life of affected patients
Biomechanical Analysis of Rectus Femoris Kinesio Taping Effects on Post-Muscle Fatigue Stop-Jump Task Performance
Authors: Tai Wei-Hsun , Tu Chih-Yu , Tu Chih-Yen , Huang Chen-Fu , Peng Hsien-Te
Published: October 2024

Objectives: This study aims to compare the effects of kinesio tape (KT) on the rectus femoris muscle in athletes and novices under pre- and post-fatigue conditions. Methods: Nineteen male volunteers took part, and fatigue was assessed using the Borg CR10 Scale. Kinematic and kinetic data were collected using Vicon MX13+ infrared cameras (250 Hz) and Kistler force platforms (1500 Hz), respectively. Visual 3D v5.0 software analyzed the data, focusing on parameters like angular displacement, ground reaction forces (GRFs), impulse, and joint moments during a stop-jump task. A two-way mixed-design ANOVA was used to assess group, fatigue, and KT effects. Results: There was a significant effect after applying KT. The results showed significant differences in knee flexion range of motion (ROM), hip flexion moment, vertical impulse, and peak vertical GRFs between pre- and post-fatigue conditions (all p < 0.05). The trained group exhibited less knee valgus ROM, higher hip flexion velocity at initial contact, and prolonged time to peak proximal tibia anterior shear force. Conclusions: KT application was found to reduce lower limb loading, improve force acceptance and joint stability, and alleviate fatigue-induced disparities. These findings highlight the potential of KT in enhancing lower limb strength and performance, particularly under fatigue.
Traits of Developmental Disorders in Adults With Listening Difficulties Without Diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder And/or Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Authors: Obuchi Chie , Kawase Tetsuaki , Sasame Yuka , Yamamoto Yayoi , Sasaki Kaori , Iwasaki Junya , Okamoto Hidehiko , Kaga Kimitaka
Published: October 2024

Background: Some individuals have a normal audiogram but have listening difficulties (LiD). As many studies have investigated the relationship between listening and developmental disorders, the traits of developmental disorders might explain the symptoms of LiD. In this study, we examined the traits of developmental disorders of adults with LiD to help clarify the cause of LiD symptoms. Methods: In total, 60 adults with LiD and 57 adults without LiD were included. Participants completed a questionnaire for the autism spectrum quotient (AQ) test, the Adult Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Self-Rating Scale (A-ADHD), the Adolescent/Adult Sensory Profile (SP), and the severity of subjective LiD in daily life. Results: Before analysis, we excluded participants with LiD who were already diagnosed or met the criteria for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or ADHD, and the results of the remaining 30 participants (50.0%) with LiD were analyzed. Adults with LiD showed higher scores than those without LiD in the AQ. Attention switching in the AQ and attention ability in the A-ADHD scale were correlated with the severity of LiD symptoms in everyday life. The AQ scores were also significantly correlated with subscales of the SP. Conclusions: Adults with LiD showed greater autistic traits than those without LiD; therefore, LiD symptoms are possibly related to autistic symptoms. Furthermore, adults with LiD might have attention disorder traits of both ASD and ADHD and sensory processing problems. These findings suggest that the attention problems in adults with LiD noted in previous studies might be related to these traits of developmental disorders.
Polylactide-Based Polymer Composites with Rice Husk Filler
Authors: Lyubushkin Roman Aleksandrovich , Cherkashina Natalia Igorevna , Pushkarskaya Daria Vasilievna , Forova Elena Vitalievna , Ruchiy Artem Yuryevich , Domarev Semyon Nikolaevich
Published: October 2024

In this work, composites made of polylactide (PLA) and filled with alkali-pretreated rice husk (RH) were investigated. Composites containing 20, 30, and 40 wt.% of RH were synthesized. It was shown that alkaline treatment, along with the change in crystal lattice, led to an increase in the content of non-crystalline parts and the volume of intercrystalline spaces, and the internal surface of the cellulose fiber increased, which resulted in improved adhesion of the fiber with the matrix. The addition of rice husk to the PLA matrix led to an increase in the flexural modulus, which increased to 2881 MPa for the PLA/RH (80/20 wt.%) and 3034 MPa for the PLA/RH (70/30 wt.%) composites and lowered the peak load stress by approximately 43% for the composite with 20 wt.% RH and 56% for the composite with 30 wt.% RH. The reduction in the degree of PLA crystallinity allows macromolecules to move more freely in amorphous regions, which has a positive effect on increasing the flexibility of materials in general. The optimal formulation is a composite consisting of 30% RH and 70% PLA matrix.
Hybrid Fiber-Reinforced Biocomposites for Marine Applications: A Review
Authors: Huang Yang , Sultan Mohamed Thariq Hameed , Shahar Farah Syazwani , Grzejda Rafał , Łukaszewicz Andrzej
Published: October 2024

Highly efficient fiber-reinforced composites find extensive application in diverse industries. Yet, conventional fiber-reinforced composites have significant environmental impacts during both manufacturing and disposal. Environmentally friendly fiber-reinforced composites have garnered significant attention within the framework of sustainable development. Utilizing natural fibers in place of synthetic fibers and progressively decreasing the use of synthetic fibers are the main approaches to achieving a balance between economic progress and environmental quality. Attention is increasingly being drawn to natural fiber-reinforced biocomposites that exhibit outstanding environmental performance, exceptional physical and mechanical capabilities, and biological features. The lightweight and high-strength characteristics of these biocomposites enable them to significantly decrease the weight of structures, making them increasingly popular in many industries. The objective of this review is to evaluate the effectiveness of hybrid fiber-reinforced biocomposites in marine applications, specifically examining their mechanical characteristics, resistance to seawater, and ability to absorb moisture, all while advocating for sustainable material methodologies. To achieve this objective, the paper delineates the distinction between synthetic and natural fibers, examines the benefits of hybrid fiber-reinforced biocomposite materials, and addresses the obstacles and effective approaches in their production and application in seawater. Considering the review analysis, it can be inferred that the use of fiber-reinforced biocomposites in maritime applications shows significant potential and has abundant untapped growth prospects in the future years.
Semi-Alicyclic Thermoplastic Polyimide Matrixes Based on Hydrogenated Pyromellitic Dianhydride and Asymmetrical 3,4′-Oxydianiline with Good Thermal Stability and Improved Optical Transparency
Authors: Han Shujun , Qi Yuexin , Ren Xi , Yang Changxu , He Zhibin , Wang Zhenzhong , Li Duanyi , Liu Jingang
Published: October 2024

Thermoplastic polyimide (PI) matrixes, including PI-a (cc-34ODA) and PI-b (ct-34ODA) were prepared via the hot-pressing procedures of the resins derived from the 3,4′-oxydianiline (34ODA) and two alicyclic dianhydrides of 1S,2R,4S,5R-hydrogenated pyromellitic dianhydride (ccHPMDA) and 1R,2S,4S,5R-hydrogenated pyromellitic dianhydride (ctHPMDA), respectively. The resins exhibited thermoplastic features with good formability at higher temperatures. The afforded semi-alicyclic PI sheets exhibited enhanced properties in comparison to commercially available, wholly aromatic thermoplastic PIs, such as PI-ref1, which are derived from 3,3′,4,4′-oxydiphthalic anhydride (ODPA) and 4,4′-oxydianiline (44ODA), as well as PI-ref2, which is based on pyromellitic dianhydride (PMDA) and 4,4′-bis(3-aminophenoxy)biphenyl (mBAPB). In addition, the developed PI sheets exhibited high heat deflection temperatures (HDT) of 267.4 °C for PI-a and 268.6 °C for PI-b. There values were significantly higher when compared with those of PI-ref1 (Ratem® YS20, HDT: 239.0 °C), PI-ref2 (Aurum® PL450C, HDT: 238.0 °C), PI-ref3 (Ultem® 1000, HDT: 206.0 °C), PI-ref4 (Therplim® TO65, HDT: 180.0 °C), and PI-ref5 based on phthalic anhydride-terminated fluorinated PIs (HDT: 215.0 °C). In terms of mechanical properties, the current PI sheets showed superior flexural properties among the polymers with the flexural strength of 189.0 ± 11.7 MPa (PI-a) and 200.5 ± 4.2 MPa (PI-b), respectively. In addition, the PI sheets exhibited comparable compression properties, inferior impact strength, and tensile properties compared with the referenced PI counterparts. Basically, the PI-b sheet showed better comprehensive properties than those of the stereoisomeric PI-a analog.
The Abrasive Water Jet Cutting Process of Carbon-Fiber-Reinforced Polylactic Acid Samples Obtained by Additive Manufacturing: A Comparative Analysis
Authors: de la Rosa Sergio , Rodríguez-Parada Lucía , Ponce Moises Batista , Mayuet Ares Pedro F.
Published: October 2024

Carbon-fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) composites are widely used across industries due to their enhanced strength and stiffness properties. Fused deposition modeling (FDM) enables the cost-effective production of polymer samples, such as carbon-fiber-reinforced PLA (CFR-PLA). However, CFRP’s hardness and anisotropic nature present significant challenges in conventional machining, including rapid tool wear and thermal sensitivity. Consequently, abrasive water jet machining (AWJM) has proven to be an effective alternative for machining CFRP materials, offering benefits such as reduced tool wear, minimized thermal damage, and improved cutting quality. This study focuses on a comparative analysis of the effects of AWJM parameters on PLA and CFR-PLA samples, specifically to evaluate the influence of carbon fiber reinforcement on machining performance. The findings highlight the critical role of reinforcements in machining behavior. The results suggest that optimizing cutting parameters significantly reduces taper formation and improves machining accuracy. In particular, adjustments to process parameters resulted in lower taper angles and reduced surface roughness in the cutting zones of the CFR-PLA samples.
Stem Cells: Present Understanding and Prospects for Regenerative Dentistry
Authors: Inchingolo Angelo Michele , Inchingolo Alessio Danilo , Nardelli Paola , Latini Giulia , Trilli Irma , Ferrante Laura , Malcangi Giuseppina , Palermo Andrea , Inchingolo Francesco , Dipalma Gianna
Published: October 2024

Regenerative medicine in dentistry focuses on repairing damaged oral tissues using advanced tools like stem cells, biomaterials, and tissue engineering (TE). Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) from dental sources, such as dental pulp and periodontal ligament, show significant potential for tissue regeneration due to their proliferative and differentiative abilities. This systematic review, following PRISMA guidelines, evaluated fifteen studies and identified effective strategies for improving dental, periodontal, and bone tissue regeneration through scaffolds, secretomes, and bioengineering methods. Key advancements include the use of dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) and periodontal ligament stem cells (PDLSCs) to boost cell viability and manage inflammation. Additionally, pharmacological agents like matrine and surface modifications on biomaterials improve stem cell adhesion and promote osteogenic differentiation. By integrating these approaches, regenerative medicine and TE can optimize dental therapies and enhance patient outcomes. This review highlights the potential and challenges in this field, providing a critical assessment of current research and future directions.
PLLA/GO Scaffolds Filled with Canine Placenta Hydrogel and Mesenchymal Stem Cells for Bone Repair in Goat Mandibles
Authors: Santos-Silva Thamires , Viana Inácio Silva , Queiroz Andrea Barros Piazzon S. , de Oliveira Fabrício Singaretti , Horvath-Pereira Bianca de Oliveira , da Silva-Júnior Leandro Norberto , Araujo Michelle Silva , Canola Paulo Alescio , Dias Luís Gustavo Gosuen G. , Soares Marcelo Melo , Miglino Maria Angelica
Published: October 2024

Bone defects in animals can arise from various causes, including diseases, neoplasms, and most commonly, trauma. Comminuted fractures that exceed the critical size may heal poorly due to deficient or interrupted vascularization, resulting in an insufficient number of progenitor cells necessary for bone regeneration. In this context, 3D printing techniques using poly-L-lactic acid/graphene oxide (PLLA/GO) aim to address this issue by creating customized scaffolds combined with canine placenta hydrogel and mesenchymal stem cells for use in goat mandibles, compared to a control group using titanium plate fixation. Ten canine placentas were decellularized and characterized using histological techniques. A hydrogel derived from the canine placenta extracellular matrix (cpECM) was produced to improve cell attachment to the scaffolds. In vitro cytotoxicity and cell adhesion to the cpECM hydrogel were assessed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The resulting biomaterials, cpECM hydrogel and PLLA/GO scaffolds, maintained their functional structure and supported cell adhesion, maintenance, and proliferation in vitro. Thermography showed that PLLA/GO scaffolds with cpECM hydrogel performed effectively, similar to the control group. Computed tomography scans revealed bone calluses, suggesting an ongoing repair process. These findings demonstrate the innovative technological potential of these materials for use in surgical interventions. Future studies on PLLA/GO scaffolds will provide further insights into their effects on goat models.
Mechanical and Corrosion Behaviour in Simulated Body Fluid of As-Fabricated 3D Porous L-PBF 316L Stainless Steel Structures for Biomedical Implants
Authors: Nogueira Pedro , Magrinho João , Reis Luis , de Deus Augusto Moita , Silva Maria Beatriz , Lopes Pedro , Oliveira Luís , Castela António , Cláudio Ricardo , Alves Jorge L. , Vaz Maria Fátima , Carmezim Maria , Santos Catarina
Published: October 2024

Laser powder bed fusion (L-PBF) is one of the most promising additive manufacturing technologies for creating customised 316L Stainless Steel (SS) implants with biomimetic characteristics, controlled porosity, and optimal structural and functional properties. However, the behaviour of as-fabricated 3D 316L SS structures without any surface finishing in environments that simulate body fluids remains largely unknown. To address this knowledge gap, the present study investigates the surface characteristics, the internal porosity, the corrosion in simulated body fluid (SBF), and the mechanical properties of as-fabricated 316L SS structures manufactured by L-PBF with rhombitruncated cuboctahedron (RTCO) unit cells with two distinct relative densities (10 and 35%). The microstructural analysis confirmed that the RTCO structure has a pure austenitic phase with a roughness of ~20 µm and a fine cellular morphology. The micro-CT revealed the presence of keyholes and a lack of fusion pores in both RTCO structures. Despite the difference in the internal porosity, the mechanical properties of both structures remain within the range of bone tissue and in line with the Gibson and Ashby model. Additionally, the as-fabricated RTCO structures demonstrated passive corrosion behaviour in the SBF solution. Thus, as-fabricated porous structures are promising biomaterials for implants due to their suitable surface roughness, mechanical properties, and corrosion resistance, facilitating bone tissue growth.
Prediction of Attention Groups and Big Five Personality Traits from Gaze Features Collected from an Outlier Search Game
Authors: Saboundji Rachid Rhyad , Faragó Kinga Bettina , Firyaridi Violetta
Published: October 2024

This study explores the intersection of personality, attention and task performance in traditional 2D and immersive virtual reality (VR) environments. A visual search task was developed that required participants to find anomalous images embedded in normal background images in 3D space. Experiments were conducted with 30 subjects who performed the task in 2D and VR environments while their eye movements were tracked. Following an exploratory correlation analysis, we applied machine learning techniques to investigate the predictive power of gaze features on human data derived from different data collection methods. Our proposed methodology consists of a pipeline of steps for extracting fixation and saccade features from raw gaze data and training machine learning models to classify the Big Five personality traits and attention-related processing speed/accuracy levels computed from the Group Bourdon test. The models achieved above-chance predictive performance in both 2D and VR settings despite visually complex 3D stimuli. We also explored further relationships between task performance, personality traits and attention characteristics.
Combined Freak Wave, Wind, and Current Effects on the Dynamic Responses of Offshore Triceratops
Authors: Ravichandran Nagavinothini
Published: October 2024

Offshore structures are exposed to various environmental loads, including extreme and abnormal waves, over their operational lifespan. The existence of wind and current can exacerbate the dynamic response of these structures, posing threats to safety and integrity. This study focuses on the dynamic responses of offshore triceratops under different environmental conditions characterized by the superimposition of freak waves, uniform wind, and current. The free surface profile of the freak wave was generated using the dual superposition model. The numerical model of the offshore platform designed for ultra-deep-water applications was developed using the ANSYS AQWA 2023 R2 modeler. Numerical investigations, including the free decay tests and time-domain analysis under random sea states, including freak waves, were initially carried out. Then, the combined effects of freak waves, wind, and current were studied in detail under different loading scenarios. The results revealed the increase in structural response under the freak wave action at the focus time. Wind action resulted in a mean shift in responses, while the inclusion of current led to a pronounced increase in the total response of the platform, encompassing deck and buoyant legs, alongside the tether tension variation. Notably, considerable variations in the response were observed after freak wave exposure under the combined influence of wind, freak wave, and current. The results underscore the profound effects induced by wind and current in the presence of freak waves, providing valuable insights for analyzing similar offshore structures under ultimate design conditions.
A Comprehensive Review of an Underwater Towing Cable Array: A Discussion on the Dynamic Characteristics of the Towing Cable Array During the Outspread Process
Authors: Zhang Dapeng , Luo Yangyang , Zhang Yi , Ma Yunsheng , Zhu Keqiang , Zeng Shengqing
Published: October 2024

Towing cable arrays have made significant contributions across various fields, and their outspread process is crucial for realizing their functionalities. However, research on the dynamic characterization of the outspread process of towed cable arrays lacks systematic organization. This paper reviews, organizes, and analyzes the outspread process of towing cable arrays, drawing on relevant models, case studies, and structural features. It ingeniously applies concepts from parachute outspread to the analysis of towing-cable-array deployment. The study systematically examines the deployment of towing cable arrays under varying cable lengths, wave conditions, and the interactions between line arrays. The goal is to integrate existing research on the outspread of towing cable arrays, addressing the gaps in the description of this process and providing a comprehensive analysis of the outspread characteristics under different conditions. Additionally, this paper identifies current limitations in this area and provides insights for future developments. Furthermore, it explores the potential application of AI to address these challenges. The aim of this paper is to contribute meaningfully to this field.
Role of Organic Matter Present in the Water Column on Turbidity Flows
Authors: Wahab Shaheen , Ali Waqas , Chassagne Claire , Helmons Rudy
Published: October 2024

Turbidity flows are known to be affected by the density difference between sediment plumes and the surrounding water. However, besides density, other factors could lead to changes in flow propagation. Such a factor is the presence of suspended organic matter. Recently, it was found that flocculation does occur within plumes upon release of a sediment/organic matter mixture in a lock exchange flume. In the present study, mineral sediment (illite clay) was released into the outflow compartment containing water and synthetic organic matter (polyacrylamide flocculant). Even though the density of water was barely affected by the presence of flocculant, flow head velocity was observed to be larger in the presence of flocculant than without. Samples taken at different positions in the flume indicated that flocs were created during the small current propagation time (about 30–60 s) and that their sizes were larger with higher flocculant dosage. The size of flocs depended on their positions in the flow: flocs sampled in the body part of the flow were larger than the ones sampled at the bottom. All these properties are discussed as a function of sediment–flocculant interactions.
Analysis of Impact of Control Strategies on Integrated Electric Propulsion System Performance During Icebreaking Process
Authors: Li Liang , Yi Ping , Wu Shen , Huang Shuai , Li Tie
Published: October 2024

Developing an efficient power system is an important way for icebreakers to respond to high maneuverability and strong fluctuation loads under icebreaking conditions. The performance of power systems under short-period, regularly fluctuating load-sea conditions has been intensively studied. However, the performance of the power system in the face of a long-period, stochastic multi-frequency fluctuation icebreaking process has not been fully explored, especially the parameter uncertainty and battery cycle life. In this study, an integrated electric propulsion system with an optimal control strategy is suggested for improving the power system’s dynamic performance and battery cycle life. First, an energy flow model with a diesel–electric unit as the main body and coupled energy storage system/hybrid energy storage system has been constructed. A comparative analysis of rule-based and optimization-based energy management strategies has been performed, and an optimized strategy with dynamic programming as global regulation at the upper level and model predictive control at the lower level is suggested to integrate the slow and fast dynamic powers and achieve adaptability to strong fluctuation loads. In this control strategy, the uncertainties of energy storage system/hybrid energy storage system parameters have been introduced to eliminate their impact on the system performance. Then, the icebreaking process with multi-frequency fluctuation has been simulated, and the hybrid energy storage system with battery and supercapacitor is recommended to reach multi-objective with the lowest power fluctuation of diesel–electric unit, highest efficiency, and the minimum battery degradation. Finally, the fuel oil consumption and emissions of the hybrid energy storage system have been discussed, and the optimized strategy can save fuel oil by up to 5.33% and reduce the CO2 emission by 22% during the icebreaking process, exhibiting great potential in the environmental friendliness and significant advantages in terms of low fuel oil consumption.
Three New Species of Mytilinidioid Fungi (Dothideomycetes, Ascomycota) from Mexico
Authors: Raymundo Tania , Martínez-González César R. , Martínez-Pineda Michelle , Cobos-Villagrán Aurora , Ramírez-Rosales Isabel , Valenzuela Ricardo
Published: October 2024

Mytilinidioid fungi are conchiform in nature, with the appearance of bivalve shells or wedge-shaped, rigid, brittle, and carbonaceous hysterothecia growing on the bark of gymnosperms or angiosperms. Based on their morphological characteristics and molecular markers (ITS and LSU), this study describes three new species of mytilinidioid fungi: Ericboehmia mexicana of the family Hysteriaceae of the order Hysteriales and Lophium pinicola and Mytilinidion mexicanum of the family Mytilinidiaceae of the order Mytilinidiales. The first species grows on Liquidambar styracyphlua, the second species grows on Pinus patula, and the third species grows on Acacia californica subsp. pringlei. The specimens studied were deposited in the ENCB Herbarium.
Recent Advances in Diagnostic Approaches for Mucormycosis
Authors: Safiia Jawad , Díaz Marco Aurelio , Alshaker Hassan , Atallah Christine J. , Sakr Paul , Moshovitis Dimitrios G. , Nawlo Ahmad , Franceschi Andres E. , Liakos Alexis , Koo Sophia
Published: October 2024

Mucormycosis, an invasive fungal infection caused by members of the order Mucorales, often progresses fulminantly if not recognized in a timely manner. This comprehensive review discusses the latest developments in diagnostic approaches for mucormycosis, from traditional histopathology and culture-based methods to advanced and emerging techniques such as molecular assays, imaging, serology, and metabolomics. We discuss challenges in the diagnosis of mucormycosis and emphasize the importance of rapid and accurate identification of this life-threatening infection.
Diversity and Antifungal Susceptibilities of Yeasts from Mangroves in Hong Kong, China—A One Health Aspect
Authors: Hau Pak-Ting , Shiu Anson , Tam Emily Wan-Ting , Chau Eddie Chung-Ting , Murillo Michaela , Humer Eva , Po Wai-Wai , Yu Ray Chun-Wai , Fung Joshua , Seto Sai-Wang , Tsang Chi-Ching , Chow Franklin Wang-Ngai
Published: October 2024

While mangrove ecosystems are rich in biodiversity, they are increasingly impacted by climate change and urban pollutants. The current study provides first insights into the emergence of potentially pathogenic yeasts in Hong Kong’s mangroves. Sediment and water samples were collected from ten urban and rural mangroves sites. Initial CHROMagarTM Candida Plus screening, representing the first application of this differential medium for water and soil samples collected from a non-clinical environment, enabled the rapid, preliminary phenotypic identification of yeast isolates from mangroves. Subsequent molecular profiling (ITS and/or 28S nrDNA sequencing) and antifungal drug susceptibility tests were conducted to further elucidate yeast diversity and drug resistance. A diversity of yeasts, including 45 isolates of 18 distinct species across 13 genera/clades, was isolated from sediments and waters from Hong Kong mangroves. Molecular profiling revealed a dominance of the Candida/Lodderomyces clade (44.4%), a group of notorious opportunistic pathogens. The findings also reveal a rich biodiversity of non-Candida/Lodderomyces yeasts in mangroves, including the first reported presence of Apiotrichum domesticum and Crinitomyces flavificans. A potentially novel Yamadazyma species was also discovered. Remarkably, 14.3% of the ubiquitous Candida parapsilosis isolates displayed resistance to multiple antifungal drugs, suggesting that mangroves may be reservoirs of multi-drug resistance. Wildlife, especially migratory birds, may disseminate these hidden threats. With significant knowledge gaps regarding the environmental origins, drug resistance, and public health impacts of pathogenic yeasts, urgent surveillance is needed from a One Health perspective. This study provides an early warning that unrestrained urbanization can unleash resistant pathogens from coastal ecosystems globally. It underscores the necessity for enhanced surveillance studies and interdisciplinary collaboration between clinicians, ornithologists, and environmental microbiologists to effectively monitor and manage this environmental health risk, ensuring the maintenance of ‘One Health’.
The Role of Technology in Promoting Green Finance: A Systematic Literature Survey and the Development of a Framework
Authors: Saeedi Mitra , Ashraf Badar Nadeem
Published: October 2024

Green finance, defined as channeling money into sustainable development activities, is still far lower than needed to achieve net-zero emissions objectives. In this paper, we discuss the role of technologies in developing green finance. We identify that green finance faces three major challenges, including the risk management of green projects, the scarcity of innovative green financing products, and compliance with the regulations. Then, in the context of the existing literature, we explore recent technologies, including blockchain, artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), data analytics, Internet of Things (IoT), and robotics that are helping to deal with the challenges in green finance. We show that data-driven approaches utilizing AI and ML help in the risk assessment of green projects; FinTech-based crowdfunding platforms provide innovative green financial products and regulatory technologies (RegTech) support in compliance with regulations. We also identify that the environmental footprint of cryptocurrencies is an emerging area in the technologies and green finance domain. Our framework could be helpful to further extend the debate on the role of technology in green finance.
The Strategic Impact of Service Quality and Environmental Sustainability on Financial Performance: A Case Study of 5-Star Hotels in Athens
Authors: Skordoulis Michalis , Stavropoulos Angelos-Stavros , Papagrigoriou Aristidis , Kalantonis Petros
Published: October 2024

This study explores the impact of guest satisfaction on the financial performance of 5-star hotels, with a focus on both service quality and environmental sustainability. The purpose of the research is to understand how improvements in key satisfaction dimensions influence hotel profitability, as measured by EBITDA, ROA, and ROE. Satisfaction was measured across SERVQAUL dimensions and the dimension of environmental sustainability. The data were analyzed using the Multicriteria Satisfaction Analysis (MUSA) method and linear regression models to determine the effect of satisfaction on financial performance. Results indicate that responsiveness is the most important factor for guests, while environmental sustainability ranks high in importance but shows lower satisfaction scores. The findings suggest that investing in both service quality and sustainability can significantly enhance a hotel’s financial returns. The study concludes that hotel managers should prioritize improvements in environmental sustainability and responsiveness to optimize guest satisfaction and financial performance.
Comparison of Nitrous Oxide Consumption of Paddy Soils Developed from Three Parent Materials in Subtropical China
Authors: Wang Ling , Yang Man , Li Jun , Li Zhaohua , Wright Alan , Li Kun
Published: October 2024

Paddy soils developed from various parent materials are widely distributed in the subtropical region in China and have a non-negligible but unclear potential to consume nitrous oxide (N2O) due to long-term flooding. This study selected three of the most common paddy soils in subtropical China, developing from quaternary red soil (R), lake sediment sand (S), and alluvial soil (C), to study their total N2O consumption and total nitrogen (N2) production using N2-free microcosm experiments. These paddy soils were treated with N2O addition (N2O treatment) or helium (He) addition (CK treatment) and incubated under flooding and anoxic conditions. The results showed that three alluvial soils (C1, C2, and C3) consumed over 99.93% of the N2O accumulated in the soil profile, significantly higher than R and S soils (p < 0.05). And the N2 production in three C soils was also significantly higher than other soils, accounting for 81.61% of the total N2O consumption. The main soil factors affecting N2O consumption in C, S, and R soils were soil clay content (p < 0.05), soil sand content (R2 = 0.95, p < 0.001), and soil available potassium (AK) (p < 0.01), respectively. These results indicate flooding paddy soils, no matter the parent materials developed, could consume extremely large amount of N2O produced in soil profiles.
Vertical Plant Configuration: Its Impact on Microclimate and Thermal Comfort in Urban Small Green Spaces
Authors: Sun Fuhao , Zhang Junhua , Takeda Shiro , Cui Jingshu , Yang Ruochen
Published: October 2024

The presence of small green spaces throughout high-density urban areas is essential for enhancing thermal comfort and combating the urban heat island effect. Extensive research has been conducted on plants, which play a key role in cooling green spaces. However, the majority of research focuses on trees, overlooking the efficiency of vertical plant configurations, especially shrubs. Hence, this paper selected a typical small green space in Tokyo’s high-density urban area and employed scenario simulation to examine how various vertical plant configurations impact the microclimate and thermal comfort of small green spaces, with a particular emphasis on quantifying the efficiency of shrubs. The research primarily discovered four findings. First, trees significantly outperform shrubs in improving thermal comfort, especially during periods of strong sunlight during the day, leading to a direct modification of the thermal comfort levels. Second, while shrubs (height < 2 m) usually do not make a substantial difference in the overall thermal comfort levels of small green spaces, they are effective in reducing areas classified as “hot” and “very hot” during the day, with their cooling effect becoming more pronounced in the late afternoon. Third, when small green spaces combine trees and shrubs in their plant configuration, taller shrubs (within 0–2 m) exhibit a more pronounced cooling effect and improvement in thermal comfort. The conclusions of this study could offer guidance for the planning, design, and renovation of small green spaces in high-density urban areas.