bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
XI2S-IDS: An Explainable Intelligent 2-Stage Intrusion Detection System
Authors: Mahmoud Maiada M. , Youssef Yasser Omar , Abdel-Hamid Ayman A.
Published: January 2025

The rapid evolution of technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), 5G, and cloud computing has exponentially increased the complexity of cyber attacks. Modern Intrusion Detection Systems (IDSs) must be capable of identifying not only frequent, well-known attacks but also low-frequency, subtle intrusions that are often missed by traditional systems. The challenge is further compounded by the fact that most IDS rely on black-box machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL) models, making it difficult for security teams to interpret their decisions. This lack of transparency is particularly problematic in environments where quick and informed responses are crucial. To address these challenges, we introduce the XI2S-IDS framework—an Explainable, Intelligent 2-Stage Intrusion Detection System. The XI2S-IDS framework uniquely combines a two-stage approach with SHAP-based explanations, offering improved detection and interpretability for low-frequency attacks. Binary classification is conducted in the first stage followed by multi-class classification in the second stage. By leveraging SHAP values, XI2S-IDS enhances transparency in decision-making, allowing security analysts to gain clear insights into feature importance and the model’s rationale. Experiments conducted on the UNSW-NB15 and CICIDS2017 datasets demonstrate significant improvements in detection performance, with a notable reduction in false negative rates for low-frequency attacks, while maintaining high precision, recall, and F1-scores.
On the Effect of Gas Content in Centrifugal Pump Operations with Non-Newtonian Slurries
Authors: Zanini Nicola , Suman Alessio , Piovan Mattia , Pinelli Michele
Published: January 2025

Non-Newtonian fluids are widespread in industry, e.g., biomedical, food, and oil and gas, and their rheology plays a fundamental role in choosing the processing parameters. Centrifugal pumps are widely employed to ensure the displacement of a huge amount of fluids due to their robustness and reliability. Since the pump performance is usually provided by manufacturers only for water, the selection of a proper pump to handle non-Newtonian fluids may prove very tricky. On-field experiences in pump operations with non-Newtonian slurries report severe head and efficiency drops, especially in part-load operations, whose causes are still not fully understood. Several models are found in the literature to predict the performance of centrifugal pumps with this type of fluids, but a lack of reliability and generality emerges. In this work, an extensive experimental campaign is carried out with an on-purpose test bench to investigate the effect of non-Newtonian shear-thinning fluids on the performance of a small commercial centrifugal pump. A dedicated experimental campaign is conducted to study the causes of performance drops. The results allow to establish a relationship between head and efficiency drops with solid content in the mixture. Sudden performance drops and unstable operating points are detected in part-load operations and the most severe drops are detected with the higher kaolin content in the mixture. Performance drop investigation allows to ascribe performance drop to gas-locking phenomena. Finally, a critical analysis is proposed to relate the resulting performance with both fluids’ rheology and the gas fraction trapped in the fluid. The results here presented can be useful for future numerical validation and predicting performance models.
Anti-Inflammatory and Prebiotic Potential of Ethanol Extracts and Mucilage Polysaccharides from Korean Yams (Dioscorea polystachya and Dioscorea bulbifera)
Authors: Park So-Yoon , Truong Van-Long , Jeon Su-Gyeong , Choe So-Young , Rarison Razanamanana H. G. , Yoon Byoung-Hoon , Park Ji-Won , Jeong Hye-Jeong , Jeong Woo-Sik
Published: January 2025

Korean yams are abundant in bioactive compounds with significant health-promoting properties. This study evaluated the anti-inflammatory potential of ethanol and water extracts from Dioscorea polystachya and Dioscorea bulbifera in RAW 264.7 macrophage cells. Among the extracts, the 95% ethanol extract exhibited the most potent inhibition of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and nitric oxide (NO) production, warranting further exploration of its mechanisms of action. Further analysis revealed that the ethanol extract modulated key inflammatory signaling pathways, including MAPK and NF-κB, contributing to its anti-inflammatory activity. Additionally, mucilage polysaccharides, a key bioactive component of Korean yams, were extracted and characterized for their structural and functional properties. These polysaccharides demonstrated immune-enhancing effects by reducing ROS and NO production while increasing phagocytic activity in the RAW 264.7 cells. Their prebiotic potential was also assessed through microbial growth assays, which showed an enhanced proliferation of beneficial bacteria such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium. Furthermore, the adhesion assays using Caco-2 intestinal epithelial cells revealed that these polysaccharides promoted probiotic adhesion while inhibiting the adhesion of pathogenic bacteria. These findings highlight the bioactive potential of ethanol extracts and mucilage polysaccharides from Korean yams, emphasizing their promising applications as anti-inflammatory, immune-modulating, and prebiotic agents for functional food and nutraceutical development.
An Overview of the Current Scientific Evidence on the Biological Properties of Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench (Okra)
Authors: Kwok Carsten Tsun-Ka , Ng Yam-Fung , Chan Hei-Tung Lydia , Chan Shun-Wan
Published: January 2025

Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench, commonly known as okra or lady’s finger, is an annual flowering plant belonging to the Malvaceae family. Okra is a native plant in Africa as well as a traditional medicine in Africa and India for treating different diseases and conditions. Today, okra is widely consumed as a vegetable and is increasingly recognized as a superfood due to its rich nutritional profile and potential pharmacological benefits. Research indicates that okra exhibits a range of biological activities, including antidiabetic, antihyperlipidemic, antifatigue, vasoprotective, hepatoprotective, antitumor, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects. Despite its promising therapeutic potential, research on the active compounds in okra and evaluating efficacy in clinical settings remains limited. This review aims to consolidate existing scientific knowledge on the biological and pharmacological properties of okra, thereby encouraging further investigation into its health benefits. Ultimately, this could pave the way for the development of functional foods or health supplements that leverage okra as a key ingredient to prevent chronic diseases and enhance overall health outcomes.
Shallow-Water Wave Dynamics: Butterfly Waves, X-Waves, Multiple-Lump Waves, Rogue Waves, Stripe Soliton Interactions, Generalized Breathers, and Kuznetsov–Ma Breathers
Authors: Ahmed Sarfaraz , Rehman Ujala , Fei Jianbo , Khalid Muhammad Irslan , Chen Xiangsheng
Published: January 2025

A nonlinear (3+1)-dimensional nonlinear Geng equation that can be utilized to explain the dynamics of shallow-water waves in fluids is given special attention. Various wave solutions are produced with the aid of the Hirota bilinear and Cole–Hopf transformation techniques. By selecting the appropriate polynomial function and implementing the distinct transformations in bilinear form, bright lump waves, dark lump waves, and rogue waves (RWs) are generated. A positive quadratic transformation and cosine function are combined in Hirota bilinear form to evaluate the RW solutions. Typically, RWs have crests that are noticeably higher than those of surrounding waves. These waves are also known as killer, freak, or monster waves. The lump periodic solutions (LPSs) are obtained using a combination of the cosine and positive quadratic functions. The lump-one stripe solutions are computed by using a mix of positive quadratic and exponential transformations to the governing equation. The lump two-stripe solutions are obtained by using a mix of positive quadratic and exponential transformations to the governing equation. The interactional solutions of lump, kink, and periodic wave solutions are obtained. Additionally, mixed solutions with butterfly waves, X-waves and lump waves are computed. The Ma breather (MB), Kuznetsov–Ma breather (KMB), and generalized breathers GBs are generated. Furthermore, solitary wave solution is obtained and a relation for energy of the wave via ansatz function technique.
Thrown to the (Were)Wolves: Sisterhood, Vengeance, and Liberal Feminism in Maggie Tokuda-Hall and Lisa Sterle’s Squad
Authors: Caravaggio Jessica
Published: January 2025

In Maggie Tokuda-Hall and Lisa Sterle’s graphic novel Squad, protagonist Becca and her new friends at Piedmont High are not human adolescents but a pack of werewolves who must kill to stay alive and select teenage boys—“the WORST ones” (70)—as their meal of choice. The power of the pack’s “monstrous” bodies is a dangerous privilege and responsibility that Squad suggests is often misused to victimize innocents. The book critiques individualistic Western/liberal feminism—an ideology also critiqued by contemporary feminist writers—that encourages women and girls to gain power for themselves and then use it to perpetuate hierarchies of domination. Through an analysis of the figure of the werewolf and fantasies of revenge, this article suggests that both Squad’s narrative and its comic images guide readers toward an understanding of how liberal feminist ideology impedes collective empowerment. This article ultimately argues that Squad can be wielded as a potential feminist consciousness-raising tool for teaching about the ethics of different feminist ideologies.
Healthcare Priorities, Barriers, and Preferences According to a Community Health Needs Assessment in Jazan, Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Gosadi Ibrahim M.
Published: January 2025

Background: Community needs assessments can provide valuable insights concerning the health of communities. This study aims to measure health priorities according to community members in Jazan, Saudi Arabia, to assess healthcare service utilization, barriers to accessing these services, and preferences for utilizing government or private healthcare services. Method: Multistage sampling was utilized to reach a sample of adults in community settings. The assessment was performed via personal interviews utilizing a structured questionnaire to measure demographics, health priorities, service utilization, barriers, and preferences for healthcare settings. Chi-squared tests, Student’s t-tests, and multivariate regression analysis were used to assess the differences between demographics and service utilization according to the preferred healthcare settings. Results: A total of 3411 participants were recruited for the assessment. The mean age of the participants was 34 years, and 51% were male. The participants viewed diabetes as the most important health condition. Emergency services and primary care were viewed as the most important healthcare services, and time constraints were the main barriers to healthcare accessibility. Thirty-six percent of the participants preferred to utilize healthcare services in the private sector, where age, gender, nationality, education, income, housing type, and family size were statistically associated with the preference for seeking healthcare in either the private or government sectors (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Future assessment is required to recruit healthcare providers and decision-makers to understand the process of strengthening multidisciplinary collaboration to tackle chronic diseases such as diabetes, strengthen the role of emergency and primary healthcare services, and address time constraints pertaining to healthcare accessibility.
Cultural Heritage in Education: Flamenco as a Pedagogical Tool for Future Teachers in Spain
Authors: Heredia-Carroza Jesús , Díaz-Reyes Laura , Agheorghiesei Daniela-Tatiana , Stoica Raluca
Published: January 2025

This study explores how future teachers in Spain perceive the incorporation of cultural heritage in education, with a specific focus on flamenco as a pedagogical tool. Using exploratory factor analysis and surveys from 301 participants, the research identified the key variables that influence the valuation of cultural heritage through flamenco within educational settings. The findings revealed that social and cognitive skills, such as group cohesion, attention, and memory, are significant factors in appreciating flamenco as an educational resource. The study emphasizes flamenco’s potential to foster emotional, social, and cognitive development, positioning it as an effective means to integrate cultural heritage into teaching practices. This research contributes to understanding how flamenco as a pedagogical tool can enrich educational methodologies and enhance cultural heritage awareness among future educators.
Mapping Tomorrow’s Teaching and Learning Spaces: A Systematic Review on GenAI in Higher Education
Authors: Tillmanns Tanja , Salomão Filho Alfredo , Rudra Susmita , Weber Peter , Dawitz Julia , Wiersma Emma , Dudenaite Dovile , Reynolds Sally
Published: January 2025

This collective systematic literature review is part of an Erasmus+ project, “TaLAI: Teaching and Learning with AI in Higher Education”. The review investigates the current state of Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) in higher education, aiming to inform curriculum design and further developments within digital education. Employing a descriptive, textual narrative synthesis approach, the study analysed literature across four thematic areas: learning objectives, teaching and learning activities, curriculum development, and institutional support for ethical and responsible GenAI use. The review analysed 93 peer-reviewed articles from eight databases using a keyword-based search strategy, a collaborative coding process involving multiple researchers, in vivo coding and transparent documentation. The findings provide an overview of recommendations for integrating GenAI into teaching and learning, contributing to the development of effective and ethical AI-enhanced learning environments in higher education. The literature reveals consensus on the importance of incorporating GenAI into higher education. Common themes like mentorship, personalised learning, creativity, emotional intelligence, and higher-order thinking highlight the persistent need to align human-centred educational practices with the capabilities of GenAI technologies.
Variation in Nutritional Qualities and Antioxidant Capacity of Different Leaf Mustard Cultivars
Authors: Cheng Wenjuan , Luo Anqi , Li Hongxia , Chen Zhifeng , Guan Zhongrong , Escalona Victor Hugo , Liu Duchen , Zhou Yu’nong , Zhang Fen , Huang Zhi , Tang Yi , Li Huanxiu , Sun Bo , Liang Kehao , Yu Xuena
Published: January 2025

In this study, we analyzed the nutritional components and antioxidant capacity of 17 leaf mustard cultivars, including 13 cultivars from Leshan, 2 from Ya’an, and 2 from Yibin. Significant variations were observed among the cultivars in terms of their nutritional composition and antioxidant properties. Our findings revealed that cultivar LS12 exhibited the highest levels of total chlorophyll, total anthocyanidin, flavonoids, total phenolics, and ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP). Cultivar YB2 showed higher contents of soluble sugar, soluble protein, ABTS antioxidant capacity, and total glucosinolates. On a regional basis, the cultivars from Leshan had higher total phenolics compared to those from Ya’an and Yibin, while cultivars from Yibin exhibited the highest total glucosinolate content. Additionally, purple-leaf mustard demonstrated superior flavonoid and total phenolic contents, as well as higher FRAP values, compared to the cultivars of green-leaf mustard. However, green-leaf mustard contained higher levels of total glucosinolates than their purple counterpart. Based on a comprehensive evaluation using a membership function analysis, LS12 was identified as the cultivar with the best nutritional quality and antioxidant capacity. This study provides valuable insights into the nutritional attributes and antioxidant capacity of different leaf mustard cultivars and offers guidance for selecting varieties to promote a healthy diet.
The Unseen Aftermath: Associations Between the COVID-19 Pandemic and Shifts in Mortality Trends in Japan
Authors: Jamil Hasan , Nomura Shuhei , Gilmour Stuart
Published: January 2025

The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted healthcare systems globally, potentially altering mortality trends for non-COVID-19 diseases, particularly in aging populations like Japan’s. Assessing these impacts is essential for responsive healthcare planning. We analyzed Japanese vital registration mortality records from January 2018 to December 2021 for adults aged 25 and older, excluding COVID-19-related deaths. Data were stratified by sex and ICD-10 cause-of-death chapters. Poisson regression models assessed changes in mortality rates and trends, incorporating pandemic-related variables and interactions between time, age group, and the pandemic term. Among the 4,920,942 deaths analyzed, 2,456,750 occurred during the pandemic years. Significant sex-specific changes in mortality trends were observed. Women experienced increases in mortality rates and trends for endocrine, nutritional, and metabolic diseases; skin and subcutaneous tissue diseases; circulatory diseases; and genitourinary diseases, reversing some pre-pandemic declines. Men showed increases in mortality trends for endocrine, nutritional, and metabolic diseases and genitourinary diseases but no significant changes for skin or circulatory diseases. These findings indicate that the pandemic differentially affected mortality trends between sexes, with women experiencing broader increases across multiple disease categories. The COVID-19 pandemic was associated with significant changes in mortality trends for certain non-COVID-19 diseases in Japan, with notable sex differences. Increased mortality among women across multiple disease categories highlights the pandemic’s indirect health impacts and underscores the need for sex-specific healthcare strategies in the post-pandemic era.
Evaluation of Cross-Border Transport Connectivity and Analysis of Spatial Patterns in Latin America
Authors: Miao Changqi , Zhang Yinbao , Zhang Xinjia , Liu Jianzhong , Zhang Shike
Published: January 2025

The study of cross-border transport connectivity is significant for the development of regional integration and insight into global patterns. Comprehensive connectivity evaluations are lacking and insufficient attention has been paid to Latin American connectivity, so it is of great practical importance to comprehensively and rationally evaluate Latin American connectivity. In this article, based on the four modes of transport, namely, sea, road, air and railroad, and using the actual trade volume as a comparison, a connectivity evaluation index system with considerable reliability and generalization ability was constructed using the expert scoring method, QAP correlation analysis, QAP regression, and statistics, and the connectivity calculations of Latin America were obtained. Analyzing the connectivity structure of Latin America, it was found that cross-border passenger and cargo transport in the region was dominated by sea transport and supplemented by road and air transport, with railroads used the least. The overall connectivity of Latin America was low, and the overall development was unbalanced, with a strong law of spatial differentiation, which was mainly manifested in the strongest connectivity of the integrated coastal countries, followed by the island countries, and the lowest connectivity of the landlocked countries. Different countries assumed different roles in regional connectivity, which could be categorized into global hub type, local hub type and non-hub type based on the calculations. There was a spatial pattern of decreasing connectivity with distance in typical countries, but the rate of decline was closely related to their geographic location and the role they played in the connectivity network. This study can provide reference and inspiration for regional connectivity evaluation, improvement, and sustainable development.
The Mechanism of Modulation of Cardiac Force by Temperature
Authors: Morotti Ilaria , Marcello Matteo , Sautariello Giulia , Pertici Irene , Bianco Pasquale , Piazzesi Gabriella , Linari Marco , Lombardi Vincenzo , Reconditi Massimo , Caremani Marco
Published: January 2025

In maximally Ca2+-activated demembranated fibres from the mammalian skeletal muscle, the depression of the force by lowering the temperature below the physiological level (~35 °C) is explained by the reduction of force in the myosin motor. Instead, cooling is reported to not affect the force per motor in Ca2+-activated cardiac trabeculae from the rat ventricle. Here, the mechanism of the cardiac performance depression by cooling is reinvestigated with fast sarcomere-level mechanics. We determine the changes in the half-sarcomere compliance of maximally Ca2+-activated demembranated rat trabeculae in the range of temperatures of 10–30 °C and analyse the data in terms of a simplified mechanical model of the half-sarcomere to extract the contribution of myofilaments and myosin motors. We find that the changes in the ensemble force are due to changes in the force per motor, while the fraction of actin-attached motors remains constant independent of temperature. The results demonstrate that in the cardiac myosin, as in the skeletal muscle myosin, the force-generating transition is endothermic. The underlying large heat absorption indicates the interaction of extended hydrophobic surfaces within the myosin motor, like those suggested by the crystallographic model of the working stroke.
VX-770, Cact-A1, and Increased Intracellular cAMP Have Distinct Acute Impacts upon CFTR Activity
Authors: Nick Heidi J. , Christeson Sarah E. , Bratcher Preston E.
Published: January 2025

The cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) is an anion channel that is dysfunctional in individuals with cystic fibrosis (CF). The permeability of CFTR can be experimentally manipulated though different mechanisms, including activation via inducing the phosphorylation of residues in the regulatory domain as well as altering the gating/open probability of the channel. Phosphorylation/activation of the channel is achieved by exposure to compounds that increase intracellular cAMP, with forskolin and IBMX commonly used for this purpose. Cact-A1 is a unique CFTR activator that does not increase intracellular cAMP, and VX-770 (ivacaftor) is a CFTR potentiator that is used experimentally and therapeutically to increase the open probability of the channel. Using primary human nasal epithelial cell (HNEC) cultures and Fischer rat thyroid (FRT) epithelial cells exogenously expressing functional CFTR, we examined the impact of VX-770, Cact-A1, and forskolin/IBMX on CFTR activity during analysis in an Ussing chamber. Relative contributions of these compounds to maximal CFTR activity were dependent on order of exposure, the presence of chemical and electrical gradients, the level of constitutive CFTR function, and the cell model tested. Increasing intracellular cAMP appeared to change cellular functions outside of CFTR activity that resulted in alterations in the drive for chloride through CFTR. These results demonstrate that one can utilize combinations of small-molecule CFTR activators and potentiators to provide detailed characterization of CFTR-mediated ion transport in primary HNECs and properties of these modulators in both primary HNECs and FRT cells. Future studies using these approaches may assist in the identification of novel defects in CFTR function and the identification of modulators with unique impacts on CFTR-mediated ion transport.
Effects of Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage in Patients Without In-Hospital Infection on FABP-I, LBP, and sCD-14
Authors: Orban Brigitta , Simon Diana , Erdo-Bonyar Szabina , Berki Timea , Molnar Tihamer , Zavori Laszlo , Schwarcz Attila , Peterfi Zoltan , Csecsei Peter
Published: January 2025

Aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) is a serious condition complicated by delayed cerebral ischemia (DCI), where inflammation plays a key role. Although altered gut permeability is noted in other conditions, its significance in aSAH remains unclear. Fatty acid-binding protein (FABP-I), lipopolysaccharide-binding protein (LBP), and soluble CD-14 (sCD-14) are established markers of barrier dysfunction. This study investigates gut permeability marker changes in early and late aSAH phases. The study included 177 aSAH patients and 100 controls. Serum samples were collected on days 1 (D1) and 9 (D9) after ictus. FABP-I, LBP, and sCD-14 levels were measured via ELISA, and clinical data were recorded. Outcomes were assessed using the 90-day modified Rankin scale (mRS 0–3 = favorable outcome). Serum FABP-I was significantly lower in aSAH patients (p < 0.05), while LBP and sCD-14 were higher (p < 0.001) compared to controls. FABP-I did not differ between outcome groups, but LBP and sCD-14 were significantly elevated in unfavorable outcomes (p < 0.001). These markers differed in patients without in-hospital infection, with higher levels noted in DCI patients during the later phase (p < 0.05). In aSAH patients without infection, differences in LBP and sCD-14 levels between outcome groups suggest potential endotoxin release from microbial systems, contributing to neuroinflammation and influencing outcomes.
Use of Relay Method for Enhancing Comb Construction by Apis cerana cerana Utilizing Apis mellifera ligustica
Authors: Yang Shunhua , Ge Shanglun , Liu Yiqiu , Zhou Danyin , Gong Xueyang , Dong Kun
Published: January 2025

Italian honey bees (IHBs, Apis mellifera ligustica) exhibit superior comb-building abilities compared with Chinese honey bees (CHBs, Apis cerana cerana), which often fail to fully utilize wax foundations, resulting in incomplete comb structures. The present study aimed to accelerate comb construction in CHB colonies using IHBs. In the experiment, IHB colonies, each with approximately 42,000 adult workers, required over four hours to construct a semi-drawn comb on CHB wax foundations. These semi-drawn combs were then transferred to experimental CHB colonies, where they were left to complete the comb-building process for an additional 24 h (4 + 24 h relay). In contrast, control CHB colonies were allowed to build combs on fresh CHB wax foundations for 28 h. The results showed that the combs built by CHBs in 28 h, those built by IHBs in 4 h, and the 4 + 24 h relay combs all shared a foundation size of 41.7 cm × 19.7 cm, with average thicknesses of 10.40 mm, 5.60 mm, and 12.20 mm, respectively. The average percentage of cells built in the 4 + 24 h relay combs was significantly higher than that in the 28 h combs. Additionally, cells in the relay combs were significantly larger and deeper than those in the combs built solely by CHBs. Although these findings prove that utilizing IHB colonies to form a base structure can enhance the efficiency of comb construction in CHB colonies, further research is needed to confirm the effects of 4 + 24 h operation on brood rearing and worker bee size.
Repeated Autologous Fat Grafting Significantly Increases Mastectomy Flap Thickness in Pre-Pectoral Multi-Stage Composite Expander-to-Implant Breast Reconstruction: Exploring the Concept of a Reverse Expansion
Authors: Costa Lorenzo , Weinzierl Andrea , Andreoli Stefano , Schiaffino Simone , Catanese Carola M. L. , Harder Yves
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: Combining autologous fat grafting with implant placement is meant to improve the quality of implant-based breast reconstruction. The present study explores the concept of multi-stage composite breast reconstruction with repeated sessions of autologous fat grafting to increase mastectomy flap thickness and provide better pre-pectoral implant coverage. Methods: Twenty-five consecutive patients underwent bilateral multi-stage composite expander-to-implant breast reconstruction and reverse expansion from August 2020 to April 2024. Subcutaneous thickness of the mastectomy flap was evaluated in predefined regions of interests of the breast on standardized MR images at two timepoints (before the first fat grafting session, with the tissue expander fully inflated, and 3 months after implant placement). Furthermore, the incidence of complications requiring surgery and implant-related complications were evaluated. All values are expressed as mean ± standard deviation, accepting statistical significance for a p-value < 0.05. Results: Patients underwent an average of 2.5 ± 0.6 fat grafting sessions, with a fat injection volume of 170 ± 60 mL per breast per session. The mean duration of the reconstructive process from mastectomy to final implant placement was 12 ± 5 months and the mean follow-up was 17 ± 8 months. The overall thickness of both breasts amounted to 190% of baseline thickness and was significantly higher in the upper breast quadrants than in the lower quadrants (p < 0.05). Tissue thickness increase correlated well with the number of fat grafting sessions and was independent of the patient’s weight gain. Complications requiring surgery occurred in eight breasts during the reconstruction, with iatrogenic expander puncture being the most frequent (three cases, 6%). During follow-up, only one implant-related complication was observed (one case of bilateral rippling, 4%). No breast animation or symptomatic capsular contracture were observed. Conclusions: Multi-stage pre-pectoral composite expander-to-implant breast reconstruction using autologous fat grafting is an effective concept for breast reconstruction. Despite the need for multiple surgeries, the significant increase in subcutaneous tissue thickness, resulting in better soft tissue coverage, compensates for the longer reconstructive process.
The Evaluation and Modification of Standard Airway Assessment Tests for Virtual Anaesthetic Assessments: A Pilot Study
Authors: Lim Wan Yen , Ong Sharon Gek Kim , Chai Jia Xin , Duran Rhommela Garis , Mohammed Ali Ahmad Hamidi , Ong John
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: Virtual preoperative anaesthetic assessments can significantly reduce healthcare costs and improve patient convenience. The challenge with virtual consults is often the airway assessments, which screen for potentially difficult airways (PDAs). The objective of this pilot study was to determine the reliability of standard airway screening tests for detecting PDAs when conducted virtually. Methods: An observational longitudinal study was conducted between July 2021 and April 2022 at a tertiary hospital in Singapore. We compared the Mallampati score (MS), upper lip bite test (ULBT), thyromental distance, mouth opening test, and neck movements in 94 patients, first during virtual assessments before surgery and subsequently at face-to-face preoperative assessments (gold standard) on the day of surgery by the same team of anaesthesiology trainees. Goodman and Kruskal’s gamma coefficient measured concordance between virtual and face-to-face assessment results. Logistic regression (LR) identified virtual predictors of PDAs in clinical practice. AUROC values informed tool performance. Results: LR showed that elevated virtual MS, virtual ULBT, and body mass index (BMI) were potential predictors of clinical PDAs. Termed the “MBBS”, this collective score showed good performance with a sensitivity of 95% and an AUROC of 0.79. Importantly, all screening tests performed poorly in virtual assessments when applied individually (sensitivity < 50%). Conclusions: In this pilot study, BMI combined with MS and ULBT could reliably detect PDAs during virtual airway assessments. The data herein support further large multi-centre studies to validate the MBBS for clinical use.
Masking Ability and Translucency of Direct Gingiva-Colored Resin-Based Restorative Materials
Authors: Rakmanee Thanasak , Leelaponglit Seelassaya , Janyajirawong Chadinthorn , Bannagijsophon Apisada , Budsaba Kamon , Klaisiri Awiruth
Published: January 2025

This study aimed to investigate the effects of shade, thickness, and the application of an opaquer on the masking ability and translucency of direct gingiva-colored giomer. Five shades of giomer, namely Gum-Light-Pink, Gum-Dark-Pink, Gum-Brown, Gum-Violet, and Gum-Orange, were evaluated at thicknesses of 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0 mm. Color measurements were obtained using a spectrophotometer against white, black, and giomer backgrounds. The results were analyzed using the CIEDE2000 color-difference formula and interpreted based on the 50:50% thresholds for excellent perceptibility (ΔE00 < 1.1) and acceptability (ΔE00 < 2.8). Measurements were repeated after applying an opaquer. Acceptable masking ability was achieved at 0.5 mm for all shades. Excellent masking ability was achieved at 1.5 mm for all shades, except Gum-Brown, which required 1.0 mm. The opaquer increased masking ability in all specimens. Translucency decreased as thickness increased (p < 0.0001). Gum-Brown and Gum-Light-Pink, as well as Gum-Orange and Gum-Dark-Pink, demonstrated similar translucency at 0.5, 1.0, and 1.5 mm (p > 0.05). After applying the opaquer, there were no statistically significant differences in translucency among shades at 1.5 mm and 2.0 mm (p > 0.05). In conclusion, increasing thickness improved masking ability but reduced translucency of gingiva-colored material. The opaquer further enhanced masking ability and reduced translucency. The clinical significance of these results are that gingiva-colored restorations mask discolored tooth defects in the pink aesthetic area with minimal 0.5 mm tooth preparation, achieving acceptable results. The addition of an opaquer enhances masking ability for excellent outcomes.
Glycation of Nail Proteins as a Risk Factor for Onychomycosis. Comment on Gupta et al. Diabetic Foot and Fungal Infections: Etiology and Management from a Dermatologic Perspective. J. Fungi 2024, 10, 577
Authors: Cosio Terenzio , Valsecchi Isabel , Gaziano Roberta , Campione Elena , Botterel Françoise
Published: January 2025

We read the review by Gupta et al [...]
An Analysis of Land Use Conflicts and Strategies in the Harbin–Changchun Urban Agglomeration Based on the Production–Ecological–Living Space Theory and Patch-Generating Land Use Simulation
Authors: Wang Xiaomeng , Zhang Yanjun , Li Xiaoyan , Cao Shuwen
Published: January 2025

In recent years, rapid economic development, increasing human activities, and global climate change have led to escalating demands for land across production, residential, and ecological domains. This surge has heightened land use conflicts, significantly impacting sustainable land utilization and regional sustainable development. Drawing upon the “Production–Ecological–Living Space” (PELS) theory, this study employs a Patch-generating Land Use Simulation (PLUS) model to project the PELS of the Harbin–Changchun Urban Agglomeration (HCUA) under four scenarios for 2030. Introducing the concepts of absolute and relative conflicts in land use, this study utilizes a spatial comprehensive conflict index (SCCI) model to assess the progression of absolute conflicts from 2000 to 2020 and across various scenarios for 2030, while a remote sensing ecological index (RSEI) model is utilized to evaluate the evolution of relative conflicts from 2000 to 2020. The results indicate the following: (1) From 2000 to 2020 and different scenarios in 2030, the PELS of the HCUA is dominated by forest ecological space (E1) and agricultural production space (P1), with no substantial alterations in the overall spatial distribution of the PELS. (2) Absolute and relative conflicts between 2000 and 2020 are mainly concentrated in the plains of the western regions, characterized by conflicts arising from the encroachment of living space on production space; however, absolute conflicts have declined annually, accompanied by a notable enhancement in ecological quality. (3) The spatial pattern of absolute conflicts in 2030 exhibits minimal variation, illustrating higher values in the western regions compared to the eastern parts, with living space surpassing ecological space and plains showing higher conflict values than mountains. Notably, the economic development (ED) scenario exhibits the most intense conflicts, with areas of high conflict prevailing, whereas the sustainable development goals (SDGs) scenario depicts enhancements in absolute conflicts while maintaining equilibrium between economic and ecological development requirements. This research offers valuable insights into mitigating land use conflicts in the HCUA, provides a new perspective for studying changes in land use conflicts, and serves as a scientific reference for sustainable land utilization and regional sustainable development.
Effect of Change in Material Properties of the Abradable Coating on the Wear Behavior of It—Microstructure Model-Based Analysis Approach
Authors: Azmeera Anitha Kumari , Jadhav Prakash , Lande Chhaya
Published: January 2025

In aerospace applications, engine parts, especially those around the rotor blade tips, are coated with an abradable seal, a specific material layer. Its design produces a tighter seal without harming the blades by allowing it to wear down or “abrade” somewhat when the blade tips come into contact. In turbines and compressors, this reduces gas leakage between high- and low-pressure zones, increasing engine efficiency. Abradable seals are crucial to contemporary jet engines because they enhance performance and lower fuel consumption. The materials selected for these seals are designed to balance durability and abrasion resistance under high temperatures and speeds. Metal matrix, oxide particles, and porosity are the three most prevalent phases. An ideal mix of characteristics, such as hardness and erosion resistance, determines how effective a seal is, and this is accomplished by keeping the right proportions of elements in place throughout production. The primary objective of this research is to optimize abradability by utilizing various FEM tools to simulate the rub rig test and modify testing parameters, including Young’s modulus, yield stress, and tangent modulus, to analyze their impact on the wear behavior of the abradable seal and blade. Two microstructure models (CoNiCrAlY–BN–polyester coating) were found to perform optimally at porosity levels of 56% and 46%, corresponding to hardness values of 48 HR15Y and 71 HR15Y, respectively. Changing factors like yield stress and tangent modulus makes the seal more abrasive while keeping its hardness, porosity, and Young’s modulus the same. Furthermore, altering the Young’s modulus of the shroud material achieves optimal abradability when tangent modulus and yield stress remain constant. These findings provide valuable insights for improving material performance in engineering applications. To improve abradability and forecast characteristics, this procedure entails evaluating the effects of every single parameter setting, culminating in the creation of the best abradable materials. This modeling technique seems to provide reliable findings, providing a solid basis for coating design in the future.
Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of High-Pressure Die-Casting Mg–Al–RE Alloys with Minor Ca Addition
Authors: Guan Sheng , Wang Pengyue , Wang Tianhua , Wang Chenggang , Liu Guojun , Zhu Yongfu
Published: January 2025

With the increasing demand for magnesium (Mg) alloys with high strength and good ductility, this study explores high-pressure die-cast (HPDC) Mg-6Al-2RE (AE62), Mg-8Al-2RE (AE82) and Mg-8Al-2RE-0.2Ca (AEX820) alloys (wt. %). Their microstructures and mechanical properties are investigated under both as-cast and T5-aged (direct artificial aging after casting) conditions. HPDC alloys consist of outer fine-grain regions and inner coarse α-Mg grains with abundant eutectic phases. The increasing addition of Al has an insignificant effect on the refinement of the grain size of α-Mg, but it significantly influences the morphology and area fraction of the second phases. The average grain sizes of α-Mg in HPDC AE62, AE82 and AEX820 alloys are approximately 4.0 μm, 3.9 μm and 3.7 μm in the edge regions and about 13.9 μm, 12.8 μm and 12.1 μm in the core regions, respectively. When aged at 200 °C, β-Mg17Al12 precipitates are predominantly formed in the studied alloys. Increasing the Al and Ca concentrations effectively refines the microstructures and enhances the aging hardening response and the strength, albeit at the expense of considerably reduced ductility. The peak-aged AE62 alloys demonstrate balanced tensile properties, with ultimate tensile strength (UTS), yield strength (YS), and elongation at fracture (Ef) at room temperature of ~241 MPa, ~141 MPa and ~7.1%, respectively, and values of ~129 MPa, ~96 MPa and ~19.8%, respectively, at 175 °C. Compared to peak-aged AE62 alloy, the UTS and YS of peak-aged AEX820 alloys are improved by ~6.7% and ~14.2%, respectively, at RT and ~8.5% and ~12.5% at 175 °C, while Ef is decreased by 35.2% at RT and 33.3% at 175 °C, primarily due to the high area fraction of secondary phases.
Size Influence of Laminated Bamboo on Tensile Mechanical Properties with the Consideration of Density
Authors: Li Jiannan , Singh Amardeep , Sharma Rahul , Yu Xinchen , Zhou Junwen , Ge Pei , Yang Shulan
Published: January 2025

Laminated bamboo (LB), as a novel eco-friendly composite material with a high strength-to-weight ratio, has garnered increasing interest. However, there is a gap in comprehending the impact of size on the tensile properties of LB, particularly tensile strength and modulus. In contrast with conventional materials such as concrete and wood, which have specified specimen sizes and size effect factors to address performance variances linked to size, LB lacks such standards and references. To address this, seven groups of LB specimens of varying sizes were developed and tested to examine the impact of length, thickness, and sectional area on failure mechanisms and fundamental features, including density considerations. The findings demonstrate that size does not significantly influence the failure mode. Length exerts a smaller influence than thickness. When specimens are scaled up by a factor of two, tensile strength and modulus diminish to 82.86% and 88.38% of their initial values, respectively. Density significantly influences the relationships of tensile strength, modulus, and size effects. Consequently, size effect models incorporating both specific properties and the density–property relationship were developed.
Effect of Ni and Nb Elements on Corrosion Resistance and Behavior of TC4 Alloy in Hydrochloric Acid
Authors: Xiao Kaikai , Ge Jinpeng , Zhang Yongqiang , Wang Jian , Feng Weizhong , Ou-Yang Xingyu , Yu Yang , Ye Wenjun , Hui Songxiao
Published: January 2025

Due to the development of the petroleum industry, more severe mining conditions put forward higher corrosion resistance requirements for materials. In this paper, the corrosion resistance and corrosion behavior of four TC4-xNi-yNb (x, y = 0, 0.5) alloys were investigated in a 1 mol/L HCl solution through microscopic characterization, electrochemical tests and corrosion weight loss testing. The results demonstrated that the addition of Ni and Nb elements could improve the corrosion resistance of TC4 alloy to varying degrees. The addition of niobium formed niobium oxide in the passive film, while the addition of nickel thickened the passive film without formation of nickel oxides. The improvement of corrosion resistance of TC4 by nickel is more significant. Finally, a new highly corrosion resistant alloy TC4-0.5Ni-0.5Nb is preferred.
Effect of Fe Concentration and Superheating on the Microstructure and Tensile Properties of High Mg 413.0-Type Alloys: Role of Sr, Be, P, and La
Authors: Doty Herbert W. , Samuel Ehab , Samuel Agnes M. , Elsharkawi Ehab , Songmene Victor , Samuel Fawzy H.
Published: January 2025

The present work was undertaken to explore the multiple alloys and process steps that have been suggested to mitigate the harmful effects of high iron content in cast Al-Si alloys. The base alloy used was ommercial 413.0 alloy containing 0.35%Mg. Iron was added at three Fe levels up to 1.8%. The addition of Sr, 1.0%Zn, 0.2%Ti were made to the alloys so prepared, which were melted and maintained at a superheat of 750 °C or 950 °C. The melts were poured in different molds that produced three solidification rates. In total, 40 castings were prepared: half of the castings were used for metallographic examinations in the as-cast condition, while the other half were set aside for tensile testing following T6 treatment. The results show that at a solidification rate of 50 °C/s, 1.8%Fe could be dissolved in the aluminum matrix regardless of other melt treatments. With regard to the other solidification rates, superheating at 950 °C, coupled with Sr addition or Sr + Be, reduces the average β-platelets length by 80% (0.8 °C/s) or 95% (8 °C/s). The addition of P causes a marked drop in the alloy tensile strength due to the precipitation of primary Si, Al2Si2Sr, and β-AlFeSi hard-phase particles. Therefore, reducing the iron content in the castings may be considered a major objective to be recommended for developing alloys with higher strength and optimum quality values. More than 1000 tensile bars were tested in this study.
Manipulation Game Considering No-Regret Strategies
Authors: Clempner Julio B.
Published: January 2025

This paper examines manipulation games through the lens of Machiavellianism, a psychological theory. It analyzes manipulation dynamics using principles like hierarchical perspectives, exploitation tactics, and the absence of conventional morals to interpret interpersonal interactions. Manipulators intersperse unethical behavior within their typical conduct, deploying deceptive tactics before resuming a baseline demeanor. The proposed solution leverages Lyapunov theory to establish and maintain Stackelberg equilibria. A Lyapunov-like function supports each asymptotically stable equilibrium, ensuring convergence to a Nash/Lyapunov equilibrium if it exists, inherently favoring no-regret strategies. The existence of an optimal solution is demonstrated via the Weierstrass theorem. The game is modeled as a three-level Stackelberg framework based on Markov chains. At the highest level, manipulators devise strategies that may not sway middle-level manipulated players, who counter with best-reply strategies mirroring the manipulators’ moves. Lower-level manipulators adjust their strategies in response to the manipulated players to sustain the manipulation process. This integration of stability analysis and strategic decision-making provides a robust framework for understanding and addressing manipulation in interpersonal contexts. A numerical example focusing on the oil market and its regulations highlights the findings of this work.
Certain Summation and Operational Formulas Involving Gould–Hopper–Lambda Polynomials
Authors: Alatawi Maryam Salem
Published: January 2025

This manuscript introduces the family of Gould–Hopper–Lambda polynomials and establishes their quasi-monomial properties through the umbral method. This approach serves as a powerful mechanism to analyze the characteristic of multi-variable special polynomials. Several summation formulas for these polynomials are explored, and their operational identities are obtained using partial differential equations. The corresponding results for Hermite–Lambda polynomials are also obtained. In addition, a conclusion is given.