bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recent Strategies to Improve the Photocatalytic Efficiency of TiO2 for Enhanced Water Splitting to Produce Hydrogen
Authors: Ishaq Tehmeena , Ehsan Zainab , Qayyum Ayesha , Abbas Yasir , Irfan Ali , Al-Hussain Sami A. , Irshad Muhammad Atif , Zaki Magdi E. A.
Published: September 2024

Hydrogen production is one of the best solutions to the growing energy concerns, owing to its clean and sustainable assets. The current review gives an overview of various hydrogen production technologies, highlighting solar water splitting as a promising approach for its sustainable production. Moreover, it gives a detailed mechanism of the water-splitting reaction and describes the significance of titania-based catalysts for solar water splitting. It further highlights diversified strategies to improve the catalytic efficiency of TiO2 for the enhanced hydrogen production. These strategies include the doping of TiO2, dye sensitization, and the addition of co-catalysts. Doping reduces the bandgap by generating new energy levels in TiO2 and encourages visible-light absorption. Sensitization with dyes tunes the electronic states, which in turn broadens the light-absorption capacity of titania. Constructing heterojunctions reduces the charge recombination of TiO2, while co-catalysts increase the number of active sites for an enhanced reaction rate. Thus, every modification strategy has a positive impact on the stability and photocatalytic efficiency of TiO2 for improved water splitting. Lastly, this review provides a comprehensive description and future outlook for developing efficient catalysts to enhance the hydrogen production rate, thereby fulfilling the energy needs of the industrial sector.
Potential Performance of Two New RT-PCR and RT-qPCR Methods for Multiplex Detection of Dengue Virus Serotypes 1–4 and Chikungunya Virus in Mosquitoes
Authors: Gomgnimbou Michel Kiréopori , Belem Louis Robert Wendyam , Bilgo Etienne , Amara Miriam Félicité , Laouali Zouera , Ouari Ali , Bayala Toussaint , Gnada Kobo , Yao Raymond Kharlis , Namountougou Moussa , Sangaré Ibrahim
Published: September 2024

Mosquitoes of the genus Aedes are the most important arthropod disease vector. Dengue virus (DENV) and Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) are the main arboviruses distributed throughout the world. Based on entomo-virological surveillance, appropriate public health strategies can be adopted to contain cases and control outbreaks. This study aims to show the potential performance of two new molecular methods for detecting DENV serotypes and CHIKV in mosquitoes. Mosquitoes were collected in urban and sylvatic areas of Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso, between July and August 2023. DENV and CHIKV were screened using new multiplex RT-PCR and RT-qPCR methods. A total of 2150 mosquitoes were trapped, consisting of 976 Aedes (959 Ae. aegypti, 6 Ae. furcifer, and 11 Ae. vittatus) and 1174 Culex sp. These were grouped into 39 pools, with each pool containing a maximum of 30 mosquitoes. Molecular screening revealed that 7.7% (3/39) of the pools were positive for DENV. Specifically, DENV-1 was detected in one pool (1/3), and DENV-3 was found in two pools (2/3). All pools tested negative for CHIKV. The overall minimum infection rate (MIR) of DENV in this study was 3.07 (95% CI: 2.24–19.86). This study shows the usefulness of our new molecular tools for the surveillance of DENV serotypes and CHIKV.
Chitosan and Its Derivatives as a Barrier Anti-Corrosive Coating of 304 Stainless Steel against Corrosion in 3.5% Sodium Chloride Solution
Authors: Aguilar-Ruiz Ana Alejandra , Sánchez-Duarte Reyna Guadalupe , Orozco-Carmona Víctor Manuel , Devora-Isiordia Germán Eduardo , Villegas-Peralta Yedidia , Álvarez-Sánchez Jesús
Published: September 2024

This study investigates the corrosion resistance of chitosan and its crosslinked form coatings applied on stainless steel as substrate using various analytical techniques. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR-ATR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) were employed for surface characterization. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and potentiodynamic polarization (PDP) techniques were used to analyze the electrochemical behavior. Four coatings were evaluated along with naked stainless steel (ss): chitosan (Chi), chitosan crosslinked with ammonium paratungstate (Chi/PTA), chitosan crosslinked with polyethylene glycol (Chi/PEG), and chitosan crosslinked with polyvinylpyrrolidone (Chi/PVP). Electrochemical measurement parameters analysis assessed the coating corrosion resistance, such as impedance modulus (|Z|) and corrosion potential (Ecorr). Results indicate varying degrees of corrosion resistance among the coatings. Chi/PTA exhibited notable characteristics in the electrochemical tests, showing promising polarization resistance (Rp) and impedance behavior trends. Conversely, Chi/PEG showed differing electrochemical responses, suggesting higher susceptibility to corrosion under the study conditions. These findings contribute to understanding the electrochemical performance of chitosan-based coatings on stainless steel, highlighting their potential in corrosion protection applications.
Fabrication of Textured 0.685(Na0.5Bi0.5)TiO3-0.065BaTiO3-0.25SrTiO3 Electrostrictive Ceramics by Templated Grain Growth Using NaNbO3 Templates and Characterization of Their Electrical Properties
Authors: Andleeb Kiran , Trung Doan Thanh , Fisher John G. , Tran Tran Thi Huyen , Lee Jong-Sook , Choi Woo-Jin , Jo Wook
Published: September 2024

Electrostrictive materials based on (Na0.5Bi0.5)TiO3 are promising lead-free candidates for high-precision actuation applications, yet their properties require further improvement. This study aims to enhance the electromechanical properties of a predominantly electrostrictive composition, 0.685(Na0.5Bi0.5)TiO3-0.065BaTiO3-0.25SrTiO3, by using templated grain growth. Textured ceramics were prepared with 1~9 wt% NaNbO3 templates. A high Lotgering factor of 95% was achieved with 3 wt% templates and sintering at 1200 °C for 12 h. Polarization and strain hysteresis loops confirmed the ergodic nature of the system at room temperature, with unipolar strain significantly improving from 0.09% for untextured ceramics to 0.23% post-texturing. A maximum normalized strain, Smax/Emax (d33*), of 581 pm/V was achieved at an electric field of 4 kV/mm for textured ceramics. Textured ceramics also showed enhanced performance over untextured ceramics at lower electric fields. The electrostrictive coefficient Q33 increased from 0.017 m4C−2 for untextured ceramics to 0.043 m4C−2 for textured ceramics, accompanied by reduced strain hysteresis, making the textured 0.685(Na0.5Bi0.5)TiO3-0.065BaTiO3-0.25SrTiO3 composition suitable for high-precision actuation applications. Dielectric properties measured between −193 °C and 550 °C distinguished the depolarization, Curie–Weiss and Burns temperatures, and activation energies for polar nanoregion transitions and dc conduction. Dispersive dielectric constants were found to observe the “two” law exhibiting a temperature dependence double the value of the Curie–Weiss constant, with shifts of about 10 °C per frequency decade where the non-dispersive THz limit was identified.
Simplifying Serious Illness Communication: Preparing or Deciding
Authors: Myers Jeff , Steinberg Leah , Incardona Nadia , Simon Jessica , Sanders Justin , Seow Hsien
Published: September 2024

Clinicians have a sincere desire to ensure that the decision-making processes of seriously ill patients are well informed throughout illness trajectories. A quagmire of variable terminology (e.g., advance care planning, serious illness conversations, goals-of-care discussions, etc.), however, currently predominates the field of serious illness communication. This creates uncertainty among clinicians as to the overall purpose, tasks, and specific outcomes of conversations that address serious illness. The Preparing or Deciding model is a unifying framework that provides conceptual clarity by helping clinicians understand their role in leading these important conversations. The Preparing or Deciding model simply posits that conversations with seriously ill patients are about either preparing or deciding. It considers these tasks to be mutually exclusive, which can help bypass many of the barriers to having these conversations. The Preparing or Deciding model compliments all existing resources and frameworks and is applicable to all healthcare practitioners in every care setting. To help move forward serious illness communication education and research, as well as process improvement efforts more effectively, here, we describe the Preparing or Deciding model.
Progress and Challenges in Canada’s Path Toward the Elimination of Cervical Cancer
Authors: Perez Samara
Published: September 2024

Cervical cancer is almost entirely preventable and treatable when detected early, making its elimination within reach for Canada and the world. However, cervical cancer is now the fastest-increasing cancer (+3.7% per year since 2015) in Canada as of 2023, marking the first significant increase in cervical cancer incidence since 1984. The human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine and cervical screening are key preventive measures, with targets set by the WHO and the Canadian Partnership Against Cancer (CPAC) to eliminate cervical cancer in Canada by 2030 and 2040, respectively. These targets include increasing HPV vaccination rates, implementing primary HPV screening, and improving follow-up for abnormal HPV+ results. However, Canada’s progress has been impeded by significant challenges. As of the most recent data, HPV vaccine coverage rates in Canada range from 47% to 81%, with an estimated national HPV vaccination completion rate of 64% in Canada, far below the target of 90% by 2025 set by the CPAC. With the exception of British Columbia and Prince Edward Island, the adoption of HPV DNA testing as the primary screening method has been slow across the Canadian provinces and territories despite its superior sensitivity compared with traditional cytology. This article reviews the current state of HPV vaccination and screening in Canada, emphasizing the need for coordinated efforts, transparency, and resource sharing to overcome barriers. Key recommendations include the dissemination of accessible educational materials, partnerships, and collaboration, including nationwide task forces and roundtables, and the implementation of standardized guidelines for HPV screening. Achieving cervical cancer elimination requires a united approach involving federal, provincial, and territorial health authorities, researchers, clinicians, NGOs, community groups, and patients’ voices working together to ensure consistent, effective, timely, and meaningful cervical cancer prevention strategies are used across the country.
Prognostic Index for Liver Radiation (PILiR)
Authors: Callan Laura , Razeghi Haddis , Grindrod Natalie , Gaede Stewart , Wong Eugene , Tan David , Vickress Jason , Patrick John , Lock Michael
Published: September 2024

A Prognostic Index for Liver Radiation (PILiR) for improved patient selection for stereotactic liver-directed radiotherapy (SBRT) was developed. Using a large single-center database, 195 patients treated with SBRT for local control, including 66 with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and 129 with metastatic liver disease, were analyzed. Only patients ineligible for alternative treatments were included. Overall survival was 11.9 months and 9.4 months in the HCC group and metastatic groups, respectively. In the combined dataset, Child–Pugh Score (CPS) (p = 0.002), serum albumin (p = 0.039), and presence of extrahepatic disease (p = 0.012) were significant predictors of early death on multivariable analysis and were included in the PILiR (total score 0 to 5). Median survival was 23.8, 9.1, 4.5, and 2.6 months for patients with 0, 1–2, 3, and 4–5 points, respectively. In the HCC dataset, CPS (p < 0.001) and gross tumor volume (p = 0.013) were predictive of early death. In the metastatic dataset, serum albumin (p < 0.001) and primary disease site (p = 0.003) were predictive of early death. The AUC for the combined, HCC, and metastatic datasets are 0.78, 0.84, and 0.80, respectively. Poor liver function (defined by CPS and serum albumin) and extrahepatic disease were most predictive of early death, providing clinically important expected survival information for patients and caregivers.
The Experience of Patients with Endocrine Therapy for Breast Cancer: A Patient Journey Map Based on Qualitative Research
Authors: Yao Yingyan , He Ting , Tian Xiaoying
Published: September 2024

(1) Background: While there is extensive documentation on the medical experience of breast cancer, a thorough understanding of the various stages of endocrine therapy remains insufficient. The aim of this study was to map the experiences and coping styles of breast cancer patients during endocrine therapy. (2) Methods: Qualitative research was conducted to gather insights into the experiences of breast cancer patients undergoing endocrine therapy. The themes were organized through content analysis and induction. Subsequently, patients were invited for face-to-face interviews at a top-three hospital in Guangzhou to supplement and validate the findings from the literature review. The patient journey was then mapped based on both the literature review and the semi-structured interviews. (3) Results: A total of 24 studies were included that described patients’ experiences and behaviors during the early, middle, and late stages of treatment, leading to the formation of a preliminary framework. Interviews were conducted with 20 patients, which confirmed and enriched the findings from the literature review. Based on these results, a stage trajectory for endocrine therapy in breast cancer was established. (4) Conclusions: The patient journey map developed in this study clearly and intuitively illustrates the thought and emotion matrix, as well as the behavior matrix, of breast cancer patients undergoing endocrine therapy. This provides a theoretical foundation for enhancing clinical services tailored to the needs of these patients.
A Systematic Evaluation of Design Freedoms and Restrictions of Lattice Structures Used as Interlock Bonds
Authors: Freund Raphael , Hilbig Karl , Vietor Thomas
Published: September 2024

Additive manufacturing provides new possibilities in product design compared to traditional manufacturing processes. Particularly additive material extrusion offers the freedom to combine multiple materials in a single component without additional steps. However, combining multiple materials often leads to reduced adhesion, which can hinder the creation of high-strength designs. This issue can be largely mitigated using the geometric freedom of additive manufacturing to produce interlocking structures. This publication investigates the use of lattice structures as interlocking bonds in multi-material applications. The aim is to aid the design of suitable lattice structures by collecting geometric freedoms of lattices, application requirements, and manufacturing constraints, for this information to be used in suitable designs in the future. Initially, the general design freedoms of lattice structures are compiled and explained. Subsequently, these design freedoms are narrowed down based on the specific requirements for interlocking bonds and the limitations imposed by geometry and material combinations during manufacturing. The publication concludes with design recommendations that can be used as the basis for interlock bonds. Suitable lattice designs should aim for high interconnectivity, interconnected porosity, and a high number of similar strut structures, all the while maintaining low dimensions in the interface direction.
Comparative Analysis of Topology Optimization Platforms for Additive Manufacturing of Robot Arms
Authors: Curkovic Petar
Published: September 2024

Recently, CAD environments have integrated topology optimization (TO) tools, enabling rapid development and manufacturing of parts with optimized mechanical properties. However, different CAD platforms incorporate TO differently, making a comparative analysis necessary. This study aims to systematically compare the efficiency, material usage, and design quality of five commonly used CAD/TO platforms when applied to the topology optimization of a six degrees of freedom robotic arm. The objective is to identify the key differences in how these platforms influence the final design and manufacturing outcomes. Practical validation of results is provided by printing and assembling optimized components into a fully functional robotic arm. Our findings indicate differences in optimization efficiency, material usage, and print time between analyzed platforms. Strengths and weaknesses of each platform are indicated and recommendations for optimization parameters are provided.
The Impact of Positive Peritoneal Cytology on the Survival of Endometrial Cancer Patients
Authors: Feguš Anže , Sagaj Tea Sara , Fokter Dovnik Nina , Pakiž Maja , Dovnik Andraž
Published: September 2024

Background: Since the revision of the FIGO staging of endometrial cancer in 2009, patients with positive peritoneal cytology are no longer upstaged to stage IIIA. However, several studies demonstrated poorer outcomes in patients with positive washings. We conducted a survival analysis with the aim of evaluating the impact of positive peritoneal cytology on the survival of EC patients. Methods: We performed a retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data on patients with endometrial cancer operated in our institution between 2008 and 2014. We analysed the impact of positive peritoneal cytology and other established prognostic factors on survival. Results: A total of 227 patients with a median follow-up of 6.9 years were included in the study. A total of 12.8% had positive peritoneal cytology. Positive peritoneal cytology was significantly associated with worse overall survival (HR 1.82; 95% CI 1.02–3.26; p 0.043) but not with worse recurrence-free survival (HR 1.64; 95% CI 0.92–2.93; p 0.091) in univariate analyses. In addition, tumour stage, histologic subtype, lymphovascular space invasion, grade, and the depth of myometrial invasion were all significant prognostic factors for overall survival in univariate analyses. In multivariate survival analysis, only the histologic subtype, tumour stage, and myometrial invasion remained in the model at the last step. Conclusions: Positive peritoneal cytology was associated with worse overall survival in our series of endometrial cancer patients. However, other traditional prognostic factors had a more important prognostic role for survival in a multivariate model.
A Comparative Study of the Aggregate Index of Systemic Inflammation (AISI) and C-Reactive Protein (CRP) in Predicting Odontogenic Abscesses Severity: A Novel Approach to Assessing Immunoinflammatory Response
Authors: Tarle Marko , Raguž Marina , Lukšić Ivica
Published: September 2024

Background/Objectives: Odontogenic abscesses are a common cause of emergency visits to oral and maxillofacial surgery departments and can lead to life-threatening complications if they are not recognized and treated promptly. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prognostic value of the Aggregate Index of Systemic Inflammation (AISI) in comparison to other systemic inflammatory indices, including the Systemic Immune Inflammation Index (SII), the Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio (NLR), the Platelet-to-Lymphocyte Ratio (PLR), and the Lymphocyte-to-Monocyte Ratio (LMR), in predicting the severity of odontogenic abscesses. Methods: This retrospective study included 221 patients hospitalized for odontogenic abscesses at Dubrava University Hospital between January 2019 and December 2023. Clinical and laboratory data, including AISI, SII, NLR, PLR, and LMR, were collected. The severity of the abscesses was assessed using the Symptom Severity (SS) Score and patients were categorized into less severe and severe groups based on their scores. An ROC curve analysis was used to assess the predictive accuracy of each inflammatory index. Results: The AISI was identified as the most effective predictor of abscess severity and had the highest sensitivity (SE = 82.93) and specificity (SP = 81.63) among the indices analyzed. It outperformed C-reactive protein (CRP) in predicting severe abscesses with an AUC of 0.90 compared to 0.74 for CRP. In addition, AISI showed significant correlations with length of hospital stay and the occurrence of systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS). Conclusions: The AISI index is a better predictor of odontogenic abscess severity compared to other systemic inflammatory markers and CRP. Its integration into clinical practice could improve the early detection of high-risk patients, leading to better treatment outcomes and lower risks of complications.
Pancreatic Metastases of Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Bara Tivadar , Scurtu Alexandra Georgiana , Bara Tivadar , Fulop Zsolt Zoltan , Moriczi Renata , Simu Patricia , Borz Paul , Gurzu Simona
Published: September 2024

Esophageal carcinoma is an aggressive cancer with a poor therapeutic response and a significant risk of recurrence after radical resection. It usually metastasizes to the lung, bones, or liver. Unusual spread can be found in other organs, but only nine cases of pancreatic metastases have been reported in the Medline database. In the present paper, a literature review of nine cases with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma and pancreatic metastasis was carried out. In addition to these cases, we present our case, the tenth case in the literature. It involved a patient who underwent surgery for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma and developed metachronous pancreatic metastasis 67 months after esophagectomy. Histopathological examination confirmed a squamous cell carcinoma metastasis. Conclusions: Pancreatic metastasis of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma is extremely rare. Pancreatic metastasis may develop several years after the treatment of the primary lesion. The diagnosis of metastasis is difficult, requiring histopathological and immunohistochemical examination.
Symptomatic Pneumorrhachis from Bronchial-Subarachnoid Fistula
Authors: Lipinski Alexander W. , Smith Mathew V. , Wannamaker Eric J. , Timpone Vincent M.
Published: September 2024

Bronchial-subarachnoid fistulas are rare occurrences, which are not well defined in the literature. This uncommon clinical phenomenon may result in symptomatic pneumorrhachis and presents unique clinical challenges. This report details a case of a 53-year-old female whose treatment for recurrent chondrosarcoma of the thoracic spine included multiple surgeries and radiotherapy. Two weeks after her most recent debulking surgery, she experienced a rapid onset of unusual symptoms, including headache, back and neck spasms, bladder incontinence, and confusion. The source of her symptoms was found to be secondary to pneumorrhachis from a pre-existing bronchial-pleural fistula that had fistulized to the subarachnoid space discovered on computed tomography (CT) and confirmed intraoperatively. The patient was treated successfully with high-flow oxygen therapy and bed rest, followed by surgical correction of both a pleural air leak and a dural defect with muscular flaps. The patient was discharged home in stable condition and remained clinically free of recurrent bronchial-subarachnoid fistula six months after surgical repair. This case contributes to the existing literature by providing detailed clinical insights into the diagnosis and successful management of a bronchial-subarachnoid fistula leading to pneumorrhachis, thereby highlighting the importance of early recognition and intervention and underscoring the need for further research in this area.
Left Ventricular Diastolic Dysfunction Predicts Global Longitudinal Strain Recovery after Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement
Authors: Bonanni Francesca , Caciolli Sabina , Berteotti Martina , Grasso Granchietti Andrea , Tozzetti Valentina , Cenni Noemi , Servoli Chiara , Bandini Marta , Marchi Enrico , Del Pace Stefano , Stefano Pierluigi , Marchionni Niccolò
Published: September 2024

Background and Objectives: In patients with severe aortic stenosis (AS), left ventricular systolic dysfunction is one of the main predictors of adverse events after surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR). However, more patients undergo surgery earlier, often with preserved systolic function. In these cases, global longitudinal strain (GLS) has been proposed as a marker of ventricular remodeling post-surgery. This study aims to evaluate GLS variation in patients undergoing SAVR and explore differences across the diastolic dysfunction classes. Methods: From June 2020 to March 2023, patients with AS and preserved ejection fraction (EF) requiring SAVR were enrolled. Echocardiographic evaluations were conducted preoperatively, seven days post-surgery, and twelve months after surgery. Patients were divided into two groups based on the severity of diastolic dysfunction: Group A (grade I) and Group B (grades II–III). Results: The final analysis included 108 patients (mean age 71.3 ± 7.2 years). Twenty-two patients (20.4%) also underwent coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). The preoperative EF averaged 61.6 ± 6.03%, with no significant differences between groups. Preoperative GLS was 16 ± 4.3%, decreasing to 12.8 ± 3.4% postoperatively (p < 0.0001). GLS was comparable between the groups preoperatively (p = 0.185) and postoperatively (0.854). After twelve months, GLS improved in both groups (Group A: 17.7 ± 3.4%, Group B: 15.7 ± 3.2%, p < 0.0001), but only Group A showed significant improvement from preoperative values (p = 0.018). SAVR improved GLS regardless of CABG intervention. Conclusions: SAVR in patients with preserved LVEF results in an early reduction in GLS, regardless of diastolic dysfunction. After twelve months, GLS improved significantly, with significant recovery only in patients with mild dysfunction.
Adnexal Masses in Pregnancy: A Single-Centre Prospective Observational Cohort Study
Authors: Gaughran Jonathan , Magee Catherine , Mitchell Sian , Knight Caroline L. , Sayasneh Ahmad
Published: September 2024

Objective: To prospectively determine the nature of adnexal masses diagnosed during pregnancy and investigate whether ultrasound was a reliable means of assessing these. Methods: A single-centre prospective observational cohort study was conducted in a large tertiary referral hospital in London. Pregnant women with an adnexal mass detected at or prior to the 12-week routine ultrasound received a detailed ultrasound by a level II ultrasound practitioner at the time of detection; at 12 weeks; 20 weeks; and 6 weeks postpartum. The following outcomes were recorded: subjective impression of the mass; International Ovarian Tumor Analysis simple rules classification; resolution and intervention rate; and the incidence of complications related to the mass. Results: A total of 28,683 pregnant patients were scanned and an adnexal masses was detected in 277 patients, yielding an incidence of 1%. 274 participants were included in the analysis. Subjective impression was as follows: simple 75.9%; dermoid 29.1%; endometrioma 6.6%; haemorrhagic 3.3%; para-ovarian 2.6%; torted simple 0.7%; decidualized endometrioma 0.4%; fibroma 0.4%; theca luteal 0.4%; and borderline ovarian tumour: 0.7%. There was a significant reduction in the volume at each scan (p < 0.0001). Approximately 74.2% of the masses resolved spontaneously. Surgery was performed in 14/274: 2 antenatally, 6 at caesarean section, and 6 postpartum. In 5/247 (2%), there were complications due to the mass. Using IOTA simple rules, 272/274 (99.3%) (p < 0.0001) were classifiable. Only 1/274 (0.4%) had malignant features as per IOTA (p = 0.05). As there were no confirmed malignancies, the accuracy of IOTA simple rules could not be calculated. Conclusions: Adnexal masses in pregnancy are uncommon and the majority spontaneously resolve. Malignancy is rare, as are complications. In the absence of concerns regarding malignancy or cyst accident, there is no need for additional monitoring of these masses during pregnancy.
Array Comparative Genomic Hybridization (aCGH) Results among Patients Referred to Invasive Prenatal Testing after First-Trimester Screening: A Comprehensive Cohort Study
Authors: Wójtowicz Anna , Kowalczyk Katarzyna , Szewczyk Katarzyna , Madetko-Talowska Anna , Wójtowicz Wojciech , Huras Hubert , Bik-Multanowski Mirosław , Beata Nowakowska
Published: September 2024

Introduction: Invasive prenatal testing with chromosomal microarray analysis after first-trimester screening is a relevant option but there is still debate regarding the indications. Therefore, we evaluated the prevalence of numerical chromosomal aberrations detected by classic karyotype and clinically relevant copy number variants (CNVs) in prenatal samples using array comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH) stratified to NT thickness: 4.5 mm, and by the presence/absence of associated structural anomalies detected by ultrasonography. Materials and Methods: Retrospective cohort study carried out at two tertiary Polish centers for prenatal diagnosis (national healthcare system) in central and south regions from January 2018 to December 2021. A total of 1746 prenatal samples were received. Indications for invasive prenatal testing included high risk of Down syndrome in the first-trimester combined test (n = 1484) and advanced maternal age (n = 69), and, in 193 cases, other reasons, such as parental request, family history of congenital defects, and genetic mutation carrier, were given. DNA was extracted directly from amniotic fluid (n = 1582) cells and chorionic villus samples (n = 164), and examined with classic karyotype and aCGH. Results: Of the entire cohort of 1746 fetuses, classical karyotype revealed numerical chromosomal aberrations in 334 fetuses (19.1%), and aCGH detected CNV in 5% (n = 87). The frequency of numerical chromosomal aberrations increased with NT thickness from 5.9% for fetuses with NT < p95th to 43.3% for those with NT > 4.5 mm. The highest rate of numerical aberrations was observed in fetuses with NT > 4.5 mm having at least one structural anomaly (50.2%). CNVs stratified by NT thickness were detected in 2.9%, 2.9%, 3.5%, 4.3%, 12.2%, and 9.0% of fetuses with NT < 95th percentile, 95th percentile–2.9 mm, 3.0–3.4 mm, 3.5–3.9 mm, 4.0–4.5 mm, and >4.5 mm, respectively. After exclusion of fetuses with structural anomalies and numerical aberrations, aCGH revealed CNVs in 2.0% of fetuses with NT < 95th percentile, 1.5% with NTp95–2.9 mm, 1.3% with NT 3.0–3.4 mm, 5.4% with NT 3.5–3.9 mm, 19.0% with NT 4.0–4.5 mm, and 14.8% with NT > 4.5 mm. Conclusions: In conclusion, our study indicates that performing aCGH in samples referred to invasive prenatal testing after first-trimester screening provides additional clinically valuable information over conventional karyotyping, even in cases with normal NT and anatomy.
Coupling Dynamics Study on Multi-Body Separation Process of Underwater Vehicles
Authors: Chen Jiahui , Han Yanhua , Li Ruofan , Zhang Yong , He Zhenmin
Published: September 2024

Based on the Newton-Euler method, a coupling rigid-body dynamics model of a Trans-Medium Vehicle (TMV) separating from an Unmanned Underwater Vehicle (UUV) has been established. The modeling is based on the “holistic method” and “Kane” ideas respectively, so that most of the equations can be derived without considering the internal forces between the two bodies. The separation propulsion force, which is an internal force, only appears in the relative glide dynamics equation of the TMV along the axis of the separation tube that is installed on the UUV. This greatly reduces the workload of modeling and derivation. The UUV works entirely underwater, while the hydrodynamic shape of the TMV changes continuously during the process of the TMV separating from the UUV. Therefore, accurate hydrodynamic calculations for the UUV and TMV are the basis of numerical resolution for the two rigid bodies’ coupling dynamics model in water. A large number of numerical simulations was conducted using CFD methods to investigate the hydrodynamic performance of the UUV and TMV under various conditions. These simulations aim to establish a hydrodynamic database, and accurate hydrodynamic models were developed through fitting methods and online interpolation. In the process of solving the coupling dynamics of two bodies, the hydrodynamic model is used to calculate the hydrodynamic force experienced by the UUV and TMV. This balances the accuracy and efficiency of a numerical simulation. Finally, numerous simulations and comparative analyses were conducted under various operational conditions and separation parameters. The simulation results indicate that the impact of TMV separation on the motion state of the UUV becomes more prominent with smaller UUV to TMV mass ratios or deeper TMV separation depths. This effect can further influence the stability control of the UUV. The coupling rigid body dynamics analysis method established in this paper provides a fast and effective prediction method for use during the scheme design and separation safety evaluation phases of creating UUV-TMV systems.
Granular Bait Applications for Management of Rangeland Grasshoppers Using a Remotely Piloted Aerial Application System
Authors: Rodriguez Roberto , Woller Derek A. , Martin Daniel E. , Reuter K. Chris , Black Lonnie R. , Latheef Mohamed A. , Colón Kiara M. López , Taylor Mason
Published: September 2024

Rangeland grasshoppers are an endemic species that play an essential role in the rangeland ecosystem but can cause severe economic damage when populations reach outbreak levels. Remotely piloted aerial application systems (RPAASs) offer an alternative method to carry out aerial insecticide applications in relatively small areas. The objective of this study was to investigate the efficacy of a granular bait, 2% Sevin (with the active ingredient carbaryl), applied by an RPAAS. The bait was applied on four replicated 4.05-hectare (10-acre) plots at a rate of 2.27 kg/ha (5 lbs/acre) with an RPAAS on a private ranch in New Mexico. Applications resulted in a normalized population reduction of 70.32% ± 16.54% standard error of the mean (SEM) of bait-susceptible species. Although some of the observed reduction in population may be attributed to aging, the net effect was most likely due to the ingestion of bait based on field observations of rapid mortality after ingestion and other factors, like past experience with carbaryl bait treatments on grasshoppers. Plots required at least two flights due to the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) maximum takeoff weight requirement for small RPAASs. Combined, these results indicate that RPAASs can provide treatment capabilities in relatively small areas, i.e., population hotspots, preferably before outbreak levels are reached.
The Challenge to Change: Leading Schools beyond COVID-19
Authors: Townsend Tony
Published: September 2024

This paper considers the articles presented in this Special Issue and argues that, in most developed education systems in Western countries, there have been four major shifts in how school education is understood and delivered over the course of human history, from a time when only the wealthy and privileged received an education to the present day. It tracks changes in school leadership since the 1980s, when a combination of efforts to improve the effectiveness of schools and efforts to decentralise schools led to self-managing schools and changed responsibilities for school leaders. It reflects on whether the recent impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on school communities may lead to a fifth major shift in school education. This article discusses four different school leadership approaches that have emerged in Western education since the 1980s, instructional leadership, transformational leadership, distributed leadership, and leadership for learning, and argues that of these four, leadership for learning would be the most appropriate leadership approach in a post-COVID-19 future.
Enhancing Recommendation Diversity and Novelty with Bi-LSTM and Mean Shift Clustering
Authors: Yuan Yuan , Zhou Yuying , Chen Xuanyou , Xiong Qi , Okere Hector Chimeremeze
Published: September 2024

In the digital age, personalized recommendation systems have become crucial for information dissemination and user experience. While traditional systems focus on accuracy, they often overlook diversity, novelty, and serendipity. This study introduces an innovative recommendation system model, Time-based Outlier Aware Recommender (TOAR), designed to address the challenges of content homogenization and information bubbles in personalized recommendations. TOAR integrates Neural Matrix Factorization (NeuMF), Bidirectional Long Short-Term Memory Networks (Bi-LSTM), and Mean Shift clustering to enhance recommendation accuracy, novelty, and diversity. The model analyzes temporal dynamics of user behavior and facilitates cross-domain knowledge exchange through feature sharing and transfer learning mechanisms. By incorporating an attention mechanism and unsupervised clustering, TOAR effectively captures important time-series information and ensures recommendation diversity. Experimental results on a news recommendation dataset demonstrate TOAR’s superior performance across multiple metrics, including AUC, precision, NDCG, and novelty, compared to traditional and deep learning-based recommendation models. This research provides a foundation for developing more intelligent and personalized recommendation services that balance accuracy with content diversity.
Start-Up and Steady-State Regimes Automatic Separation in Induction Motors by Means of Short-Time Statistics
Authors: Cureño-Osornio Jonathan , Alvarez-Ugalde Carlos A. , Zamudio-Ramirez Israel , Osornio-Rios Roque A. , Dunai Larisa , Turcanu Dinu , Antonino-Daviu Jose A.
Published: September 2024

Induction motors are widely used machines in a variety of applications as primary components for generating rotary motion. This is mainly due to their high efficiency, robustness, and ease of control. Despite their high robustness, these machines can experience failures throughout their lifespan due to various mechanical, electrical, and environmental factors. To prevent irreversible failures and all the implications and costs associated with breakdowns, various methodologies have been developed over the years. Many of these methodologies have focused on analyzing various physical quantities, either during start-up transients or during steady-state operations. This involves the use of specific techniques depending on the focus of the methodology (start-up transients or steady-state) to obtain optimal results. In this regard, it is of great importance to develop methods capable of separating and detecting the start-up transient of the motor from the steady state. This will enable the development of automatic diagnostic methodologies focused on the specific operating state of the motor. This paper proposes a methodology for the automatic detection of start-up transients in induction motors by using magnetic stray flux signals and processing by means of statistical indicators in time-sliding windows, the calculation of variances with a proposed method, and obtaining optimal values for the design parameters by using a Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO). The results obtained demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method for the start-up and steady-state regimes automatic separation, which is validated on a 0.746 kW induction motor supplied by a variable frequency drive (VFD).
Research on Multiple AUVs Task Allocation with Energy Constraints in Underwater Search Environment
Authors: Wang Hailin , Li Yiping , Li Shuo , Xu Gaopeng
Published: September 2024

The allocation of tasks among multiple Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs) with energy constraints in underwater environments presents an NP-complete problem with far-reaching consequences for marine exploration, environmental monitoring, and underwater construction. This paper critically examines the contemporary methodologies and technologies in the task allocation for multiple AUVs, with a particular focus on strategies that optimize navigation time with energy consumption constraints. By conceptualizing the multiple AUVs task allocation issue as a Capacitated Vehicle Routing Problem (CVRP) and addressing it using the SCIP solver, this study seeks to identify effective task allocation strategies that enhance the operational efficiency and minimize the mission duration in energy-restricted underwater settings. The findings of this research provide valuable insights into efficient task allocation under energy constraints, providing useful theoretical implications and practical guidance for optimizing task planning and energy management in multiple AUVs systems. These contributions are demonstrated through the improved solution quality and computational efficiency.
Design of Stabilizing Network for Capacitive Power Transfer Transmitter Operating at Maximum Power Transfer Limiting the Voltage Gain in Resonant Capacitors
Authors: Estevez-Encarnacion Eduardo Salvador , Hernandez-Gonzalez Leobardo , Ramirez-Hernandez Jazmin , Juarez-Sandoval Oswaldo Ulises , Guevara-Lopez Pedro , Avalos Arzate Guillermo
Published: September 2024

Capacitive power transfer (CPT) is a technology that is emerging as an alternative to inductive power transfer (IPT) in applications requiring low to medium power. A great interest has been developed in the implementation of CPT systems in battery charging systems, where a condition to compete with IPT systems is the need to increase the power transfer in the CPT systems without significant losses. This paper puts forth a design methodology for a stabilizing network, which has been applied to a CPT system. This methodology has been developed through impedance analysis of the circuit, in order to achieve maximum power transfer, with total gains of voltage and current reaching a value close to unity. The methodology allows for the calculation of the value of the components of the stabilizing network, which has been designed with the objective of stabilizing the resonant frequency against changes in the capacitance of the transmission plates. To validate the design procedure, an experimental prototype was developed at 25 W and an operational frequency of 1.55 MHz. The results obtained validate the design methodology.
Research on Hybrid Approach for Maximum Power Point Tracking of Photovoltaic Systems under Various Operating Conditions
Authors: Liu Tan , Liu Sisi , Yu Hexu , Wu Zhiyi , Tong Jiaqi , Yuan Qingyun
Published: September 2024

Based on the characteristics of the whale optimization algorithm (WOA) and perturbation observation (P&O) method, this paper proposes a novel hybrid approach called the improved chaotic whale optimization combined with perturb and observe (ICWOA-P&O) method for maximum power point tracking (MPPT) control to solve the challenge of low efficiency in photovoltaic (PV) power generation under local shadows. First, the ICWOA is used for a global search to quickly locate the position of the maximum power point (MPP). Then, the P&O method is used for a fine-grained local search to quickly track the position of the global maximum power point (GMPP) with low oscillation. To ensure accuracy, the tracking performance of the ICWOA-P&O method is comprehensively compared with the WOA-P&O, WOA, and PSO models under four conditions: uniform irradiance, static local shading, dynamic shading, and sudden changes in irradiance and temperature. The simulation results verify that under the above four conditions, the ICWOA-P&O method can track the MPP continuously and stably and greatly improves the convergence time and accuracy. Compared with the other three methods, the ICWOA-P&O method can effectively obtain the fastest tracking speed (less than 0.1 s), the highest tracking accuracy (more than 99.97%), the smallest relative error (less than 0.03%), and the smallest oscillation fluctuation. Finally, this study integrated the ICWOA-P&O algorithm into the designed MPPT controller hardware and established a practical PV experimental platform based on the ICWOA-P&O control algorithm for practical tests.
Optimal Control of a Semi-Active Suspension System Collaborated by an Active Aerodynamic Surface Based on a Quarter-Car Model
Authors: Abbas Syed Babar , Youn Iljoong
Published: September 2024

This paper addresses the trade-off between ride comfort and road-holding capability of a quarter-car semi-active suspension system, collaborated by an active aerodynamic surface (AAS), using an optimal control policy. The semi-active suspension system is more practical to implement due to its low energy consumption than the active suspension system while significantly improving ride comfort. First, a model of the two-DOF quarter-car semi-active suspension in the presence of an active airfoil with two weighting sets based on ride comfort and road-holding preferences is presented. Then, a comprehensive comparative study of the improved target performance indices with various suspension systems is performed to evaluate the proposed suspension performance. Time-domain and frequency-domain analyses are conducted in MATLAB® (R2024a). From the time-domain analysis, the total performance measure is enhanced by about 50% and 35 to 45%, respectively, compared to passive and active suspension systems. The results demonstrate that a semi-active suspension system with an active aerodynamic control surface simultaneously improves the conflicting target parameters of passenger comfort and road holding. Utilizing the aerodynamic effect, the proposed system enhances the vehicle’s dynamic stability and passenger comfort compared to other suspension systems.
A Method for Fingerprint Edge Enhancement Based on Radial Hilbert Transform
Authors: Wu Baiyang , Zhang Shuo , Gao Weinan , Bi Yong , Hu Xiaosong
Published: September 2024

Fingerprints play a significant role in various fields due to their uniqueness. In order to effectively utilize fingerprint information, it is necessary to enhance image quality. This paper introduces a method based on Radial Hilbert transform (RHLT), which simulates the vortex filter using the point spread function (PSF) of spiral phase plate (SPP) with a topological charge l=1, for fingerprint edge enhancement. The experimental results show that the processed fingerprint image has more distinct edges, with an increase in information entropy and average gradient. Unlike classical edge detection operators, the fingerprint edge image obtained by the RHLT method exhibits a lower mean square error (MSE) and a higher peak signal-to-noise ratio (PSNR). This indicates that the RHLT method provides more accurate edge detection and demonstrates higher noise-resistance capabilities. Due to its ability to highlight edge information while preserving more original features, this method has great application potential in fingerprint image processing.