bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effects of Stimulus Repetition Rate on Electrically Evoked Auditory Brainstem Potentials in Postlingually Deafened Adult Cochlear Implant Recipients
Authors: Dziemba Oliver C. , Brzoska Tina , Hocke Thomas , Ihler Friedrich
Published: November 2023

Background: By using outcome prediction scores, it is possible to distinguish between good and poor performers with cochlear implants (CI) after CI implantation. The reasons for poor performance, despite good basic conditions, can be manifold. On the one hand, the postoperative fitting may be inadequate; on the other, neurophysiological disease processes may impair speech understanding with a CI. These disease processes are not yet fully understood. In acoustics, it is known that the auditory brainstem responses (ABR) and their latencies and amplitudes allow differential diagnosis based on reference values for normal-hearing individuals. The aim of this study was to provide reference values for electrically evoked brainstem responses (EABRs) in terms of rate-dependent latencies and amplitudes. Methods: 20 ears of 18 experienced adult CI recipients with a predicted and measured good postoperative word recognition score were recruited from the clinic’s patient pool. In the same stimulation mode and intensity we measured latencies and interpeak-latencies of EABRs and electrically evoked compound action potentials (ECAPs). With a defined supra-threshold stimulation intensity above the individual ECAP threshold, we applied stimulation at several rates between 11 and 91 stimuli per second. Results: We found rate dependences for EABR latency t3 and t5 in the order of 0.19 ms and 0.37 ms, respectively, while ECAP was not affected by rate. Correspondingly, the interpeak intervals’ rate dependences for t5−t1, t5−t3 and t3−t1 were of the order of 0.37 ms, 0.18 ms and 0.19 ms. Comparing the EABR amplitudes between the stimulation rates 11/s and 81/s, we found that at 81/s the amplitudes were significantly reduced down: to 73% for A3 and 81% for A5. These rate dependences of latency and amplitude in EABR have characteristics comparable to those of acoustic ABR. Conclusions: These data may serve to provide reference values for EABR and ECAP latencies, interpeak intervals and amplitudes with respect to stimulation rate. Altered response patterns of ECAPs and EABRs to normalised stimulation modes could be used in the future to describe and classify neuropathological processes in a better-differentiated way.
The Association between Direct Oral Anticoagulants Prescribing Behavior and Non-Valvular Atrial Fibrillation Outcomes: An Instrumental Variable Analysis of Real-World Data
Authors: Atreja Nipun , Severtson Stevan Geoffrey , Jiang Jenny , Gao Chuan , Hines Dionne M. , Cheng Dong , Hagan Melissa , Breeze Janis L. , Paulus Jessica K. , Secemsky Eric A.
Published: November 2023

Several observational studies have compared apixaban with rivaroxaban in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF), but these analyses may be confounded by unmeasured characteristics. This study used provider prescribing preference (PPP) as an instrumental variable (IV) to assess the association between prescriber choice of rivaroxaban vs. apixaban and the study outcomes of stroke/systemic embolism (SE), major bleeding, and death in a retrospective cohort of NVAF patients in the US. Initiators of either medication were linked to their prescribers and followed until the first of the study outcome, the end of rivaroxaban/apixaban use, or 365 days after initiation. PPP for each patient was the percent of rivaroxaban initiations issued by the provider for the prior 10 NVAF patients. Cox regression models tested associations between quintiles of PPP and each outcome. A total of 61,155 patients and 1726 providers were included. The IV was a strong predictor of rivaroxaban prescription (OR = 17.9; 95% CI: 16.6, 19.3). There were statistically significant associations between increasing preference for rivaroxaban and rates of major bleeding (ptrend = 0.041) and death (ptrend = 0.031), but not stroke/SE (ptrend = 0.398). This analysis provides evidence of the relative safety of apixaban over rivaroxaban for the risk of major bleeding and death.
Oral Health-Related Quality of Life in Adult Patients with Depression or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Authors: Gemp Stephan , Ziebolz Dirk , Haak Rainer , Mauche Nicole , Prase Madlen , Dogan-Sander Ezgi , Görges Frauke , Strauß Maria , Schmalz Gerhard
Published: November 2023

The aim of this cross-sectional study was the evaluation of the oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) in patients with depression or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in comparison with a group of mentally healthy individuals. Patients from the Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Leipzig, Germany, were recruited. A healthy comparison group (HC) was recruited from the Department of Cariology, Endodontology and Periodontology. The OHRQoL was assessed using the Oral Health Impact Profile G14 (OHIP G14). Furthermore, a questionnaire regarding oral hygiene behaviour was applied. A total of 141 patients with depression or ADHD (depression n = 94, ADHD n = 47) and 145 HC individuals with a balanced age and gender distribution were surveyed. OHIP G14 median scores were significantly higher in the overall psychiatric patient group compared to HC (5.00 vs. 0.00, p < 0.001). This was also found for the four dimensions of OHIP G14 (p < 0.001). The OHIP G14 sum score of patients with depression and ADHD was comparable (5.00 vs. 6.50, p = 0.302). A significant association among psychiatric patients between smoking, gum bleeding, professional tooth cleaning, oral health education, interdental cleaning, and elevated OHIP scores was found (p < 0.001). In conclusion, patients with depression and adults with ADHD show a reduced OHRQoL. A contradictory association between oral hygiene/oral health behaviour and OHRQoL supports the hypothesis of a changed perception of oral conditions in patients with mental diseases. Interdisciplinary collaboration between psychiatric specialists and dentists should be fostered.
Treatment Approaches to Molar Incisor Hypomineralization: A Systematic Review
Authors: Inchingolo Angelo Michele , Inchingolo Alessio Danilo , Viapiano Fabio , Ciocia Anna Maria , Ferrara Irene , Netti Anna , Dipalma Gianna , Palermo Andrea , Inchingolo Francesco
Published: November 2023

Aim: This systematic review aimed to comprehensively evaluate the available literature on treating molar incisor hypomineralization (MIH) or enamel hypomineralization published between 2013 and 2023, focusing on identifying relevant studies and their characteristics. Materials and Methods: The search process encompassed reputable academic databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science, using a precise keyword strategy (“((molar incisor hypomineralization) OR (enamel hypomineralization)) AND (treatment)”). A total of 637 articles were initially retrieved, followed by a strict selection process adhering to PRISMA guidelines. The inclusion criteria encompassed Randomized Control Trials (RCTs), case series with more than five clinical cases (CSs), studies involving human participants, availability as free full-text or accessible with university credentials, and English-language publications. Exclusion criteria included systematic or literature reviews, editorials, single-case reports, studies conducted in vitro, those involving animals, paid articles, and non-English-language publications. Results: The search yielded 864 articles, of which 23 met the stringent inclusion criteria after a meticulous selection process. These studies will serve as the basis for a comprehensive analysis of MIH treatment approaches. The systematic review ensures the quality and relevance of the chosen studies for a detailed assessment of MIH treatment strategies. Conclusions: This systematic review will provide valuable insights into the characteristics of selected studies, patient profiles, and available treatment options for molar incisor hypomineralization, contributing to a better understanding of this dental condition’s management.
Nano Propolis, Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles, and Their Composites: A Novel Green Synthesis with Synergistic Antioxidant and Anticancer Properties
Authors: Salama Shaimaa A. , Atta Ramadan R. , Khalil Ensaf M. , Abdelaleim Yasser F. , Abd-Eltawab Samah , Farghali Ahmed A. , Essam Doaa , Alkhalifah Dalal Hussien M. , Hozzein Wael N. , Mahmoud Rehab
Published: November 2023

Nanoparticles of zinc oxide (ZnO NPs), propolis, and the ZnO–propolis composite (ZnO-P NCs) have been synthesized using a biomimetic approach. Zeta potential analysis and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) proved the formation and stability of nanomaterials. Findings using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), EDX-imaging, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) demonstrated that the particle size of ZnO-P NCs was 9.70 nm. The antioxidant (DPPH radical scavenging) activity of synthesized nanomaterials was investigated. IC50 values of zinc oxide, propolis, and ZnO-P NCs nanoparticles were 2.75, 1.7, and 1.45 mg mL−1, respectively. In addition, their selectivity and anticancer activity for cancer cell lines (Hela and MCF-7) and human normal (W138) cell lines were investigated. ZnO-P NCs were highly effective against the cell line for breast cancer with an IC50 value of 18 µg/mL, indicating its anticancer-promising potent cytotoxicity in breast cancer treatment, and 23 µg/mL against cervical cancer. In addition, the higher observed safety, antioxidant, and anticancer activities for synthesized ZnO-P NCs confirmed the synergistic effect of this combination. It was obtained that the specific mechanisms underlying the synergy effect between zinc oxide nanoparticles and nanopropolis in their composite formulation varied depending on the preparation method, ratio, and concentration of the components.
Forecasting of Mesoscale Eddies in the Kuroshio Extension Based on Temporal Modes-Enhanced Neural Network
Authors: Wang Haitong , Guo Yunxia , Kong Yuan , Fang Yong
Published: November 2023

Mesoscale eddies are a common occurrence in the Kuroshio Extension (KE) that have a major impact on the levels of salinity and heat transport in the Northwest Pacific, the strength of the Kuroshio jet, and the fluctuations of the Kuroshio’s trajectory. In this study, a purely data-driven machine learning model, Temporal Modes-Enhanced Neural Network (TMENN), is proposed to forecast the spatiotemporal variation of mesoscale eddies based on daily sea surface height (SSH) data over a 20-year period (2000–2019) in the Kuroshio Extension. To reduce computational costs and facilitate faster forecasting, raw SSH data are decomposed into spatial modes and temporal modes (principal components, PCs) by empirical orthogonal functions (EOF) analysis, and the first 117 PCs (a total of 8384 PCs), wherein the cumulative variance contribution rate reaches 95%, are selected solely as the predictors of TMENN to train and forecast. Forecasting reconstruction results show that the model can reliably forecast the evolution of the eddy in the KE for about 30 days. Additionally, three classical mesoscale eddy processes are selected to verify the accuracy of the model, namely cold eddy attachment, warm eddy shedding, and attachment, and the results indicate that the model can well capture the evolution process of mesoscale eddies.
Double Lateral Osteotomy: Not Only the Correction of Crooked Noses but a Relevant Aesthetical Refinement in Structural Rhinoplasty
Authors: Bracaglia Roberto , Servillo Maria , Fortunato Regina , Caretto Anna Amelia , Gentileschi Stefano
Published: November 2023

Background: Osteotomy represents a crucial step in structural rhinoplasty; however, there is not a unique approach accepted. Double lateral osteotomy has proven to be effective in the long-term correction of a deviated nose. In this series, we evaluated its aesthetic value also in non-deviated cases. Materials and Methods: 864 patients who underwent primary structural rhinoplasty from 2012 to 2020 were divided into four groups. Group A and B included patients with a crooked nose treated with asymmetrical double osteotomy and bilateral double osteotomy, respectively. Patients who did not present nasal deviation were divided into group C, including cases treated with bilateral single osteotomy, and group D, including patients who underwent bilateral double osteotomy. Postoperative evaluations were performed by three independent plastic surgeons blinded to the surgical technique. Patient’s satisfaction was assessed through the FACE-Q rhinoplasty module. Results: FACE-Q scores reported a satisfaction rate higher than 30% for every item in all groups; however, group B and group D showed statistically higher satisfaction (p < 0.01). According to the evaluations performed by physicians, group B and group D showed the most satisfactory outcomes (p < 0.01). Conclusions: bilateral double osteotomies represent a significant aesthetic refinement in structural rhinoplasty, not only in crooked noses but also in non-deviated cases, since the reduction in the width of the nose is an aesthetical aspect very appreciated by patients.
Cemiplimab as First Line Therapy in Advanced Penile Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Real-World Experience
Authors: Rouvinov Keren , Mazor Gal , Kozlener Ella , Meirovitz Amichay , Shrem Noa Shani , Abu Saleh Omar , Shalata Sondos , Yakobson Alexander , Shalata Walid
Published: November 2023

In the treatment of cancer, immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have demonstrated significantly greater effectiveness compared to conventional cytotoxic or platinum-based chemotherapies. To assess the efficacy of ICI’s in penile squamous cell carcinoma (pSCC) we performed a retrospective observational study. We reviewed electronic medical records of patients with penile squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), diagnosed between January 2020 and February 2023. Nine patients were screened, of whom three were ineligible for chemotherapy and received immunotherapy, cemiplimab, in a first-line setting. Each of the three immunotherapy-treated patients achieved almost a complete response (CR) after only a few cycles of therapy. The first patient had cerebral arteritis during treatment and received a high-dose steroid treatment with resolution of the symptoms of arteritis. After tapering down the steroids dose, the patient continued cemiplimab without further toxicity. The other two patients did not have any toxic side effects of the treatment. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first real world report of near CR with cemiplimab as a first-line treatment in penile SCC.
A Federated Learning Approach to Support the Decision-Making Process for ICU Patients in a European Telemedicine Network
Authors: Paragliola Giovanni , Ribino Patrizia , Ullah Zaib
Published: November 2023

A result of the pandemic is an urgent need for data collaborations that empower the clinical and scientific communities in responding to rapidly evolving global challenges. The ICU4Covid project joined research institutions, medical centers, and hospitals all around Europe in a telemedicine network for sharing capabilities, knowledge, and expertise distributed within the network. However, healthcare data sharing has ethical, regulatory, and legal complexities that pose several restrictions on their access and use. To mitigate this issue, the ICU4Covid project integrates a federated learning architecture, allowing distributed machine learning within a cross-institutional healthcare system without the data being transported or exposed outside their original location. This paper presents the federated learning approach to support the decision-making process for ICU patients in a European telemedicine network. The proposed approach was applied to the early identification of high-risk hypertensive patients. Experimental results show how the knowledge of every single node is spread within the federation, improving the ability of each node to make an early prediction of high-risk hypertensive patients. Moreover, a performance evaluation shows an accuracy and precision of over 90%, confirming a good performance of the FL approach as a prediction test. The FL approach can significantly support the decision-making process for ICU patients in distributed networks of federated healthcare organizations.
Ecological Security of Desert–Oasis Areas in the Yellow River Basin, China
Authors: Liu Yuanyuan , Ma Caihong , Yang Zhonghua , Fan Xin
Published: November 2023

The desert–oasis interaction zone plays a crucial role in safeguarding oasis ecological security and maintaining stability within oases. This paper proposed a framework of EN-DSS, based on long-term remote sensing data and fundamental data, adopted morphological spatial pattern analysis (MSPA) and Linkage Mapper among other methods, and it took Lingwu City in the Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, which is located in the desert–oasis interaction zone in the upper reaches of the Yellow River, as a case study. The results indicate the following: since 1995, this desert–oasis system has exhibited the characteristics whereby the oasis is expanding eastward and the desert is significantly receding. The vegetation coverage has improved overall, forming an ecological security pattern characterized predominantly by shrub forests, which is referred to as the “one core, two corridors, three zones, and multiple clusters” pattern. This pattern has significantly reduced the risk of wind and sand erosion in the agricultural irrigation areas along the Yellow River. However, the construction of this ecological security pattern still faces challenges, including high construction and maintenance costs and the need to enhance the network’s quality. In the future, it will be necessary to strengthen the integrated ecological network construction of ecological areas, agricultural areas, and urban areas to enhance the stability of this regional ecological network system.
Urban Modeling in the Global South and Sustainable Socio-Territorial Development: Case of Puebla-San Andrés Cholula Urban Binomial, Mexico
Authors: Kurjenoja Anne K.
Published: November 2023

To understand urbanization across the Global South, it is indispensable to consider situated heterogeneous urban situations shaped by global and local forces and their intersections. In the case of Mexico, the political and economic desire for globalization has extended beyond the great metropolis of Mexico City to mid-size cities triggering the formulation of their own urban strategies to become global. This paper explores the connections between neoliberal public policy, globalization, urban modeling, and socio-territorial sustainability in the territorial binomial of the city of Puebla and the municipality of San Andrés Cholula in the period of 2011–2017 and its current consequences, addressed by the local planning route map, and informed by the Orange Economy-guide of the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), using relevant bibliographical sources, mapping, interviews of stakeholders, and fieldwork. The ultimate purpose of the research project described herein is to provide a multi-dimensional analysis of the development of the territorial situation of the Puebla-San Andrés Cholula-urban binomial, and of its current and potential future consequences, offering supporting information for its urban planning. The research results exposed here reveal urban modeling processes informed by the Global North urban globalization theory, development of global cities in the Global South, local socio-territorial dynamics characterized by economic and political interests imprinted in the public policy, and socio-territorial patterns inherited from the colonial past, resulting in socio-economic and racial discrimination, population displacements, real estate speculation, and risking ecological and environmental sustainability.
The Configurational Structures of Social Spaces: Space Syntax and Urban Morphology in the Context of Analytical, Evidence-Based Design
Authors: Karimi Kayvan
Published: November 2023

This article presents an argument for the enhanced utilisation of urban morphology in urban design, drawing inspiration from space syntax theory and methodologies, advocating for the integration of social, economic, and cultural considerations alongside physical structures. This perspective shift entails transitioning from descriptive analysis to quantitative inquiries for the prediction and assessment of urban dynamics. By incorporating spatial analysis and socio-economic factors, urban morphology offers a competent understanding of the complexities inherent to urban environments. This comprehension supports the development of evidence-based designs and predictive models that enable such an approach in urban design. To operationalise this approach, the article introduces a methodology that interlinks urban morphology and design through a cyclic process encompassing analysis, design, evaluation, and further design development. This framework is illustrated through the case study of Jilin City, where an assessment of the public transport system led to a comprehensive urban design strategy. The study demonstrates how urban morphology insights, supported by analytical investigations enabled by space syntax methodology, can actively influence urban design and planning practices. By effectively embedding this morphological approach, urban designers and planners acquire the tools needed to navigate the evolving urban systems while respecting the interplay between physical structures and human existence. The article concludes by highlighting the need for an ongoing evolution of this approach to maintain relevance in shaping future urban settings.
The Renewal of the Finnish Planning Legislation as a Strategy of Urban Planning and Development
Authors: Horelli Liisa , Wallin Sirkku
Published: November 2023

Due to global eco-social and technological challenges, a new strategy of planning adopted as the Land Use and Building Act in Finland (2000) will be renewed after 23 years of implementation. Will the forthcoming law recognise the complex relationships and consequences of self-organised processes, the digital empowerment of citizens, and the eco-social content of planning and development? This article examines and discusses the renewal of the Finnish Land Use and Building Act and the forthcoming planning system from an ontological perspective. Methodologically it is based on an assessment of the draft of and comments on the new Act, as well as on a comparative analysis of two case studies that illustrate the potential consequences of the renewal in the Finnish context. The results reveal that the planning system will become more complex. Despite the adoption of a new digital methodology, the Act ignores civil society’s self-organisation and digital empowerment; also, the definition of the eco-social substance is vague. However, the Finnish reform serves as an example of the difficulties that planning systems encounter in the current context of complex problems concerning sustainability transitions all over the world.
Mathematical Modeling of Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer Biology through the Experimental Data on Cell Composition and Growth of Patient-Derived Organoids
Authors: Sulimanov Rushan , Koshelev Konstantin , Makarov Vladimir , Mezentsev Alexandre , Durymanov Mikhail , Ismail Lilian , Zahid Komal , Rumyantsev Yegor , Laskov Ilya
Published: November 2023

Mathematical models of non-small-cell lung cancer are powerful tools that use clinical and experimental data to describe various aspects of tumorigenesis. The developed algorithms capture phenotypic changes in the tumor and predict changes in tumor behavior, drug resistance, and clinical outcomes of anti-cancer therapy. The aim of this study was to propose a mathematical model that predicts the changes in the cellular composition of patient-derived tumor organoids over time with a perspective of translation of these results to the parental tumor, and therefore to possible clinical course and outcomes for the patient. Using the data on specific biomarkers of cancer cells (PD-L1), tumor-associated macrophages (CD206), natural killer cells (CD8), and fibroblasts (αSMA) as input, we proposed a model that accurately predicts the cellular composition of patient-derived tumor organoids at a desired time point. Combining the obtained results with “omics” approaches will improve our understanding of the nature of non-small-cell lung cancer. Moreover, their implementation into clinical practice will facilitate a decision-making process on treatment strategy and develop a new personalized approach in anti-cancer therapy.
Cardiac Autonomic Balance Is Altered during the Acute Stress Response in Adolescent Major Depression—Effect of Sex
Authors: Tonhajzerova Ingrid , Ferencova Nikola , Ondrejka Igor , Hrtanek Igor , Farsky Ivan , Kukucka Tomas , Visnovcova Zuzana
Published: November 2023

Autonomic nervous system (ANS) abnormalities are associated with major depressive disorder (MDD) already at adolescent age. The majority of studies so far evaluated parasympathetic and sympathetic branches of ANS individually, although composite indices including cardiac autonomic balance (CAB) and cardiac autonomic regulation (CAR) seem to measure ANS functioning more comprehensively and thus could provide better psychopathologies’ predictors. We aimed to study CAB and CAR derived from high-frequency bands of heart rate variability and left ventricular ejection time during complex stress response (rest–Go/NoGo task–recovery) in MDD adolescents with respect to sex. We examined 85 MDD adolescents (52 girls, age: 15.7 ± 0.14 yrs.) and 80 age- and sex-matched controls. The MDD group showed significantly reduced CAB compared to controls at rest, in response to the Go/NoGo task, and in the recovery phase. Moreover, while depressed boys showed significantly lower CAB at rest and in response to the Go/NoGo task compared to control boys, depressed girls showed no significant differences in evaluated parameters compared to control girls. This study for the first time evaluated CAB and CAR indices in drug-naïve first-episode diagnosed MDD adolescents during complex stress responses, indicating an altered cardiac autonomic pattern (i.e., reciprocal sympathetic dominance associated with parasympathetic underactivity), which was predominant for depressed boys.
PM2.5 Exposure-Linked Mitochondrial Dysfunction Negates SB216763-Mediated Cardio-Protection against Myocardial Ischemia–Reperfusion Injury
Authors: Sivakumar Bhavana , Nadeem Ahmed , Dar Mashooq Ahmad , Kurian Gino A.
Published: November 2023

GSK3β is a promising target for treating various disease conditions, including myocardial ischemia–reperfusion injury (IR). This study investigated the potential of GSK3β as a novel drug for managing IR in rats exposed to PM2.5 for 1 day and up to 21 days. Female Wistar rats were exposed to PM2.5 at a concentration of 250 µg/m3 for 3 h daily for either a single day or 21 days. After exposure, the isolated rat hearts underwent 30 min of ischemia followed by 60 min of reperfusion. GSK3β inhibition effectively reduced IR injury in rat hearts from animals exposed to PM2.5 for 1 day but not in those exposed for 21 days. PM2.5 exposure disrupted the redox balance in mitochondria and reduced the gene expression of antioxidants (glutaredoxin and peroxiredoxin) and NRF2, which protects against oxidative stress. PM2.5 also impaired mitochondrial bioenergetics, membrane potential, and quality control, leading to mitochondrial stress. Importantly, PM2.5 increased the translocation of GSK3β into mitochondria and compromised the overall mitochondrial function, particularly in the 21-day-exposed rat myocardium. The results indicate that extended exposure to PM2.5 leads to oxidative stress that disrupts mitochondrial function and diminishes the effectiveness of GSK3β inhibitors in offering cardio-protection through mitochondria.
Theoretical and Experimental Investigation of 3D-Printed Polylactide Laminate Composites’ Mechanical Properties
Authors: Krupnin Arthur E. , Zakirov Arthur R. , Sedush Nikita G. , Alexanyan Mark M. , Aganesov Alexander G. , Chvalun Sergei N.
Published: November 2023

The purpose of this work is to theoretically and experimentally investigate the applicability of the Tsai–Hill failure criterion and classical laminate theory for predicting the strength and stiffness of 3D-printed polylactide laminate composites with various raster angles in mechanical tests for uniaxial tension and compression. According to the results of tensile and compression tests, the stiffness matrix components of the orthotropic individual lamina and strength were determined. The Poisson’s ratio was determined using the digital image correlation method. It was found that the Tsai–Hill criterion is applicable for predicting the tensile strength and yield strength of laminate polymer composite materials manufactured via fused deposition modeling 3D printing. The calculated values of the elastic moduli for specimens with various raster angles correlate well with the values obtained experimentally. In tensile tests, the error for the laminate with a constant raster angle was 3.3%, for a composite laminate it was 4.4, in compression tests it was 11.9% and 9%, respectively.
Composites in Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering
Authors: Georgantzinos Stelios K. , Giannopoulos Georgios I. , Stamoulis Konstantinos , Markolefas Stylianos
Published: November 2023

An important step towards improving performance while reducing weight and maintenance needs is the integration of composite materials into mechanical and aerospace engineering. This subject explores the many aspects of composite application, from basic material characterization to state-of-the-art advances in manufacturing and design processes. The major goal is to present the most recent developments in composite science and technology while highlighting their critical significance in the industrial sector—most notably in the wind energy, automotive, aerospace, and marine domains. The foundation of this investigation is material characterization, which offers insights into the mechanical, chemical, and physical characteristics that determine composite performance. The papers in this collection discuss the difficulties of gaining an in-depth understanding of composites, which is necessary to maximize their overall performance and design. The collection of articles within this topic addresses the challenges of achieving a profound understanding of composites, which is essential for optimizing design and overall functionality. This includes the application of complicated material modeling together with cutting-edge simulation tools that integrate multiscale methods and multiphysics, the creation of novel characterization techniques, and the integration of nanotechnology and additive manufacturing. This topic offers a detailed overview of the current state and future directions of composite research, covering experimental studies, theoretical evaluations, and numerical simulations. This subject provides a platform for interdisciplinary cooperation and creativity in everything from the processing and testing of innovative composite structures to the inspection and repair procedures. In order to support the development of more effective, durable, and sustainable materials for the mechanical and aerospace engineering industries, we seek to promote a greater understanding of composites.
A Polytetrafluoroethylene-Based Solvent-Free Procedure for the Manufacturing of Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Wang Xuehan , Chen Shuli , Zhang Kaiqi , Huang Licheng , Shen Huilin , Chen Zheng , Rong Changru , Wang Guibin , Jiang Zhenhua
Published: November 2023

Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) have recently become popular for energy storage due to their high energy density, storage capacity, and long-term cycle life. Although binders make up only a small proportion of LIBs, they have become the key to promoting the transformation of the battery preparation process. Along with the development of binders, the battery manufacturing process has evolved from the conventional slurry-casting (SC) process to a more attractive solvent-free (SF) method. Compared with traditional LIBs manufacturing method, the SF method could dramatically reduce and increase the energy density due to the reduced preparation steps and enhanced electrode loading. Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), as a typical binder, has played an important role in fabricating high-performance LIBs, particularly in regards to the SF technique. In this paper, the development history and application status of PTFE binder was introduced, and then its contributions and the inherent problems involved in the SF process were described and analyzed. Finally, the viewpoints concerning the future trends for PTFE-based SF manufacturing methods were also discussed. We hope this work can inspire future research concerning high-quality SF binders and assist in promoting the evolution of the SF manufacturing technology in regards to LIBs.
Technological and Modelling Progress in Green Engineering and Sustainable Development: Advancements in Energy and Materials Engineering
Authors: Krzywanski Jaroslaw , Kijo-Kleczkowska Agnieszka , Nowak Wojciech , De Souza-Santos Marcio L.
Published: November 2023

Due to a growing number of environmental issues, including global warming, water scarcity, and fossil fuel depletion, the topic of modern materials in energy is becoming crucial for our civilization. The technological advancements that have been observed bring many innovations that significantly impact how energy can be generated, stored, and distributed. Moreover, new opportunities have emerged in energy and materials engineering due to the increasing computational capability of current data processing systems. Methods that are highly demanding, time-consuming, and difficult to apply may now be considered when developing complete and sophisticated models in many areas of science and technology. Combining computational methods and AI algorithms allows for multi-threaded analyses solving advanced and interdisciplinary problems. Therefore, knowledge and experience in this subject, as well as the investigation of new, more efficient, and environmentally friendly solutions, currently represent one of the main directions of scientific research. The Special Issue “Advances in Materials: Modelling Challenges and Technological Progress for Green Engineering and Sustainable Development” aims to bring together research on material advances, focusing on modelling challenges and technological progress (mainly for green engineering and sustainable development). Original research studies, review articles, and short communications are welcome, especially those focusing on (but not limited to) artificial intelligence, other computational methods, and state-of-the-art technological concepts related to the listed keywords within energy and materials engineering.
Drug-Eluting Sutures by Hot-Melt Extrusion: Current Trends and Future Potentials
Authors: Khalid Garba M. , Billa Nashiru
Published: November 2023

Surgical site infections (SSIs) may result from surgical procedures requiring a secondary administration of drugs at site or systemically in treating the infection. Drug-eluting sutures containing antimicrobial agents symbolise a latent strategy that precludes a secondary drug administration. It also offers the possibility of delivering a myriad of therapeutic agents to a localised wound site to effect analgesia, anti-inflammation, or the deployment of proteins useful for wound healing. Further, the use of biodegradable drug-eluting sutures eliminates the need for implanting foreign material into the wound, which needs to be removed after healing. In this review, we expound on recent trends in the manufacture of drug-eluting sutures with a focus on the hot-melt extrusion (HME) technique. HME provides a solvent-free, continuous one-step manufacturing conduit for drug-eluting sutures, hence, there is no drying step, which can be detrimental to the drug or suture threads and, thus, environmentally friendly. There is the possibility of combining the technology with additive manufacturing platforms to generate personalised drug-loaded implantable devices through prototyping and scalability. The review also highlights key material requirements for fabricating drug-eluting sutures by HME, as well as quality attributes. Finally, a preview of emerging drug-eluting sutures and advocacy for harmonisation of quality assurance by regulatory authorities that permits quality evaluation of novelty sutures is presented.
Effects of Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotube Dosages and Sonication Time on Hydration Heat Evolution in Cementitious Composites
Authors: Klemczak Barbara , Goldmann Eryk , Gołaszewska Małgorzata , Górski Marcin
Published: November 2023

This study aimed to investigate the heat generated during the hydration process in cementitious composites containing multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs). The cumulative heat release and heat flow of these cementitious composites were measured over a period of 168 h using isothermal calorimetry. Three different MWCNT dosages, 0.05 wt%, 0.1 wt%, and 0.2 wt%, along with two different sonication times for the solution, which were 20 min and 60 min, were applied in the experimental program. The results reveal that the incorporation of MWCNTs and the use of a naphthalene-based superplasticizer to disperse the nanotubes generally led to a reduction in heat emission during the early stages of hydration, a lower first peak value in the initial stage of hydration, and a significant delay in the acceleration period compared with the reference sample lacking this superplasticizer. Furthermore, the results demonstrate that both the dosage of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and the sonication time have an impact on the heat emission and hydration process since the same amount of superplasticizer was applied to all pastes. An increase in the MWCNT dosage led to a decrease in the rate of hydration heat at the main peak for all pastes. Additionally, longer sonication times resulted in lower values of heat generated, reduced main peak values in the heat rate evolution, and generally extended delays in the occurrence of the main peak.
Implementation of Digital Twin in Actual Production: Intelligent Assembly Paradigm for Large-Scale Industrial Equipment
Authors: Ding Huaqiu , Zhao Lizhong , Yan Jihong , Feng Hsi-Yung
Published: November 2023

The assembly process of large-scale and non-standard industrial equipment poses significant challenges due to its inherent scale-related complexity and proneness to errors, making it difficult to ensure process cost, production cycle, and assembly accuracy. In response to the limitations of traditional ineffective production models, this paper aims to explore and propose a digital twin (DT)-based technology paradigm for the intelligent assembly of large-scale and non-standard industrial equipment, focusing on both the equipment structure and assembly process levels. The paradigm incorporates key technologies that facilitate the integration of virtual and physical information, including the establishment and updating of DT models for assembly structures using actual data, the assessment of structural assemblability based on DT models, the planning and simulation of assembly processes, and the implementation of virtual commissioning technology tailored to the actual assembly process. The effectiveness of the proposed paradigm is demonstrated through a case study involving the actual assembly of a large-scale aerodynamic experimental equipment. The results confirm its ability to provide valuable technical support for the design, evaluation, and optimization of industrial equipment assembly processes. By leveraging the DT-based methodological system proposed in this paper, significant improvements in the transparency and intelligence of industrial equipment production processes can be achieved.
Three-Dimensional Scanning Accuracy of Intraoral Scanners for Dental Implant Scan Bodies—An Original Study
Authors: Rotaru Cristian , Bica Elena Adina , Butnărașu Cristian , Săndulescu Mihai
Published: November 2023

Background and Objectives: With the increased trend towards digitalization in dentistry, intraoral scanning has, to a certain extent, replaced conventional impressions in particular clinical settings. Trueness and precision are essential traits for optical impressions but have so far been incompletely explored. Materials and Methods: We performed a study to evaluate the differences in the three-dimensional spatial orientations of implant analogs on a stone cast when using an intraoral scanner compared to a dental laboratory scanner. We assessed the deviation of the intraoral scans compared to the laboratory scan for three standardized implant measurement plans and compared these results with control scans of the neighboring natural teeth. Results: We found no statistically significant correlation between the measurements at the scan body level and the landmarks chosen as controls on the neighboring natural teeth (p = 0.198). The values for the implant scans presented wider variation compared to the control scans. The difference between the implant and the control planes ranged from −0.018 mm to +0.267 mm, with a median of −0.011 mm (IQR: −0.001–0.031 mm). While most values fell within a clinically acceptable margin of error of 0.05 mm, 12.5% of the measurements fell outside of this acceptable range and could potentially affect the quality of the resulting prosthetic work. Conclusions: For single-unit implant-supported restorations, intraoral scanning might have enough accuracy. However, the differences that result when scanning with an intraoral scanner may affect the quality of prosthetic work on multiple implants, especially if they are screw-retained. Based on our results, we propose different adaptations of the prosthetic protocol to minimize the potential effect of errors that may occur during the digital workflow.
A Simple Technique Using Peri-Prosthetic Irrigation Improves Implant Salvage Rates in Immediate Implant-Based Breast Reconstruction
Authors: Gowda Manoj Srinivas , Jafferbhoy Sadaf , Marla Sekhar , Narayanan Sankaran , Soumian Soni
Published: November 2023

Background and objectives: Implant-related complications leading to implant loss contribute to major morbidity in immediate breast reconstruction (IBR). Various techniques have been advocated to improve rates of reconstruction salvage. The objective of our study was to assess if a peri-prosthetic irrigation system was an effective adjunct to the conventional wash-out technique in improving reconstruction salvage rates. Methods: The study included patients who had immediate implant-based breast reconstruction from January 2015 to November 2020. The conventional technique of reconstruction salvage, using debridement, wash-out, and implant/expander exchange with systemic use of antibiotics, was performed for patients undergoing exploration for infection until May 2019. A simple technique using a continuous peri-prosthetic irrigation system with vancomycin (1 g/L normal saline over 24 h) for 2 days was added as an adjunct to the conventional technique. Treatment details and clinical outcomes were compared between the groups. The study was approved by the Clinical Governance department. Results: During the study period, 335 patients underwent IBR. A total of 65 patients (19.4%) returned to the theatre due to post-operative complications, of which 45 (13.4%) were due to infection. A conventional technique was used in 38 (84.4%) patients, and peri-prosthetic irrigation was used as an adjunct in 7 patients (15.6%). A total of 16 (42.1%) in the conventional group and all 7 (100%) in the irrigation group had successful reconstruction salvage. No patients had complications due to antibiotic irrigation. Conclusions: The peri-prosthetic irrigation system is a simple, safe, and effective adjunct to conventional techniques in improving reconstruction salvage in IBR.
Features of Electrochemical Hydrogen Pump Based on Irradiated Proton Exchange Membrane
Authors: Ivanova Nataliya A. , Ivanov Boris V. , Mensharapov Ruslan M. , Spasov Dmitry D. , Sinyakov Matvey V. , Nagorny Seraphim V. , Kazakov Evgeny D. , Dmitryakov Petr V. , Bakirov Artem V. , Grigoriev Sergey A.
Published: November 2023

An electrochemical hydrogen pump (EHP) with a proton exchange membrane (PEM) used as part of fusion cycle systems successfully combines the processes of hydrogen extraction, purification and compression in a single device. This work comprises a novel study of the effect of ionizing radiation on the properties of the PEM as part of the EHP. Radiation exposure leads to nonspecific degradation of membranes, changes in their structure, and destruction of side and matrix chains. The findings from this work reveal that the replacement of sulfate groups in the membrane structure with carboxyl and hydrophilic groups leads to a decrease in conductivity from 0.115 to 0.103 S cm−1, which is reflected in halving the device performance at a temperature of 30 °C. The shift of the ionomer peak of small-angle X-ray scattering curves from 3.1 to 4.4 nm and the absence of changes in the water uptake suggested structural changes in the PEM after the irradiation. Increasing the EHP operating temperature minimized the effect of membrane irradiation on the pump performance, but enhanced membrane drying at low pressure and 50 °C, which caused a current density drop from 0.52 to 0.32 A·cm−2 at 0.5 V.
Tryptophan Metabolism and Gut Microbiota: A Novel Regulatory Axis Integrating the Microbiome, Immunity, and Cancer
Authors: Hou Yingjian , Li Jing , Ying Shuhuan
Published: November 2023

Tryptophan metabolism and gut microbiota form an integrated regulatory axis that impacts immunity, metabolism, and cancer. This review consolidated current knowledge on the bidirectional interactions between microbial tryptophan processing and the host. We focused on how the gut microbiome controls tryptophan breakdown via the indole, kynurenine, and serotonin pathways. Dysbiosis of the gut microbiota induces disruptions in tryptophan catabolism which contribute to disorders like inflammatory conditions, neuropsychiatric diseases, metabolic syndromes, and cancer. These disruptions affect immune homeostasis, neurotransmission, and gut-brain communication. Elucidating the mechanisms of microbial tryptophan modulation could enable novel therapeutic approaches like psychobiotics and microbiome-targeted dietary interventions. Overall, further research on the microbiota-tryptophan axis has the potential to revolutionize personalized diagnostics and treatments for improving human health.