bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pulmonary Sequelae of COVID-19: Focus on Interstitial Lung Disease
Authors: Johnston Janet , Dorrian Delia , Linden Dermot , Stanel Stefan Cristian , Rivera-Ortega Pilar , Chaudhuri Nazia
Published: September 2023

As the world transitions from the acute phase of the COVID-19 pandemic, a novel concern has arisen—interstitial lung disease (ILD) as a consequence of SARS-CoV-2 infection. This review discusses what we have learned about its epidemiology, radiological, and pulmonary function findings, risk factors, and possible management strategies. Notably, the prevailing radiological pattern observed is organising pneumonia, with ground-glass opacities and reticulation frequently reported. Longitudinal studies reveal a complex trajectory, with some demonstrating improvement in lung function and radiographic abnormalities over time, whereas others show more static fibrotic changes. Age, disease severity, and male sex are emerging as risk factors for residual lung abnormalities. The intricate relationship between post-COVID ILD and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) genetics underscores the need for further research and elucidation of shared pathways. As this new disease entity unfolds, continued research is vital to guide clinical decision making and improve outcomes for patients with post-COVID ILD.
Evaluation of the Impact of Serum Vitamin D Levels on the Scoring Atopic Dermatitis Index in Pediatric Atopic Dermatitis
Authors: Çiçek Fatih , Köle Mehmet Tolga
Published: September 2023

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic and recurrent inflammatory skin condition characterized by itching, eczematous plaques, and dry skin. Despite ongoing research, its exact cause remains elusive. In this study, we aimed to explore the factors that influence the severity of AD in children and assess the relationship between serum vitamin D levels and the disease’s severity. We enrolled 96 AD patients in our investigation, evaluated their clinical condition using the Scoring Atopic Dermatitis (SCORAD) index, and compared them to a group of 90 healthy controls. Our analysis revealed that serum vitamin D levels and eosinophil counts significantly impacted the SCORAD index (p < 0.001). According to standardized regression coefficients, for each incremental unit in serum vitamin D levels, the SCORAD index exhibited a decrease of 0.449 units. Similarly, a one-unit increase in eosinophil count resulted in a 0.009 unit increase in the SCORAD index. It is worth noting that the influence of serum vitamin D levels on disease severity surpasses that of eosinophil counts and atopic conditions. In our patient cohort, we uncovered a negative correlation (r = −0.419, p < 0.001) between serum vitamin D levels and the SCORAD index. Our findings suggest that low serum vitamin D levels may have a more substantial impact on AD severity than atopic conditions and eosinophilia. Furthermore, we observed a negative association between the severity of AD and serum 25(OH)D3 levels.
Synergistic Verification of Hardware Peripherals through Virtual Prototype Aided Cross-Level Methodology Leveraging Coverage-Guided Fuzzing and Co-Simulation
Authors: Ahmadi-Pour Sallar , Logemann Mathis , Herdt Vladimir , Drechsler Rolf
Published: September 2023

In this paper, we propose a Virtual Prototype (VP) driven verification methodology for Hardware (HW) peripherals. In particular, we combine two approaches that complement each other and use the VP as a readily available reference model: We use (A) Coverage-Guided Fuzzing (CGF) which enables comprehensive verification at the unit-level of the Register-Transfer Level (RTL) HW peripheral with a Transaction Level Modeling (TLM) reference, and (B) an application-driven co-simulation-based approach that enables verification of the HW peripheral at the system-level. As a case-study, we utilize a RISC-V Platform Level Interrupt Controller (PLIC) as HW peripheral and use an abstract TLM PLIC implementation from the open source RISC-V VP as the reference model. In our experiments we find three behavioral mismatches and discuss the observation of these, as well as non-functional timing behavior mismatches, that were found through the proposed synergistic approach. Furthermore, we provide a discussion and considerations on the RTL/TLM Transactors, as they embody one keystone in cross-level methods. As the different approaches uncover different mismatches in our case-study (e.g., behavioral mismatches and timing mismatches), we conclude a synergy between the methods to aid in verification efforts.
The Effect of Microstructure on Local Corrosion Product Formation during Initial SO2-Induced Atmospheric Corrosion of ZnAlMg Coating Studied by FTIR-ATR FPA Chemical Imaging
Authors: Persson Dan , Thierry Dominique , LeBozec Nathalie
Published: September 2023

The initial atmospheric corrosion of ZM (ZnAlMg)-coated steel in humid air (85% RH) and humid argon (85% RH) containing 320 ppb SO2 was studied using in situ infrared reflection absorption spectroscopy (IRRAS), FTIR-ATR focal plane array (FPA) imaging and SEM-EDS. The corrosion products formed in humid air containing SO2 are mainly composed of magnesium sulphites and sulphates, with sulphite-containing corrosion products formed initially while the contribution from sulphates increased with exposure time. The results from FTIR-FPA imaging and SEM-EDS showed that the magnesium sulphite and sulphate are formed mainly on eutectic phases with a higher quantity of corrosion products formed on the binary eutectic (Zn-MgZn2) phases. This is due to presence of microgalvanic elements with the zinc-rich phases as the main sites for the cathodic oxygen reduction while the anodic reactions take place on the eutectic areas. Sulphate content is the highest on the binary eutectic phases, due to the microgalvanic effects and the production of oxidants by the cathodic reaction, which increases the oxidation of sulphite to sulphate.
Optically Transparent TiO2 and ZnO Photocatalytic Thin Films via Salicylate-Based Sol Formulations
Authors: Stefanov Bozhidar I.
Published: September 2023

Sol compositions for transparent TiO2 and ZnO photocatalytic thin film deposition are of interest for the wet-chemical fabrication of self-cleaning coatings. The choice of stabilizing agent is crucial for the sol film-forming properties, with acetylacetone and monoethanolamine conventionally employed for TiO2 and ZnO deposition sols, respectively. Salicylic acid (SA), capable of chelating both Ti(IV) and Zn(II) precursors, remains underexplored. This study presents novel SA-based sol formulations for the deposition of both TiO2 and ZnO films, based on titanium tetraisopropoxide (TTIP) and zinc acetate dihydrate (ZAD) precursors, in a fixed 1:3 (TTIP:SA) and 1:2 (ZAD:SA) ratio, and isopropanol solvent, varied across the 1:10 to 1:20 precursor-to-solvent ratio range. Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy analysis and Density Functional Theory computations confirmed the formation of H2Ti[SA]3 and Zn[SA]2·2H2O complexes. Scanning Electron Microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and Ultraviolet-Visible spectroscopy were employed to study the structural and optical properties of the dip-coated films, revealing dense TiO2 (86–205 nm) and ZnO (35–90 nm) layers of thickness proportional to the salicylate concentration and transmittance in the 70–90% range. Liquid-phase Methylene blue (MB) photooxidation experiments revealed that all films exhibit photocatalytic activity, with ZnO films being superior to TiO2, with 2.288 vs. 0.366 nm h−1 cm−2 MB removal rates.
EEG Correlates of Cognitive Functions in a Child with ASD and White Matter Signal Abnormalities: A Case Report with Two-and-a-Half-Year Follow-Up
Authors: Ćirović Milica , Jeličić Ljiljana , Maksimović Slavica , Fatić Saška , Marisavljević Maša , Bošković Matić Tatjana , Subotić Miško
Published: September 2023

This research aimed to examine the EEG correlates of different stimuli processing instances in a child with ASD and white matter signal abnormalities and to investigate their relationship to the results of behavioral tests. The prospective case study reports two and a half years of follow-up data from a child aged 38 to 66 months. Cognitive, speech–language, sensory, and EEG correlates of auditory–verbal and auditory–visual–verbal information processing were recorded during five test periods, and their mutual interrelation was analyzed. EEG findings revealed no functional theta frequency range redistribution in the frontal regions favoring the left hemisphere during speech processing. The results pointed to a positive linear trend in the relative theta frequency range and a negative linear trend in the relative alpha frequency range when listening to and watching the cartoon. There was a statistically significant correlation between EEG signals and behavioral test results. Based on the obtained results, it may be concluded that EEG signals and their association with the results of behavioral tests should be evaluated with certain restraints considering the characteristics of the stimuli during EEG recording.
How Does Anxiety and Depression Affect the Outcome after Periradicular Infiltration Therapy?—A Retrospective Analysis of Patients Undergoing CT-Guided Single-Level Nerve Root Infiltration Due to Chronic Monoradicular Pain
Authors: Lindemann Chris , Hölzl Alexander , Böhle Sabrina , Zippelius Timo , Strube Patrick
Published: September 2023

The aim of this study was to research the influence of psychological confounders on patient-reported outcomes (PROs) after lumbar infiltration therapies of periradicular infiltrations (PRI). Patients who underwent PRI in a single center between June 2018 and December 2019 were included. PRI was performed in patients with predominantly unilateral lumbar radiculopathy which existed for at least 6 weeks based on single-level nerve root compression (caused by a herniated disc, stenosis of the lateral recess, or neuroforamen), confirmed by morphological imaging. The numeric pain rating scale (NRS) for back pain (BP) and leg pain (LP) and the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) were assessed preinterventionally, on the first day (only NRS) and at 6 weeks, and then 3, 6, and 12 months postinterventionally. The minimally clinically important difference (MCID) served as the threshold for the therapeutic effectiveness evaluation. The health-related quality of life (SF-36) was recorded preinterventionally and after 12 months. Based on the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, the patients were dichotomized into depressed or nondepressed and anxious or nonanxious. Categorical data were evaluated using Fisher’s exact test, and continuous data were evaluated using Student’s t test. Separate linear mixed models were built to estimate the effect of anxiety or depression on repeatedly measured PROs following PRI. Data were analyzed using SPSS software. The analysis included 102 patients. Most mean baseline PROs were significantly worse in anxious or depressed patients than in nonanxious or nondepressed patients: Anxiety NRS-BP (p = 0.007), ODI (p < 0.001); Depression NRS-BP (p = 0.026), NRS-LP (p < 0.001), ODI (p < 0.001). All patients showed a clinically meaningful reduction in pain and functional improvement over a 12-month follow-up. There was no significant difference in the estimated overall mean PRO between all patients (p > 0.05). In conclusion, anxiety and depression are associated with worse PROs before and after PRI. However, patients with underlying depression or anxiety can expect a similar gain in PRO compared to patients without depressive or anxious symptoms.
Unmet Needs in the Assessment of Right Ventricular Function for Severe Tricuspid Regurgitation
Authors: Anastasiou Vasileios , Bazmpani Maria-Anna , Daios Stylianos , Moysidis Dimitrios , Zegkos Thomas , Didagelos Matthaios , Karamitsos Theodoros , Toutouzas Konstantinos , Ziakas Antonios , Kamperidis Vasileios
Published: September 2023

Tricuspid regurgitation (TR) is a highly prevalent valvular heart disease that has been long overlooked, but lately its independent association with adverse cardiovascular outcomes was recognized. The time point to intervene and repair the tricuspid valve is defined by the right ventricular (RV) dilation and dysfunction that comes up at a later stage. While guidelines favor tricuspid valve repair before severe RV dysfunction ensues, the definition of RV dysfunction in a universal manner remains vague. As a result, the candidates for transcatheter or surgical TR procedures are often referred late, when advanced RV dysfunction is established, and any derived procedural survival benefit is attenuated. Thus, it is of paramount importance to establish a universal means of RV function assessment in patients with TR. Conventional echocardiographic indices of RV function routinely applied have fundamental flaws that limit the precise characterization of RV performance. More recently, novel echocardiographic indices such as strain via speckle-tracking have emerged, demonstrating promising results in the identification of early RV damage. Additionally, evidence of the role of alternative imaging modalities such as cardiac computed tomography and cardiac magnetic resonance, for RV functional assessment in TR, has recently arisen. This review provides a systematic appraisal of traditional and novel multimodality indices of RV function in severe TR and aims to refine RV function assessment, designate future directions, and ultimately, to improve the outcome of patients suffering from severe TR.
Tricuspid Regurgitation Velocity/Tricuspid Annular Plane Systolic Excursion (TRV/TAPSE) Ratio as a Novel Indicator of Disease Severity and Prognosis in Patients with Precapillary Pulmonary Hypertension
Authors: Topyła-Putowska Weronika , Tomaszewski Michał , Wojtkowska Agnieszka , Styczeń Agnieszka , Wysokiński Andrzej
Published: September 2023

Background: Tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) and tricuspid regurgitation velocity (TRV) are two echocardiographic parameters with prognostic value in patients with pulmonary hypertension (PH). When analyzed concurrently as the TRV/TAPSE ratio, they allow the ventricular–pulmonary artery coupling (RVPAC) to be assessed. This could better predict disease severity in patients with PH. Objective: Our study aimed to evaluate the prognostic value of the TRV/TAPSE ratio echocardiographic parameter in adults with precapillary PH. Methods: This study included 39 patients (74% women; average age, 63 years) with precapillary PH (pulmonary arterial hypertension and chronic thromboembolic PH) The mean follow-up period was 16.6 ± 13.3 months. Twelve patients (31%) died during the observation time. We measured TAPSE as a surrogate of RV contractility and TRV reflecting RV afterload, while ventricular–arterial coupling was evaluated by the ratio between these two parameters (TRV/TAPSE). To assess disease progression and the patient’s functional capacity, the World Health Organization functional class (WHO FC) was determined. Patient physical capacity was also evaluated using the 6 min walk test (6MWT). The analysis included values of N-terminal prohormone brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), which were taken routinely during the follow-up visit. Results: The mean calculated TRV/TAPSE ratio was 0.26 ± 0.08 m/s/mm. Upon comparison of the TRV/TAPSE ratio to the disease prognostic indicators, we observed a statistically significant correlation between TRV/TAPSE and the results of the WHO FC, 6MWT, and NT-proBNP. The TRV/TAPSE ratio is thus a good predictor of mortality in PH patients (AUC, 0.781). Patients with a TRV/TAPSE ratio > 0.30 m/s/mm had a shorter survival time, with log-rank test p < 0.0001. Additionally, ROC analysis revealed higher AUC for TRV/TAPSE than for TAPSE and TRV alone. Conclusions: TRV/TAPSE is a promising practicable echocardiographic parameter reflecting RVPAC. Moreover, TRV/TAPSE could be viable risk stratification parameter and could have prognostic value in patients with PH.
A Fast Interface Circuit for the Measurement of 10 Ω to 1 GΩ Resistance
Authors: Ning Yongkai , Guo Jiangfei , Jia Yangchen , Li Duosheng , Guo Guiliang
Published: September 2023

In this work, an interface circuit applied to resistive gas or chemical sensors is proposed. The interface circuit includes a detection front-end, a single-end to differential circuit, a successive approximation analog-to-digital converter (SAR ADC), and some reference auxiliary circuits. In detection front-end circuits, mirrored currents in a current mirror usually differ by several orders of magnitude. In order to ensure that the current mirror can be copied accurately, this work uses a negative feedback structure consisting of an operational amplifier and an NMOS tube to ensure that the VDS of the current mirroring tube remains consistent. Simulation results show that the replication error of the current mirror is 0.015%. The proposed interface circuit has a detection range of 10 Ω to 1 GΩ with a relative error of 0.55%. The current multiplication or divided technique allows the interface circuit to have a high sampling frequency of up to 10 kHz. The proposed circuit is based on a 180 nm CMOS process with a chip area of 0.308 mm2 (723 μm ∗ 426 μm). The power consumption of the whole interface circuit is 3.66 mW when the power supply voltage is 1.8 V.
An Anti-Different Frequency Interference Algorithm for Environment-Aware Millimeter Wave Radar
Authors: Dai Jinzhou , Du Lei , Sha Shuo , Han Chao , Yao Yao
Published: September 2023

An environment-aware millimeter wave radar (EMWR) is one of the most important sensors in an autonomous driving system. With the increasing penetration of an EMWR on an autonomous vehicle, the possibility of radar interference increases accordingly. Interference may seriously affect the detection performance of an EMWR. When the transmitted signals from other EMWRs are received by the EMWR on an autonomous vehicle, the accuracy of target detection will be affected, which may affect the environment-aware performance. Therefore, more and more attention is paid to how to restrain the interference between EMWR signals. Radar interference can be divided into two types: same-frequency interference (SFI) and different-frequency interference (DFI). In this paper, an anti-DFI algorithm of an EMWR is proposed. Firstly, the causes and signal characteristics of DFI are analyzed. Secondly, the signal amplitude is obtained via Hilbert transform to locate the interference according to the signal characteristics. Then, the Lagrange interpolation based on empirical-mode decomposition (EMD) is used to reconstruct the interference signal to reduce the influence of DFI. Finally, the feasibility of the proposed algorithm is verified by the simulation results. The simulation results validate that the interference signal after EMD filtering and Lagrange interpolation can repair the interference region and achieve the purpose of anti-DFI.
Advanced Image Steganography Using a U-Net-Based Architecture with Multi-Scale Fusion and Perceptual Loss
Authors: Zeng Lu , Yang Ning , Li Xiang , Chen Aidong , Jing Hongyuan , Zhang Jiancheng
Published: September 2023

Image-to-image steganography refers to the practice of hiding secret image within a cover image, serving as a crucial technique for secure communication and data protection. Existing image-to-image generative adversarial network-based steganographic methods for image hiding demonstrate a high embedding capacity. However, there is still significant room for improvement in terms of the quality of the stego images and the extracted secret images. In this study, we propose an architecture for inconspicuously hiding an image within the Y channel of another image, leveraging a U-Net network and a multi-scale fusion ExtractionBlock. The network is jointly trained using a loss function combining Perceptual Path Length (PPL) and Mean Square Error (MSE). The proposed network is trained and tested on two datasets, Labeled Faces in the Wild and Pascal visual object classes. Experimental results demonstrate that the model not only achieves high invisibility and significant hiding capacity (8 bits per pixel) without altering the color information of the cover image but also exhibits strong generalization ability. Additionally, we introduce the Modified Multi-Image Similarity Metric (MMISM), which integrates the Peak Signal-to-Noise Ratio (PSNR) and Structural Similarity Index Metric (SSIM) values of images, to comprehensively evaluate the network’s hiding and extraction capabilities.
Comparative Analysis of Indoor Localization across Various Wireless Technologies
Authors: Singh Amanpreet , Emam Matin , Al Mtawa Yaser
Published: September 2023

This article examines the comparative effectiveness of three indoor node localization techniques—Multilateration, the Weighted Centroid algorithm, and Grid-based Received Signal Strength (RSS)—in wireless networking applications. The comparison is based on their performance against localization accuracy using RSS Indicator (RSSI) data in three experiments. The experiments utilized internally generated or real-world datasets with RSSI values for the unknown tag nodes. The datasets were obtained from various sources and evaluated in different scenarios to determine the efficiency of the three localization techniques. The results were evaluated and compared using mean error and standard deviation metrics. The findings indicate that trilateration achieves superior localization accuracy and precision in a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) environment compared to Wi-Fi and ZigBee. The Centroid technique showed the highest resistance to noise and outliers but is positioned biased (unlike Trilateration). Besides that, the Grid-based RSS technique is highly sensitive to noise, and theoretical RSS. These findings can greatly assist researchers and network operators in carefully selecting the most suitable localization technique for their wireless networking applications, taking into account the specific wireless technology utilized and their unique needs and limitations.
Year-Round Spawning, Filial Cannibalism, and Embryonic and Larval Development of the Coral Reef Fish Orchid Dottyback, Pseudochromis fridmani
Authors: Chen Jun Yu , Zeng Chaoshu , Cobcroft Jennifer M.
Published: September 2023

Aquaculture of marine ornamental fish could potentially reduce the fishing pressure on wild stocks by the global aquarium trade, but its expansion is often constrained by the limited understanding on the biology and early life history of candidate species. The orchid dottyback Pseudochromis fridmani is a valuable and popular marine ornamental fish, but scientific reports on its baseline biology, especially the egg filial cannibalistic behaviour, are scarce. The present study documented key aspects of reproductive biology and early ontogeny of P. fridmani in captivity, including reproductive behaviour, patterns of spawning and filial cannibalism throughout a 12-month period by seven pairs of brood fish, as well as the embryonic and larval development. The results showed that the captive spawning of the broodstock pairs generally occurred every 5–11 days, most commonly every 6–8 days, throughout a year. Despite feeding the brood fish to satiation throughout the data collection period, the average monthly rate of egg filial cannibalism reached 55 ± 37%, but the cannibalism frequency appeared to be pair-specific. The egg incubation duration was approximately 96 h at 27 ± 1 °C, and the development of embryos from cleavage, blastula, gastrula, and segmentation to the pharyngula stage is herein described in detail. The newly hatched P. fridmani larvae possessed important structures and organs for first feeding, including pigmented eyes, developed jaws, and a straight-tube gut. The 0 to 14 days post-hatching (DPH) period appeared to be an important larval stage, as P. fridmani larvae were observed to complete major changes in morphology, gut development, and phototactic behaviour by 14 DPH. Under the culture conditions of this study, the earliest transition to the juvenile stage was observed on 31 DPH, and the majority of fish became juveniles by 56 DPH. The results of this study inform baseline aquaculture production protocols and direct future research, particularly to reduce filial cannibalism through broodstock management and to improve larval culture through supporting the early ontogenetic development of P. fridmani. Additionally, these findings form a foundation for further studying the biology and ecology of P. fridmani in the wild.
Creation of Molecular Gel Materials Using Polyrotaxane-Derived Polymeric Organogelator
Authors: Ohsedo Yutaka , Shinoda Tomoka
Published: September 2023

Molecular gels, which are soft and flexible materials, are candidates for healthcare, cosmetic base, and electronic applications as new materials. In this study, a new polymeric organogelator bearing a polyrotaxane (PR) structure was developed and could induce the gelation of N′,N″-dimethylformamide (DMF), a known solvent for dissolving polymeric materials and salts. Furthermore, the resulting DMF molecular gels exhibited thixotropic properties, observed by the inversion method using vials, which are essential for gel spreading. The scanning electron microscopy of the xerogels suggested that the gel-forming ability and thixotropic property of gels were imparted by the network of the laminated aggregates of thin layer material similar to those of other gels made of clay materials. This thin layer material would be formed by the aggregation of polymeric organogelators. The dynamic viscoelasticity measurements of the obtained gels revealed the stability and pseudo-thixotropic behaviors of the obtained gels, as well as a specific concentration effect on the mechanical behavior of the gels attributed to the introduction of the PR structure. Additionally, the preparation of the polymer organogelator/polymer composites was investigated to improve the mechanical properties via the filler effect induced by the agglomerates of organogelator. Moreover, the tensile tests confirmed that the introduction of the gelator enhanced the mechanical properties of the composites.
Telerehabilitation Is a Valid Option for Total Knee Arthroplasty Patients: A Retrospective Pilot Study Based on Our Experience during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Venosa Michele , Romanini Emilio , Ciminello Enrico , Cerciello Simone , Angelozzi Massimo , Calvisi Vittorio
Published: September 2023

Introduction: Total knee arthroplasty is an effective operation. Post-surgery rehabilitation, based on early and intensive progressive exercise programs, plays a substantial role and telerehabilitation can be an effective safe option. This retrospective study aimed to compare traditional in-presence rehabilitation and telerehabilitation for total knee arthroplasty, based on our experience during the Italian COVID-19 lockdown. Materials and methods: We retrospectively analyzed 164 patients (94 females and 70 males) enrolled in 2020 within 2 weeks after total knee replacement to perform post-operative outpatient rehabilitation. The clinical results of 82 patients (mean age 66.8 ± 10.2 years) performing telerehabilitation with those obtained from a similar cohort of 82 patients (mean age 65.4 ± 11.8 years) performing traditional in-presence outpatient rehabilitation were compared. Clinical outcomes were examined by comparing the gait speed (Time Up and Go-TUG test), the range of motion, the pain intensity (VAS), the functional status (Oxford Knee Score—OKS and Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score—KOOS) and the overall satisfaction (Self-administered patient satisfaction scale) 12 weeks after the beginning of the physiotherapeutic protocol. Results: Telerehabilitation was non-inferior to traditional in-presence rehabilitation in all of the investigated areas and no statistical difference in terms of effectiveness was detected at 12 weeks, as confirmed by the respective patient-reported outcome scores such as TUG test (reduced from 20 ± 2 s to 12 ± 1.5 s for the telerehab cohort and from 18 ± 1.5 s to 13.1 ± 2 s for the in-presence rehabilitation one), pain VAS, OKS (improved from 22 ± 1.3 to 36 ± 2.7 for the telerehab cohort and from 23 ± 2.1 to 35.1 ± 4.2 for the in-presence group), KOOS (improved from 46.2 ± 10.2 to 67.4 ± 3.8 for the telerehabilitation cohort and from 48.4 ± 8.4 to 68.3 ± 6.6 for the other group), and the Self-administered patient satisfaction scale (more than two-thirds of patients globally satisfied with the results of their surgery in both groups). Conclusion: The telerehabilitation program was effective after total knee replacement and yielded clinical outcomes that were not inferior to conventional outpatient protocols.
The American Dream: Is Immigration Associated with Life Satisfaction for Latinos of Mexican Descent?
Authors: Mays Vickie M. , Becerra Rosina , Cochran Susan D.
Published: September 2023

The Latino population is one of the largest immigrant groups in the United States, with the majority being of Mexican descent. Whether immigrating to the US is positive for the well-being of Mexican immigrants and future generations is an important question. We examined how nativity status and quality of life indicators relate to life satisfaction among foreign-born and US-born Mexican descent Latinos living in California. Participants (N = 893) were from the California Quality of Life Survey, a population-based mental health survey of the California population. Multiple regressions examining sociodemographic and indicators of life satisfaction found higher life satisfaction among the foreign-born compared to US-born: (US-born first generation: Wald F = 18.70, p < 0.001; US-born second generation and higher: Wald F = 12.09, p < 0.001), females (Wald F = 7.05, p < 0.01), and individuals reporting more social support (Wald F = 40.20, p < 0.001), absence of frequent distress (Wald F = 41.46, p < 0.001), and better physical health (Wald F = 15.28, p < 0.001). Life satisfaction was lower for US-born Mexicans than for Mexican immigrants. Research, interventions, and policies are needed for mental health equity that address this lack of well-being in US-born Mexican Latinos.
Effects of Servicescapes on Interaction Quality, Service Quality, and Behavioral Intention in a Healthcare Setting
Authors: An Sohyun , Lee Pyoungsoo , Shin Choong Ho
Published: September 2023

This study develops a conceptual framework that encompasses servicescapes and customer perceptions and behaviors, and conducts an empirical investigation of healthcare service facilities. Structural equation modeling is performed using a sample of 271 patients who received treatment within one year at hospitals and clinics located in the metropolitan area of Seoul, South Korea. The results of the empirical analysis show that service quality improvements and patient revisits to healthcare facilities can be induced through servicescape improvements and interaction quality. These results make theoretical contributions to the service management literature and have practical implications for the operations of healthcare facilities.
Acoustic Boundary Conditions for Can-Annular Combustors
Authors: Brind James
Published: September 2023

This paper derives and validates an analytical model for acoustic boundary conditions on a can-annular gas turbine combustion system composed of discrete cans connected to an open annulus upstream of a turbine. The analytical model takes one empirical parameter: a connection impedance between adjacent cans. This impedance is extracted from time-marching computations of two-can sectors of representative combustors. The computations show that reactance follows the Rayleigh conductivity, while resistance takes a value of order 0.1 as a weak function of geometry. With a calibrated value of acoustic resistance, the analytical model reproduces can-to-can transfer functions predicted by full-annulus computations to within 0.03 magnitude at compact frequencies. Varying the combustor–turbine gap length, both model and computations exhibit a minimum in reflected energy, which drops by 63% compared to the datum gap. A parametric study yields a design guideline for gap length at the minimum reflected energy, allowing the designer to maximise transmission from the combustion system and reduce damping requirements.
Effects of Temperature on Blood Feeding and Activity Levels in the Tiger Mosquito, Aedes albopictus
Authors: Costanzo Katie , Occhino Dominic
Published: September 2023

Temperature has been shown to have profound effects on mosquito population dynamics and life history. Understanding these effects can provide insight into how mosquito populations and the diseases they transmit may vary across space and time and under the changes imposed by climate change. In this study, we evaluated how temperature affects the blood feeding and general activity patterns in the globally invasive mosquito species Aedes albopictus. We reared cohorts of Ae. albopictus from hatch through adulthood across three temperatures (26 °C, 29 °C, and 32 °C). The propensity of adult females to take a blood meal and the size of the blood meal were compared across temperatures. We also observed the overall activity levels of adult females over a 13.5 h period. At the highest temperature tested (32 °C), females were less likely to take a blood meal and were most active, as measured through frequency of movement. We postulate that our highest-temperature treatment imposes heat stress on adult female Ae. albopictus, where many abstain from blood feeding and increase movement in an attempt to escape the heat stress and find a more favorable resting location.
Influence of Chromosome 9p21.3 rs1333049 Variant on Telomere Length and Their Interactive Impact on the Prognosis of Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Borghini Andrea , Mercuri Antonella , Campolo Jonica , Parolini Marina , Ndreu Rudina , Turchi Stefano , Andreassi Maria Grazia
Published: September 2023

Background: Both telomere shortening and the chromosome 9p21.3 (Chr9p21) rs1333049 (G/C) variant are involved in coronary artery disease (CAD) risk, likely affecting mechanisms related to cell cycle arrest and vascular senescence. The aim of the study was to examine the link between Chr9p21 rs1333049 variant and leucocyte telomere length (LTL), as well as their interactive effect on the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs). Methods: A cohort of 472 patients with angiographically proven and clinically stable CAD were included in the study. At baseline, the LTL, biochemical parameters, and genotype analysis of Chr9p21 rs1333049 variant were measured in all patients. The primary endpoint of this study was the occurrence of MACE defined as a composite of coronary-related death, nonfatal MI, and coronary revascularization. Results: On multivariable linear regression analysis, age (p = 0.02) and Chr9p21 rs1333049 variant (p = 0.002) were the only independent predictors of LTL levels. Carriers of the CC genotype of this SNP had shorter telomeres than GC carriers (p = 0.02) and GG carriers (p = 0.0005). After a follow-up with a mean period of 62 ± 19 months, 90 patients (19.1%) had MACE. Short LTL was an independent prognostic factor of MACE incidence (HR:2.2; 95% CI: 1.3–3.7; p = 0.005) after adjustment for potential confounders. There was a significant interaction (p = 0.01) between the LTL and rs1333049 variant, with patients with risk-allele C and short LTL having a higher risk (HR:5.8; 95% CI: 1.8–19.2; p = 0.004). Conclusion: A strong relationship between LTL and Chr9p21 rs1333049 variant was identified, and they interactively affect the risk of poor prognosis in CAD patients.
Symptom Presentation among Women with Suspected Ischemia and No Obstructive Coronary Artery Disease (INOCA)
Authors: Taha Yasmeen K. , Dungan Jennifer R. , Weaver Michael T. , Xu Ke , Handberg Eileen M. , Pepine Carl J. , Bairey Merz C. Noel
Published: September 2023

Identifying ischemic heart disease (IHD) in women based on symptoms is challenging. Women are more likely to endorse non-cardiac symptoms. More than 50% of women with suspected ischemia have no obstructive coronary disease (and thus, INOCA) and impaired outcomes during follow-up. We aimed to identify symptoms having predictive capacity for INOCA in women with clinical evidence of coronary ischemia. We included 916 women from the original WISE cohort (NCT 00000554) who had coronary angiography performed for suspected ischemia and completed a 65-item WISE symptom questionnaire. Sixty-two percent (n = 567) had suspected INOCA. Logistic regression models using a best subsets approach were examined to identify the best predictive model for INOCA based on Score χ2 and AICc. A 10-variable, best-fit model accurately predicted INOCA (AUC 0.72, 95% CI 0.68, 0.75). The model indicated that age ≤ 55 years, left side chest pain, chest discomfort, neck pain, and palpitations had independent, positive relationship (OR > 1) to INOCA (p < 0.001 to 0.008). An inverse relationship (OR < 1) was observed for impending doom, and pain in the jaw, left or bilateral arm, and right hand, interpreted as INOCA associated with the absence of these symptoms (p ≤ 0.001 to 0.023). Our best-fit model accurately predicted INOCA based on age and symptom presentation ~72% of the time. While the heterogeneity of symptom presentation limits the utility of this unvalidated 10-variable model, it has promise for consideration of symptom inclusion in future INOCA prediction risk modeling for women with evidence of symptomatic ischemia.
Present and Future of Dyslipidaemia Treatment—A Review
Authors: Merćep Iveta , Vujević Andro , Strikić Dominik , Radman Ivana , Pećin Ivan , Reiner Željko
Published: September 2023

One of the greatest burdens on the healthcare systems of modern civilization is cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Therefore, the medical community is looking for ways to reduce the incidence of CVDs. Simple lifestyle changes from an unhealthy to a healthy lifestyle are the cornerstone of prevention, but other risk factors for cardiovascular disease are also being currently targeted, most notably dyslipidaemia. It is well known that lowering serum lipid levels, and in particular lowering elevated LDL-cholesterol, leads to a reduction in major cardiovascular events. Although the focus to date has been on LDL-cholesterol levels and lowering them with statin therapy, this is often not enough because of increased concentrations of other lipoprotein particles in the serum and residual cardiovascular risk. Since lowering LDL-cholesterol levels is successful in most cases, there has been a recent focus on lowering residual cardiovascular risk. In recent years, new therapeutic options have emerged that target triglyceride-rich lipoproteins, lipoprotein (a) and apolipoproteins C and B. The effects of these drugs on serious adverse cardiovascular events are not yet known, but recent studies with some of these drugs have shown significant results in lowering total lipid levels. The aim of this review is to present the current therapeutic options for the treatment of dyslipidaemia and to describe the newly approved drugs as well as the drugs that are still in development. Although at this stage we cannot say with certainty whether these agents will be approved and widely used, it is safe to say that our views on the treatment of dyslipidaemia are certainly changing.
Functional (Re)Development of SYNTAX Score II 2020: Predictive Performance and Risk Assessment
Authors: Scala Antonella , Erriquez Andrea , Verardi Filippo Maria , Marrone Andrea , Scollo Ennio , Trichilo Michele , Durante Alessandro , Tedeschi Delio , Cortese Bernardo , Ielasi Alfonso , Valentini Giuliano , Tebaldi Matteo , Campo Gianluca , Pavasini Rita , Biscaglia Simone
Published: September 2023

The present study investigates the prognostic value of the Syntax Score II 2020 corrected for flow-limiting lesions and its ability to better address treatment by benefit prediction among patients with left main or multivessel disease. We analyzed 1274 patients from the HALE-BOPP cohort and integrated the Syntax Score II 2020 with the result of the fractional flow reserve (FFR) evaluation. Absolute risk difference (ARD) between surgical and percutaneous revascularization was calculated for anatomic and functional Syntax Score II 2020 predicted mortality. The ARD allowed to stratify the population into two large categories: “coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) better” with ARD ≥ 4.5% and “CABG–percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) equipoise” with ARD < 4.5%. The mean global anatomical Syntax Score was 15.5 ± 9.2, whereas the functional one was 9.5 ± 10 (p < 0.01). Using the anatomic Syntax Score II 2020, 881 patients had a CABG-PCI equipoise. This number increased to 1041 after considering only flow-limiting lesions by FFR (p < 0.001); therefore, 40% of CABG better patients were reclassified within the CABG-PCI equipoise category. Kaplan–Maier curves showed similar actual survival rates for patients originally with CABG-PCI equipoise and those reclassified, in both cases higher than those from CABG better patients (p < 0.01). The integration between Syntax Score II 2020 and physiology is feasible, and merging clinical, anatomic and functional data allows for better risk prediction and therapeutic guidance.
Dynamic Navigation System vs. Free-Hand Approach in Microsurgical and Non-Surgical Endodontics: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Experimental Studies
Authors: Mekhdieva Elina , Del Fabbro Massimo , Alovisi Mario , Scotti Nicola , Comba Allegra , Berutti Elio , Pasqualini Damiano
Published: September 2023

(1) Background: A Dynamic Navigation System (DNS) is an innovative tool that facilitates the management of complex endodontic cases. Despite the number of advantages and limitations of this approach, there is no evidence-based information about its efficiency in comparison with that of the traditional method in endodontics. (2) Objectives: We aimed to explore any beneficial effects of the DNS and compare the outcomes of DNS vs. free-hand (FH) approaches for non-surgical and microsurgical endodontics. (3) Methods: A literature search was conducted in August 2023 to identify randomized, experimental, non-surgical, and microsurgical endodontic studies that compared the DNS with FH approaches. The procedural time (ΔT, s), substance loss (ΔV, mm3), angular deviation (ΔAD, °), coronal/platform linear deviation (ΔLD_C, mm), and apical linear deviation (ΔLD_A, mm) were recorded and analyzed. Quality and risk of bias assessments were conducted according to the Quality Assessment Tool For In Vitro Studies. A meta-analysis was performed using mean difference and standard deviation for each outcome, and heterogeneity (I2) was estimated. p < 0.05 was considered significant. (4) Results: One-hundred and forty-six studies were identified following duplicate removal, and nine were included in the systematic review and meta-analysis. The overall risk of bias was classified as low. The DNS was found to be more accurate and efficient than the FH approach was, resulting in a significantly shorter operation time (p < 0.00001) and less angular (p ≤ 0.0001) and linear deviation (p ≤ 0.01). For substance loss, the advantage of the DNS was significant only for microsurgery (p = 0.65, and p < 0.005, for non-surgical and microsurgical procedures, respectively). A reduced risk of iatrogenic failure using the DNS was observed for both expert and novice operators. (5) Conclusions: The DNS appears beneficial for non-surgical and microsurgical endodontics, regardless of the operator’s experience. However, appropriate training and experience are necessary to access the full advantages offered by the DNS.
Nebulized Recombinant Tissue Plasminogen Activator (rt-PA) for Acute COVID-19-Induced Respiratory Failure: An Exploratory Proof-of-Concept Trial
Authors: Chowdary Pratima , Agarwal Banwari , Peralta Maria Rita , Bhagani Sanjay , Lee Simon , Goldring James , Lipman Marc , Waqif Emal , Phillips Mark , Philippou Helen , Foley Jonathan H. , Mutch Nicola J. , Ariëns Robert A. S. , Stringer Kathleen A. , Ricciardi Federico , Watissée Marie , Hughes Derralynn , Nathwani Amit , Riddell Anne , Patch David , Buckley Jim , De Neef Mark , Dimber Rahul , Diaz-Garcia Cecilia , Patel Honey , Nandani Aarti , Dissanayake Upuli , Chadwick Nick , Alkhatip Ahmed A. A. M. M. , Watkinson Peter , Raith Eamon , Singh Suveer , Wolff Tony , Jha Rajeev , Brill Simon E. , Bakhai Ameet , Evans Alison , Gilani Farhat , Gomez Keith
Published: September 2023

Acute lung injury in COVID-19 results in diffuse alveolar damage with disruption of the alveolar-capillary barrier, coagulation activation, alveolar fibrin deposition and pulmonary capillary thrombi. Nebulized recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (rt-PA) has the potential to facilitate localized thrombolysis in the alveolar compartment and improve oxygenation. In this proof-of-concept safety study, adults with COVID-19-induced respiratory failure and a <300 mmHg PaO2/FiO2 (P/F) ratio requiring invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) or non-invasive respiratory support (NIRS) received nebulized rt-PA in two cohorts (C1 and C2), alongside standard of care, between 23 April–30 July 2020 and 21 January–19 February 2021, respectively. Matched historical controls (MHC; n = 18) were used in C1 to explore efficacy. Safety co-primary endpoints were treatment-related bleeds and <1.0–1.5 g/L fibrinogen reduction. A variable dosing strategy with clinical efficacy endpoint and minimal safety concerns was determined in C1 for use in C2; patients were stratified by ventilation type to receive 40–60 mg rt-PA daily for ≤14 days. Nine patients in C1 (IMV, 6/9; NIRS, 3/9) and 26 in C2 (IMV, 12/26; NIRS, 14/26) received nebulized rt-PA for a mean (SD) of 6.7 (4.6) and 9.1(4.6) days, respectively. Four bleeds (one severe, three mild) in three patients were considered treatment related. There were no significant fibrinogen reductions. Greater improvements in mean P/F ratio from baseline to study end were observed in C1 compared with MHC (C1; 154 to 299 vs. MHC; 154 to 212). In C2, there was no difference in the baseline P/F ratio of NIRS and IMV patients. However, a larger improvement in the P/F ratio occurred in NIRS patients (NIRS; 126 to 240 vs. IMV; 120 to 188) and fewer treatment days were required (NIRS; 7.86 vs. IMV; 10.5). Nebulized rt-PA appears to be well-tolerated, with a trend towards improved oxygenation, particularly in the NIRS group. Randomized clinical trials are required to demonstrate the clinical effect significance and magnitude.
Reply to Kataoka, N.; Imamura, T. How to Improve Clinical Outcomes in Patients with Tachycardia-Induced Cardiomyopathy. Comment on “Katz et al. Long-Term Outcomes of Tachycardia-Induced Cardiomyopathy Compared with Idiopathic Dilated Cardiomyopathy. J. Clin. Med. 2023, 12, 1412”
Authors: Katz Moshe , Meitus Amit , Arad Michael , Aizer Anthony , Nof Eyal , Beinart Roy
Published: September 2023

In a letter to the editor titled “How to improve clinical outcomes in patients with tachycardia-induced cardiomyopathy”, Dr. Naoya Kataoka and Dr. Teruhiko Imamura [...]
The Impact of Hole Diameter on the Molded and Drilled Holes in Jute-Fiber-Reinforced Epoxy Composites
Authors: Kumar Jayant , Singh Yashpal , Rakesh Pawan Kumar , Singh Inderdeep , Davim J. P.
Published: September 2023

Damage caused by the drilling process is the most common reason for the rejection of composite parts and components that include holes. This is especially true in the case of laminated composites. The purpose of the current experimental investigation is to investigate the efficiency of hole formation when the component is in the molding phase. The mechanical properties of molded and drilled holes in jute-fiber-reinforced epoxy composites have been compared in a study that was carried out with the purpose of conducting an examination of these features. It was discovered that the molded holes operate much better than the drilled holes when it comes to jute fiber/epoxy composite materials. This was the conclusion reached after observing both types of holes. The maximum tensile load that was taken by molded hole specimens of composites with hole diameters of 4 mm and 8 mm was reported to be 48.8% and 101.5% greater, respectively, than the maximum tensile load that was taken by drilled hole specimens of composites with the same diameter. In addition, the load-extension curves demonstrate that the specimens that were manufactured with molded holes were able to achieve a larger degree of extension when compared to those that were manufactured with drilled holes.