bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cryptoblend: An AI-Powered Tool for Aggregation and Summarization of Cryptocurrency News
Authors: Pozzi Andrea , Barbierato Enrico , Toti Daniele
Published: January 2023

In the last decade, the techniques of news aggregation and summarization have been increasingly gaining relevance for providing users on the web with condensed and unbiased information. Indeed, the recent development of successful machine learning algorithms, such as those based on the transformers architecture, have made it possible to create effective tools for capturing and elaborating news from the Internet. In this regard, this work proposes, for the first time in the literature to the best of the authors’ knowledge, a methodology for the application of such techniques in news related to cryptocurrencies and the blockchain, whose quick reading can be deemed as extremely useful to operators in the financial sector. Specifically, cutting-edge solutions in the field of natural language processing were employed to cluster news by topic and summarize the corresponding articles published by different newspapers. The results achieved on 22,282 news articles show the effectiveness of the proposed methodology in most of the cases, with 86.8% of the examined summaries being considered as coherent and 95.7% of the corresponding articles correctly aggregated. This methodology was implemented in a freely accessible web application.
An Immature Dermapteran Misidentified as an Adult Zorapteran: The Case of Formosozoros newi Chao & Chen, 2000
Authors: Kočárek Petr , Hu Fang-Shuo
Published: January 2023

Zoraptera shows extreme uniformity in general body morphology, with the exception of Formosozoros (=Zorotypus) newi Chao & Chen, 2000, which stands out in terms of the shape and arrangement of its legs, the cerci, and several other morphological characters. After critical evaluation, we found that this species is not a zorapteran but is instead a nymph (1st instar) of an earwig; i.e., F. newi is a dermapteran. Because of the lack of morphological descriptions of Dermaptera nymphs that would allow species identification, and because the type material of F. newi is lost, a more detailed classification is not possible. We therefore propose that the genus name Formosozoros Chao & Chen, 2000 and the species name Formosozoros newi Chao & Chen, 2000 are nomina dubia.
Robotic versus Conventional Overground Gait Training in Subacute Stroke Survivors: A Multicenter Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Pournajaf Sanaz , Calabrò Rocco Salvatore , Naro Antonino , Goffredo Michela , Aprile Irene , Tamburella Federica , Filoni Serena , Waldner Andreas , Mazzoleni Stefano , Focacci Antonella , Ferraro Francesco , Bonaiuti Donatella , Franceschini Marco ,   TreadStroke Group
Published: January 2023

Background: Although stroke survivors can benefit from robotic gait rehabilitation, stationary robot-assisted gait training needs further investigation. In this paper, we investigated the efficacy of this approach (with an exoskeleton or an end-effector robot) in comparison to the conventional overground gait training in subacute stroke survivors. Methods: In a multicenter controlled clinical trial, 89 subacute stroke survivors conducted twenty sessions of robot-assisted gait training (Robotic Group) or overground gait training (Control Group) in addition to the standard daily therapy. The robotic training was performed with an exoskeleton (RobotEXO-group) or an end-effector (RobotEND-group). Clinical outcomes were assessed before (T0) and after (T1) the treatment. The walking speed during the 10-Meter Walk Test (10 MWT) was the primary outcome of this study, and secondary outcomes were the 6-Minute Walk Test (6 MWT), Timed Up and Go test (TUG), and the modified Barthel Index (mBI). Results: The main characteristics assessed in the Robotic and Control groups did not differ at baseline. A significant benefit was detected from the 10 MWT in the Robotic Group at the end of the study period (primary endpoint). A benefit was also observed from the following parameters: 6 MWT, TUG, and mBI. Moreover, patients belonging to the Robot Group outperformed the Control Group in gait speed, endurance, balance, and ADL. The RobotEND-group improved their walking speed more than the RobotEXO-group. Conclusion: The stationary robot-assisted training improved walking ability better than the conventional training in subacute stroke survivors. These results suggest that people with subacute stroke may benefit from Robot-Assisted training in potentiating gait speed and endurance. Our results also support that end-effector robots would be superior to exoskeleton robots for improving gait speed enhancement.
Stage II Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma after Endovascular Repair of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Zhang Zihuan , Li Duo , Wang Tianxiao , Niu Heyuan , Niu Wenquan , Yang Zhiying
Published: January 2023

Backgrounds: Concomitant abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) and gastrointestinal malignancies are uncommon. Endovascular repair (EVAR) is widely used to treat AAA. However, no consensus exists on the optimal strategy for treating AAA when associated with pancreatic adenocarcinoma. In addition, only few reports of pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) after EVAR exist. Presentation of case: A pancreatic tumor was detected during follow-up after EVAR for AAA in an 83-year-old female patient. The diagnosis was high-grade intraepithelial neoplasia. Modified pylorus-preserving pancreaticoduodenectomy was safely performed. The patient recovered moderately and was discharged two weeks after surgery. The pathological diagnosis was middle-grade pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. The patient survived for 24 months with no recurrence or cardiovascular complications. Conclusions: Conducting periodic follow-ups after AAA surgery is helpful for the early discovery of gastrointestinal tumors. EVAR surgery is safe and feasible and thus recommended for AAA patients with pancreatic cancer, although it may increase the risk of cancer. The stage of malignancy and post-EVAR medical history can be valuable in evaluating the benefits of pancreatic surgery for such cases.
Evaluation of the Properties of 3D-Printed Ti Alloy Plates: In Vivo and In Vitro Comparative Experimental Study
Authors: Wang Qi , Telha Wael , Wu Yange , Abotaleb Bassam , Jiang Nan , Zhu Songsong
Published: January 2023

Titanium (Ti)-based implants play a significant role in rigid internal fixation in maxillofacial surgery. No study has reported that three-dimensional-printed Ti alloy plates (3D-Ti plates) have comprehensively excellent properties similar to standard plates (Matrix-MANDIBLE, SYNTHES, Switzerland) (Synthes-Ti plates). In this work, we manufactured 3D-Ti plates by selective laser melting with Ti6Al4V powder. The surface morphology, mechanical properties, and bone–plate contact rate of the 3D-Ti plates and the Synthes-Ti plates were characterized and compared via electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, Vickers hardness test, three-point bending test, and software calculation. Human bone marrow stromal cells (HBMSCs) were cultured on the plates to test their biocompatibility. Importantly, the 3D-Ti plates were placed into a mandibular fracture model to assess the effect of medical application for 4 and 24 weeks. The 3D-Ti plates were demonstrated to have similar biocompatibility and stability for rigid internal fixation with the Synthes-Ti plates, lower roughness (106.44 ± 78.35 nm), better mechanical strength (370.78 ± 1.25 HV10), and a higher bone–plate contact rate (96.9%). These promising results indicate the feasibility of using 3D-Ti plates for irregular shapes and complex anatomical structures in a clinical context.
Postoperative Morbidity Following Loop Ileostomy Reversal after Primary Elective or Urgent Surgery: A Retrospective Study with 145 Patients
Authors: Peltrini Roberto , Magno Giuseppe , Pacella Daniela , Iacone Biancamaria , Rizzuto Antonia , Bracale Umberto , Corcione Francesco
Published: January 2023

Temporary loop ileostomy is usually performed to protect distal anastomosis or to treat urgent surgical cases. The aim of this study is to evaluate whether, after primary urgent stoma construction, patients undergoing ileostomy reversal have different postoperative outcomes compared with patients who have protective stoma performed in an elective setting. A retrospective observational study was conducted including patients who underwent ileostomy reversal. Baseline patient characteristics and perioperative outcomes were collected in a single database. The overall morbidity rate during recovery was fixed as a primary outcome. Between 2011 and 2021, the complete data records of 145 patients were evaluated. After ileostomy reversal, the postoperative morbidity rate did not differ between groups (14.4% vs. 11.5%, p = 0.790). Even considering each complication, such as ileus, small bowel obstruction, bleeding and wound infection, no significant difference was detected. Similarly, the time to first flatus was 2.25 ± 1.24 vs. 2.1 ± 0.99 (p = 0.379) and the length of hospital stay was 5.43 ± 3.03 vs. 5.84 ± 5.15 (p = 0.568). The only significant factor associated with postoperative complications on logistic regression analysis was the presence of comorbidities (OR 4.49; 95% CI 1.19–29.4, p = 0.05). In the present cohort of patients, there was no difference in the postoperative complication rate after stoma closure following elective or urgent indication for surgery.
What Is New in the Management of High-Risk Localized Prostate Cancer?
Authors: Wani Mudassir , Madaan Sanjeev
Published: January 2023

The current Special Issue, in the Journal of Clinical Medicine, is dedicated to collecting high-quality research that mainly focuses on “Clinical advances in Prostate Cancer Treatments” [...]
Prognostic Significance of Cardiac Magnetic Resonance in Left Atrial and Biventricular Strain Analysis during the Follow-Up of Suspected Myocarditis
Authors: Chen Yan , Zhao Wenjing , Zhang Nan , Liu Jiayi , Liu Dongting , Sun Zhonghua , Xu Lei , Wen Zhaoying
Published: January 2023

To assess the variation in left atrial (LA) and biventricular strain and its prognostic value in the course of suspected myocarditis, this retrospective study included 55 patients with clinically suspected myocarditis who underwent cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) examinations at baseline and follow-up periods. Cine images were used for feature tracking analysis. Paired Student’s t test, McNemar’s test, and Cox proportional hazard regression were used for statistical analysis. The LA total emptying fraction was the only functional index that showed a statistically significant improvement. The initial LA peak’s late negative strain rate (SRa) was the only parameter with a significant predictive power of major adverse cardiac events under univariable (hazard ratio [HR] 2.396, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.044–5.498, p = 0.039) and multivariable Cox survival analysis when adjusted by LA strain parameters (HR 5.072, 95% CI 1.478–17.404, p = 0.010), LA strain and functional parameters (HR 7.197, 95% CI 1.679–30.846, p = 0.008), and LA and biventricular strain and functional parameters (HR 10.389, 95% CI 2.250–47.977, p = 0.003). Thus, our findings indicate that CMR strain is useful for monitoring LA and ventricular function in suspected myocarditis, that LA function may recover preceding ventricular function changes, and that LA strain may serve as an incremental tool to predict adverse outcomes.
Combination of Maternal Serum ESM-1 and PLGF with Uterine Artery Doppler PI for Predicting Preeclampsia
Authors: Xie Xianjing , Chen Dan , Yang Xingyu , Cao Yunyun , Guo Yuna , Cheng Weiwei
Published: January 2023

Objective: This study aimed to determine whether the combination of pregnancy-associated endothelial cell-specific molecule 1 (ESM-1), the placental growth factor (PLGF) in the first- and second-trimester maternal serum, and the uterine artery Doppler pulsatility index (PI) in the second trimester can predict preeclampsia (PE). Methods: The serum levels of ESM-1 and PLGF in 33 severe preeclampsia (SPE) patients, 18 mild preeclampsia patients (MPE), and 60 age-matched normal controls (CON) were measured. The Doppler ultrasonography was performed, and the artery pulsatility index (PI) was calculated for the same subjects. Results: The 2nd PLGF level was significantly lower and the 2nd PI was higher than those in the MPE group. Combining the 2nd PLGF with the 2nd PI yielded an AUC of 0.819 (83.33% sensitivity and 70.00% specificity). In the SPE group, the 1st ESM-1 level and the 2nd PLGF level were significantly lower, and the 2nd ESM-1 level and the 2nd PI were significantly higher in the SPE group. The combination of the 1st ESM-1, the 2nd PLGF, and the 2nd PI yielded an AUC of 0.912 (72.73% sensitivity and 95.00% specificity). Conclusions: The 1st ESM-1 and the 2nd PLGF levels and the 2nd PI were associated with PE. The combination of serum biomarkers and the PI improved the screening efficiency of the PE prediction, especially for SPE.
Dextrose Administration and Resuscitation Outcomes in Patients with Blood Sugar Less Than 150 mg/dL during Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation: An Observational Data Analysis
Authors: Wongtanasarasin Wachira , Phinyo Phichayut
Published: January 2023

Low blood sugar is commonly found during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). However, current guidelines do not mention the importance of glucose testing and acute management for hypoglycemia during CPR. We intended to investigate the association between dextrose administration and resuscitation outcomes in patients with blood sugar less than 150 mg/dL during cardiac arrest in the emergency department (ED). We conducted a retrospective cohort study at a tertiary hospital between 2017 and 2020, including patients with intra-arrest blood glucose <150 mg/dL. Logistic regression with inverse probability treatment weighting (IPTW) was used. The primary outcome was the return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC). Secondary outcomes included survival to hospital admission and hospital discharge and favorable neurological outcomes at discharge. A total of 865 patients received CPR at the ED during the study period. Of these, 229 with low blood sugar were included (60 in the treatment group and 169 in the non-treatment group). The mean age was 59.5 ± 21.4 years. After IPTW, dextrose administration during CPR was not associated with ROSC (adjusted OR [aOR] 1.44, 95% CI 0.30–0.69), survival to hospital admission (aOR 1.27, 95% CI 0.54–3.00), survival to hospital discharge (aOR 0.68, 95% CI 0.20–2.29), and favorable neurological status (aOR 2.21, 95% CI 0.23–21.42). Our findings suggested that dextrose administration during CPR at the ED might not lead to better or worse resuscitation outcomes. Owing to the design limitations and residual confounding factors, strong recommendations for dextrose administration could not be formulated. Further evidence is needed from prospective trials to confirm the efficacy of dextrose during CPR.
How COVID-19 Outbreak Influenced Transplantation in Poland
Authors: Zawierucha Jacek , Prystacki Tomasz , Marcinkowski Wojciech , Małyszko Jacek Stanisław , Nazarewski Sławomir , Małyszko Jolanta
Published: January 2023

Announced by the World Health Organization in early 2020, the pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 infections has had a huge impact on healthcare systems around the world. Local and international authorities focused on implementing procedures to safeguard the health of the population. All regular daily activities were disrupted. Similar factors related to the global fight against the COVID-19 epidemic also had a large impact on transplantation activity. In this article, the authors present the number of patients qualified for transplantation, transplanted and waiting on the waiting list in Poland during the 2-year period of the pandemic. In the first year of the epidemic (2020), all transplantation figures dropped drastically, by as much as 20–30% compared with 2019. The most disturbing fact is that the number of transplants performed in 2022 is still lower than before the outbreak of the epidemic (2019 and earlier).
Sex-Specific Outcomes of Acute Stroke in Patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: A National Inpatient Sample Study
Authors: Pana Tiberiu A. , Jesenakova Sona , Carter Ben , Hollick Rosemary , Mohamed Mohamed O. , Mamas Mamas A. , Myint Phyo K.
Published: January 2023

Background: Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disorder associated with increased stroke risk. Its association with stroke outcomes remains poorly understood. In this study, we aimed to compare the sex-specific SLE-associated acute stroke outcomes. Methods: Stroke hospitalisations between 2015 and 2018 from the National Inpatient Sample were analysed. The associations between SLE and outcomes (inpatient mortality, length-of-stay > 4 days and routine discharge) were examined using multivariable logistic regressions, stratifying by sex and adjusting for age, race, stroke type, revascularisation, hospital characteristics and comorbidities. Results: A total of 316,531 records representing 1,581,430 hospitalisations were included. Median (interquartile range) age was 71 (60–82) years. There were 940 (0.06%) males and 6110 (0.39%) females with SLE. There were no associations between SLE and mortality amongst either females (odds ratio (95% confidence interval) = 1.11 (0.84–1.48)) or males (0.81 (0.34–1.94)). Nevertheless, SLE was associated with prolonged hospitalisation (1.17 (1.03–1.32)) and lower odds of routine discharge (0.82 (0.72–0.94)) amongst females. There were no associations between SLE and other adverse outcomes amongst males. Conclusions: The association between SLE and acute stroke outcomes was influenced by sex. While SLE was not associated with mortality in either sex, females with SLE had higher odds of prolonged hospitalisation and lower odds of routine home discharge compared to patients without SLE, while males did not exhibit this increased risk.
A Cross-Sectional Study on Gluteal Muscles in Patients with Ankylosing Spondylitis at Different Stages of Hip Involvement
Authors: Bian Tao , Zhang Liang , Man Siliang , Li Hongchao , Li Weiyi , Zhou Yixin
Published: January 2023

Hip involvement in ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is associated with severe functional impairment, and early diagnosis can improve the disease prognosis. We investigated gluteal muscle cross-sectional area (CSA) and radiodensity at different stages of hip involvement and their associations with AS-related clinical and laboratory parameters. This cross-sectional study included 83 patients with AS and 83 age- and sex-matched controls. Patients with AS were divided into three groups according to the Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Radiology Hip Index system. The CSA and radiodensity of the gluteus maximus, medius, and minimus muscles were measured using computed tomography images. Muscle parameters were compared, and their relationships with clinical and laboratory parameters were evaluated. For the gluteus maximus, patients with AS had a lower CSA than controls, regardless of the degree of hip involvement. For the gluteus medius and minimus, patients with moderate/advanced hip involvement had significantly lower CSA and radiodensity than those with mild to no hip involvement. The severity of hip involvement was negatively associated with muscle parameters. CSA of the gluteus maximus decreased in early-stage hip involvement without any changes in radiographs, while radiodensity decreased in the later stages. Muscle parameters on computed tomography may be a more sensitive indicator than radiographic findings.
Treatment Retention and Safety of Ixekizumab in Psoriatic Arthritis: A Real Life Single-Center Experience
Authors: Braña Ignacio , Pardo Estefanía , Burger Stefanie , González del Pozo Pablo , Alperi Mercedes , Queiro Rubén
Published: January 2023

Background and objectives: Information on the performance of ixekizumab (IXE) in patients with psoriatic arthritis (PsA) in clinical practice is scarce. We aimed to analyze the retention rate and safety of IXE in patients with PsA in routine clinical practice. Methods: A retrospective longitudinal observational single-center study of all patients with PsA who had received at least one dose of IXE. Adverse events (AEs) and drug retention rate were the main study focus. Survival was analyzed using Kaplan–Meier curves and predictive factors using multivariate Cox regression analysis. The hazard ratio (HR) was used as a measure of the association. Results: Seventy-two patients were included (52 women and 20 men). Median disease duration was 5 years (IQR 3–9). More than 90% received ≥2 biologic and/or targeted synthetic disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) prior to IXE. Ixekizumab showed a 1-year retention rate of 65% and a 2-year retention rate of 57%. Regarding discontinuation due to AEs, 0.18 AEs per person-year were identified. The number of previous biologics did not influence drug survival but prior use of methotrexate (HR 2.31 (95% CI 1.05–5.10), p < 0.05) and depression (HR 2.40 (95% CI 1.07–5.41), p < 0.05) increased the risk of IXE discontinuation. Conclusions: Ixekizumab showed a good retention rate in a PsA population mostly refractory to biologic and targeted synthetic DMARDs. Drug survival was consistently good regardless of age, gender, metabolic comorbidities, smoking status, or prior number of biologic therapies. This information may be of interest to better position this drug in the PsA treatment algorithms.
Serious Complications and Recurrence following Sacrospinous Ligament Fixation for the Correction of Apical Prolapse
Authors: De Gracia Susie , Fatton Brigitte , Cosson Michel , Campagne-Loiseau Sandrine , Ferry Philippe , Lucot Jean-Philippe , Debodinance Philippe , Panel Laure , Deffieux Xavier , Garbin Olivier , Lamblin Géry , Carlier-Guérin Caroline , Ramanah Rajeev , Fauconnier Arnaud , Serrand Chris , Fritel Xavier , de Tayrac Renaud
Published: January 2023

Objective: To evaluate the rates of serious complications and reoperation for recurrence following sacrospinous ligament fixation (SSLF) for apical pelvic organ prolapse. Methods: This was a national registry ancillary cohort comparative study. The VIGI-MESH registry includes data from 24 French health centers prospectively collected between May 2017 and September 2021. Time to occurrence of a serious complication or reoperation for genital prolapse recurrence was explored using the Kaplan–Meier curve and Log-rank test. The inverse probability of treatment weighting, based on propensity scores, was used to adjust for between-group differences. Results: A total of 1359 women were included and four surgical groups were analyzed: Anterior SSLF with mesh (n = 566), Anterior SSLF with native tissue (n = 331), Posterior SSLF with mesh (n = 57), and Posterior SSLF with native tissue (n = 405). Clavien–Dindo Grade III complications or higher were reported in 34 (2.5%) cases, with no statistically significant differences between the groups. Pelvic organ prolapse recurrence requiring re-operation was reported in 44 (3.2%) women, this was higher following posterior compared with anterior SSLF (p = 0.0034). Conclusions: According to this large database ancillary study, sacrospinous ligament fixation is an effective and safe surgical treatment for apical prolapse. The different surgical approaches (anterior/posterior and with/without mesh) have comparable safety profiles. However, the anterior approach and the use of mesh were associated with a lower risk of reoperation for recurrence compared with the posterior approach and the use of native tissue, respectively.
The Feasibility and Safety of Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection for Circumferential Superficial Esophageal Squamous Cell Neoplasms
Authors: Liu Yi , Dou Lizhou , Rao Wei , Liu Yong , Zhang Yueming , He Shun , Xue Liyan , Wang Guiqi
Published: January 2023

Background It remains controversial whether endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is still appropriate for circumferential superficial esophageal squamous cell neoplasms (SESCN), and few studies compared the short-term and long-term outcomes of ESD with radical surgery. Methods A total of 140 patients with SESCN who underwent ESD or surgery between February 2014 and October 2021 were retrospectively reviewed. The characteristics of patients, operative time, postoperative complications, overall survival (OS), recurrence-free survival (RFS), and quality of life (QOL) were compared between the ESD and surgery groups. The effect of different methods to prevent esophageal stenosis after ESD were analysed. Results Drinking, family history of cancer, macroscopic type, and intrapapillary capillary loop (IPCL) type were independent risk factors for deep submucosal invasion (SM ≥ 200 μm). Smoking and IPCL type were independent predictive factors for angiolymphatic invasion. The average operative time of ESD was significantly shorter than that of surgery (174.5 ± 51.16 min vs. 255.9 ± 88.18 min, p < 0.001). The incidence of perioperative complications in ESD group was significantly lower than that in surgery group (5.5% vs. 19.4%, p = 0.015). The ESD group had significantly better functional scale scores for emotional functioning, cognitive functioning, and global health status, and lower rates of pain, dyspnoea, insomnia, appetite loss, diarrhoea, reflux, and trouble with taste than the surgery group. No significant difference in OS and RFS between ESD and surgery group. Conclusions ESD can significantly shorten the operative time and reduce perioperative complications. Additionally, on the premise of using appropriate measures to prevent postoperative stenosis, ESD can be the first choice for the treatment of SESCN, which could provide better QOL, and the long-term prognosis of ESD is no less than that of surgery.
Parental Resources in Parents of Children with Special Needs (SNs) at the Time of COVID-19
Authors: Gentile Ambra , Polizzi Concetta , Giordano Giulia , Burgio Sofia , Alesi Marianna
Published: January 2023

Background. The limitations imposed by governments for containing the spread of COVID-19 have affected familial relationships, especially those of families dealing with children with special needs or chronic illness conditions. The current study aims to better understand what pathological/disability condition has impacted parental resources, sense of competence, and perception of children’s executive functioning the most. Methods. A sample of 648 parents was asked to answer a survey assessing children’s condition (typical development, specific learning disorder, autism spectrum syndrome, chronic illness), parental resources, parenting sense of competence (distinguished into parental satisfaction and self-efficacy), and parents’ perception of their children’s executive functioning. A MANOVA model was performed to assess differences in parental resources, sense of competence, and perception of the children’s executive functions according to their condition. A path analysis model was performed to examine the impact of sense of competence and children’s condition on parental resources and children’s executive functions. Results. Parents with children with specific learning disorder reported lower scores of parental resources in terms of total scores, common antecedents, and specific antecedents compared to parents with typically developed children (total scores: MD = 56.45, p < 0.001; common antecedents: MD = 22.28, p < 0.00; specific antecedents: MD = 34.17, p < 0.001), parents with autistic children (total scores: MD = 62.79, p = 0.01; common antecedents: MD = 24.03, p = 0.01; specific antecedents: MD = 38.76, p = 0.02) and parents of children with chronic illness (total scores: MD = 37.42, p = 0.04; common antecedents: MD = 16.59, p = 0.01). The path analysis model shows a direct effect of parental satisfaction (β = 0.26) and pathology/disability (β = −0.10) on parental resources that, in turn, influence parents’ perception of their children’s executive functioning (β = 0.24). Conclusion. Although no data about the prepandemic situation is available, the current study highlights that parental stress influence children’s cognition. Moreover, parents of children with special needs seemed to be challenged during COVID-19, especially parents of children with specific learning disorders, that are already stressed out by their children’s condition. Therefore, academic services should undertake preventive measures to preserve parental well-being and to provide a supportive environment for children, especially for those with atypical development.
Numerical Study on Flexible Pipe End Fitting Progressive Failure Behavior Based on Cohesive Zone Model
Authors: Zhang Tao , Lu Qingzhen , Yan Jun , Wang Shichao , Yue Qianjin , Wu Shanghua , Lu Hailong , Chen Jinlong
Published: January 2023

Flexible pipes are extensively used to connect seabed and floating production systems for the development of deep-water oil and gas. In the top connection area, end fitting (EF) is the connector between the flexible pipe and floating platform, as a critical component for structural failure. To address this issue, a combined numerical and experimental prediction method is proposed in this paper to investigate the failure behavior of flexible pipes EF considering tensile armor and epoxy resin debonding. In order to analyze the stress distribution of the tensile armor and the damage state of the bonding interface as the tensile load increases, a finite element model of the EF anchorage system is established based on the cohesive zone model (CZM). Additionally, the effects of the epoxy resin shear strength (ss) and the steel wire yield strength (ys) on the structural load-bearing capacity are discussed in detail. The results indicate that wire strength and interface bonding have a substantial effect on the anchorage system’s failure behavior, and the low-strength wire anchorage system has a three-stage failure behavior with wire yielding as the predominant failure mode, while the high-strength wire anchorage system has a two-stage failure behavior with interface debonding as the predominant failure mode.
Wind-Assisted Ship Propulsion of a Series 60 Ship Using a Static Kite Sail
Authors: Formosa Wayne , Sant Tonio , De Marco Muscat-Fenech Claire , Figari Massimo
Published: January 2023

Following the International Maritime Organization’s goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, the interest in the application of wind-assisted ship propulsion (WASP) in maritime transportation is on the rise. Although a variety of WASP systems exist, the application in maritime shipping is still limited, especially in the case of kite sails. This paper presents a numerical model to carry out a theoretical assessment of the influence of the kite planform area and wind speed on the aerodynamic performance of a kite sail providing propulsive assistance to a 75 m long ship having a Series 60 hull. A static kite sail is assumed, on which a tail wind generates a thrust force to pull the vessel via a tether. While the mass of the kite is neglected, that of the tether is accounted for. A model is implemented for the tensioned tether having a catenary profile. The results generally show a positive correlation between the aerodynamic forces and the kite parameters. As expected, the output parameter values corresponding to the optimal angle of attack for a range of vessel speeds are also found to increase with an increasing relative wind speed. It is concluded that a static 320 m2 kite sail would be sufficient to meet the entire propulsion requirements of the vessel under consideration under appropriate wind conditions.
An Improved Bald Eagle Search Algorithm for Global Path Planning of Unmanned Vessel in Complicated Waterways
Authors: Chen Yongjun , Wu Wenhao , Jiang Pengfei , Wan Chengpeng
Published: January 2023

The path planning of unmanned ships in complex waters using heuristics usually suffers from problems such as being prone to fall into the local optimum, slow convergence, and instability in global path planning. Given this, this paper proposes a Self-Adaptive Hybrid Bald Eagle Search (SAHBES) Algorithm by incorporating adaptive factors into the traditional BES in order to enhance the early global searching ability of the BES algorithm. Moreover, Pigeon-Inspired Optimization (PIO) is introduced to overcome the disadvantage of traditional BES algorithms: that it is easy for them to fall into local optimization. This study improves the fitness function by adding a distance between the ships’ path corners. The obstacle is based on the calculation of the path length. The curve optimization module is applied to smooth the obtained path to generate more rational path planning results, which means the path is the shortest and avoids collision successfully. A simulation test of the SAHBES algorithm on the path planning under different obstacle scenarios is conducted by using the MATLAB platform. The results show that SAHBES can generate the shortest safe, smooth path in different complex water environments, considering the limitations of fundamental ship maneuvering operations compared to other algorithms, thus verifying the feasibility and efficiency of the proposed SAHBES algorithm.
Combining Reduced-Order Stick Model with Full-Order Finite Element Model for Efficient Analysis of Self-Elevating Units
Authors: Zhang Chi , Zhang Shanli , Santo Harrif , Cai Minbo , Yu Modi , Si Michael
Published: January 2023

Reduced-order stick models are frequently employed to obtain dynamic amplification factors of self-elevating units (SEU), while the full-order finite element (FE) models are used for quasi-static analyses. This paper develops an efficient framework to create structural digital twins for SEUs by combining both stick models and full-order FE models. A stick model and a detailed FE model of an in-house developed generic SEU are established, respectively, following the standard industry guideline. Dynamic analyses are performed for the stick model based on the modal superposition method. Assuming that the stick model contains the key dynamic characteristics of the full-order FE model, the modal participation factors are multiplied by the corresponding mode shapes of the full FE model to derive the global dynamic responses of the entire SEU. The derived nodal displacements are imposed on the full-order model to obtain the member stresses. The global responses and member stresses are benchmarked with the results from a direct full-order dynamic FE analysis for various environmental conditions. The presented framework is found to significantly increase the efficiency of the simulation while retaining a similar accuracy, and it forms a critical step for the ongoing development of digital twins of fixed offshore structures.
Impact of Biofuel on the Environmental and Economic Performance of Marine Diesel Engines
Authors: Sagin Sergii , Karianskyi Sergey , Madey Volodymyr , Sagin Arsenii , Stoliaryk Tymur , Tkachenko Ivan
Published: January 2023

The results of the research work on biofuel’s impact on the environmental and economic performance of marine diesel engines are presented. During the research, a fuel mixture was used that consisted of the diesel fuel RMA10 and FAME biofuel. The objective of the research was to determine the optimal concentration of biofuel mixed with diesel fuel. The research work was carried out on three of the same type of marine medium-speed diesel engine, 6N165LW Yanmar. One of the diesel engines only operated on diesel fuel, and the other two operated on a mixture of diesel fuel and 5–20% biofuel. During the experiment, the diesel engines operated at a load of 50–80% of the rated value. Experimentally, it was found that using biofuel improved the environmental friendliness of diesel engines: the emission of nitrogen oxides in exhaust gases was reduced by 8.7–23.4%, and the emission of carbon oxides in exhaust gases was reduced by 3.1–24%. However, when using biofuel, the economic efficiency of diesel operation decreased as the specific effective fuel consumption increased by 0.5–9.3%. The highest environmental efficiency was achieved when using a fuel mixture that included 10–15% biofuel in an 80% diesel load. In this case, the emission of nitrogen oxides was reduced by 21–23.5%, the emission of carbon oxides was reduced by 16.5–19.2%, and the magnification of the specific useful consumption of the diesel engine was 1–1.55%.
Evaluation of Biological Reference Points of Two Important Fishery Resources in the East China Sea
Authors: Yin Fuzheng , Liu Qun , Chen Xu
Published: January 2023

Fishery resources play an important role in the national economy and ecological diversity in China; it is of great significance to evaluate and rationally exploit the fishery resources. Most fisheries off the coast of China are data-limited, as the complex assessment models are not suitable for its resource assessment. Therefore, data-limited models for fishery resources assessment in China are among the current research hotspots. In this paper, two new data-limited assessment models (Bayesian state–space implementation of the Schaefer production model (BSM) and Monte Carlo MSY estimation model (CMSY)) were used to evaluate the fishery resources of Scomber japonicus and Muraenesox cinereus in the East China Sea. The results showed that the estimated value of MSY of S. japonicus was 220 × 103 t to 240 × 103 t, the estimated value of F/FMSY was greater than one, and the estimated value of B/BMSY was very close to one, indicating that the fishery in the East China Sea had been overfished. The estimated value of MSY for the M. cinereus fishery in the East China Sea ranged from 140 × 103 t to 170 × 103 t. The estimated value of F/FMSY at the biological reference point was greater than one and the estimated value of B/BMSY was less than one, indicating that the fishery had been overfished and resources had declined. Both models can be used for data-limited fisheries offshore of China. To better understand the impact of uncertainty on fishery resource assessment, more research should be carried out on these two data-limited assessment models.
Time Delay Optimization of Compressing Shipborne Vision Sensor Video Based on Deep Learning
Authors: Lu Hongrui , Zhang Yingjun , Wang Zhuolin
Published: January 2023

As the technology for offshore wireless transmission and collaborative innovation in unmanned ships continues to mature, research has been gradually carried out in various countries on methods of compressing and transmitting perceptual video while driving ships remotely. High Efficiency Video Coding (H.265/HEVC) has played an extremely important role in the field of Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) and autopilot, and as one of the most advanced coding schemes, its performance in compressing visual sensor video is excellent. According to the characteristics of shipborne vision sensor video (SVSV), optimizing the coding aspects with high computational complexity is one of the important methods to improve the video compression performance. Therefore, an efficient video coding technique is proposed to improve the efficiency of SVSV compression. In order to optimize the compression performance of SVSV, an intra-frame coding delay optimization algorithm that works in the intra-frame predictive coding (PC) session by predicting the Coding Unit (CU) division structure in advance is proposed in combination with deep learning methods. The experimental results show that the total compression time of the algorithm is reduced by about 45.49% on average compared with the official testbed HM16.17 for efficient video coding, while the Bjøntegaard Delta Bit Rate (BD-BR) increased by an average of 1.92%, and the Peak Signal-to-Noise Ratio (BD-PSNR) decreased by an average of 0.14 dB.
Perspectives for Exploitation of Sabella spallanzanii’s Biomass as a New Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA) By-Product: Feeding Trial on Amphiprion ocellaris Using Sabella Meal
Authors: Arduini Daniele , Calabrese Claudio , Borghese Jacopo , De Domenico Stefania , Putignano Matteo , Toso Andrea , Gravili Cinzia , Giangrande Adriana
Published: January 2023

This paper is part of a series of studies aimed at understanding the potential exploitation of the biomass of the polychaete worm Sabella spallanzanii (Gmelin, 1791), which is obtained as a by-product of an innovative Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA) system. IMTA systems are designed according to an ecosystem approach with the aim to reduce marine monoculture impact while further increasing production via exploitation of valuable by-products. S. spallanzanii can remove large amounts of suspended matter by filtering large volumes of water per hour and performs well as an extractive organism under IMTA; however, it currently lacks any economic value, thus hindering its sustainable large-scale implementation. However, S. spallazanii has the potential to become competitive as a newcomer in fish bait, as an ornamental organism, and in fish feed markets. Notably, sabella meal has already been successfully tested as an attractant in an innovative fish feed. Here, we refer to the use of sabella meal as the main component (60%) in the formulation of a novel aquarium fish feed. Following the biochemical analysis of farmed sabella meal, the experimental feed was formulated by adding spirulina (25%) and dry garlic (15%) in such proportion as to be isoproteic and isoenergetic to the commercial control feed. After preliminary observations of the palatability of sabella meal for several tropical fish species, the novel experimental feed was tested on ocellaris clownfish, Amphiprion ocellaris (Cuvier, 1830), by evaluating their growth response in a 70-day feeding trial. The fish seemed to enjoy the experimental feed at least as much as the control, and both the control and treatment groups showed no significant differences in weight gain (p = 0.46), specific growth rate (p = 0.76), and feed conversion ratio (p = 0.48), reinforcing the suitability of S. spallanzanii as a viable source of animal proteins to be employed in the fish feed industry in a circular economy perspective.
Recent Advances, Future Trends, Applications and Challenges of Internet of Underwater Things (IoUT): A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Mohsan Syed Agha Hassnain , Li Yanlong , Sadiq Muhammad , Liang Junwei , Khan Muhammad Asghar
Published: January 2023

Oceans cover more than 70% of the Earth’s surface. For various reasons, almost 95% of these areas remain unexplored. Underwater wireless communication (UWC) has widespread applications, including real-time aquatic data collection, naval surveillance, natural disaster prevention, archaeological expeditions, oil and gas exploration, shipwreck exploration, maritime security, and the monitoring of aquatic species and water contamination. The promising concept of the Internet of Underwater Things (IoUT) is having a great influence in several areas, for example, in small research facilities and average-sized harbors, as well as in huge unexplored areas of ocean. The IoUT has emerged as an innovative technology with the potential to develop a smart ocean. The IoUT framework integrates different underwater communication techniques such as optical, magnetic induction, and acoustic signals. It is capable of revolutionizing industrial projects, scientific research, and business. The key enabler technology for the IoUT is the underwater wireless sensor network (UWSN); however, at present, this is characterized by limitations in reliability, long propagation delays, high energy consumption, a dynamic topology, and limited bandwidth. This study examines the literature to identify potential challenges and risks, as well as mitigating solutions, associated with the IoUT. Our findings reveal that the key contributing elements to the challenges facing the IoUT are underwater communications, energy storage, latency, mobility, a lack of standardization, transmission media, transmission range, and energy constraints. Furthermore, we discuss several IoUT applications while highlighting potential future research directions.
Role of Tunable Gold Nanostructures in Cancer Nanotheranostics: Implications on Synthesis, Toxicity, Clinical Applications and Their Associated Opportunities and Challenges
Authors: Kumar Akash , Das Nabojit , Rayavarapu Raja Gopal
Published: January 2023

The existing diagnosis and treatment modalities have major limitations related to their precision and capability to understand several stages of disease development. A superior therapeutic system consists of a multifunctional approach in early diagnosis of the disease with a simultaneous progressive cure, using a precise medical approach towards complex treatment. These challenges can be addressed via nanotheranostics and explore suitable approaches to improve health care. Nanotechnology in combination with theranostics as an unconventional platform paved the way for developing novel strategies and modalities leading to diagnosis and therapy for complex disease conditions, ranging from acute to chronic levels. Among the metal nanoparticles, gold nanoparticles are being widely used for theranostics due to their inherent non-toxic nature and plasmonic properties. The unique optical and chemical properties of plasmonic metal nanoparticles along with theranostics have led to a promising era of plausible early detection of disease conditions, and they enable real-time monitoring with enhanced non-invasive or minimally invasive imaging of several ailments. This review aims to highlight the improvement and advancement brought to nanotheranostics by gold nanoparticles in the past decade. The clinical use of the metal nanoparticles in nanotheranostics is explained, along with the future perspectives on addressing the key applications related to diagnostics and therapeutics, respectively. The scope of gold nanoparticles and their realistic potential to design a sophisticated theranostic system is discussed in detail, along with their implications in clinical advancements which are the needs of the hour. The review concluded with the challenges, opportunities, and implications on translational potential of using gold nanoparticles in nanotheranostics.
Candida parapsilosis Virulence and Antifungal Resistance Mechanisms: A Comprehensive Review of Key Determinants
Authors: Branco Joana , Miranda Isabel M. , Rodrigues Acácio G.
Published: January 2023

Candida parapsilosis is the second most common Candida species isolated in Asia, Southern Europe, and Latin America and is often involved in invasive infections that seriously impact human health. This pathogen is part of the psilosis complex, which also includes Candida orthopsilosis and Candida metapsilosis. C. parapsilosis infections are particularly prevalent among neonates with low birth weights, individuals who are immunocompromised, and patients who require prolonged use of a central venous catheter or other indwelling devices, whose surfaces C. parapsilosis exhibits an enhanced capacity to adhere to and form biofilms. Despite this well-acknowledged prevalence, the biology of C. parapsilosis has not been as extensively explored as that of Candida albicans. In this paper, we describe the molecular mechanistic pathways of virulence in C. parapsilosis and show how they differ from those of C. albicans. We also describe the mode of action of antifungal drugs used for the treatment of Candida infections, namely, polyenes, echinocandins, and azoles, as well as the resistance mechanisms developed by C. parapsilosis to overcome them. Finally, we stress the importance of the ongoing search for species-specific features that may aid the development of effective control strategies and thus reduce the burden on patients and healthcare costs.