bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preventive Effect of Hydroxyzine on Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting: A Single-Center, Retrospective, Observational Cohort Study
Authors: Jotaki Shosaburo , Murotani Kenta , Hiraki Teruyuki
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: Postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) is a common and distressing complication after surgery. Hydroxyzine, an affordable histamine H1 receptor antagonist with anxiolytic, moderate sedative, and antiemetic properties, is often used perioperatively; however, few studies have investigated its effect on PONV. In this study, we examined the efficacy of hydroxyzine in preventing PONV. Methods: This single-center, retrospective, observational cohort study included 647 female patients at risk of PONV between July 2021 and September 2022. The primary endpoint was PONV incidence on the day of surgery, and secondary endpoints included PONV incidence up to postoperative day 2 and emergence time, analyzed using propensity score matching. Results: The patients were categorized into two groups: 71 received hydroxyzine 25 mg (HYD group), and 576 received no prophylactic antiemetic treatment (NOT group). After adjustment for confounders, PONV incidence on the day of surgery was significantly lower in the HYD (n = 69) group compared to the NOT (n = 193) group (34.8% vs. 57.0%, p = 0.002), and similar results were observed up to postoperative day 2 (47.8% vs. 65.3%, p = 0.016). Emergence time did not differ between groups. Conclusions: Prophylactic administration of hydroxyzine could be effective in decreasing PONV incidence, though further randomized controlled trials are warranted to confirm these results.
Short Term Effects of Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation Combined with Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation in Youth Basketball Players: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Sos-Tirado Manuel , Campo-Manzanares Aser , Aguado-Oregui Lidia , Cerdá-Calatayud Carles , Guardiola-Ruiz Juan Carlos , García-Lucas Celia , Montañez-Aguilera Francisco Javier , Lisón Juan Francisco , Amer-Cuenca Juan José
Published: December 2024

Background: Hamstring muscle injuries are common in basketball and result in long periods of inactivity. To reduce their incidence, preventive protocols, including proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) stretches, have been proposed. The aim of this study is to compare the short-term effects of PNF and PNF + neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) on hamstring extensibility and, secondarily, on vertical jump capacity in young basketball players. Materials and Methods: The study was a randomized controlled trial. One group performed a PNF stretching protocol and the other PNF + NMES. Hamstring extensibility was measured using the Sit and Reach test and the popliteal angle and jump capacity were measured using the Counter Movement Jump, both before and immediately after the intervention. Results: Forty-five young male players participated. Both groups showed significant intra-group improvements (p < 0.001) in hamstring flexibility after the intervention. However, there were no significant intra-group differences (p > 0.05) in jump capacity. Additionally, no significant differences (p > 0.05) were observed between the two groups for any of the measured variables. Conclusions: Both programs are effective in increasing hamstring flexibility in the short term without impairing vertical jump capacity in young basketball players.
Seasonal Variability and Underlying Dynamical Processes of Sea Surface Temperature Fronts in Zhoushan and Its Adjacent Seas
Authors: Chen Hui , Ji Qiyan , Wu Qiong , Peng Tengteng , Wang Yuting , Meng Ziyin
Published: December 2024

The oceanic fronts play an important role in marine ecosystems and fisheries. This study investigates the seasonal variability of sea surface temperature (SST) fronts in Zhoushan and its adjacent seas for the period 1982–2021. The influences of various underlying dynamic processes on the fronts are also discussed. The horizontal gradient of SST is calculated as frontal intensity, and a threshold value of 0.03 °C/km is set to count the frontal frequency. The fronts in Zhoushan and its adjacent seas show significant seasonal variability, with high (0.1 °C/km and 60–90%) and low (0.03 °C/km and 30–60%) frontal activity in winter and summer, respectively. In summer, the fronts along Jiangsu and the north of the Changjiang River Estuary show higher frontal intensity and frequency, which is mainly influenced by the Changjiang diluted water and southerly wind, and fronts around Zhoushan Island are highly related with Zhoushan upwelling. In winter, the fronts strengthen into regular bands offshore and parallel to the coast, which are mainly influenced by coastal currents. Frontal intensity and frequency show a more significant long-term increasing trend in winter than in summer.
Use of Spectral Clustering for Identifying Circulation Patterns of the East Korea Warm Current and Its Extension
Authors: Lee Eun Young , Lee Dong Eun , Kim Hye-Ji , Baek Haedo , Kim Young Ho , Park Young-Gyu
Published: December 2024

A graphical clustering approach was used to objectively identify prevalent surface circulation patterns in the East/Japan Sea (EJS). By applying a spectral clustering algorithm, three distinct patterns in the East Korea Warm Current (EKWC) and its extension were identified from daily maps of reanalyzed sea surface heights spanning the past 30 years. The results are consistent with previous studies that used manual classification of the EKWC’s Lagrangian trajectories, highlighting the effectiveness of spectral clustering in accurately characterizing the surface circulation states in the EJS. Notably, the recent dominance of northern paths, as opposed to routes along Japan’s coastline or those departing from Korea’s east coast further south, has prompted focused re-clustering of the northern paths according to their waviness. This re-clustering, with additional emphasis on path length, distinctly categorized two patterns: straight paths (SPs) and large meanders (LMs). Notably, SPs have become more prevalent in the most recent years, while LMs have diminished. An autoregression analysis reveals that seasonal anomalies in the cluster frequency in spring tend to persist through to the following autumn. The frequency anomalies in the SPs correlate strongly with the development of pronounced anomalies in the gradient of meridional sea surface height and negative anomalies in the surface wind stress curl in the preceding cold seasons. This relationship explains the observed correlation between a negative Arctic Oscillation during the preceding winter and the increased frequency of SPs in the subsequent spring. The rapid increase in the occurrence of SPs indicates that a reduction in LMs limits the mixing of cold, fresh, northern waters with warm, saline, southern waters, thereby reinforcing the presence of SPs due to a strengthened gradient of meridional surface height and contributing to a slowdown in the regional overturning circulation.
Identifying the Optimal Scenario for Reducing Land-Use Conflicts in Regional Development
Authors: Liao Weihua , Hu Xingwang , Huang Zhu , Wei Meixin
Published: December 2024

Land-use conflicts are inherent challenges in regional development and have social, economic, and ecological impacts. To mitigate these conflicts, multi-scenario simulations can help identify the most effective scenario with minimal land-use conflicts. However, previous studies often neglected the influence of regional policies on these optimal scenarios. This paper addresses this gap by developing a framework to explore strategies for reducing land-use conflicts using Hechi city in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China, as a case study. In this study, the conflict risk is assessed based on the landscape pattern index, and the ecological benefit is assessed based on the ecosystem service value, and the ‘conflict risk–ecological benefit’ assessment method is constructed, focusing on the land-use conflicts in areas where the conflict risk increases and the ecological benefit decreases, and evaluating whether there is a best solution to alleviate these conflicts. The findings reveal that from 2000 to 2020, the area experiencing land-use conflicts in Hechi city increased. The geographic focus of these conflicts has shifted, first moving to the southeast, then to the northwest, and finally returning to the southeast. The overall center of conflict has moved toward the developed areas in the southeast. Among the three future development scenarios (economic lead, ecological priority, and historical signs), the ecological priority scenario, which includes the green development pilot area policy, offers the most significant reduction in land-use conflicts. Under this scenario, the proportion of conflict areas relative to the total area is the smallest at 5.39% in 2025 and 7.92% in 2030. Additionally, the percentage of high-level conflict areas decreases notably from 2.17% in 2025 to 1.12% in 2030. Consequently, this scenario with an ecological priority emerges as the most favorable for Hechi city’s future development. The framework of alleviating land-use conflicts proposed in this study can be used for reference by other ecological resources areas experiencing rapid urbanization.
Long Time-Series Monitoring and Drivers of Eco-Quality in the Upper-Middle Fen River Basin of the Eastern Loess Plateau: An Analysis Based on a Remote Sensing Ecological Index and Google Earth Engine
Authors: He Yanan , Ye Baoying , He Juan , Wang Hongyu , Zhou Wei
Published: December 2024

Healthy watershed environments are essential for socioeconomic sustainability. The long-term monitoring and assessment of watershed ecological environments provide a timely and accurate understanding of ecosystem dynamics, informing industry and policy adjustments. This study focused on the upper-middle Fen River Basin (UMFRB) in eastern China’s Loess Plateau and analyzed the long-term spatial and temporal characteristics of eco-quality from 2000 to 2023 by calculating a remote sensing ecological index (RSEI) via the Google Earth Engine (GEE) platform. In addition, this study also explored the trends and future consistency of the RSEI, as well as the impacts of natural and anthropogenic factors on RSEI spatial variations. The findings revealed that (1) the average RSEI value increased from 0.51 to 0.57 over the past 24 years, reflecting an overall improvement in eco-quality, although urban centers in the Taiyuan Basin exhibited localized degradation. (2) The Hurst index value was 0.468, indicating anti-consistency, with most regions showing trends of future decline or exhibiting stochastic fluctuations. (3) Elevation, temperature, precipitation, slope, and land use intensity are significantly correlated with ecological quality. Natural factors dominate in densely vegetated regions, whereas socioeconomic factors dominate in populated plains. These results provide valuable guidance for formulating targeted ecological restoration measures, protection policies, and engineering solutions.
Identification of Potential Sepsis Therapeutic Drugs Using a Zebrafish Rapid Screening Approach
Authors: Widder Mark , Carbaugh Chance , van der Schalie William , Miller Ronald , Brennan Linda , Moore Ashley , Campbell Robert , Akers Kevin , Ressner Roseanne , Martin Monica , Madejczyk Michael , Dancy Blair , Lee Patricia , Lanteri Charlotte
Published: December 2024

In the military, combat wound infections can progress rapidly to life-threatening sepsis. The discovery of effective small-molecule drugs to prevent and/or treat sepsis is a priority. To identify potential sepsis drug candidates, we used an optimized larval zebrafish model of endotoxicity/sepsis to screen commercial libraries of drugs approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and other active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) known to affect pathways implicated in the initiation and progression of sepsis in humans (i.e., inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, coagulation, and apoptosis). We induced endotoxicity in 3- and 5-day post fertilization larval zebrafish (characterized by mortality and tail fin edema (vascular leakage)) by immersion exposure to 60 µg/mL Pseudomonas aeruginosa lipopolysaccharide (LPS) for 24 h, then screened for the rescue potential of 644 selected drugs at 10 µM through simultaneous exposure to LPS. After LPS exposure, we used a neurobehavioral assay (light-dark test) to further evaluate rescue from endotoxicity and to determine possible off-target drug side effects. We identified 29 drugs with > 60% rescue of tail edema and mortality. Three drugs (Ketanserin, Tegaserod, and Brexpiprazole) produced 100% rescue and did not differ from the controls in the light-dark test, suggesting a lack of off-target neurobehavioral effects. Further testing of these three drugs at a nearly 100% lethal concentration of Klebsiella pneumoniae LPS (45 µg/mL) showed 100% rescue from mortality and 88–100% mitigation against tail edema. The success of the three identified drugs in a zebrafish endotoxicity/sepsis model warrants further evaluation in mammalian sepsis models.
A Review of Additive Manufacturing of Biodegradable Fe and Zn Alloys for Medical Implants Using Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF)
Authors: Limón Irene , Bedmar Javier , Fernández-Hernán Juan Pablo , Multigner Marta , Torres Belén , Rams Joaquín , Cifuentes Sandra C.
Published: December 2024

This review explores the advancements in additive manufacturing (AM) of biodegradable iron (Fe) and zinc (Zn) alloys, focusing on their potential for medical implants, particularly in vascular and bone applications. Fe alloys are noted for their superior mechanical properties and biocompatibility but exhibit a slow corrosion rate, limiting their biodegradability. Strategies such as alloying with manganese (Mn) and optimizing microstructure via laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) have been employed to increase Fe’s corrosion rate and mechanical performance. Zn alloys, characterized by moderate biodegradation rates and biocompatible corrosion products, address the limitations of Fe, though their mechanical properties require improvement through alloying and microstructural refinement. LPBF has enabled the fabrication of dense and porous structures for both materials, with energy density optimization playing a critical role in achieving defect-free parts. Fe alloys exhibit higher strength and hardness, while Zn alloys offer better corrosion control and biocompatibility. In vitro and in vivo studies demonstrate promising outcomes for both materials, with Fe alloys excelling in load-bearing applications and Zn alloys in controlled degradation and vascular applications. Despite these advancements, challenges such as localized corrosion, cytotoxicity, and long-term performance require further investigation to fully harness the potential of AM-fabricated Fe and Zn biodegradable implants.
Effect of TiO2 Coating on Structure and Electrochemical Performance of LiNi0.6Co0.2Mn0.2O2 Cathode Material for Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Li Lin , Li Zhongyu , Kuang Zhifan , Zheng Hao , Yang Minjian , Liu Jianwen , Wang Shiquan , Liu Hongying
Published: December 2024

High-nickel ternary LiNi0.6Co0.2Mn0.2O2 (NCM622) is a promising cathode material for lithium-ion batteries due to its high discharge-specific capacity and energy density. However, problems of NCM622 materials, such as unstable surface structure, lithium–nickel co-segregation, and intergranular cracking, led to a decrease in the cycling performance of the material and an inability to fully utilize high specific capacity. Surface coating was the primary approach to address these problems. The effect of TiO2 coating prepared by the sol–gel method on the performance of LiNi0.6Co0.2Mn0.2O2 was studied, mainly including the morphology, cell structure, and electrochemical properties. LiNi0.6Co0.2Mn0.2O2 was coated by TiO2 with a thickness of about 5 nm. Compared with the pristine NCM622 electrode, the electrochemical performance of the TiO2-coated NCM622 electrodes is improved. Among all TiO2-coated NCM622, the NCM622 cathode with TiO2 coating content of 0.5% demonstrates the highest capacity retention of 89.3% and a discharge capacity of 163.9 mAh g−1, in contrast to 80.9% and145 mAh g−1 for the pristine NCM622 electrode, after 100 cycles at 0.3 C between 3 and 4.3 V. The cycle life of the 5 wt% TiO2-coated NCM622 electrode is significantly improved at a high cutoff voltage of 4.6 V. The significantly enhanced cycling performance of TiO2-coated NCM622 materials could be attributed to the TiO2 coating layer that could block the contact between the material surface and the electrolyte, reducing the interface side reaction and inhibiting the transition metal dissolution. At the same time, the coating layer maintained the stability of layered structures, thus reducing the polarization phenomenon of the electrode and alleviating the irreversible capacity loss in the cycle process.
Titanium(IV), Zirconium(IV), and Cerium(IV) Phosphates Synthesized Under Mild Conditions—Composition Characteristics and Evaluation of Sorption Properties Towards Copper Ions in Comparison to Commercially Available Ion-Exchange Resins
Authors: Marszałek Marta , Piotrowski Marcin , Dziełak Barbara , Blicharz Mariola , Malarska Wiktoria , Wzorek Zbigniew
Published: December 2024

The removal of copper from wastewater of mine origin requires the use of an appropriate method. Sorption methods are considered to be one of the best solutions for removing copper from industrial wastewater at low levels. Metal(IV) phosphates have been reported as excellent sorption materials that can be highly selective for copper. Therefore, the aim of this research was to synthesize titanium(IV), zirconium(IV), and cerium(IV) phosphates with a wide range of P:Metal(IV) molar ratios (0.5–10) in the reaction mixture and under mild conditions, using a simple scalable approach which requires minimal financial outlays. The obtained materials were characterized using XRD, ATR-FTIR, SEM-EDS techniques, and pH titration. To evaluate the performance of the resulting materials, their sorption properties towards copper ions were examined in comparison with selected commercially available ion-exchange resins. In each group of metal(IV) phosphates, the best material has a high ion-exchange capacity: 16.9 meq/g for titanium sorbent, 8.8 meq/g for zirconium sorbent, and 7.0 meq/g for cerium sorbent. Zirconium phosphate synthesized at a P:Zr molar ratio in the reaction mixture of 10:1 exhibits the best sorption properties towards copper ions in a solution similar to mining wastewater (acidic, saline, and containing heavy metals), better than some commercial ion-exchange resins.
Preparation of Green Tea Polyphenol-Loaded Diacylglycerol Nanostructured Lipid Carrier Hydrogels and Their Activities Related to Skin Protection
Authors: Zhu Zhini , Xia Qiu , Zhan Xinxia , Li Wenyuan , He Xuan , Wang Bo , Zhou Qizhi , Huang Jian , Ye Yong
Published: December 2024

Diacylglycerol (DAG) is a functional oil but is rarely used in the cosmetic industry because low solubility, susceptibility to leakage and low viscosity to skin are still the main hurdles. A novel diacylglycerol nanostructured lipid carrier hydrogel (GTP-DAG-NLC-GEL) loaded with green tea polyphenol (GTP) was designed and successfully prepared to broaden DAG’s application in cosmetics, which significantly improved GTP stability and skin stickiness of DAG. The results showed that DAG-NLC-GEL had good viscosity, which was 980 Pa·s when the shear rate was 5 rpm, and its viscosity decreased quickly with the increase in shear rate, making it easily expand on skin. Meanwhile, the encapsulation rate and drug loading of GTP in GDP-DAG-NLC-GEL reached 86.7% and 2.6%, respectively, and the DPPH free radicals scavenging rate and inhibition rate of the advanced glycation end-products (AGEs) were 85.46% and 89.72%, respectively, which indicate that GTP-DAG-NLC-GEL has significant skin sunscreen, antioxidant and anti-glycation activities. The GTP-loaded nanostructured lipid carrier hydrogel can be deemed to have great prospects for skin protection in cosmetics.
An In Vitro Assessment of the Shear Bond Strength of Alkasite Restorative Material in Primary Molars Compared with Glass Ionomer and Resin-Modified Glass Ionomer Restorations
Authors: Sulimany Ayman M. , Aldowsari Mannaa K. , Bin Saleh Saad , Alotaibi Sarah S. , Alhelal Bushra M. , Hamdan Hebah M.
Published: December 2024

(1) Background: Alkasite is a novel restorative material that has attracted interest in recent years because of its distinctive characteristics, including its high translucency and excellent biocompatibility. It is comparable to glass ionomer cement (GIC) and resin-modified glass ionomer cement (RMGIC) due to its fluoride-release ability and usage in esthetically concerned areas. This study aimed to assess the shear bond strength (SBS) of Alkasite restorative material in comparison with GIC and RMGIC (2) Methods: The study sample included 120 extracted sound primary molars and was randomly split into three groups, including group 1: RMGIC; group 2: Alkasite; and group 3: GIC. Each group was then sub-grouped into immediate and delayed loading. SBS was measured for each group using a universal testing machine. One-way analysis of variance with Tukey’s post hoc test and an independent t-test were used for statistical analyses (3) Results: The immediate SBS was higher in Alkasite, followed by RMGIC and GIC, with means of 10.84 ± 1.96, 10.64 ± 1.74, and 6.09 ± 1.75, respectively. However, there was no significant difference between Alkasite and RMGIC (p = 0.94), whereas RMGIC and Alkasite showed significantly higher values than GIC, with p < 0.0001. Regarding delayed SBS, no significant difference was noted between Alkasite and RMGIC (p = 0.14), whereas both showed significantly higher values than GIC, with mean values of 6.30 ± 1.44, 5.556 ± 1.38, and 3.29 ± 0.61, respectively (p < 0.0001). (4) Conclusions: Our findings show that RMGIC and Alkasite have comparable outcomes to each other and better outcomes when compared with conventional GIC.
On Rayleigh Quotient Iteration for the Dual Quaternion Hermitian Eigenvalue Problem
Authors: Duan Shan-Qi , Wang Qing-Wen , Duan Xue-Feng
Published: December 2024

The application of eigenvalue theory to dual quaternion Hermitian matrices holds significance in the realm of multi-agent formation control. In this paper, we study the use of Rayleigh quotient iteration (RQI) for solving the right eigenpairs of dual quaternion Hermitian matrices. Combined with dual representation, the RQI algorithm can effectively compute the eigenvalue along with the associated eigenvector of the dual quaternion Hermitian matrices. Furthermore, by utilizing the minimal residual property of the Rayleigh quotient, a convergence analysis of the Rayleigh quotient iteration is derived. Numerical examples are provided to illustrate the high accuracy and low CPU time cost of the proposed Rayleigh quotient iteration compared with the power method for solving the dual quaternion Hermitian eigenvalue problem.
Enhanced Eicosapentaenoic Acid Production via Synthetic Biological Strategy in Nannochloropsis oceanica
Authors: Miao Congcong , Du Mingting , Du Hongchao , Xu Tao , Wu Shan , Huang Xingwei , Chen Xitao , Lei Suxiang , Xin Yi
Published: December 2024

The rational dietary ratio of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) to eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) can exert neurotrophic and cardiotrophic effects on the human body. The marine microalga Nannochloropsis oceanica produces EPA yet no DHA, and thus, it is considered an ideal EPA-only model to pursue a rational DHA/EPA ratio. In this study, synthetic biological strategy was applied to improve EPA production in N. oceanica. Firstly, to identify promoters and terminators, fifteen genes from N. oceanica were isolated using a transcriptomic approach. Compared to α-tubulin, NO08G03500, NO03G03480 and NO22G01450 exhibited 1.2~1.3-fold increases in transcription levels. Secondly, to identify EPA-synthesizing modules, putative desaturases (NoFADs) and elongases (NoFAEs) were overexpressed by the NO08G03500 and NO03G03480 promoters/terminators in N. oceanica. Compared to the wild type (WT), NoFAD1770 and NoFAE0510 overexpression resulted in 47.7% and 40.6% increases in EPA yields, respectively. Thirdly, to store EPA in triacylglycerol (TAG), NoDGAT2K was overexpressed using the NO22G01450 promoter/terminator, along with NoFAD1770–NoFAE0510 stacking, forming transgenic line XS521. Compared to WT, TAG-EPA content increased by 154.8% in XS521. Finally, to inhibit TAG-EPA degradation, a TAG lipase-encoding gene NoTGL1990 was knocked out in XS521, leading to a 49.2–65.3% increase in TAG-EPA content. Our work expands upon EPA-enhancing approaches through synthetic biology in microalgae and potentially crops.
Chondroitin Sulfate Nanovectorized by LC-PUFAs Nanocarriers Extracted from Salmon (Salmo salar) by Green Process with Decreased Inflammatory Marker Expression in Interleukin-1β-Stimulated Primary Human Chondrocytes In Vitro Culture
Authors: Pruvost Louis , Gerlei Maureen , Paris Cédric , Velot Émilie , Kahn Cyril J.-F. , Bianchi Arnaud , Linder Michel
Published: December 2024

Chondroitin sulfate (CS), a glycosaminoglycan, supports health through various physiological functions, including tissue protection, bone growth, and skin aging prevention. It also contributes to anticoagulant or anti-inflammatory processes, with its primary clinical use being osteoarthritis treatment. This study presents the results of the valorization of lipids and CS, both extracted from salmon co-products through enzymatic processes. The polar lipids, naturally rich in long-chain fatty acids (docosahexaenoic acid DHA C22:6 n-3 and eicosapentaenoic acid EPA C20:5 n-3), and the CS, primarily located in the nasal cartilage, were separated and concentrated before being characterized using various techniques to determine functional and lipid composition. These compounds were then used to formulate liposomes of 63 to 95 nm in size composed of 19.38% of DHA and 7.44% of EPA and encapsulating CS extract with a Δdi-4S/Δdi-6S ratio of 0.53 at 2 weight masses (10–30 kDa and >30 kDa) or CS standard all at two different concentrations. Liposomes were tested on human chondrocytes in inflamed conditions. Thus, compatibility tests, the expression of various inflammation markers at transcriptional and molecular levels, nitrites, and the amount of collagenase produced were analyzed. The results showed that CS, in synergy with the liposomes, played a positive role in combating chondrocyte inflammation even at a low concentration.
Risk Factors and Postoperative Complications of Lobectomy for Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer: An Exploratory Analysis of Premedication and Clinical Variables
Authors: Kepičová Markéta , Tulinský Lubomír , Kondé Adéla , Dzurňáková Paula , Ihnát Peter , Adamica Dávid , Neoral Čestmír , Martínek Lubomír
Published: December 2024

Background and Objectives: Postoperative pneumonia and complications significantly impact outcomes in thoracic surgery, particularly for patients undergoing lobectomy for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). This study evaluates whether preoperative premedication influences the risk of postoperative pneumonia and overall complications. Materials and Methods: This retrospective study included 346 patients who underwent lobectomy for NSCLC at the University Hospital Ostrava between 2015 and 2021. Data on demographic variables, tumour staging, surgical approach, and premedication (anticholinergics, benzodiazepines, antihistamines, and analgesics) were analysed. Postoperative outcomes included pneumonia and complications classified by the modified Clavien–Dindo system. Results: Premedication was not significantly associated with postoperative pneumonia (10.7%) or overall complications (26.0%). Tumour size was the only factor significantly associated with complications, with larger tumours increasing the odds (OR: 1.16, p = 0.032). Other factors, including age, ASA classification, BMI, and surgical approach, did not demonstrate significant associations with postoperative outcomes. Conclusions: Premedication does not appear to significantly influence the risk of postoperative pneumonia or overall complications in patients undergoing lobectomy for NSCLC. Similarly, other clinical variables, such as age, ASA classification, BMI, and surgical approach, also did not show significant associations with these outcomes. These findings suggest that premedication can be individualised without increasing postoperative risks. However, tumour size emerged as a significant factor associated with complications, highlighting the need for careful preoperative assessment and planning, particularly in patients with larger tumours.
Teenage Patients with Class II Subdivision Treated with Aligners and Elastics: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Quinzi Vincenzo , Conigliaro Andrea , Fani Eda , Memè Lucia , Fiasca Fabiana , Carugo Nicolò , Marzo Giuseppe
Published: December 2024

Background and Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the outcomes of Class II subdivision teenage patients treated with Invisalign® clear aligners (CAs) and elastics. Materials and Methods: A total of 23 individuals aged 14.3 ± 2.5 years were enrolled in this study. The participants were divided into Group 1 (mandibular midline deviation) and Group 2 (maxillary midline deviation). The midline deviation from the facial midline; anteroposterior discrepancy; overjet (OJ), overbite (OB), and Peer Assessment Rating (PAR) scores; upper incisor and lower incisor (L1) positions; and angulation were measured at the beginning (T0) and end (T1) of the orthodontic treatment. Results: Group 1 showed significant higher variations in OJ (−2.3 ± 2.3 vs. −0.6 ± 0.8, p < 0.001), OB (−2.1 ± 2.3 vs. −1.1 ± 1.4, p < 0.001), PAR score (−32.0 ± 11.7 vs. −27.3 ± 13.1, p < 0.001), L1-to-mandibular-plane angle (−3.6 ± 7.0 vs. −1.3 ± 3.2, p < 0.001), and interincisal angle (10.07 ± 8.7 vs. 5.9 ± 5.3, p = 0.007). The midline deviation was the only measurement with higher variation in Group 2. The average distance between the mesiobuccal cusp of the maxillary first molar and the buccal groove of the mandibular first molar was 0.3 ± 0.5 mm. Conclusions: A total of 21 patients achieved bilateral Class I (91% success rate) and demonstrated great improvement (72–96%) in PAR scores. Regardless of the etiology of malocclusion, the orthodontic correction of the Class II subdivision with CAs showed high accuracy and predictable results.
Evolution of Stress Rupture Property for K439B Superalloy During Long-Term Thermal Exposure at 800 °C
Authors: Wu Yidong , Qu Xinghai , Gao Lei , Song Chaoqian , Dong Zhao , Chen Jingyang , Hui Xidong
Published: December 2024

The K439B superalloy is widely utilized in aeroengine components due to its superior weldability and mechanical performance. Given that the hot-end components of aeroengines typically operate at high temperatures for extended periods, even up to 10,000 h, it is essential to investigate the stress rupture properties and deformation mechanisms of K439B alloy after prolonged thermal exposure. In this work, thermal exposure at 800 °C for 6000, 8000, and 10,000 h was conducted for the K439B superalloy. Unlike the samples with aging times less than 6000 h, for the samples aged between 6000 and 10,000 h, the stress rupture life at 815 °C/379 MPa decreased slowly, from 47.3 to 39.1 h. Creep cracks typically originate at metal carbides (MC type) and subsequently propagate along grain boundaries. Notably, the creep deformation mechanism shifts under varying aging conditions. After 6000 h of aging, the deformation mechanism is primarily governed by Orowan bypassing and isolated stacking fault shearing. As the aging period increases further, the γ′ precipitates progressively coarsen, and isolated stacking faults become more prevalent, ultimately reducing the creep resistance of the alloy.
Study on the Influence of Au Content and Bonding Parameters on the Free Air Ball Morphology and Bonding Reliability of Ag-Au-Pd Alloy Wire
Authors: Fan Junling , He Fang , Chen Bing , Zhang Junchao , Yang Fan , Cao Jun , Wang Furong
Published: December 2024

This article conducts wire bonding tests and cold/hot-cycle tests using φ 0.025 mm Ag-Au alloy wires and Ag-Au-Pd alloy wires with different specifications. The results show that, due to the addition of the alloying element Pd, under the same bonding parameters, the fracture strength and ball-bonded point shear force of the Ag-Au-Pd alloy wires are significantly higher than those of the Ag-Au alloy wires. After the cold/hot-cycle tests, the failure probability of the Ag-Au-Pd alloy wires is approximately half that of the Ag-Au alloy wires. Among Ag-Au-Pd alloy wires, 92% break at the ideal positions, while 77% of the Ag-Au alloy wires break at the necks. As the Au content increases, the Free Air Ball (FAB) morphology of the Ag-Au-Pd alloy wires becomes more and more regular, gradually transitioning from a pointed ball to an ellipsoid and finally presenting a spherical shape.
Molecular Testing of Zoonotic Bacteria in Cattle, Sheep, and Goat Abortion Cases in Botswana
Authors: Modise-Tlotleng Boitumelo M. , Mpoloka Sununguko W. , Settypalli Tirumala B. K. , Hyera Joseph , Kgotlele Tebogo , Kumile Kago , Sechele Mosarwa E. , Raboloko Obuile O. , Marobela-Raborokgwe Chandapiwa , Viljoen Gerrit J. , Cattoli Giovanni , Lamien Charles E.
Published: December 2024

Abortion is one of the major causes of economic losses in livestock production worldwide. Because several factors can lead to abortion in cattle, sheep and goats, laboratory diagnosis, including the molecular detection of pathogens causing abortion, is often necessary. Bacterial zoonotic diseases such as brucellosis, coxiellosis, leptospirosis, and listeriosis have been implicated in livestock abortion, but they are under diagnosed and under-reported in most developing countries, including Botswana. This study applied a recently developed multiplex high-resolution melting analysis technique, coupled with singleplex qPCR assays, to investigate abortions in livestock in Botswana, using 152 samples from cattle, sheep, and goat abortion cases. Brucella spp. were the most frequent pathogen detected, with an overall frequency of 21.1%, followed by Coxiella burnetii with 19.1%. Listeria monocytogenes and Leptospira spp. were not detected in any of specimens samples investigated. Mixed infections with Brucella spp. and C. burnetii were observed in 35% specimes examined. There was a good agreement between the multiplex qPCR-HRM and singleplex qPCR for detecting Brucella spp. and C. burnetii. This study is the first report on the syndromic testing of abortion-causing pathogens in Botswana. It shows the importance of molecular methods in the differential diagnosis of abortion-causing diseases in domestic ruminants.
Innovative Methodology for Antimicrobial Susceptibility Determination in Mycoplasma Biofilms
Authors: Jacobson B. Tegner , DeWit-Dibbert Jessica , Selong Eli T. , Quirk McKenna , Throolin Michael , Corona Chris , Sonar Sobha , Zanca LaShae , Schwarz Erika R. , Bimczok Diane
Published: December 2024

Mycoplasma spp. are facultative pathogens that contribute to the pathogenesis of multiple bovine diseases, including the bovine respiratory disease complex, and have been shown to form biofilms. Biofilm formation is associated with increased antibiotic resistance in many organisms, but accurate determination of antimicrobial susceptibility in biofilms is challenging. In Mycoplasma spp., antimicrobial susceptibility is routinely determined using metabolic pH-dependent color change. However, biofilm formation can lead to reduced metabolism, making interpretation of metabolic readouts difficult. Therefore, we developed and optimized a new flow cytometry-based method for antimicrobial susceptibility testing in biofilm-forming Mycoplasma, termed the live/dead antimicrobial susceptibility test (LD-AST). The LD-AST measures the proportion of live bacteria upon exposure to antibiotics, works robustly with both planktonic and biofilm cultures, and enables the determination of the minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) for a given antibiotic. We used two strains of Mycoplasma bovis (Donetta PG45 and Madison) and two clinical Mycoplasma bovoculi isolates (MVDL1 and MVDL2) to determine the impact of biofilm growth on antimicrobial susceptibility for gentamicin, enrofloxacin, or tetracycline. All Mycoplasma strains were susceptible to all antibiotics when cultured as planktonic cells, with MBCs in the expected range. However, three out of four strains (Donetta PG45, MVDL1, and MVDL2) were completely resistant to all three antibiotics when newly adhered biofilms were analyzed, whereas M. bovis Madison gave variable results. For mature biofilms that were cultured for 4–5 days before antibiotic exposure, results also were variable, with some strains showing an increased resistance with certain antibiotics and a decreased resistance with others. Overall, these results are consistent with earlier reports that biofilms can exhibit increased antimicrobial resistance.
Evolutionary Ensembles of Artificial Agents for Enhanced Mineralogical Analysis
Authors: Dell’Aversana Paolo
Published: December 2024

This paper presents a novel machine learning framework that applies evolutionary ensembles of artificial agents to mineralogical analysis and classification. The approach is based on hybridization techniques that combine diverse machine learning algorithms, creating large and effective communities of agents. These progressively mute and improve through crossover, hybridization, and selection, addressing the challenges of mineral recognition and classification from thin section images. By combining multiple machine learning techniques, the ensemble of agents autonomously improves by evolving to adapt, enhancing its ability to identify mineral species and classify different types of alterations. We detail the method, provide examples using synthetic and real data, and explore the potential to improve mineralogical analysis workflows through this dynamic, self-improving system.
Reaction of Lactone-Containing Poly(benzofuran-co-arylacetic acid) with Diamines to Cross-Linked Products of Improved Thermal Conductivity
Authors: Nan Alexandrina , Filip Xenia , Liebscher Jürgen
Published: December 2024

The recently developed phenoplast-related polymer, poly(benzofuran-co-arylacetic acid), presents a versatile molecular structure containing lactone and carboxylic acid functionalities that offer significant flexibility in creating cured materials with tailored properties for diverse applications, wherein also the thermal conductivity is an important factor. This study analyses the possibility of forming amide moieties of poly(benzofuran-co-arylacetic acid) with diamines resulting in cross-linked products in order to control its thermal properties. The cross-linking process is achieved by utilizing three distinct diamines, 1,6-diaminohexane, p-xylylenediamine, and 4,7,10-trioxa-1,13-tridecanediamine, each possessing different degrees of polarity, flexibility, and reactivity. The resulting cross-linked zwitterionic poly(benzofuran-co-arylacetic acids) were structurally and morphologically characterized. By means of measuring the thermal conductivity and diffusivity of the materials, the possibility of adjusting the thermal properties of the cross-linked products by choosing appropriate linkers was determined. A case was developed where the thermal conductivity and diffusivity increased with temperature, a hardly found property in the cross-linking of polymers being important for many practical applications.
Prevalence and Outcomes of Orthostatic Hypotension in Hemorrhagic Stroke Patients During Hospitalization
Authors: Tam Pui Kit , Ramamurthy Guhan , Rawat Lavanya , Huang Serene , Lim Jeong Hoon
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: Orthostatic hypotension (OH) is highly prevalent in hospitalized patients and can lead to major consequences. The prevalence of OH among patients with stroke has also been reported to be high in in-patient cohorts. However, no previous analysis has focused exclusively on patients with hemorrhagic stroke, a group that may have a different disease profile, including a greater need for blood pressure control and surgical intervention. This study aims to examine the prevalence of OH, its risk factors, and potential impact in patients who were hospitalized due to hemorrhagic stroke. Methods: A retrospective analysis of in-patient records between 1 January 2021 and 30 April 2023 was conducted for patients with stroke due to intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) or subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) who were referred to rehabilitation at a tertiary hospital in Singapore. OH was defined as a drop in systolic blood pressure of ≥20 mmHg or diastolic blood pressure of ≥10 mmHg during the sit-up test as part of the rehabilitation assessment. Additional data collected included demographic information, length of stay, antihypertensive medications used at the time of assessment, comorbidities, and discharge functional outcomes as measured by a modified Rankin Scale. Results: A total of 77 patients (65 [84.4%] with ICH and 12 [15.6%] with SAH) were included in the analysis. The prevalence of OH was 37.7%. A history of surgical intervention was identified as the major risk factor for the development of OH (odds ratio 4.28, 95% confidence interval 1.37 to 13.35, p = 0.009). There was no difference in hospital length of stay or discharge modified Rankin Scale scores between the two groups. Conclusions: OH was frequently observed among patients with hemorrhagic stroke during the acute/subacute stage and should be monitored, especially in patients who require surgical intervention.
Nutritional Prehabilitation Intervention in Hematological Patients Undergoing Bone Marrow Transplant: A Systematic Review of the Literature
Authors: Falcone Luca , Mancin Stefano , Azzolini Elena , Colotta Francesco , Ferrante Sergio , Pastore Manuela , Morales Palomares Sara , Lopane Diego , Sguanci Marco , Cosmai Simone , Cattani Daniela , Cereda Emanuele , Caccialanza Riccardo , Mazzoleni Beatrice
Published: December 2024

Background: Nutritional interventions play a critical role in bone marrow transplant (BMT) patients. This review evaluates the effectiveness of nutritional strategies in mitigating post-transplant malnutrition and improving clinical outcomes. Methods: A systematic review was conducted using PubMed, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, and Embase. The search terms included “bone marrow transplant”, “malnutrition”, and “preoperative nutritional interventions”. The quality of studies and risk of bias were assessed using the JBI framework, while evidence certainty was evaluated with the Oxford OCEBM. Results: Six studies were included (n = 3545 screened). The studies demonstrated predominantly high methodological quality and a low risk of bias, although heterogeneity in the treatments investigated and small sample sizes limited the evidence. Nutritional interventions significantly increased energy intake (26 vs. 24 kcal/kg/day, p = 0.038) and improved body weight (25% vs. 9%) with protein supplementation. Clinical complications decreased, including severe acute graft-versus-host disease (17.1% vs. 43.4%, p = 0.001) and pneumonia (27.6% vs. 52.7%, p = 0.002). The length of hospital stay (27 vs. 32 days, p = 0.006) and the need for parenteral nutrition (53% vs. 62%, p = 0.03) were also reduced. Overall survival improved with ≥50% adherence to prescribed TGF-beta2 intake (33 vs. 25.1 months, p = 0.03). Conclusions: Nutritional prehabilitation shows promise in improving BMT outcomes. Standardized nutritional programs could optimize care, although limitations in current evidence are clearly present. Larger randomized studies are needed to confirm findings and refine pre-transplant protocols.
The Evolution of Dietary Consumption in the Spanish Adult Population and Its Relationship with Environmental Sustainability
Authors: Álvarez-Álvarez Laura , Rubín-García María , Vitelli-Storelli Facundo , Botella-Juan Lorena , Fernández-Villa Tania , Martín-Sánchez Vicente
Published: December 2024

Background/Objective: The relationship between food consumption and environmental sustainability is becoming increasingly evident. The aim of this study was to estimate the evolution of the environmental impact of food consumption in the Spanish population, assessed in terms of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Methods: Data collected from the Household Budget Survey were included, from approximately 24,000 households for the period of 2006–2023. The environmental impact of diet, in terms of GHG emissions, was estimated from the EAT-Lancet Commission tables, and the adherence to the Mediterranean Diet (MedDiet) was calculated using the Dietary Score index. Results: The environmental impact of the Spanish diet, in terms of GHG, followed a downward trend over the years analysed, from 3978.1 g CO2-eq in 2006 to 3281.4 g CO2-eq in 2023, a decrease of 17.5%. The food groups with the largest decrease in consumption during this period were red meat (from 39.9 kg/year to 35.5 kg/year), fish (from 24.3 kg/year to 19.0 kg/year), and dairy products (from 113.4 kg/year to 99.7 kg/year). The level of adherence to the MedDiet increased slightly from 34 points in 2006 to 35 points in 2023 due to an increase in the amount of vegetables (42.7 kg/year vs. 44.3 kg/year) and grains consumed (53.1 kg/year vs. 72.6 kg/year) and a decrease in fish consumption (24.3 kg/year vs. 19.0 kg/year). Conclusions: In Spain, a reduction in GHG emissions associated with food consumption was observed due to a decrease in the consumption of red meat, fish, dairy products, and fats. National surveys are very useful tools to analyse the impact of food consumption on climate change and to assess the effect of the policies implemented to contain it.
Exploring Nurses’ and Nursing Students’ Attitudes Toward Coercive and Technological Measures in Mental Health: A Conceptual Framework and Study Protocol
Authors: Anastasi Giuliano , Latina Roberto , Longobucco Yari , Stievano Alessandro , Bambi Stefano
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: The use of coercive measures (CMs) and security technologies (STs) in mental healthcare continues to raise ethical and practical concerns, affecting both patient and staff well-being. Mental health nurses (MHNs) and nursing students (NSs) play a key role in the decision-making process regarding these interventions. However, their attitudes, particularly toward STs, remain underexplored in Italy. This study protocol aims to introduce a new conceptual framework and investigate Italian MHNs’ and NSs’ attitudes toward CMs and STs in mental health settings. Additionally, it will explore the influence of sociodemographic and psychological factors, including stress, anxiety, depression, stigma, and humanization on these attitudes. Methods: The research will be conducted in two phases. Phase 1 involves a national survey of a convenience sample of MHNs and NSs to assess their attitudes and related factors. Phase 2 includes qualitative interviews with a purposive sample of MHNs and NSs to explore participants’ perspectives on STs in more depth. Quantitative data will be analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, while qualitative data will be examined through thematic analysis. Conclusions: This study protocol seeks to enhance our understanding of MHNs’ and NSs’ attitudes toward the use of CMs and STs in mental health settings, identifying key factors influencing these attitudes. The findings aim to inform policy development, education programs, and clinical practices in both the Italian and international panoramas. Additionally, the proposed conceptual framework could guide future research in this field.