bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Novel Biomarkers as Potential Predictors of Decompensated Advanced Chronic Heart Failure—Single Center Study
Authors: Fröhling Tobias , Semo Dilvin , Mirna Moritz , Paar Vera , Shomanova Zornitsa , Motloch Lukas J. , Rukosujew Andreas , Sindermann Jürgen R. , Lichtenauer Michael , Pistulli Rudin
Published: November 2024

Background/Objectives: Heart failure (HF) remains a major therapeutic and diagnostic challenge nowadays. Albeit, acute decompensated HF is associated with several clinical signs such as dyspnea or edema, it remains a challenge to use easy accessible and suitable tools, such as biomarkers, to distinguish between patients at risk for an acute decompensation of their heart failure and compensated, stable HF patients. Existing biomarkers, such as natriuretic peptides or troponin, are not specific and can be elevated due to several other disease conditions, such as myocardial infarction, atrial fibrillation, or valve diseases. Therefore, the aim of this study was to analyze the predictive potential of four novel cardiovascular biomarkers—the soluble urokinase-type plasminogen activator receptor (suPAR), heart-type fatty acid binding protein (H-FABP), vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 (VCAM-1), and growth/differentiation factor 15 (GDF-15) for the detection of cardiac decompensation in patients with HF. Methods: In this study, 146 patients were prospectively enrolled and the serum biomarker concentrations were analyzed using Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA). We correlated the biomarker concentrations with clinical and biochemical parameters of all patients and the predictive value for detection of cardiac decompensation was assessed. Results: A significant increase in the levels of suPAR (1.6-fold-change, p < 0.0001), H-FABP (2.2-fold-change, p = 0.0458), VCAM-1 (1.6-fold-change, p < 0.0001), and GDF-15 (1.7-fold-change, p = 0.0009) was detected in all patients with acute decompensated HF in comparison to patients with compensated HF. Univariate logistic regression analysis revealed a significant association of biomarker plasma concentration with the risk for a cardiac decompensation (suPAR: p < 0.0001; VCAM-1: p < 0.0001, H-FABP: p = 0.0458; GDF-15: p = 0.0009). Conclusions: In conclusion, the investigated novel cardiovascular biomarkers suPAR, GDF-15, VCAM-1, and H-FABP could be a valuable tool to facilitate therapeutic decisions in patients with heart failure and suspicion of a cardiac decompensation. Parameters such as renal function should be taken into account. Further studies on novel biomarkers are required to find reliable, sensitive, and specific tools that will enable the early detection of patients with acute decompensation.
Pharmacologic Treatment of Pulmonary Hypertension Due to Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction: Are There More Arrows on Our Bow?
Authors: Masarone Daniele , Valente Fabio , Verrengia Marina , Contaldi Carla , di Palma Vito , Falco Luigi , Catapano Dario , di Lorenzo Emilio
Published: November 2024

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) associated with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (PH-HFpEF) represents a frequent form of PH related to left ventricular dysfunction. The pathophysiology of PH-HFpEF is intricate, and varied and includes vascular, cardiac, and pulmonary factors that contribute synergistically to developing this clinical syndrome. Improved knowledge of the pathophysiology of PH-HFpEF has paved the way for the use of new drugs such as angiotensin receptor neprilysin inhibitors (ARNIs), non-steroidal mineral corticoid receptor antagonist (nsMRA), sodium-glucose cotransporter inhibitors (SGLT2is), levosimendan, and glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) agonists. ARNIs are a widely used drug for the treatment of PH associated with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction. They have also recently been used in PH-HFpEF patients with hemodynamic benefits that need to be confirmed in future research. Finerenone is an innovative non-steroidal mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist that exhibits notable cardioprotective and renoprotective properties in individuals suffering from chronic diabetic kidney disease. It also enhances outcomes for patients with heart failure, whether they have mildly reduced or preserved ejection fraction. Moreover, in experimental studies, finerenone has been found to lower pulmonary artery pressure, reduce muscularization, and decrease the wall thickness of pulmonary arteries. SGLT2i have revolutionized the treatment of patients with heart failure irrespective of left ventricular ejection fraction, and their treatment is also associated with an improvement in the hemodynamics profile in patients with PH-HFpEF. Levosimendan is a widely used inodilator in the treatment of acute and advanced heart failure. In addition, its use in patients with PH-HFpEF (supported by the positive effects on pulmonary hemodynamics that levosimendan exerts) has recently demonstrated hemodynamic benefit in a small phase 2 study that paved the way for phase 3 studies and the creation of an oral formulation of levosimendan. Finally, GLP1 agonists are a class of drugs that, in preliminary evidence, have shown a positive effect on cardiac hemodynamics, mainly by facilitating left ventricular unloading. These effects, along with the reduction in insulin resistance and weight loss, likely lead to beneficial outcomes for PH-HFpEF patients, especially those with obesity as a comorbidity.
The Impact of Digital Devices on Children’s Health: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Presta Valentina , Guarnieri Alessandro , Laurenti Fabiana , Mazzei Salvatore , Arcari Maria Luisa , Mirandola Prisco , Vitale Marco , Chia Michael Yong Hwa , Condello Giancarlo , Gobbi Giuliana
Published: November 2024

Background: The impact of prolonged digital device exposure on physical and mental health in children has been widely investigated by the scientific community. Additionally, the lockdown periods due to the COVID-19 pandemic further exposed children to screen time for e-learning activities. The aim of this systematic review (PROSPERO Registration: CRD42022315596) was to evaluate the effect of digital device exposure on children’s health. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic was additionally explored to verify the further exposure of children due to the e-learning environment. Methods: Available online databases (PubMed, Google Scholar, Semantic Scholar, BASE, Scopus, Web of Science, and SPORTDiscus) were searched for study selection. The PICO model was followed by including a target population of children aged 2 to 12 years, exposed or not to any type of digital devices, while evaluating changes in both physical and mental health outcomes. The quality assessment was conducted by using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Critical Appraisal Tool. Synthesis without meta-analysis (SWiM) guidelines were followed to provide data synthesis. Results: Forty studies with a total sample of 75,540 children were included in this systematic review. The study design was mainly cross-sectional (n = 28) and of moderate quality (n = 33). Overall, the quality score was reduced due to recall, selection, and detection biases; blinding procedures influenced the quality score of controlled trials, and outcome validity reduced the quality score of cohort studies. Digital device exposure affected physical activity engagement and adiposity parameters; sleep and behavioral problems emerged in children overexposed to digital devices. Ocular conditions were also reported and associated with higher screen exposure. Home confinement during COVID-19 further increased digital device exposure with additional negative effects. Conclusions: The prolonged use of digital devices has a significant negative impact on children aged 2 to 12, leading to decreased physical activity, sleep disturbances, behavioral issues, lower academic performance, socioemotional challenges, and eye strain, particularly following extended online learning during lockdowns.
Effects of Biological Adhesion on the Hydrodynamic Characteristics of Different Panel Net Materials: A BP Neural Network Approach
Authors: Liu Yongli , Liu Wei , Wang Lei , Min Minghua , Li Lei , Wang Liang , Ma Shuo
Published: November 2024

Biofouling is a serious problem in marine aquaculture facilities, exerting several negative effects on cage structures. In this study, different materials of nets were placed in the Fujian Sea area of China, and the main biological adhesion species were determined. The drag force of different materials of fouled nets was studied by a physical test in a flume tank. The drag force coefficient of a clean polyethylene terephthalate (PET) net was 0.53. The drag force coefficients of ultrahigh-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) and polyethylene (PE) nets were 161.2% and 133.5% higher, respectively, compared with those of PET nets. Crustaceans, mollusks, and algae were the main organisms that adhered to the nets. Compared with the clean nets, the drag force of PET, UHMWPE, and PE nets increased by 1.29–5.06 times, 1.11–2.85 times, and 0.55–2.46 times, respectively. Based on backpropagation (BP) neural network training, the relationship between biological characteristics (average adhesion thickness and density) and the drag force of three kinds of net materials was determined. The drag force of the biofouled net at various time points throughout the year can be predicted based on this model, which can guide the cleaning and maintenance of nets in cage structures.
Spatial-Temporal Assessment of Dust Events and Trend Analysis of Sand Drift Potential in Northeastern Iran, Gonabad
Authors: Rahdari Mohammad Reza , Kharazmi Rasoul , Rodrigo-Comino Jesús , Rodríguez-Seijo Andrés
Published: November 2024

In recent years, northeastern Iran, particularly Khorasan Razavi province, has experienced wind erosion and dust storms, although large-scale studies are limited. To assess wind patterns, sand drift, and dust events, hourly wind data were analyzed using Fryberger’s method, along with trend analysis through the Mann–Kendall and Sen’s slope tests. Additionally, MODIS satellite data and Google Earth Engine helped identify event frequency and spatial patterns. The results show that east (12%) and southeast winds (9.6%) are the most frequent, with an average annual wind speed of 4.39 knots. Sand drift potential (DP = 96, RDP = 21.6) indicates sand movement from southeast to northwest, with a multi-directional wind system (unidirectional index of 0.22). The results of the AOD index show that the amount of dust in the north and northwest part is more than other locations, and more than 500 events with dust has been registered over the last two decades. These findings suggest that policymakers should monitor these trends to mitigate the environmental and infrastructural damage caused by blowing sand.
Evaluation of the Hydrological Response to Land Use Change Scenarios in Urban and Non-Urban Mountain Basins in Ecuador
Authors: Mejía-Veintimilla Diego , Ochoa-Cueva Pablo , Arteaga-Marín Juan
Published: November 2024

Land cover is a crucial factor in controlling rainfall–runoff processes in mountain basins. However, various anthropogenic activities, such as converting natural vegetation to agricultural or urban areas, can affect this cover, thereby increasing the risk of flooding in cities. This study evaluates the hydrological behavior of two mountain basins in Loja, Ecuador, under varying land use scenarios. El Carmen small basin (B1), located outside the urban perimeter, and Las Pavas small basin (B2), within the urban area, were modeled using HEC-HMS 4.3 software. The results highlight the significant influence of vegetation degradation and restoration on hydrological processes. In degraded vegetation scenarios, peak flows increase due to reduced soil infiltration capacity, while baseflows decrease. Conversely, the conserved and restored vegetation scenarios show lower peak flows and higher baseflows, which are attributed to enhanced evapotranspiration, interception, and soil water storage. The study underscores the importance of ecosystem management and restoration in mitigating extreme hydrological events and improving water resilience. These findings provide a foundation for decision-making in urban planning and basin management, emphasizing the need for comprehensive and multidisciplinary approaches to develop effective public policies.
Understanding the Normalization of Plantation Agriculture: The Case of Hass Avocado in Colombia
Authors: Suarez Andres
Published: November 2024

Plantations are not inherently normal, yet they have been normalized within traditional agricultural landscapes. This is the premise through which we explore why plantations thrive despite numerous social and ecological drawbacks. Accordingly, the aim of this paper is to present a framework to elucidate why Hass avocado plantations succeed, using Salamina, Colombia as a case study. We argue that these plantations prosper through a process of normalization, driven by the dynamic interplay between social structures and human agency in agriculture. Our theoretical framework regarding normalization unfolds in three stages: prescription, implementation embeddedness, and integration. To reach this outcome, we first build a theoretical foundation based on realist social theory and subsequently conduct a primarily qualitative case study, focusing on neighboring respondents to plantations for understanding the process of introduction, development, and persistence of these plantations in the landscape. Additionally, we consider supplementary interviews and secondary information to understand the context of Hass avocado expansion. We found that while normalization may appear to involve passive conformity, our analysis highlights the critical role of human agency. As our study demonstrates, agency fosters reflection and sustains various forms of resistance and counterbalance against systemic pressures. This recognition underscores the potential for proactive engagement and transformative action within agricultural systems, challenging and reshaping the prevailing norms.
How Satisfaction Research Contributes to the Optimization of Urban Green Space Design—A Global Perspective Bibliometric Analysis from 2001 to 2024
Authors: Zhang Shaoying , Adam Mastura , Ghafar Norafida Ab
Published: November 2024

With rapid global sustainable growth and urbanization, green spaces—central to urban green infrastructure—provide essential ecosystem services that significantly enhance residents’ quality of life and well-being. This importance has grown even more evident during the COVID-19 pandemic. Therefore, the research on satisfaction with urban green spaces has become an essential topic for scholars in recent years. A systematic review could be helpful as research trends and effective optimization strategies are still unclear. To fill this gap, this study conducted a bibliometric analysis of 313 high-quality papers published on the Web of Science since 2001. The findings revealed: (1) Key journals and significant developments associated with this field of research, especially from China and the United States, emerging as the major contributors. (2) Keyword clustering analysis identified key themes, including public engagement, historic preservation, environmental justice, walkability, green space accessibility, and restorative environments. These findings emphasize the importance of data-driven and innovative planning strategies for enhancing residents’ well-being, tourism, and urban sustainability. (3) Research on satisfaction with urban green spaces has shifted from a singular to a more diversified focus, contributing to the optimization of urban green spaces through four main aspects: residents’ needs, ecological functions, management strategies, and research approaches. The conclusions offer strategies for researching the optimization of urban green spaces and provide valuable insights for residents, scholars, urban planners, and designers.
Green Infrastructure Mapping in Almeria Province (Spain) Using Geographical Information Systems and Multi-Criteria Evaluation
Authors: Navas González Álvaro , Hewitt Richard J. , Martínez-Vega Javier
Published: November 2024

Green infrastructure (GI) is increasingly prioritised in landscape policy and planning due to its potential to benefit ecosystems and enhance wildlife conservation. However, due to the uneven distribution of protected areas (PAs) and the fragmentation of habitats more generally, multi-level policy strategies are needed to create an integrated GI network bridging national, regional and local scales. In the province of Almeria, southeastern Spain, protected areas are mainly threatened by two land use/land cover changes. On the one hand, there is the advance of intensive greenhouse agriculture, which, between 1984 and 2007, increased in surface area by more than 58%. On the other hand, there is the growth of artificial surfaces, including urban areas (+64%), construction sites (+194%) and road infrastructures (+135%). To address this challenge, we present a proposal for green infrastructure deployment in the province of Almeria. We combine Geographic Information Systems (GISs) and multi-criteria evaluation (MCE) techniques to identify and evaluate suitability for key elements to be included in GI in two key ways. First, we identify the most suitable areas to form part of the GI in order to address vulnerability to degradation and fragmentation. Second, we propose 15 ecological corridors connecting the 35 protected areas of the province that act as core areas. The proposed GI network would extend along the western coast of the province and occupy the valleys of the main rivers. The river Almanzora plays a leading role. Due to its remoteness from the coast and its climatic conditions, it has not attracted intensive greenhouse agriculture and urban development, the main drivers of the transformation and fragmentation of traditional land uses. Around 50% of the area occupied by the proposed corridors would be located in places of medium and high suitability for the movement of species between core areas.
Advanced Secondary Intention Healing for Complex Soft-Tissue Defects Using Reprocessed Micronized Acellular Dermal Matrix
Authors: Nam Ha Jong , Kim Dong Gyu , Byeon Je Yeon , Lee Da Woon , Kim Jun Hyuk , Kim Se Young , Choi Hwan Jun
Published: November 2024

Secondary intention healing offers an alternative when surgical options are infeasible. This study analyzed the effect of micronized acellular dermal matrices (mADMs; CGderm Matrix®, CG Bio, Seoul, Republic of Korea) on secondary intention healing in patients with complex soft-tissue defects and assessed mADMs’ efficacy in promoting secondary healing and improving clinical outcomes in these challenging cases. This retrospective study included 26 patients treated with sheet-type reprocessed mADMs between August 2022 and December 2022 at Soonchunhyang University Cheonan Hospital. Patients with full-thickness skin defects classified as complex wounds were included. Data on demographics, wound characteristics, and treatment outcomes were collected and analyzed. Wound area was measured using ImageJ software, and statistical analyses were conducted using SPSS. The application of mADMs resulted in a median wound area reduction of 81.35%, demonstrating its significant efficacy in wound healing. Most patients presented with compromised vascular supply, significant tissue loss, or infections that precluded conventional surgical interventions. No significant correlations were observed between patient variables and wound-healing outcomes, indicating the complex nature of wound healing. mADMs effectively promote secondary intention healing by providing a supportive extracellular matrix scaffold that enhances epithelialization and angiogenesis. Their rapid absorption, ease of handling, and ability to improve wound tensile strength make them particularly suitable for complex wounds.
Stability and Reliability of Repeated Plasma Pregnenolone Levels After Oral Pregnenolone Dosing in Individuals with Cocaine Use Disorder: Pilot Findings
Authors: Gao Huaze , Magin Zachary , Fogelman Nia , Sinha Rajita , Angarita Gustavo A. , Milivojevic Verica
Published: November 2024

Substance use disorders (SUDs), including cocaine use disorder (CUD), have significant negative health risks and impose a substantial social burden, yet effective treatments are limited. Pregnenolone, a neuroactive steroid precursor, has been shown to reduce alcohol craving and normalize stress biology in individuals with CUD, but its clinical utility has been questioned due to limited data on bioavailability and the stability of blood levels in humans. Thus, this pilot study aimed to determine whether twice-daily oral pregnenolone (PREG) at 300 mg/day and 500 mg/day versus placebo in week two of PREG administration led to stable increased plasma pregnenolone levels in individuals with CUD. Seven treatment-seeking individuals with CUD, enrolled in an eight-week double-blind clinical trial, were randomized to receive placebo (n = 2) or pregnenolone at 300 mg/day (n = 3) or 500 mg/day (n = 2). For the first two weeks of the eight-week trial, participants were admitted to an inpatient Clinical Neuroscience Research Unit for repeated serial sampling of plasma pregnenolone concentrations over a 32.5 h period in week two of their inpatient stay while taking their assigned study drug under observation. Pregnenolone levels showed a significant main effect of the medication group (p = 0.039), with sustained higher levels in the 300 mg (p = 0.018) and 500 mg (p = 0.035) groups compared to placebo, and no significant difference between the two pregnenolone dosing groups. Moreover, correlation analyses showed that after observed study medication dosing on repeated sampling day 1, levels of pregnenolone were highly associated across time, with strong, positive correlations between time of dosing and 2 h (r = 0.80, p = 0.031), 4 h (r = 0.80, p = 0.031), 6 h (r = 0.86, p = 0.013), and 8 h post-dosing (r = 0.97, p < 0.001). These findings from this pilot study suggest that chronic twice-daily/“bis in die” (b.i.d.) oral administration of pregnenolone at both 300 mg/day and 500 mg/day achieved stable and reliable elevated plasma pregnenolone levels over 32.5 h in individuals with CUD, thereby supporting the good bioavailability of pregnenolone in these samples. These data indicate that twice-daily chronic dosing may overcome any potential concerns of poor bioavailability and rapid metabolism of pregnenolone in humans, and support further clinical investigations into pregnenolone’s role in the treatment of cocaine use disorders.
Impact of Multistrain Probiotic Supplementation on Glycemic Control in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus—Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Chaithanya Venkata , Kumar Janardanan , Vajravelu Leela Kakithakara , Ram Mohan , Thulukanam Jayaprakash
Published: November 2024

Hyperglycemia, a key characteristic of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), highlights the need for effective management strategies. This study aims to analyze the impact of multistrain probiotic supplementation on glycemic control in T2DM patients. During a 24-week randomized controlled trial involving 130 participants, subjects were assigned to either a probiotic group or a placebo group. The key outcomes included fasting blood glucose (FBG), postprandial blood glucose (PPBG), glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels, and lipid profiles, assessed at baseline and post-intervention. The results indicated a significant reduction in HbA1c (p = 0.004) and increased HDL-c (p = 0.023) and improvements in lipid profiles in the probiotic group, alongside a trend toward decreased FBG and PPBG. No serious adverse effects were reported, indicating good tolerance of probiotics. These findings suggest that probiotics may positively influence metabolic parameters in T2DM patients, supporting their potential as a complementary dietary intervention. Further research is needed to understand the underlying mechanisms and enhance probiotic formulations for diabetic control.
Impact of Gut Microbiome Interventions on Glucose and Lipid Metabolism in Metabolic Diseases: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Mederle Alexandra Laura , Dima Mirabela , Stoicescu Emil Robert , Căpăstraru Bogdan Florin , Levai Codrina Mihaela , Hațegan Ovidiu Alin , Maghiari Anca Laura
Published: November 2024

Background: The gut microbiome is increasingly recognized as a key player in metabolic health, influencing glucose and lipid metabolism through various mechanisms. However, the efficacy of gut microbiota-targeted interventions, such as probiotics, prebiotics, fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT), and diet-based treatments, remains unclear for specific metabolic outcomes. In this study, the aim was to evaluate the impact of these interventions on the glucose and lipid parameters in individuals with metabolic diseases such as diabetes mellitus (DM), obesity, and metabolic syndrome. Methods: This systematic review and meta-analysis included 41 randomized controlled trials that investigated the effects of gut microbiota-targeted treatments on metabolic parameters such as fasting glucose, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), and triglycerides. A comprehensive search was conducted using databases like PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus, focusing on interventions targeting the gut microbiota. A meta-analysis was performed using random-effects models, with effect sizes calculated for each outcome. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool. Results: Gut microbiota-targeted interventions significantly reduced fasting glucose, HbA1c, HOMA-IR, total cholesterol, LDL-C, and triglycerides, with moderate heterogeneity observed across studies. The interventions also led to modest increases in HDL-C levels. Probiotic and synbiotic interventions showed the most consistent benefits in improving both glucose and lipid profiles, while FMT yielded mixed results. Short-term interventions showed rapid microbial shifts but less pronounced metabolic improvements, whereas longer-term interventions had more substantial metabolic benefits. Conclusions: In this study, it is demonstrated that gut microbiota-targeted interventions can improve key metabolic outcomes, offering a potential therapeutic strategy for managing metabolic diseases. However, the effectiveness of these interventions varies depending on the type, duration, and population characteristics, highlighting the need for further long-term studies to assess the sustained effects of microbiota modulation on metabolic health.
A Theoretical Study of the Electron–Surface Optical Phonon Interaction in Monolayer Transition Metal Dichalcogenides Deposited on SiC and hexagonal BN Dielectric Substrates in the Vicinity of the Points K+(K−) of the Brillouin Zone
Authors: Mahdouani Mounira , Bourguiga Ramzi , Gardelis Spiros
Published: November 2024

We theoretically investigated the electron–surface optical phonon interaction across the long-range Fröhlich coupling in monolayer transition metal dichalcogenides, such as WS2, WSe2, MoS2, and MoSe2 monolayers, on SiC and hexagonal BN dielectric substrates. We employed the effective Hamiltonian in the K+(K−) valley of the hexagonal Brillouin zone to assess the electronic energy shifts induced by the interaction between electronic states and surface polar optical phonons. Our results indicate that the interaction between electrons and surface optical phonons depends upon the polar nature of the substrate. We have also calculated the polaronic oscillator strength, as well as the polaronic scattering rate of the lower polaron state in monolayer WS2, WSe2, MoS2, and MoSe2 on SiC and hexagonal BN dielectric substrates. As a result, we have theoretically proved the following: firstly, the enhancement of the polaronic scattering rate with temperature, and secondly, the notable influence of the careful selection of surrounding dielectrics on both the polaronic oscillator strength and the polaronic scattering rate. Thus, optimal dielectrics would be those exhibiting both elevated optical phonon energy and a high static dielectric constant.
Simultaneous Osseo- and Odontointegration of Titanium Implants: Description of Two Cases in Human and Animal Models and Review of Their Experimental and Clinical Implications
Authors: Valdivia-Gandur Iván , Manzanares-Céspedes María Cristina , Astudillo-Rozas Wilson , Aceituno-Antezana Oscar , Tallón-Walton Victòria , Beltrán Víctor
Published: November 2024

Two cases of calcified bone and dental tissue integration with titanium implants are presented, along with a review of the literature on their experimental and clinical implications. First, histological analyses of a titanium implant extracted from a patient with iimplant disease revealed the integration of both dental and bone tissue on the implant’s surface. Secondly, a biocompatibility study in an animal model documented two implants in contact with tooth roots. Samples from both animal and human models demonstrated simultaneous osseointegration and dental tissue neoformation, with the latter attributed to the activity of cementoblasts. The literature review confirms the formation of cementum around dental implants in contact with teeth. Certain clinical reports have proposed the insertion of implants into bone sites containing impacted teeth as a conservative treatment alternative, avoiding the need for tooth extraction surgery and demonstrating the successful integration of teeth, bone, and dental implants. Furthermore, the documented natural formation of periodontal tissues around dental implants provided a foundation for tissue engineering studies aimed at realizing implant–bone relationships similar to those of natural bone–tooth structures. The primary challenges remain the long-term preservation of periodontal-like tissue formed on implants and the imparting of functional proprioceptive properties.
Study on the Suitability of Concrete Constitutive Models for Perforation Simulation
Authors: Li Jianxing , Liu Yize , Li Peiyu , Wang Haifu , Chen Pengwan
Published: November 2024

The choice of constitutive model significantly affects the accuracy of concrete perforation simulation. This study analyzes four concrete constitutive models, HJC, RHT, KCC, and TCK, focusing on their strength models, damage evolution, and strain rate effects. Combining the damage pattern and erosion cracks, the effectiveness of the four constitutive models in simulating the penetration of reinforced concrete targets is evaluated using LS-DYNA 11.0. The results indicate that the RHT and TCK models accurately depict the concrete damage and failure modes under the same test conditions. In contrast, the KCC and HJC models demonstrate superior capability in predicting the residual velocity of the projectile. Additionally, this study highlights the significant impact of the erosion parameters on the simulation results. This study offers a valuable reference for the application and parameter set of constitutive models in simulating concrete target perforation.
Effect of Biodiesel on Performance of Cold Patch Asphalt Mixtures
Authors: Bao Lingchen , Guo Rongxin , Yan Feng
Published: November 2024

In order to reduce the amount of diluent in a diluted asphalt mixture, this study developed a cold patch asphalt (CPA) for repairing pavement potholes by using a mixture of treated biodiesel and diesel as the diluent. The effects of biodiesel on the performance of the cold patch asphalt mixture (CPAM) during the construction process were investigated through Brookfield rotational viscosity tests, adhesion tests, and FTIR (Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy) analyses. At the same time, the effect of biodiesel on the performance of the CPAM was analyzed by combining the strength growth test, rutting test, and water-soaked Marshall test of CPAMs. The test results show that the construction performance of the CPAM can be significantly improved by adding pretreated biodiesel. Under the same amount of diluent, the strength and high-temperature performance of the asphalt mixture diluted with biodiesel were significantly improved compared to that with diesel as the diluent. The optimal high-temperature performance reached 9027 (times/mm), representing an approximate increase of 94.7% compared to 4636 (times/mm) when only diesel was used as the diluent. When the biodiesel content increased from 10% to 40%, the residue stability improved from 85.9% to 91.3%. The corresponding 0.5 h Marshall stability increased from 5.59 kN to 8.1 kN, while the 48 h Marshall stability rose from 4.8 kN to 7.39 kN. All tests met the requirements for hot mix asphalt.
Modeling Material Machining Conditions with Gear-Shaper Cutters with TiN0.85-Ti in Adhesive Wear Dominance Using Machine Learning Methods
Authors: Kupczyk Maciej , Leleń Michał , Józwik Jerzy , Tomiło Paweł
Published: November 2024

This paper examines the challenges of machining structural alloy steels for carburizing, with a particular focus on gear manufacturing. TiN0.85-Ti coatings were applied to cutting tool blades to improve machining quality and tool life. The research, supported by mathematical modeling, demonstrated that these coatings significantly reduce adhesive wear and improve blade life. The Kolmogorov–Arnold Network (KAN) was identified as the most effective model comprehensively describing tool life as a function of cutting speed, coating thickness, and feed rate. The results indicate that gear production efficiency can be significantly increased using TiN0.85-Ti coatings.
Improvement of Noise Reduction Structure of Direct-Acting Pressure Reducing Valve
Authors: Liu Rongsheng , Wang Baosheng , Wang Rongren , Yang Liu , Wang Lihui , Ai Chao
Published: November 2024

As a key pressure control component of a hydraulic system, the noise of the direct-acting pressure reducing valve affects the working state of the system directly. However, the existing pressure reducing valves generally have the problem of excessive pure noise. In order to solve this problem, this study explored various structural combinations with the aim of improving the noise level of a direct-acting pressure reducing valve. Firstly, the flow field model of the direct-acting pressure reducing valve was established by using FEA (Finite Element Analysis), and the relationship between the flow field state and noise state was demonstrated through CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) simulation. Secondly, the position, number, and diameter of the oil holes on the valve spool were comprehensively analyzed, and the sound field analysis using LMS Virtual Lab was carried out. Finally, a prototype of the pressure reducing valve was manufactured, and the noise level before and after improvement was compared. The results showed that the effective sound pressure after improvement was reduced by 6.1% compared with that before at 50% of the opening, which verified the precision of the simulation model. The research results could provide a guideline for the design and improvement of direct-acting pressure reducing valves.
Parallel–Serial Robotic Manipulators: A Review of Architectures, Applications, and Methods of Design and Analysis
Authors: Antonov Anton
Published: November 2024

Parallel–serial (hybrid) manipulators represent robotic systems composed of kinematic chains with parallel and serial structures. These manipulators combine the benefits of both parallel and serial mechanisms, such as increased stiffness, high positioning accuracy, and a large workspace. This study discusses the existing architectures and applications of parallel–serial robots and the methods of their design and analysis. The paper reviews around 500 articles and presents over 150 architectures of manipulators used in machining, medicine, and pick-and-place tasks, humanoids and legged systems, haptic devices, simulators, and other applications, covering both lower mobility and kinematically redundant robots. After that, the paper considers how researchers have developed and analyzed these manipulators. In particular, it examines methods of type synthesis, mobility, kinematic, and dynamic analysis, workspace and singularity determination, performance evaluation, optimal design, control, and calibration. The review concludes with a discussion of current trends in the field of parallel–serial manipulators and potential directions for future studies.
A Steepest Ascent Analysis Based on an Experimental Approach for the Hardening Process of a Steel Alloy
Authors: García-Nava Paulo Eduardo , Plascencia-Barrera Gabriel , Rodríguez-Picón Luis Alberto , Torres-Sánchez Roal , García-Martínez Rafael
Published: November 2024

A significant number of alloyed metals applied for different purposes are currently available in industry. The hardness of a piece is an important parameter to consider. The tempering process is widely used to change a metal’s hardness, which is obtained using a hardness test. Once the response is obtained, a way to evaluate the system is by performing an analysis of variance to verify the significance of terms and obtain a regression equation to improve the response. The aim of this work is to illustrate the implementation of an experimental approach based on the steepest ascent method and stopping rules for optimization purposes by considering the hardening process of the steel alloy 4140. The regression coefficients obtained from an experimental design were used to build the steepest path of improvement. The Myers and Khuri stopping rule and the enhanced parabolic stopping rule were applied to determine the best value while individual experimentation is developed. The obtained results, discussion, and a conclusive analysis are disclosed in this document.
Calibration of the Ueno’s Shadow Rate Model of Interest Rates
Authors: Košútová Lenka , Stehlíková Beáta
Published: November 2024

Shadow rate models of interest rates are based on the assumption that the interest rates are determined by an unobservable shadow rate. This idea dates back to Fischer Black, who understood the interest rate as an option that cannot become negative. Its possible zero values are consequences of negative values of the shadow rate. In recent years, however, the negative interest rates have become a reality. To capture this behavior, shadow rate models need to be adjusted. In this paper, we study Ueno’s model, which uses the Vasicek process for the shadow rate and adjusts its negative values when constructing the short rate. We derive the probability properties of the short rate in this model and apply the maximum likelihood estimation method to obtain the parameters from the real data. The other interest rates are—after a specification of the market price of risk—solutions to a parabolic partial differential equation. We solve the equation numerically and use the long-term rates to fit the market price of risk.
Biodiversity and Hemolytic Toxicity of the Genus Heterocapsa (Dinophyceae) in the Beibu Gulf, China
Authors: Xu Yixiao , Dzhembekova Nina , Smith Kirsty F. , Gu Haifeng , John Uwe , Xie Huanda , Wen Yujuan , Wu Miao
Published: November 2024

The dinoflagellate genus Heterocapsa includes several widely distributed and potentially toxic species associated with Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs), particularly affecting the Western Pacific Ocean. To reveal the biodiversity of Heterocapsa in Beibu Gulf, six strains were morphologically characterized using light and scanning electron microscopy, while large subunit rDNA (LSU rDNA) and internal transcribed spacer (ITS) were sequenced for phylogenetic analysis through maximum likelihood and Bayesian inferences. Two strains (BGERL169, BGERL170) were identified as Heterocapsa philippinensis ribotype I, three (BGERL171-BGERL173) as a new Heterocapsa philippinensis ribotype II, and one strain (BGERL174) as Heterocapsa pseudotriquetra. Cells of H. philippinensis were ovoid to spherical, yellowish-brown, with reticulate chloroplasts, and had a sausage-shaped nucleus positioned longitudinally along the dorsal side of the cell, and the theca was arranged in Po, cp, X, 5′, 3a, 7″, 6c, 5s, 5‴, 2⁗. Additionally, BGERL169 and BGERL171 showed no hemolytic toxicity in rabbit erythrocyte lysis assays. To the best of our knowledge, this research provides the first morphological and phylogenetic analysis of H. philippinensis, including the identification of a new ribotype, as well as the discovery of H. pseudotriquetra in Chinese waters. The findings contribute to the understanding of Heterocapsa species biogeography and toxicity in Chinese waters, offering valuable data for future HAB monitoring in Beibu Gulf.
Current State of Dry Needling Practices: A Comprehensive Analysis on Use, Training, and Safety
Authors: Valera-Calero Juan Antonio , Plaza-Manzano Gustavo , Rabanal-Rodríguez Gabriel , Díaz-Arribas María José , Kobylarz Mateusz D. , Buffet-García Jorge , Fernández-de-las-Peñas César , Navarro-Santana Marcos José
Published: November 2024

Background and Objectives: Dry needling (DN) is a technique that involves inserting a thin filament needle through the skin to target myofascial trigger points for the treatment of musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction. Despite its efficacy in a broad plethora of musculoskeletal pain conditions, its safety remains a topic of debate among clinicians and researchers. The aim of this study was to provide an overview of the current practice of DN through a national survey, focusing on the frequency of its use and the incidence of adverse events (AEs), considering factors including physiotherapist experience, clinical workload, the extent of training received by practitioners, and the use of ultrasound guidance. Materials and Methods: An online cross-sectional survey was conducted. Respondents were licensed physical therapists (PTs) working in Spain. The survey covered demographics, professional data, frequency of adverse effects, and if they use ultrasound routinary for guiding interventions. Results: A total of 422 PTs participated in the study, mostly having 21–60 h of DN training (38.6%), less than 2 years of experience (36%), and not using ultrasound during the interventions (85.5%). Post-needling soreness and bent needles were the most common AEs, with most severe events rarely reported. Adverse event frequencies varied significantly based on training hours, experience, patient percentage treated with DN, and weekly clinical dedication. Clinicians with more hours of DN training or fewer years of experience reported higher incidences of certain complications. Conclusions: DN is a common intervention among PTs, with minor AEs frequently occurring and major AEs being less common but still significant. The accidental puncture of non-desired structures highlights the necessity for improve training on anatomical landmarks, needle insertion depth, cross-sectional anatomy education, and patient monitoring. To ensure safe practice, emphasize comprehensive training, adhere to safety protocols, exercise caution, and prioritize the use of ultrasound-guide is encouraged.
Seasonal Variations in Soil Enzyme Activity and Nutrient Limitations of Differently Aged Pinus massoniana Plantation
Authors: Chen Huiling , Gou Mengmeng , Hu Jianwen , Lei Lei , Zhu Sufeng , Hu Ruyuan , Zhao Haiping , Xiao Wenfa , Liu Changfu
Published: November 2024

Soil extracellular enzymes (SEEs) affect the decomposition of organic matter and microbial nutrient demand. However, the seasonal dynamics of SEE activity for differently aged plantations is still unclear. To analyze the seasonal variations of SEE activity and nutrient limitation for differently aged plantations, this study employed the “space-for-time substitution” method and Pinus massoniana plantations of varying ages (6, 13, 29, 38, and 57 years) in subtropical China to determine SEE activity and nutrient limitations in the growing and non-growing seasons. The results showed that SEE activity varied notably with the growth stage and season. In particular, β-1,4-glucosidase activity was higher in the growing season than in the non-growing season, while the opposite was observed for acid phosphatase and leucine-amino-peptidase activity. Acid phosphatase gradually increased with stand age, peaking in the 38-year plantation for the growing and non-growing seasons. Microbial carbon (C)-limitation was higher in the growing season and gradually decreased with forest stand development. Phosphorus (P)-limitation was higher in the growing season than in the non-growing season and was maximum in the 38-year plantation. Moreover, the physicochemical properties and microbial biomass explained the microbial C- and P-limitations, respectively. Compared to the non-growing season, the C- and P-limitations of different stand ages were stronger during the growing season, and the physicochemical properties and microbial biomass were important factors affecting their changes. The study reveals the balance status between soil microorganisms and nutrients in subtropical forest ecosystems and provides guidance for the development of afforestation strategies.
Investigating Excited States and Absorption Spectra of the Poly-cyclopenta-dithiophene-benzothiadiazole Oligomers (Poly-CPDTBT)—A Theoretical Study
Authors: Wang Jun , Huang Yuting , Wang Yajing , Durbeej Bo , Blancafort Lluís
Published: November 2024

Poly-CPDTBT, as typical low-band gap copolymers, have potential applications in organic bulk heterojunction solar cells. To have a clear picture of its excited-state processes, the first task is to understand their excited states, in particular, electronic character and relevant optical absorption. Herein, the low-lying singlet excited states of Poly-CPDTBT oligomers were investigated via Algebraic Diagrammatic Construction Second Order (ADC(2)) and time-dependent density functional theory (TDDFT) method with several functionals. Six CPDTBTN (N = 1–6) oligomers were taken as prototypes to study their excited states in detail. The results provide interesting clues to extrapolate the photophysical properties of such polymers with potential applications in photovoltaic materials. The result provided by ωB97XD functional gives good agreement with the experiment result. The vertical excitation energies of the four lowest excited states decrease almost linearly with increasing polymerization degree (N) for CPDTBTN (N = 1–6). The transition density analysis indicates that the local excitations (LE) and the short-distance charge transfer (CT) excitations between two adjacent CPDT and BT units are dominant for low-lying excited states for short oligomers. For the long-chain oligomers (trimer to hexamer), the transition density shows a ladder (or zigzag) pattern along the diagonal blocks at the planar geometry. For long oligomers, the whole chain is involved in the transitions, and the CT excitations only exist between two adjacent CPDT and BT units. The present work provides a valuable basis for understanding the excited-state processes of Poly-CPDTBT and other conjugated polymers that conduct solar energy conversions, which has great significance for the development of new solar cells.