bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy of Mesenchymal-Stromal-Cell-Derived Extracellular Vesicles in Ameliorating Cisplatin Nephrotoxicity, as Modeled Using Three-Dimensional, Gravity-Driven, Two-Layer Tubule-on-a-Chip (3D-MOTIVE Chip)
Authors: Kwon Eun-Jeong , Hwang Seong-Hye , Seo Seungwan , Park Jaesung , Park Seokwoo , Kim Sejoong
Published: October 2023

Mesenchymal stromal cell (MSC)-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) are known to have a therapeutic effect on nephrotoxicity. As animal models require significant time and resources to evaluate drug effects, there is a need for a new experimental technique that can accurately predict drug effects in humans. We evaluated the therapeutic effect of MSC-derived EVs in cisplatin nephrotoxicity using a three-dimensional, gravity-driven, two-layer tubule-on-a-chip (3D-MOTIVE chip). In the 3D-MOTIVE chip, 10 μM cisplatin decreased the number of attached cells compared to the vehicle. Conversely, annexin V and reactive oxygen species (ROS) were increased. Cell viability was increased 2.8-fold and 2.5-fold after treatment with EVs at 4 and 8 µg/mL, respectively, compared to the cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity group. Cell attachment was increased 2.25-fold by treatment with 4 µg/mL EVs and 2.02-fold by 8 µg/mL EVs. Annexin V and ROS levels were decreased compared to those in the cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity group. There were no significant differences in annexin V and ROS levels according to EV concentration. In sum, we created a cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity model on a 3D-MOTIVE chip and found that MSC-derived EVs could restore cell viability. Thus, MSC-derived EVs may have the potential to ameliorate cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity.
Emergency Medicine Perspectives: The Importance of Bystanders and Their Impact on On-Site Resuscitation Measures and Immediate Outcomes of Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest
Authors: Bednarz Kamil , Goniewicz Krzysztof , Al-Wathinani Ahmed M. , Goniewicz Mariusz
Published: October 2023

Introduction: Out-of-hospital cardiac arrests (OHCAs) represent critical medical emergencies in which timely interventions can make a significant difference in patient outcomes. Despite their importance, the role of on-scene witnesses during such events remains relatively unexplored. Aim of the Study: This research seeks to shed light on the influence of witnesses, especially family members, during OHCAs and the effect of their interventions, or the absence thereof, on outcomes. Drawing from existing literature, our working hypothesis suggests that the presence of a witness, particularly one who is knowledgeable about CPR, can increase the likelihood of obtaining the return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC), potentially enhancing overall survival rates. Methods: Using a retrospective analytical method, we thoroughly reviewed medical records from the Lublin Voivodeship between 2014–2017. Out of 5111 events identified using ICD-10 diagnosis codes and ICD-9 medical procedure codes, 4361 cases specifically related to sudden cardiac arrest were chosen. Concurrently, 750 events were excluded based on predefined criteria. Results: Both basic and advanced EMS teams showed higher rates of CPR initiation and an increased likelihood of obtaining ROSC. Notably, the presence of a trained EMS professional as a witness significantly increased the chances of CPR initiation. The presenting rhythms most often detected were ventricular tachycardia (VT) and ventricular fibrillation (VF). Different urgency codes were directly linked to varying ROSC outcomes. When witnesses, especially family members, began chest compressions, the use of amiodarone was notably higher. A significant finding was that 46.85% of OHCA patients died without witnesses, while family members were present in 23.87% of cases. Actions taken by witnesses, especially chest compressions, generally extended the overall duration of patient care. Conclusion: The crucial influence of witnesses, particularly family members, on OHCA outcomes is evident. Therefore, it is essential to increase public awareness of CPR techniques and rapid intervention strategies to improve outcomes in emergency situations.
Psychological Associations of Stress with the Level of Health Locus of Control and Self-Efficacy in Patients with Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Skwirczyńska Edyta , Cymbaluk-Płoska Aneta , Wróblewski Oskar
Published: October 2023

The aim of this study was to analyze the locus of health control, self-efficacy and stress coping styles of female patients treated for ovarian cancer. Learning the styles of coping with stress in patients with ovarian cancer may contribute to improve their quality of life after cancer diagnosis. A series of Pearson’s r-analyses was performed in the order to evaluate the hypotheses regarding the relationship between styles of coping with stress, the locus of health control and self-efficacy. A total of 151 female patients participated in this study. Standardized psychological questionnaires were used: the General Self-Efficacy Scale (GSES) to measure coping with difficult situations and obstacles, the Multi-Dimensional Health Locus of Control Scale (MHLC) to measure health control and the Convergence Insufficiency Symptom Survey (CISS) to measure stress coping styles. All questionnaires had an adaptation in Polish. Patients using task-focused and socializing styles had higher self-efficacy, whereas focusing on negative emotions resulted in lower self-efficacy. External locus of health control was related to a task-focused approach to treatment. On the other hand, the focus on negative emotions was related to the feeling that the fate of patients was decided by chance. Self-efficacy was positively associated with internal locus of health control and with external control, which means the influence of others. The results of our study indicate the need for a multidimensional approach to the treatment of female patients with ovarian cancer. The psychological condition of female patients has an ongoing relationship with their physical health.
Tumor Inflammatory Microenvironment of the Thyroid Cancer: Relationship between Regulatory T-Cell Imbalance, and p-NFΚB (p65) Expression—A Preliminary Study
Authors: Pasquali Daniela , Giacomelli Laura , Pedicillo Maria , Conzo Giovanni , Gentile Gabriella , De Stefano Ilenia , Angelillis Francesco , Santoro Angela , Miele Francesco , Digitale Selvaggio Lucia , Melcarne Rossella , Pannone Giuseppe
Published: October 2023

Background: Inflammatory microenvironment is an essential component of all tumors, including thyroid cancer. Autoimmune thyroid diseases are often associated with thyroid cancer. CD25, expressed in Treg cells and B cells, has been found to be associated with autoimmune thyroid diseases and the NFkB pathway is critical to tumor formation, regulating immune-related genes, and pro-inflammatory cytokine. Methods: Protein expression of CD25 and NFkB and its phosphorylated form was analyzed by immunohistochemistry in 80 patients with thyroid cancer (10 cases of cancers with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and 70 cases without). Results: CD25 was mainly detected in the nucleus of the inflammatory cells such as in the thyrocytes and neoplastic cells. Protein staining was detected in the T-lymphocytes of the outermost zone of the lymphoid follicles. Moreover, in all cancer alterations, there were a higher level of p-NFkB than in the surrounding tissues. Again, p-NFkB staining was evident in neoplastic cells but not evident in inflammatory cells. Conclusions: Strong inflammatory infiltrate in the tumor microenvironment is correlated with an invasive phenotype. CD25 and p-NFkB levels were statistically significantly overexpressed in cancer cells.
Association between Delivery during Off-Hours and the Risk of Severe Maternal Morbidity: A Nationwide Population-Based Cohort Study
Authors: Yun Il , Park Eun-Cheol , Nam Jin Young
Published: October 2023

This study evaluated the association between off-hour deliveries and the risk of severe maternal morbidity (SMM). Data regarding Korean deliveries between 2005 and 2019 obtained from the National Health Insurance Service were used. SMM was evaluated using an algorithm developed by the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Modified Poisson regression analyses were conducted to investigate the association between off-hour deliveries and SMM, with stratification by hospital region and the number of beds. Approximately 32.7% of the 3,076,448 nulliparous women in this study delivered during off-hours, including 2.6% who experienced SMM. Patients who delivered at night had the highest risk of SMM (weekday nights, adjusted risk ratio (aRR): 1.41, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.38–1.44; weekend nights, OR: 1.40, 95% CI: 1.34–1.46). The SMM of night deliveries was higher at hospitals located in small cities and those with 100–499 beds (weekend night: small cities, aRR: 1.49, 95% CI: 1.40–1.59; 100–499 beds, aRR: 1.83, 95% CI: 1.67–2.01; weekday night: small cities, aRR: 1.46, 95% CI: 1.42–1.51; 100–499 beds, aRR: 1.70, 95% CI: 1.62–1.79). Therefore, nighttime deliveries are associated with a higher risk of SMM, especially at hospitals located in small cities and those with 100–499 beds.
The Potential of Nano-Based Photodynamic Treatment as a Therapy against Oral Leukoplakia: A Narrative Review
Authors: Angjelova Angela , Jovanova Elena , Polizzi Alessandro , Santonocito Simona , Lo Giudice Antonino , Isola Gaetano
Published: October 2023

Oral leukoplakia is a predominantly white lesion of the oral mucosa that cannot be classified as any other definable lesion with the risk of progressing into malignancy. Despite the advancements in conventional therapy, the rates of malignant transformation remain notably high, affecting 4.11% of adults, due to the difficulty of accurate diagnosis and indistinct treatment. Photodynamic therapy (PDT), being a minimally invasive surgical intervention, employs a variety of factors, including light, nano-photosensitizers (PSs) and oxygen in the management of precancerous lesions. PDT faces limitations in administering photosensitizers (PSs) because of their low water solubility. However, these challenges could be effectively resolved through the incorporation of PSs in nanostructured drug delivery systems, such as gold nanoparticles, micelles, liposomes, metal nanoparticles, dendrimers and quantum dots. This review will give an overview of the different innovative PS approaches in the management of premalignant lesions, highlighting the most recent advancements. From a clinical perspective, it is expected that nanotechnology will overcome barriers faced by traditional therapeutics and will address critical gaps in clinical cancer care.
Exploring Psoriasis Inflammatory Microenvironment by NanoString Technologies
Authors: Ricci Alessia Andrea , Dapavo Paolo , Mastorino Luca , Roccuzzo Gabriele , Wolff Samanta , Ribero Simone , Cassoni Paola , Senetta Rebecca , Quaglino Pietro
Published: October 2023

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease whose molecular mechanisms and microenvironment are poorly understood. We performed gene expression analysis through the nCounter® PanCancer Immune Profiling Panel (NanoString Technologies, Seattle, WA, USA) on 22 FFPE punch biopsies from 19 psoriasis-affected patients. A subset of five cases was analyzed before (T0) and after 6 months (T6) of treatment with dimethyl fumarate (DMF) to address immune microenvironment changes. Molecular comparisons according to biopsy site and age of onset showed a different distribution of innate immune cells (mast cells, macrophages, NK cells, and DC cells) and pathways (complement regulation and transporter functions). The analysis according to PASI (Psoriasis Area and Severity Index) led to non-significant results, suggesting no link between molecular expression profile and clinical amount of skin disease. In DMF-treated patients, we observed a strong immunomodulatory effect after treatment: A subversion of exhausted CD8 T cells, NK CD56dim cells, Tregs, neutrophils, CD45+ cells, T cells, B cells, and macrophages was reported between the two analyzed time-points, as well as the reduction in pro-inflammatory pathways and molecules, including cytotoxicity, pathogen defense, antigen processing, adhesion, cell cycle, chemokines, cytokines, and interleukins. The inflammatory psoriatic microenvironment can be modulated using DMF with encouraging results, achieving an immune-tolerant and non-inflammatory condition through the regulation of both innate and adaptive immunity.
Pre-Procedural Assessment of the Femoral Access Route for Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation: Comparison of a Non-Contrast Time-of-Flight Magnetic Resonance Angiography Protocol with Contrast-Enhanced Dual-Source Computed Tomography Angiography
Authors: Brado Johannes , Breitbart Philipp , Hein Manuel , Pache Gregor , Schmitt Ramona , Hein Jonas , Apweiler Matthias , Soschynski Martin , Schlett Christopher , Bamberg Fabian , Neumann Franz-Josef , Westermann Dirk , Krauss Tobias , Ruile Philipp
Published: October 2023

Background: We aimed to evaluate the feasibility of a non-contrast time-of-flight magnetic resonance angiography (TOF-MRA) protocol for the pre-procedural access route assessment of transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) in comparison with contrast-enhanced cardiac dual-source computed tomography angiography (CTA). Methods and Results: In total, 51 consecutive patients (mean age: 82.69 ± 5.69 years) who had undergone a pre-TAVI cardiac CTA received TOF-MRA for a pre-procedural access route assessment. The MRA image quality was rated as very good (median of 5 [IQR 4–5] on a five-point Likert scale), with only four examinations rated as non-diagnostic. The TOF-MRA systematically underestimated the minimal effective vessel diameter in comparison with CTA (for the effective vessel diameter in mm, the right common iliac artery (CIA)/external iliac artery (EIA)/common femoral artery (CFA) MRA vs. CTA was 8.04 ± 1.46 vs. 8.37 ± 1.54 (p < 0.0001) and the left CIA/EIA/CFA MRA vs. CTA was 8.07 ± 1.32 vs. 8.28 ± 1.34 (p < 0.0001)). The absolute difference between the MRA and CTA was small (for the Bland–Altman analyses in mm, the right CIA/EIA/CFA was −0.36 ± 0.77 and the left CIA/EIA/CFA was −0.25 ± 0.61). The overall correlation between the MRA and CTA measurements was very good (with a Pearson correlation coefficient of 0.87 (p < 0.0001) for the right CIA/EIA/CFA and a Pearson correlation coefficient of 0.9 (p < 0.0001) for the left CIA/EIA/CFA). The feasibility agreement between the MRA and CTA for transfemoral access was good (the right CIA/EIA/CFA agreement was 97.9% and the left CIA/EIA/CFA agreement was 95.7%, Kohen’s kappa: 0.477 (p = 0.001)). Conclusions: The TOF-MRA protocol was feasible for the assessment of the access route in an all-comer pre-TAVI population. This protocol might be a reliable technique for patients at an increased risk of contrast-induced nephropathy.
Evaluation of Choroidal and Retinal Features in Patients with Primary Vasculitis—An Original Optical Coherence Tomography and Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography Study
Authors: Szydełko-Paśko Urszula , Przeździecka-Dołyk Joanna , Dołyk Andrzej , Małyszczak Artur , Misiuk-Hojło Marta
Published: October 2023

Ocular manifestations have been described in the course of various types of vasculitis. However, there seems to be no routine ophthalmological examinations for patients suffering from those diseases. To ensure holistic care we aimed to investigate any retinal and choroidal abnormalities in patients suffering from primary vasculitis. The objective was to use non-invasive methods, which would not be time- and cost-consuming, yet would be helpful in routine tests. We conducted a prospective and observational study in 41 patients (78 eyes) with 5 types of primary vasculitis, including: Takayasu’s arteritis; giant cell arteritis; Buerger’s disease; granulomatosis with polyangiitis; and polyarteritis nodosa. A total of 44 healthy individuals were enrolled in the control group for comparison (88 eyes). With the use of optical coherence tomography, optical coherence tomography angiography, and MATLAB, the following parameters were assessed: choroidal thickness; vascularity index; area and perimeter of foveal avascular zone; and circularity index. The following parameters were lower in the study group compared to the control group: mean nasal and temporal CTs; mean central, temporal, and nasal CVI; and mean CI. In contrast, the results of mean central CT as well as the area and perimeter of FAZ were higher in the study group. The differences were statistically significant in the case of all parameters except for CI. Conducting routine ophthalmological examinations in patients diagnosed with vasculitis by assessment of the retina and choroid by measuring parameters like CT, CVI, area and perimeter of FAZ, and CI could be beneficial, as it may detect pathological changes before any ocular symptoms alarm the patients. CVI seems to be especially promising for choroidal evaluation, as it appears to be less influenced by various factors compared to CT.
Alexithymia in Patients with Somatization Difficulties and Tinnitus-Related Distress: A Systematic Review
Authors: Freiherr von Schoenhueb Dominic , Boecking Benjamin , Mazurek Birgit
Published: October 2023

Chronic tinnitus, the perception of sound without an external source, can significantly affect individuals’ well-being. As an often medically unexplained symptom, chronic tinnitus can present as a “somatoform” or “functional” difficulty. Some evidence has pointed to alexithymia as a transdiagnostically relevant risk factor for both symptom clusters. Using a two-part rapid review—searching within EBSCO, Embase by Ovid, PubMed, Web of Science—we summarize psychological studies regarding alexithymia, i.e., difficulties in recognizing and expressing emotions and (1) somatoform conditions and (2) chronic tinnitus. For the former (inclusion criteria: (1) adult human beings with different kinds of somatization, (2) longitudinal study designs, (3) publication between 2001 and 2021, (4) full-text in English or German) we identified eight studies that revealed significant links between alexithymia and somatoform conditions. Psychotherapy improved alexithymia in most studies. Additionally, alexithymia was associated with broader treatment outcomes such as improvements in pain intensity, gastrointestinal symptoms, and patient-therapist alliance. The ‘Risk Of Bias In Non-randomized Studies—of Interventions’ tool (ROBINS-I) and ‘Revised Cochrane risk-of-bias tool for randomized trials’ (RoB 2) were used for risk of bias assessment. Summarizing all available studies on alexithymia and chronic tinnitus, we identified three studies. Inclusion criteria were: (1) adult human beings with chronic tinnitus, (2) publication between 2001 and 2021, (3) full-text in English or German. Risk of bias was assessed by the ‘JBI Critical Appraisal Checklist for Analytical Cross Sectional Studies’. The available studies suggested a high rate of alexithymia (65.7%) in patients with chronic tinnitus. Tinnitus-related distress was significantly associated with alexithymia in two studies, one of which, however, found no differences in alexithymia between patients with bothersome versus non-bothersome tinnitus. Conversely, one study reported high levels of alexithymia in patients with low levels of tinnitus-related distress. Overall, alexithymia may be a transdiagnostic psychological indicator of somatization phenomena, which might include some chronic tinnitus presentations. Psychotherapy likely improves alexithymia as well as somatoform symptom presentations.
The Role of Electrocardiographic Markers for Predicting Atrial Fibrillation in Patients with Acute Ischemic Stroke: Data from the BIOSIGNAL Cohort Study
Authors: Schütz Valerie , Dougoud Svetlana , Bracher Katja , Arnold Markus , Schweizer Juliane , Nakas Christos , Westphal Laura P. , Inauen Corinne , Pokorny Thomas , Duru Firat , Steffel Jan , Luft Andreas , Spanaus Katharina , Saguner Ardan Muammer , Katan Mira
Published: October 2023

Background and Aims: P-wave abnormalities in the 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) have been associated with a higher risk of acute ischemic stroke (AIS) as well as atrial fibrillation (AF). This study aimed to assess pre-determined ECG criteria during sinus rhythm in unselected AIS patients and their value for predicting newly diagnosed atrial fibrillation (NDAF) after hospital admission. Methods: P-wave alterations were measured on 12-lead ECG on admission in all consecutively enrolled patients without known AF between October 2014 and 2017. The outcome of interest was NDAF, identified by prolonged electrocardiographic monitoring within one year after the index AIS. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression was applied to assess the magnitude and independence of the association between pre-selected ECG markers and NDAF. The discriminatory accuracy was evaluated with the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), and the incremental prognostic value was estimated with the net reclassification index. Results: NDAF was detected in 87 (10%) of 856 patients during a follow-up of 365 days. Out of the pre-selected ECG parameters, advanced interatrial block (aIAB) and PR interval in lead II were independently associated with NDAF in univariable regression analysis. Only aIAB remained a significant predictor in multivariable analysis. Adding aIAB to the best-performing multivariable regression model improved the discriminatory accuracy to predict NDAF from an AUC of 0.78 (95%-CI 0.77–0.80) to 0.81 (95%-CI 0.80–0.83, p < 0.001). Conclusion: aIAB is independently and highly associated with NDAF in patients with AIS, has high inter-rater reliability, and therefore may be helpful to refine diagnostic work-up to search for AF in AIS.
Intranasal Synechiae as Complications of Rhinosurgical Treatment—A Review of Current Knowledge
Authors: Stępiński Mateusz J. , Banaszewski Jacek
Published: October 2023

Intranasal adhesions (synechiae) develop as a result of improper healing of the nasal mucosa. Their incidence ranges from 6.8% to 36% of rhinosurgical procedures. The aim of this study was to review the available publications and monographs dealing with intranasal adhesions—both in the context of formation and risk factors. The study used a review of the literature to determine the articles and studies available in the following medical databases: MEDLINE (National Library of Medicine’s), PubMed, and Google Scholar. The following search terms were used: synechiae nasal + synechial nasal + intranasal adhesions + nasal adhesions. The time criterion of available materials was not applied. Available filters in the search engines were used to narrow down the search results. Artificial intelligence was not applied. The review indicated that the risk of intranasal adhesions correlates with the type of surgery, the surgical technique, the dressing materials, and wound care in the postoperative period. Every case requires an individualized approach. Nasal septum separators, (self-)dissolving dressings and (in selected cases) Mitomycin C were investigated thoroughly. Further studies are required which may result in a universal classification system for intranasal adhesions.
Visualizing Cross-Sections of 3D Objects: Developing Efficient Measures Using Item Response Theory
Authors: Munns Mitchell E. , He Chuanxiuyue , Topete Alexis , Hegarty Mary
Published: October 2023

Spatial ability is important for success in STEM fields but is typically measured using a small number of tests that were not developed in the STEM context, have not been normed with recent samples, or have not been subjected to modern psychometric analyses. Here, an approach to developing valid, reliable, and efficient computer-based tests of spatial skills is proposed and illustrated via the development of an efficient test of the ability to visualize cross-sections of three-dimensional (3D) objects. After pilot testing, three measures of this ability were administered online to 498 participants (256 females, aged 18–20). Two of the measures, the Santa Barbara Solids and Planes of Reference tests had good psychometric properties and measured a domain-general ability to visualize cross-sections, with sub-factors related to item difficulty. Item-level statistics informed the development of the refined versions of these tests and a combined measure composed of the most informative test items. Sex and ethnicity had no significant effects on the combined measure after controlling for mathematics education, verbal ability, and age. The measures ofcross-sectioning ability developed in the context of geology education were found to be too difficult, likely because they measured domain knowledge in addition to cross-sectioning ability. Recommendations are made for the use of cross-section tests in selection and training and for the more general development of spatial ability measures.
Discovering the Learning Gradient of Students’ Preferences for Learning Environment
Authors: Bak Carsten Kronborg , Schulin Simon , Krammer Jeanne
Published: October 2023

The aim of this study was to examine the effects of online learning self-regulation on learning outcomes during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown among university college students. Quantitative k-means cluster analysis was used to examine the relationship among students in three different clusters based on their preferences toward online learning. The results indicated that online learning self-regulation had a significant positive effect on learning outcomes due to the shift to online learning. Thus, we identified a “learning gradient” among students, showing that cluster 1 students (preferences for 100% online) have the most positive preferences toward online teaching and the highest degree of self-regulation and learning outcome, cluster 2 students (moderate preferences for both physical and online teaching) are mixed (both positive and negative experiences) and moderate self-regulation and learning outcomes while cluster 3 students (preferences for physical classroom teaching) have the most negative preferences and the lowest self-regulation and learning outcome. The results from this study show that students’ self-regulated learning strategies during online teaching environments are important for their learning outcomes and that cluster 1 and 2 students especially profited from the more flexible online learning environment with organized and deep learning approaches. Cluster 3 students need more support from their educators to foster their self-regulation skills to enhance their learning outcomes in online teaching environments.
Ship Detection under Low-Visibility Weather Interference via an Ensemble Generative Adversarial Network
Authors: Chen Xinqiang , Wei Chenxin , Xin Zhengang , Zhao Jiansen , Xian Jiangfeng
Published: October 2023

Maritime ship detection plays a crucial role in smart ships and intelligent transportation systems. However, adverse maritime weather conditions, such as rain streak and fog, can significantly impair the performance of visual systems for maritime traffic. These factors constrain the performance of traffic monitoring systems and ship-detection algorithms for autonomous ship navigation, affecting maritime safety. The paper proposes an approach to resolve the problem by visually removing rain streaks and fog from images, achieving an integrated framework for accurate ship detection. Firstly, the paper employs an attention generation network within an adversarial neural network to focus on the distorted regions of the degraded images. The paper also utilizes a contextual encoder to infer contextual information within the distorted regions, enhancing the credibility of image restoration. Secondly, a weighted bidirectional feature pyramid network (BiFPN) is introduced to achieve rapid multi-scale feature fusion, enhancing the accuracy of maritime ship detection. The proposed GYB framework was validated using the SeaShip dataset. The experimental results show that the proposed framework achieves an average accuracy of 96.3%, a recall of 95.35%, and a harmonic mean of 95.85% in detecting maritime traffic ships under rain-streak and foggy-weather conditions. Moreover, the framework outperforms state-of-the-art ship detection methods in such challenging weather scenarios.
Vasopressin in Sepsis and Other Shock States: State of the Art
Authors: García-Álvarez Raquel , Arboleda-Salazar Rafael
Published: October 2023

This review of the use of vasopressin aims to be comprehensive and highly practical, based on the available scientific evidence and our extensive clinical experience with the drug. It summarizes controversies about vasopressin use in septic shock and other vasodilatory states. Vasopressin is a natural hormone with powerful vasoconstrictive effects and is responsible for the regulation of plasma osmolality by maintaining fluid homeostasis. Septic shock is defined by the need for vasopressors to correct hypotension and lactic acidosis secondary to infection, with a high mortality rate. The Surviving Sepsis Campaign guidelines recommend vasopressin as a second-line vasopressor, added to norepinephrine. However, these guidelines do not address specific debates surrounding the use of vasopressin in real-world clinical practice.
Liberalization, Trans-European Corridors and EU Funds: A New Scenario in the Relationship between Rail Networks and Mediterranean Cities
Authors: Boira Josep Vicent , Berzi Matteo
Published: October 2023

The trans-European transport network (TEN-T) is a key factor in the relationship between railway development and urban growth in Europe, with a tangible impact on urban morphology. In this scenario, the aim of this article is to analyze how the Mediterranean Railway Corridor (EU’s TEN-T strategy) is inducing new processes of railway integration in the urban system located along the Spanish Mediterranean coast. Our working hypothesis is based on the analysis of three vectors that are modifying the relationship between high-performance rail networks and cities, using new processes that have been overlooked by most of the existing scientific and EU grey literature. Firstly, the development of a trans-European transport network (TEN-T) is driving new and complex rail projects that are associated with achieving the full interoperability of the trans-European rail corridors. Secondly, the European liberalization of passenger transport is promoting rail operations with a strong urban and morphological impact, due to the resulting increase in rail services. Finally, the European response to the consequences of the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic has made it possible to launch large-scale financial operations aimed at sustainable transport projects, including rail projects. We have carried out an analysis of the academic and institutional literature and we have also considered three case studies along the Mediterranean Corridor in Spain: Barcelona, Valencia, and Murcia. For each one, we present the structure of the current rail networks, the ongoing urban integration projects driven by the Mediterranean Corridor, and the resulting implications for urban morphology, as well as the opportunities they bring from a socio-economic perspective. Therefore, we argue that there is a triple substantial change: the significance of rail and urban projects (from the national scale to throughout the European Union), the operational network (from the domestic high-speed network to the TEN-T network), and funding (from state self-financing to European CEF and RRF funds). Nonetheless, further research activities are needed to assess how the revision of the TEN-T regulation strategy will affect the urban–railway relationship.
Effective Treatments for the Successful Establishment of Milkweed (Calotropis procera L.) under Water Deficit
Authors: Dolatkordestani Mojtaba , Taghvaei Mansour , Mastinu Andrea
Published: October 2023

The application of superabsorbents to soils and seed coatings is a pre-sowing seed treatment method that is commonly used to improve early vigor and establish stability and uniformity under water deficit conditions. To evaluate the interaction of seed coating and superabsorbent on Calotropisprocera L. (milkweed) under water deficit conditions, a greenhouse experiment was conducted. The experiment was conducted with four coating material levels (non-coated seeds and seeds coated with peat moss, vermicompost, and canola residue), four growth medium levels (soil, sand + soil, soil + 2 g superabsorbent, and soil + 4 g superabsorbent), and three field capacity regimes (25, 50%, and 100%) in a completely randomized design factorial arrangement with four replications. Reducing the field capacity from 100 to 25% led to decreased growth (shoot and root dry weights and leaf area) and chlorophyll content. The activities of SOD, CAT, APX antioxidant enzymes, and proline increased under drought stress. The use of superabsorbent polymers in growth media enhanced growth indices and chlorophyll content and decreased the activity of antioxidant enzymes and proline under water deficit conditions. The highest chlorophyll and growth indices were observed when 4 g of superabsorbent was added to the growth medium under drought stress. The application of 4 g of superabsorbent to the growth medium reduced the activity of antioxidant enzymes and proline. The use of seed coatings improved the growth indices, antioxidant enzyme activity, and chlorophyll content under drought stress. The most adaptive morphological and physiological responses to water stress were observed in the vermicompost-coated seeds. The vermicompost coating containing a superabsorbent polymer (4 g/kg soil) proved to be the best for establishing milkweed under mild (50% FC) and severe water deficits (25% FC).
Sociodemographic and Clinical Determinants of Fatigue in Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Maier Smaranda , Bajkó Zoltán , Roșescu Ruxandra , Bărcuțean Laura , Sărmășan Emanuela , Voidăzan Septimiu , Bălașa Rodica
Published: October 2023

Fatigue is the most common and disabling symptom in patients with multiple sclerosis (PwMS), representing one of the main determinants of reduced quality of life among PwMS due to its interference with social activities and work capacity. This study aimed to identify the sociodemographic determinants of fatigue in a cohort of 150 PwMS and 100 healthy controls (HCs). Fatigue was assessed using one of the most suitable and appropriate tools for measuring the degree of fatigue: the Modified Fatigue Impact Scale (MFIS). By comparing the median scores for the MFIS, we observed that the PwMS group had significantly higher MFIS scores than the HCs (p = 0.0001). In PwMS, MFIS scores correlated positively with age, total number of relapses, total disease duration, disability status, and Beck Depression Inventory-II score and negatively with cognitive performance. Patients with relapsing-remitting MS had significantly lower fatigue levels than those with secondary progressive MS (p = 0.0010). Fatigue levels were significantly lower among male than female PwMS (p = 0.0120). Other determinant factors of fatigue in our study proved to be the marital and occupational status, as well as the presence of children, but in a linear multivariate regressions analysis with MFIS score as the dependent variable, the fatigue levels were influenced only by sex, occupational status, marital status, children status, and BDI-II test results. Considering the significant impact of fatigue on the quality of life of PwMS, clinicians must diagnose fatigue as early as possible, identify its modifiable determinants, and manage it effectively to increase their quality of life.
First Report of Kocuria kristinae in the Skin of a Cuban Boa (Epicrates angulifer)
Authors: Marques Inês , Alvura Nuno , Martins José Júlio , Requicha João F. , Saavedra Maria J.
Published: October 2023

During a routine clinical examination of a four-year-old female Cuban boa (Epicrates angulifer) belonging to a zoological park located in northern Portugal, a skin lesion was observed. A skin swab was taken. Bacteriological analysis conducted using the Vitek® 2 Compact system identified the presence of the bacteria species Kocuria kristinae, a new bacterial pathogen that may be a potential pathogen in wild animals. This K. kristinae strain was resistant to kanamycin, pradofloxacin, erythromycin, clindamycin, tetracycline, nitrofurantoin, and trimethoprim/sulphamethoxazole and was therefore classified as a multidrug-resistant bacterium. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first time that K. kristinae has been described in the skin of a Cuban boa. This report serves as a cautionary warning about the importance of recognising and investigating the potential pathogenicity of this agent, as well as contributing to the development of strategies to prevent the spread of antibiotic-resistant microorganisms.
Behavior of Inflatable Drop-Stitch Fabric Panels Subjected to Bending and Compression
Authors: Davids William G.
Published: October 2023

In this paper, the mechanics of inflatable drop-stitch panels are investigated, including the impact of large shear deformations, nonlinearity due to wrinkling of the panel skin that occurs under net compressive strain, work done by the confined internal air, and the effect of the drop-stitch yarns on the panel skin stresses. A large deflection finite element (FE) analysis framework is presented that allows for a panel’s stability and post-buckling response to be quantified. The FE code is verified through comparison with available analytical solutions, and the impact of critical response drivers is examined. The FE models are then used to explore the capacity of panel walls when used as part of a shelter subject to realistic wind and snow loads and to assess the dependence of the capacity on the important design parameters of inflation pressure and panel depth. The analyses indicate that while the drop-stitch panel capacity is sensitive to the panel depth and inflation pressure, panels with reasonable cross-sectional dimensions are viable for use in structural applications where they must support significant compression and bending. Future work should focus on increasing the structural efficiency and capacity by increasing the panel shear stiffness and operational inflation pressure.
Effects of Normalizing Temperature on Microstructure and Impact Toughness of V-N Micro-Alloyed P460NL1 Steel
Authors: Li Xinliang , Fan Huibing , Wang Qiuming , Wang Qingfeng
Published: October 2023

In this work, the influence of normalizing temperature on vanadium micro-alloyed P460NL1 steel is studied in terms of microstructures and impact toughness. With the normalizing temperature increased from 850 °C to 950 °C, the V(C,N) particles are dissolved. The dissolution of V(C,N) particles leads to a reduction in their ability to pin the primitive austenite grain boundaries, resulting in the coarsening of the primitive austenite grain. Simultaneously, the number of precipitated particles promoting ferrite nucleation decreased. The combination of these two effects led to the coarsening of ferrite grains in the steel samples. Of note, in the sample normalized at a temperature of 850 °C, the ferrite and pearlite crystals clearly exhibited banded structures. As the normalizing temperature increased, the ferrite–pearlite belt phase weakened. The highly distributed belt phase resulted in poor impact toughness of the steel sample normalized at 850 °C. The belt phase was improved at a normalizing temperature of 900 °C. In addition to that, the microstructure did not undergo significant coarsening at this normalizing temperature, thereby allowing it to achieve the highest toughness among all samples that were prepared for this study. The belt phase almost vanished at the normalizing temperature of 950 °C. However, microstructure coarsening occurred at this temperature, resulting in the deterioration of impact toughness.
Robotization of Three-Point Bending Mechanical Tests Using PLA/TPU Blends as an Example in the 0–100% Range
Authors: Głowacka Julia , Derpeński Łukasz , Frydrych Miłosz , Sztorch Bogna , Bartoszewicz Błażej , Przekop Robert E.
Published: October 2023

This article presents the development of an automated three-point bending testing system using a robot to increase the efficiency and precision of measurements for PLA/TPU polymer blends as implementation high-throughput measurement methods. The system operates continuously and characterizes the flexural properties of PLA/TPU blends with varying TPU concentrations. This study aimed to determine the effect of TPU concentration on the strength and flexural stiffness, surface properties (WCA), thermal properties (TGA, DSC), and microscopic characterization of the studied blends.
3D Printing Technologies for Fabrication of Magnetic Materials Based on Metal–Polymer Composites: A Review
Authors: Mazeeva Alina , Masaylo Dmitriy , Razumov Nikolay , Konov Gleb , Popovich Anatoliy
Published: October 2023

Additive manufacturing is a very rapidly developing industrial field. It opens many possibilities for the fast fabrication of complex-shaped products and devices, including functional materials and smart structures. This paper presents an overview of polymer 3D printing technologies currently used to produce magnetic materials and devices based on them. Technologies such as filament-fused modeling (FDM), direct ink writing (DIW), stereolithography (SLA), and binder jetting (BJ) are discussed. Their technological features, such as the optimal concentration of the filler, the shape and size of the filler particles, printing modes, etc., are considered to obtain bulk products with a high degree of detail and with a high level of magnetic properties. The polymer 3D technologies are compared with conventional technologies for manufacturing polymer-bonded magnets and with metal 3D technologies. This paper shows prospective areas of application of 3D polymer technologies for fabricating the magnetic elements of complex shapes, such as shim elements with an optimized shape and topology; advanced transformer cores; sensors; and, in particular, the fabrication of soft robots with a fast response to magnetic stimuli and composites based on smart fillers.
Experimental and Numerical Analysis of Fracture Mechanics Behavior of Heterogeneous Zones in S690QL1 Grade High Strength Steel (HSS) Welded Joint
Authors: Tomerlin Damir , Kozak Dražan , Ferlič Luka , Gubeljak Nenad
Published: October 2023

The heterogeneity of welded joints’ microstructure affects their mechanical properties, which can vary significantly in relation to specific weld zones. Given the dimensional limitations of the available test volumes of such material zones, the determination of mechanical properties presents a certain challenge. The paper investigates X welded joint of S690QL1 grade high strength steel (HSS), welded with slightly overmatching filler metal. The experimental work is focused on tensile testing to obtain stress-strain properties, as well as fracture mechanics testing. Considering the aforementioned limitations of the material test volume, tensile testing is carried out with mini tensile specimens (MTS), determining stress-strain curves for each characteristic weld zone. Fracture mechanical testing is carried out to determine the fracture toughness using the characteristic parameters. The experimental investigation is carried out using the single edge notch bend (SENB) specimens located in several characteristic welded joint zones: base metal (BM), heat affected zone (HAZ), and weld metal (WM). Fractographic analysis provides deeper insight into crack behavior in relation to specific weld zones. The numerical simulations are carried out in order to describe the fracture behavior of SENB specimens. Damage initiation and evolution is simulated using the ductile damage material behavior. This paper demonstrates the possibility of experimental and numerical determination of fracture mechanics behavior of characteristic heterogeneous welded joint zones and their influence on crack path growth.
Experimental Studies on Thermal Oxidation and Laser Ignition Properties of Al-Mg-Li Powders
Authors: Lu Yingying , Ma Kai , Guo Changchao , Jiang Ming , Wu Chengfeng , Li Shipeng , Hu Shaoqing
Published: October 2023

Powder ramjets are a kind of vehicle propulsion system with high specific impulse and efficiency. They provide significant benefits in terms of extended propulsion and thrust adjustment. The pursuit of a highly reactive fuel appropriate for powder ramjets is likely to stimulate advancements in innovative propulsion systems, which are crucial for deep space exploration and long-term space missions. This work presents experimental studies on the thermal oxidation and laser ignition performance of aluminum–magnesium–lithium powders at atmospheric pressure. TG-DSC curves of powders in three heating rates were obtained. The ignition processes and ignition delay times were recorded by a CO2 laser ignition experiment system at a laser power of 10~60 W. The results show that at a lower heating rate of 10 K/min, the powder’s thermal hysteresis is less, and the powder energy released in stage I is more concentrated. However, the degree of heat release concentration approached a similar level at heating rates of 30 K and 50 K. The ignition delay time decreased as the laser flux density increased. When the laser flux density exceeds 80 W/cm2, the effect of laser power on the ignition delay time decreases. At atmospheric pressure, the mathematical relationship between ignition delay time and laser flux density is given. Finally, the powder ignition processes at different laser powers are represented graphically.
Bibliometric and Co-Occurrence Study of Process System Engineering (PSE) Applied to the Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Production
Authors: González-Delgado Ángel Darío , Ramos-Olmos Miguel , Pájaro-Gómez Nórida
Published: October 2023

PVC is widely used in packaging, electrical insulation, and medical devices due to its versatility owing to its resistance, incombustible and barrier properties as well as affordable cost. In the present study, bibliometric and co-occurrence analyses are proposed to identify trends, gaps, future directions, and challenges regarding process system engineering (PSE) applied to the production process of PVC using VOSviewer as a tool for analyzing the data obtained from SCOPUS. A mapping of different topics alluding to simulation of PVC production was provided to gain a better insight into the development of the topic and its progression. The findings indicate that the literature on this topic falls into five different clusters: modeling and simulation of PVC production, process control and optimization, and optimization strategies of the process. From a co-occurrence study we identified that mathematics and statistics applied to polymer chemistry, separation phenomena, and polymer production are the main areas of interest for further research. The trends suggest that Monte Carlo and numerical simulation can contribute to a deeper understanding of PVC’s properties and behavior. In addition, the focus on plastics and microplastics reflects concerns about the environmental impact. A bibliometric study evidenced that PSE provides the tools for improvement in PVC production processes by employing advanced process engineering techniques. Modelling and new algorithms for simulation methods of continuous polymerization processes are important to enhance accuracy and efficiency across various applications. The study also proposes a research agenda for future researchers working in the field of the use of PSE applied to the PVC production process.