bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy of Home-Based Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation on Experimental Pain Sensitivity in Older Adults with Knee Osteoarthritis: A Randomized, Sham-Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Martorella Geraldine , Mathis Kenneth , Miao Hongyu , Wang Duo , Park Lindsey , Ahn Hyochol
Published: September 2022

Although transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is encouraging regarding clinical pain intensity for individuals with knee osteoarthritis, very few studies have explored its impact on experimental pain sensitivity, which may hinder our understanding of underlying therapeutic mechanisms. The purpose of this study was to assess the efficacy of 15 home-based tDCS sessions on experimental pain sensitivity and explore its relationships with clinical pain intensity. We randomly assigned 120 participants to active tDCS (n = 60) and sham tDCS (n = 60). Quantitative sensory testing (QST) was used, including heat pain threshold and tolerance, pressure pain threshold, and conditioned pain modulation. Patients in the active tDCS group exhibited reduced experimental pain sensitivity as reflected by all QST measures at the end of treatment. Furthermore, correlations were observed between changes in clinical pain intensity and experimental pain sensitivity. These findings warrant further studies on tDCS and experimental pain sensitivity in patients with knee osteoarthritis and exploring the magnitude and sustainability of effects on a longer term.
Transcatheter Mitral Valve-in-Valve Implantation with the Balloon-Expandable Myval Device
Authors: Blasco-Turrión Sara , Serrador-Frutos Ana , Jose John , Sengotuvelu Gunasekaran , Seth Ashok , Aldana Victor G. , Sánchez-Luna Juan Pablo , Gonzalez-Gutiérrez Jose Carlos , García-Gómez Mario , Gómez-Herrero Javier , Aristizabal Cristhian , San Román J. Alberto , Amat-Santos Ignacio J.
Published: September 2022

Background: The vast majority of transcatheter valve-in-valve (ViV) mitral procedures have been reported with the SAPIEN family. We aimed to report the preliminary experience with the Myval balloon-expandable device in this setting. Methods: Multicenter retrospective study of high-risk surgical patients with mitral bioprosthesis degeneration undergoing transcatheter ViV implantation with Myval device. Results: A total of 11 patients from five institutions were gathered between 2019 and 2022 (age 68 ± 7.8, 63% women). The peak and mean transvalvular gradients were 27 ± 5 mmHg and 14.7 ± 2.3 mmHg, respectively, and the predicted neo-left ventricular outflow tract (neo-LVOT) area was 183.4 ± 56 mm2 (range: 171 to 221 mm2). The procedures were performed via transfemoral access in all cases (through echocardiography-guided transeptal puncture (81.8% transesophageal, 11.2% intracardiac)). Technical success was achieved in all cases, with no significant residual mitral stenosis in any of them (peak 7.2 ± 2.7 and mean gradient 3.4 ± 1.7 mmHg) and no complications during the procedure. There were no data of LVOT obstruction, migration, or paravalvular leak in any case. Mean hospital stay was 3 days, with one major vascular complication and no stroke. At 6-month follow-up, there was one case with suboptimal anticoagulation presenting an increase in the transmitral gradients (mean 15 mmHg) that normalized after optimization of the anticoagulation, but no other relevant events. Conclusions: Transseptal ViV mitral implantation with the balloon-expandable Myval device was feasible and safe avoiding redo surgery in high-risk patients with bioprosthesis degeneration.
Smell as a Disease Marker in Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Printza Athanasia , Boziki Marina , Valsamidis Constantinos , Bakirtzis Christos , Constantinidis Jannis , Grigoriadis Nikolaos , Triaridis Stefanos
Published: September 2022

Existing data suggest that people with multiple sclerosis (pwMS) are at an elevated risk for experiencing olfactory impairment. We investigated if smell dysfunction can be used as an MS disease marker. This is a cross-sectional, case–control study. All data were collected prospectively from 171 participants, 115 pwMS and 56 controls (age and sex stratified and matched to the patients), who reported smell, taste, and nasal breathing, and completed the Greek-validated questionnaires for nasal obstruction (NOSE), nasal-symptoms QoL (SNOT-22), and olfaction-associated QoL (QOD). The smell was assessed with the “Sniffin’ sticks” (odor threshold (OT), discrimination (OD), identification (OI) test, and total TDI). We recorded the pwMS disease characteristics (Expanded Disability Status Scale-EDSS, the disease type and duration), cognitive function, emotional status, fatigue, and impact of MS in everyday activities. A TDI < 30.75 (hyposmia) was detected in 30.8% of the patients. The patients’ OD and TDI scores were significantly lower than the controls’ (p = 0.005, and 0.015, respectively). The hyposmia correlated with disease severity and duration. The EDSS score correlated negatively with OD (r = −0.299, p = 0.001) and TDI (r = −0.242, p = 0.01). The disease duration correlated negatively with OD (r = −0.305, p = 0.001, OI (r = −0.253, p = 0.008) and TDI (r = −0.3, p = 0.001). The information processing speed (SDMT) correlated with OD, OT, and TDI (r = 0.302, p = 0.002; r = 0.242, p = 0.016; r = 0.326, p = 0.001). The olfactory function is changing in MS in accordance with disease progression.
Mitochondrial Regulation of the Hypoxia-Inducible Factor in the Development of Pulmonary Hypertension
Authors: Zeidan Esraa M. , Hossain Mohammad Akbar , El-Daly Mahmoud , Abourehab Mohammed A. S. , Khalifa Mohamed M. A. , Taye Ashraf
Published: September 2022

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a severe progressive lung disorder characterized by pulmonary vasoconstriction and vascular remodeling, culminating in right-sided heart failure and increased mortality. Data from animal models and human subjects demonstrated that hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-related signaling is essential in the progression of PH. This review summarizes the regulatory pathways and mechanisms of HIF-mediated signaling, emphasizing the role of mitochondria in HIF regulation and PH pathogenesis. We also try to determine the potential to therapeutically target the components of the HIF system for the management of PH.
Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) and the Effect on Outcome in Patients Presenting with Coronary Artery Disease and Treated with Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI): Differences Noted by Sex and Age
Authors: Conradie Andre , Atherton John , Chowdhury Enayet , Duong MyNgan , Schwarz Nisha , Worthley Stephen , Eccleston David
Published: September 2022

Background and aim: poor quality of life (QoL) has been identified as an independent risk factor for mortality and major cardiac events (MACE) in patients with cardiovascular disease (CVD). The aim of this study was to assess health-related quality of life (HRQoL) at baseline and its association with outcome in patients with coronary artery disease presenting for percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). The outcome was measured by mortality and MACE at 1-year, and whether there was any difference for sex and different age groups. Methods and results: all patients prospectively enrolled into the GenesisCare Outcome Registry (GCOR) over a 11-year period were included in the study. The EQ-5D-5L and VAS patient survey were used for assessment of baseline HRQoL. Of the 15,198 patients, only 6591 (43.4%) completed the self-assessment. Women had significantly more impairment of all five dimensions of the EQ-5D-5L survey, and their self-reported QoL was significantly lower than men (68.3 in women vs. 71.9 in men, p < 0.001). Poor QoL was strongly associated with increased mortality (HR 2.85; 95% CI 1.76 to 4.62, p < 0.001) and MACE (HR 1.40; 95% CI 1.10 to 1.79, p = 0.01). A similar trend was noted for women and men, but did not reach significance in women due to the smaller number of female patients. Conclusion: poor HRQoL is associated with subsequent mortality and MACE in patients undergoing PCI. By not assessing quality of life as a standard of care, an opportunity is lost to identify high-risk patients who may benefit from targeted interventions to improve health outcomes.
Psychosocial Distress among Family Members of COVID-19 Patients Admitted to Hospital and Isolation Facilities in the Philippines: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Apostol-Nicodemus Leilanie , Tabios Ian Kim B. , Limpoco Anna Guia O. , Domingo Gabriele Dominique P. , Tantengco Ourlad Alzeus G.
Published: September 2022

This study determined the psychosocial impact of COVID-19 on families of adult COVID-19 patients in isolation facilities in Metro Manila, Philippines. This prospective cohort study was conducted in COVID-19 healthcare facilities. Data collection was undertaken 2 weeks and 8 weeks after discharge. Logistic regression was performed to determine the socioeconomic and clinical factors influencing anxiety, depression, and family function. Based on HADS-P, 43.2% of the participants had anxiety symptoms, and 16.2% had depression symptoms 2 weeks after the discharge of their relative with COVID-19 infection. The prevalence of anxiety and depression significantly decreased to 24.3% and 5.4%, respectively, 8 weeks after discharge. The percentage of participants with a perceived moderate family dysfunction was 9.5% in the 2nd week and 6.8% in the 8th week post discharge. Participants with perceived severe family dysfunction increased from none to 4.1%. The most inadequate family resources for the participants were economic, medical, and educational resources. Patient anxiety (p = 0.010) and perceived inadequate family resources (p = 0.032) were associated with anxiety symptoms among family members. Patient anxiety (p = 0.013) and low educational attainment (p = 0.002) were associated with anxiety symptoms among family members 8 weeks after discharge. On the other hand, patient depression (p = 0.013) was a factor related to depressive symptoms among family members 2 weeks after discharge. This study provided an in-depth understanding of the mental health status of family members caring for relatives with COVID-19 infection. This can be used to guide healthcare professionals caring for COVID-19 patients and their family members.
Mechanical Circulatory Support Devices for the Treatment of Cardiogenic Shock Complicating Acute Myocardial Infarction—A Review
Authors: Bruoha Sharon , Yosefy Chaim , Taha Louay , Dvir Danny , Shuvy Mony , Jubeh Rami , Carasso Shemy , Glikson Michael , Asher Elad
Published: September 2022

Cardiogenic shock complicating acute myocardial infarction is a complex clinical condition associated with dismal prognosis. Routine early target vessel revascularization remains the most effective treatment to substantially improve outcomes, but mortality remains high. Temporary circulatory support devices have emerged with the aim to enhance cardiac unloading and improve end-organ perfusion. However, quality evidence to guide device selection, optimal installation timing, and post-implantation management are scarce, stressing the importance of multidisciplinary expert care. This review focuses on the contemporary use of short-term support devices in the setting of cardiogenic shock following acute myocardial infarction, including the common challenges associated this practice.
Statin Intolerance—We Know Everything, We Know Nothing
Authors: Banach Maciej
Published: September 2022

Lipid disorders are the most common risk factors of cardiovascular disease (CVD) [...]
Three-Dimensional Printing and Fracture Mapping in Pelvic and Acetabular Fractures: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Lee Alvin Kai-Xing , Lin Tsung-Li , Hsu Chin-Jung , Fong Yi-Chin , Chen Hsien-Te , Tsai Chun-Hao
Published: September 2022

Three-dimensional printing and fracture mapping technology is gaining popularity for preoperative planning of fractures. The aim of this meta-analysis is to further understand for the effects of 3D printing and fracture mapping on intraoperative parameters, postoperative complications, and functional recovery on pelvic and acetabular fractures. The PubMed, Embase, Cochrane and Web of Science databases were systematically searched for articles according to established criteria. A total of 17 studies were included in this study, of which 3 were RCTs, with a total of 889 patients, including 458 patients treated by traditional open reduction and internal fixation methods and 431 patients treated using 3D printing strategies. It was revealed that three-dimensional printing and fracture mapping reduced intraoperative surgical duration (RoM 0.74; 95% CI; 0.66–0.83; I2 = 93%), and blood loss (RoM 0.71; 95% CI; 0.63–0.81; I2 = 71%). as compared to traditional surgical approaches. In addition, there was significantly lower exposure to intraoperative imaging (RoM 0.36; 95% CI; 0.17–0.76; I2 = 99%), significantly lower postoperative complications (OR 0.42; 95% CI; 0.22–0.78; I2 = 9%) and significantly higher excellent/good reduction (OR 1.53; 95% CI; 1.08–2.17; I2 = 0%) in the three-dimensional printing and fracture mapping group. Further stratification results with only prospective studies showed similar trends. Three-dimensional printing and fracture mapping technology has potential in enhancing treatment of complex fractures by improving surgical related factors and functional outcomes and therefore could be considered as a viable tool for future clinical applications.
Effect of Graphite Nanoplatelets Content and Distribution on the Electromagnetic Shielding Attenuation Mechanisms in 2D Nanocomposites
Authors: Cilento Fabrizia , Curcio Claudio , Martone Alfonso , Liseno Angelo , Capozzoli Amedeo , Giordano Michele
Published: September 2022

Bidimensional nanomaterials, such as graphene, respond to the rising demand for electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding materials, followed by the advancements in wireless technology and increased signal sensitivity in electronic devices, especially for the safety of aircraft and other structures. Lightweight nanocomposites reinforced with 2D carbonaceous nanofillers can replace metals thanks to their ability to attenuate electromagnetic waves and low susceptibility to corrosion. In this work, the EMI shielding properties in the X band (8–12 GHz) of high content graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) nanocomposites have been investigated. Both the effect of filler content and the nanoarchitecture have been studied. For this purpose, two different configurations have been considered, compact and porous, varying the filler content (from 10 wt% to 90 wt%) and the thickness of the samples. Specifically, four different systems have been tested: thin (i) and thick (ii) compact laminates and thin (iii) and thick (iv) porous coatings. The morphology of the material significantly influences its electromagnetic response in terms of reflection and absorption capacity. Maximum effective absorption of 80% was found for disordered structures, while a maximum reflection of about 90% was found for system highly aligned structures.
Histologic Evaluation of the Effects of Folinic Acid Chitosan Hydrogel and Botulinum Toxin A on Wound Repair of Cleft Lip Surgery in Rats
Authors: Namdar Parastoo , Moaddabi Amirhossein , Yazdian Rezvan , Saeedi Majid , Ahmadian Fatemeh , Shiva Atena , Del Giudice Carmela , Soltani Parisa , Spagnuolo Gianrico
Published: September 2022

The aim of the present study was to compare the effects of folinic acid chitosan hydrogel and botulinum toxin A on the wound repair of cleft lip surgery in rat animal models. Cleft lip defects were simulated by triangular incisions in the upper lip of 40 Wistar rats. Then, the rats were randomly assigned to four groups: control (CTRL), chitosan hydrogel (CHIT), and folinic acid chitosan hydrogel (FOLCHIT), in which the wounds were covered by a gauze pad soaked in normal saline, chitosan hydrogel, and folinic acid chitosan hydrogel, respectively for 5 min immediately after closure; and botulinum toxin A (BOT) with the injection of 3 units of botulinum toxin A in the wound region. Fibroblast proliferation, collagen deposition, inflammatory cell infiltration, neovascularization, and epithelial proliferation and each parameter were rated on days 14 and 28. Statistical analysis was performed by Kolmogorov-Smirnov test, Shapiro-Wilk test, Kruskal-Wallis, and post-hoc tests (α = 0.05). The mean score for fibroblast proliferation was significantly higher in the FOLCHIT group compared with the BOT group at days 14 and 28 (p < 0.001, p = 0.012, respectively). At day 28, collagen deposition was significantly higher in the FOLCHIT group compared with the BOT group (p = 0.012). No significant difference was observed between the inflammatory infiltration of the study groups at the two time points (p = 0.096 and p = 1.000, respectively). At day 14, vascular proliferation of group FOLCHIT was significantly higher than groups CTRL and CHIT (p = 0.001 and p = 0.006, respectively). The epithelial proliferation in the FOLCHIT group was significantly higher than groups CHIT and CTRL at day 14 (p = 0.006 and p = 0.001, respectively) and day 28 (p = 0.012). In simulated lip cleft defects, topical application of folinic acid induces faster initial regeneration by higher inflammation and cellular proliferation, at the expense of a higher tendency for scar formation by slightly higher fibroblast proliferation and collagen deposition. While injection of botulinum toxin A provides less fibroblast proliferation and collagen deposition, and thus lower potential for scar formation compared with the folinic acid group. Therefore, in wounds of the esthetic zone, such as cleft lip defects, the application of botulinum toxin A shows promising results.
Effects of Different Titanium Surface Treatments on Adhesion, Proliferation and Differentiation of Bone Cells: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Stoilov Milan , Stoilov Lea , Enkling Norbert , Stark Helmut , Winter Jochen , Marder Michael , Kraus Dominik
Published: September 2022

The objective of this study was to evaluate the impacts of different sandblasting procedures in acid etching of Ti6Al4V surfaces on osteoblast cell behavior, regarding various physicochemical and topographical parameters. Furthermore, differences in osteoblast cell behavior between cpTi and Ti6Al4V SA surfaces were evaluated. Sandblasting and subsequent acid etching of cpTi and Ti6Al4V discs was performed with Al2O3 grains of different sizes and with varying blasting pressures. The micro- and nano-roughness of the experimental SA surfaces were analyzed via confocal, atomic force and scanning electron microscopy. Surface free energy and friction coefficients were determined. hFOB 1.19 cells were seeded to evaluate adhesion, proliferation and osteoblastic differentiation for up to 12 d via crystal violet assays, MTT assays, ALP activity assays and Alizarin Red staining assays. Differences in blasting procedures had significant impacts on surface macro- and micro-topography. The crystal violet assay revealed a significant inverse relationship between blasting grain size and hFOB cell growth after 7 days. This trend was also visible in the Alizarin Red assays staining after 12 d: there was significantly higher biomineralization visible in the group that was sandblasted with smaller grains (F180) when compared to standard-grain-size groups (F70). SA samples treated with reduced blasting pressure exhibited lower hFOB adhesion and growth capabilities at initial (2 h) and later time points for up to 7 days, when compared to the standard SA surface, even though micro-roughness and other relevant surface parameters were similar. Overall, etched-only surfaces consistently exhibited equivalent or higher adhesion, proliferation and differentiation capabilities when compared to all other sandblasted and etched surfaces. No differences were found between cpTi and Ti6Al4V SA surfaces. Subtle modifications in the blasting protocol for Ti6Al4V SA surfaces significantly affect the proliferative and differentiation behavior of human osteoblasts. Surface roughness parameters are not sufficient to predict osteoblast behavior on etched Ti6Al4V surfaces.
Simple Color Calibration Method by Projection onto Retroreflective Materials
Authors: Nakamura Yusuke , Horiuchi Takahiko
Published: September 2022

Retroreflective materials have the property of directional reflection, reflecting light strongly in the direction of the light source, and have been used for road traffic signs. In recent years, retroreflective materials have been used in entertainment and industrial technologies, in combination with projection mapping technology. In general, color calibration is important when projectors are used to control reflected colors. In this study, we investigated a simple color calibration method for retroreflective materials with a 3D shape under the condition that they are observed in the same direction as the light source. Three types of retroreflective materials with different reflective properties were used. First, to measure the reflective properties of each reflective material, the reflective material was fixed to a flat plate and rotated, while the reflected light was measured in the same direction as the light source. It was then confirmed that the reflected light intensity varied smoothly with angular change, and appropriate measurement angles were investigated based on the AIC criterion, aiming to interpolate the reflectance characteristics from a small number of measurement angles. Color calibration was performed based on the reflectance characteristics obtained from the derived measurement angles, and the experiments showed that good color calibration was possible with fewer measurements.
Fostering Engagement, Reflexivity, and 21st-Century Skills in Middle School: A Pilot Collaborative Action Research on Identity Formation with Adolescent Co-Researchers
Authors: Haag Pascale , Fantoni Titouan , Dubal Stéphanie
Published: September 2022

Identity construction during adolescence constitutes a primary psychosocial developmental task. A growing body of research has addressed the importance of school education in fostering adolescents’ identity formation and the skills they need to thrive. Although several studies aimed at defining the factors contributing to a coherent, stable, and integrated identity formation, none sought to investigate this question from the adolescents’ perspective. This contribution aimed to explore new ways of fostering 21st-century skills among adolescents through action research. Five adolescents aged 13 to 15 participated in the research process, creating a survey to answer a research problem mainly focused on identity construction in adolescence. A reflexive analysis of the co-research process highlighted the interest in involving adolescents as co-researchers to foster their social and emotional skills. The deployment of the resulting survey in a sample of 1210 adolescents from the general population highlighted the importance of gender diversity for constructing various dimensions of identity.
Creativity and Artificial Intelligence—A Student Perspective
Authors: Marrone Rebecca , Taddeo Victoria , Hill Gillian
Published: September 2022

Creativity is a core 21st-century skill taught globally in education systems. As Artificial Intelligence (AI) is being implemented in classrooms worldwide, a key question is proposed: how do students perceive AI and creativity? Twelve focus groups and eight one-on-one interviews were conducted with secondary school-aged students after they received training in both creativity and AI over eight weeks. An analysis of the interviews highlights that the students view the relationship between AI and creativity as four key concepts: social, affective, technological and learning factors. The students with a higher self-reported understanding of AI reported more positive thoughts about integrating AI into their classrooms. The students with a low understanding of AI tended to be fearful of AI. Most of the students indicated a thorough understanding of creativity and reported that AI could never match human creativity. The implications of the results are presented, along with recommendations for the future, to ensure AI can be effectively integrated into classrooms.
Next Generation Digital Pathology: Emerging Trends and Measurement Challenges for Molecular Pathology
Authors: Dexter Alex , Tsikritsis Dimitrios , Belsey Natalie A. , Thomas Spencer A. , Venton Jenny , Bunch Josephine , Romanchikova Marina
Published: September 2022

Digital pathology is revolutionising the analysis of histological features and is becoming more and more widespread in both the clinic and research. Molecular pathology extends the tissue morphology information provided by conventional histopathology by providing spatially resolved molecular information to complement the structural information provided by histopathology. The multidimensional nature of the molecular data poses significant challenge for data processing, mining, and analysis. One of the key challenges faced by new and existing pathology practitioners is how to choose the most suitable molecular pathology technique for a given diagnosis. By providing a comparison of different methods, this narrative review aims to introduce the field of molecular pathology, providing a high-level overview of many different methods. Since each pixel of an image contains a wealth of molecular information, data processing in molecular pathology is more complex. The key data processing steps and variables, and their effect on the data, are also discussed.
Evaluation of Soil Organic Carbon Stock in Coastal Sabkhas under Different Vegetation Covers
Authors: Eid Ebrahem M. , Arshad Muhammad , Alrumman Sulaiman A. , Al-Bakre Dhafer A. , Ahmed Mohamed T. , Almahasheer Hanan , Keshta Amr E.
Published: September 2022

There has been increasing focus on conserving coastal ecosystems as they have been recognized as high ecosystem carbon stocks and are in the process of land conversion. The present study aims to examine how different vegetation covers impact the soil organic carbon (SOC) stock in coastal sabkhas. To this end, the study was carried out at ten sampling sites represent ten sabkhas in Saudi Arabia’s southern Red Sea coast for two main goals: (1) to examine the vertical distribution of SOC content, SOC density, and the soil bulk density (SBD) based on different vegetation covers, and (2) to assess these locations’ SOC stocks. This study posits that sabkhas with different vegetation covers had distinct parameters specified above. Significant SBD differences were observed in sabkhas with different vegetation covers, with the lowest mean values of sabkhas having >75–100% vegetation cover and the highest mean values of sabkhas having 0–25% vegetation cover. The studied sabkhas also showed significant difference in the total means of SOC density, SOC content, and SOC stock in terms of different vegetation covers, with the highest mean values of sabkhas having >75–100% vegetation cover and the lowest mean of sabkhas having 0–25% vegetation cover. The present study is the first to focus on Saudi Arabia’s sabkha blue carbon stocks and its results can help add to the literature on sabkhas carbon stock, thus aiding relevant government agencies working towards sabkhas management, encouraging public awareness regarding sabkhas conservation stocks, and their part in climate change mitigation.
Preliminary Evidence about the Colonisation Process of Kyphosus Species (Perciformes: Kyphosidae) in the Subtropical–Temperate Northeast Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea
Authors: Bañón Rafael , de Carlos Alejandro
Published: September 2022

A review of the non-native Kyphosus species historically recorded in Galician waters (north-western Spain) based on morphological and molecular characteristics is carried out. The list is composed of 15 specimens recorded from 2002 to 2022, showing a clearly unbalanced ratio in favour of K. vaigiensis with respect to K. sectatrix (6.5:1). A similar analysis was performed by consulting ichthyological literature on the Kyphosus species reported in the subtropical–temperate Northeast Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea. The results seem to reflect a more recent and conspicuous appearance of K. vaigiensis in the Northeast Atlantic–Mediterranean area, suggesting a higher invasive capacity than that of its congener K. sectatrix, perhaps related to its greater mobility. DNA barcoding supports the morphological identification of K. vaigiensis from Galicia and confirms the Atlantic–Mediterranean and Indo–Pacific distribution of the species. In addition, the main distinctive morphological characters found in the ichthyological literature have been revised and the taxonomic status of one published record has been changed. The results indicate the need to monitor non-indigenous marine species in the current global warming scenario of the Anthropocene era.
A Novel FDTD–PML Scheme for Noise Propagation Generated by Biomimetic Flapping Thrusters in the Ocean Environment
Authors: Malefaki Iro , Belibassakis Kostas
Published: September 2022

Biomimetic flapping-foil thrusters can operate efficiently while offering desirable levels of thrust required for the propulsion of a small vessel or an Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV). These systems have been studied both as main propulsion devices and for augmenting ship propulsion in waves. In this work, the unsteady hydrofoil loads are used to calculate the source terms of the Ffowcs Williams–Hawkings (FW-H) equation which is applied to model noise propagation in the underwater ocean acoustic environment. The solution provided by a simplified version of the Farassat formulation in free space is extended to account for a bounded domain and an inhomogeneous medium, characterizing the sea acoustic waveguide. Assuming the simplicity azimuthal symmetry of the environmental parameters, a numerical model is developed based on a Finite Difference Time Domain (FDTD) scheme, incorporating free-surface and seabed effects, in the presence of a variable sound speed profile. For the treatment of the outgoing radiating field, a Perfectly Matched Layer (PML) technique is implemented. Numerical results are presented illustrating the applicability of the method.
Fixed-Time Formation Control for Unmanned Surface Vehicles with Parametric Uncertainties and Complex Disturbance
Authors: Shen Helong , Yin Yong , Qian Xiaobin
Published: September 2022

In this paper, under parametric uncertainties and complex disturbances, a leader–follower formation control strategy based on accurate disturbance observer (ADO) and a novel fixed-time fast terminal sliding mode (FTFTSM) control for unmanned surface vehicles (USVs) is proposed. The main contributions of this paper are: (1) A novel fixed-time fast terminal sliding mode tracking control (FTFTSM-TC) strategy is designed for the tracking control subsystem, which greatly improves the convergence rate of the leader USV in trajectory tracking. (2) An ADO is designed to observe lumped disturbances with the smallest approximation error. The ADO greatly reduces the interference of disturbances and improves the performance of the formation system. (3) An ADO-based fixed-time formation control (ADO-FTFC) strategy is developed for the formation control subsystem to maintain the desired formation. Stability of the formation control system is established by the Lyapunov theory. Simulation results show that the proposed control strategy is superior for the USVs formation control.
Conceptual Design of a Vibration Test System Based on a Wave Generator Channel for Lab-Scale Offshore Wind Turbine Jacket Foundations
Authors: Encalada-Dávila Ángel , Pardo Lenín , Vidal Yolanda , Terán Efraín , Tutivén Christian
Published: September 2022

Structural health monitoring (SHM) systems are designed to continually monitor the health of structures (e.g., civil, aeronautic) by using the information collected through a distributed sensor network. However, performing tests on real structures, such as wind turbines, implies high logistic and operational costs. Therefore, there is a need for a vibration test system to evaluate designs at smaller scales in a laboratory setting in order to collect data and devise predictive maintenance strategies. In this work, the proposed vibration test system is based on a lab-scale wind turbine jacket foundation related primarily to an offshore environment. The test system comprises a scaled wave generator channel, a desktop application (WTtest) to control the channel simulations, and a data acquisition system (DAQ) to collect the information from the sensors connected to the structure. Various equipment such as accelerometers, electrodynamic shaker, and DAQ device are selected as per the design methodology. Regarding the mechanical part, each component of the channel is designed to be like the wave absorber, the mechanical multiplier, the piston-type wavemaker, and the wave generator channel. For this purpose, the finite element method is used in static and fatigue analysis to evaluate the stresses and deformations; this helps determine whether the system will work safely. Moreover, the vibration test system applies to other jacket structures as well, giving it greater utility and applicability in different research fields. In sum, the proposed system is compact and has three well-defined components that work synchronously to develop the experimental simulations.
Research on Intelligent Trajectory Control Method of Water Quality Testing Unmanned Surface Vessel
Authors: Xiong Yong , Zhu Haibin , Pan Lin , Wang Jiying
Published: September 2022

In this paper, we take a water quality testing Unmanned Surface Vessel (USV) as the research object. We propose a heading keeping strategy based on Human Simulated Intelligent Control (HSIC) algorithm and a trajectory tracking strategy under line-of-sight (LOS) algorithm. The practicality of the proposed control strategies was verified by combining simulations and experiments. The main contents were constructed with three parts: Firstly, we designed a complete control system of a water quality inspection unmanned boat with Arduino microcontroller as the core processor. Secondly, we derived the mathematical model of motion after reasonable simplification. Combined with the cycle experiment, the mapping relation between virtual rudder angle and motor speed was established. Then, the USV heading direction control strategy of HSIC was presented and the reliability of the proposed strategy was verified by the course control experiment of USV. Finally, aiming at the defects and shortcomings of the upper-level trajectory tracking LOS algorithm in practical application, we propose the trajectory correction and precise steering control strategies, and the practicality of the improved algorithm was verified by multi-point trajectory tracking experiments. The autonomous fixed-point water quality testing experiment was designed and verified the effectiveness of the proposed strategies.
Three-Dimensional Path Planning for AUVs Based on Standard Particle Swarm Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Zhan Bangshun , An Shun , He Yan , Wang Longjin
Published: September 2022

This paper proposes an improved standard particle swarm optimization 2011 for autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs). A mutation operator with a threshold is introduced to solve the problem of particles falling into the local extreme, and a nonlinear adaptive parameter strategy is introduced to accelerate the convergence speed. The proposed algorithm considers “path length”, “path safety”, “path smoothness” and “physical constraints” synthetically. For the specific navigation environment of AUVs, the path planning simulation is conducted based on MATLAB/Simulink, and the navigation guidance and control closed-loop simulation system is established. Simulation results show the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm.
Effect of Surfactants with Different Hydrophilic–Lipophilic Balance on the Cohesive Force between Cyclopentane Hydrate Particles
Authors: Fang Qingchao , Zhao Xin , Li Sunbo , Qiu Zhengsong , Wang Zhiyuan , Geng Qi
Published: September 2022

Effective control of the cohesive force between hydrate particles is the key to prevent their aggregation, which then causes pipeline blockage. The hydrophilic–lipophilic balance (HLB) value of surfactants was proposed as an important parameter for the evaluation and design of hydrate anti-agglomerants. A microscopic manipulation method was used to measure the cohesive forces between cyclopentane hydrate particles in the presence of Tween and Span series surfactants with different HLB values; moreover, the measured cohesive force was compared with the results of calculations based on the liquid bridge force model. Combined with the surface morphology and wettability of the hydrate particles, we analyzed the mechanism by which surfactants with different HLB values influence the cohesion between hydrate particles. The results show that for both Tween (hydrophilic, HLB > 10) and Span (hydrophobic, HLB < 10) surfactants, the cohesive force between cyclopentane hydrate particles decreased with decreasing HLB. The experimental results were in good agreement with the results of calculations based on the liquid bridge force model. The cohesive force between hydrate particles increased with increasing concentration of Tween surfactants, while in the case of the Span series, the cohesive force decreased with increasing surfactant concentration. In the formation process of cyclopentane hydrate particles, the aggregation of low-HLB surfactant molecules at the oil–water or gas–water interface increases the surface roughness and hydrophobicity of the hydrate particles and inhibits the formation of liquid bridges between particles, thus reducing the cohesion between particles. Therefore, the hydrate aggregation and the associated blockage risks can be reduced.
On the Functionality of Radar and Laser Ocean Wave Sensors
Authors: Jangir Pramod Kumar , Ewans Kevin C. , Young Ian R.
Published: September 2022

Ocean wave design criteria are required for the design of offshore platforms and floating systems, which are derived using in situ measurements. However, there is uncertainty regarding the performance of the instruments used for the in situ measurements. The main instruments used by the offshore industry are the Datawell Directional Waverider buoy and Rosemount WaveRadar, with Laser instruments also having been used for specific studies. Recent reports indicate measurements from these three instruments differ in the order of 10% but given the quite disparate nature of the measurements made by these instruments, it is far from clear what the source of this difference is. This paper investigates the wave measurement principles of Radar and Laser instruments using linear wave field simulations to better understand how the instruments perform. The Radar and Laser simulations include modeling electromagnetic signal beam reflections from water surfaces of an area equal to their footprint sizes, considering their beam characteristics and antenna pattern. The study confirms that the Radar underestimates spectral levels at frequencies above 0.5 Hz due to its significantly larger footprint at the water sea surface compared to the Laser (5.25 m vs. 0.15 m). The Laser performs well for almost the entire frequency range for all the cases considered.
An Evaluation of the OLM CandID Real-Time PCR to Aid in the Diagnosis of Invasive Candidiasis When Testing Serum Samples
Authors: Price Jessica S. , Fallon Melissa , Posso Raquel , Backx Matthijs , White P. Lewis
Published: September 2022

Background: Treatment for invasive candidiasis (IC) is time-critical, and culture-based tests can limit clinical utility. Nonculture-based methods such as Candida PCR represent a promising approach to improving patient management but require further evaluation to understand their optimal role and incorporation into clinical algorithms. This study determined the performance of the commercially available OLM CandID real-time PCR when testing serum and developed a diagnostic algorithm for IC. Methods: The study comprised a retrospective performance evaluation of the CandID real-time PCR assay when testing surplus serum (n = 83 patients, 38 with IC), followed by a prospective consecutive cohort evaluation (n = 103 patients, 24 with IC) post incorporation into routine service. A combined diagnostic algorithm, also including (1-3)-β-D-Glucan testing, was generated. Results: Prospective CandID testing generated a sensitivity/specificity of 88%/82%, respectively. Specificity was improved (>95%) when both PCR replicates were positive and/or the patient had multiple positive samples. When combining CandID with (1-3)-β-D-Glucan testing, the probability of IC when both were positive or negative was >69% or <1%, respectively. Conclusions: The CandID provides excellent performance and a rapid time-to-result using methods widely available in generic molecular diagnostic laboratories. By combining nonculture diagnostics, it may be possible to accurately confirm or exclude IC.
Effectiveness of an Educational Intervention on Inhaler Technique Proficiency in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: A Single-Center Quality Improvement Study
Authors: Marando Marco , Tamburello Adriana , Diedrich Jens P. , Valenti Antonio , Gianella Pietro
Published: September 2022

Albeit inhalation therapy is the cornerstone in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) treatment, inhaler technique is rarely evaluated, and training materials are often insufficient. In this single-center study, we aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a teaching session complemented by a flyer on inhaler technique in COPD patients and to evaluate the perceived quality of the flyer. A total of 30 participants with stable COPD who had never used a soft mist inhaler before (Respimat®, Boehringer Ingelheim) received a brief teaching session on proper inhaler technique complemented by a flyer (visit 1). The teaching intervention was completed by a pulmonologist. Epidemiological and clinical characteristics of COPD were collected by a questionnaire, and the ability to properly handle the inhaler was assessed. After 14 days, inhaler handling was re-evaluated, and patients were asked to rate the flyer (visit 2). After the initial training, proper inhaler handling was achieved in 80.0% of patients. Inhaler proficiency was maintained after 14 days (83.0% of the patients used the Respimat® correctly, p-value > 0.99). The flyer was considered at least good by 27 patients (90.0%). This study indicated that the administration of an educational intervention resulted in persistent good competence in inhaler technique at a 14-day follow-up.
The Mediated Experience of Girls of Muslim Culture in the French Context as a Challenge to Gender Stereotypes and Islamophobia: An Intersectional Perspective
Authors: Mainardi Arianna
Published: September 2022

The paper aims to offer an opportunity to consider intersectionality in the context of digital media. On the basis of empirical research, this paper analyzes the way in which gender, sexuality, color, and religion intersect in online spaces to produce new norms and forms of discrimination, as well as space for agency and for the articulation of different voices. In particular, in adopting an intersectional feminist perspective, this paper explores how Muslim girls produce counter-narratives and new spaces for subjectivation at the intersection of gender, religion, and racialization by actively appropriating digital media. Specifically, the paper analyzes French Muslim girls’ relationships with digital media in relation to political life, in the context of growing Islamophobia and the instrumentalization of women’s bodies by populist discourses on religion. On the basis of online and offline observations and explorative interviews carried out in Paris, this paper shows that the girls developed a number of individual and collective strategies involving both online and offline spaces to cope with racist and anti-Islamic rhetoric and practices in a context which they perceived to be characterized by contemporary processes of racialization and everyday discrimination against Muslim people.
CO2 Emissions in G20 Nations through the Three-Sector Model
Authors: Yan Kejia , Gupta Rakesh , Wong Victor
Published: September 2022

This paper examines the relationship between CO2 emissions in three economic sectors of G20 member countries using the environmental IPAT model and STIRPAT model and validates the EKC hypothesis by comparing the results for developing and developed countries. The results confirm that there is a significant long-run equilibrium relationship between the three sectors (primary, secondary, and tertiary) and CO2 emissions across the panel. Furthermore, the long-run elasticities suggest that the primary sector (agriculture) positively and negatively affects the CO2 emissions of developing and developed economies, respectively. This finding proves that the development of agriculture is in line with the EKC hypothesis that a more developed economy will instead improve environmental degradation. Based on the findings, for each sector, we provide policymakers with suggestions to potentially curb CO2 emissions without significantly compromising economic growth.
Teaching (Meta) Competences for Digital Practice Exemplified by Building Information Modeling Work Processes
Authors: Damek Sebastian , Söbke Heinrich , Weise Franziska , Reichelt Maria
Published: September 2022

Extensively digitized workplaces require advanced competence profiles from employees, not least due to new options for teleworking and new complex digital tools. The acquisition of advanced competence profiles is to be addressed by formal education. For example, the method of Building Information Modeling (BIM) aims at digitizing the design, construction, and operation of structures and as such requires advanced competence profiles. In this study, two educational scenarios based on teleworking and complex digital tools are compared, each with one cohort and consisting of two learning activities. The first cohort initially completes, as the first learning activity, a semester-long course that aims at BIM-domain competences. The semester-long course of the second cohort fosters meta competences, such as communication, collaboration, and digital literacy. At the end of the semester, both cohorts solve a BIM practice task in a second learning activity. The research questions are: (1) Do the two educational scenarios promote the competences to be addressed? and related: (2) What is the impact of the initial course that fosters domain competences or meta competences? Methodologically, the learning outcomes are assessed by measuring the domain competences three times during the educational scenario using online tests in the two cohorts (n = 11). Further, students’ perceptions are surveyed in parallel, using online questionnaires. In addition, semi-structured interviews are conducted at the end of the educational scenarios. The quantitative and qualitative results of the study—designating the training of meta competencies partly as a substitute for imparting domain competences—are presented. Further, the influence of both educational scenarios on competence development for extensively digitized workplaces is discussed.