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27 pages, 4810 KB  
Article
Application of a Combined Synthetic-Perturbation Method for Turbulent Inflow in Time-Varying Urban LES
by Ju-Wan Woo and Sang-Hyun Lee
Atmosphere 2025, 16(12), 1380; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos16121380 - 5 Dec 2025
Abstract
This study investigates inflow turbulence strategies for large-eddy simulations (LES) of urban boundary layers under time-varying atmospheric conditions. A combined approach integrating a digital-filter-based synthetic turbulence generator (STG) with the cell perturbation method (CPM) is proposed to reduce turbulence adjustment distance and improve [...] Read more.
This study investigates inflow turbulence strategies for large-eddy simulations (LES) of urban boundary layers under time-varying atmospheric conditions. A combined approach integrating a digital-filter-based synthetic turbulence generator (STG) with the cell perturbation method (CPM) is proposed to reduce turbulence adjustment distance and improve vertical mixing. Using the PALM model, 24 h simulations were conducted over a real urban domain in Seoul, capturing diurnal transitions in stability and wind direction. Six experiments were compared: two reference runs with extended upstream fetch, and four analysis runs without fetch, applying different inflow strategies (NOT, STG, CPM, and CPM + STG). Results indicate that CPM + STG mitigates abrupt structural transitions and sustains turbulence kinetic energy (TKE) more consistently than STG alone, while requiring lower computational cost than extended-fetch configurations. Under unstable daytime conditions, CPM + STG enhanced vertical mixing and preserved local boundary-layer height closer to background values, whereas nighttime performance was dominated by building-induced shear regardless of inflow strategy. These findings suggest that the combined CPM + STG approach achieves a balance between physical realism and computational efficiency, demonstrating its potential as a robust inflow strategy for time-varying urban LES within limited domain sizes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Meteorology)
17 pages, 4561 KB  
Article
High-Throughput Molecular Characterization of the Microbiome in Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma and Peri-Implant Benign Seromas
by Evelina Rogges, Giorgio Bertolazzi, Davide Vacca, Marina Borro, Gianluca Lopez, Maurizio Simmaco, Anna Scattone, Guido Firmani, Michail Sorotos, Fabio Santanelli di Pompeo, Niccolò Noccioli, Emanuele Savino, Andrea Vecchione and Arianna Di Napoli
Cancers 2025, 17(23), 3839; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17233839 - 29 Nov 2025
Viewed by 136
Abstract
Background: Breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) is a mature T-cell lymphoma linked to textured breast implants. A leading hypothesis suggests that chronic inflammation, combined with immunological and genetic factors, drives its pathogenesis. Two previous studies investigating bacterial biofilms on breast [...] Read more.
Background: Breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) is a mature T-cell lymphoma linked to textured breast implants. A leading hypothesis suggests that chronic inflammation, combined with immunological and genetic factors, drives its pathogenesis. Two previous studies investigating bacterial biofilms on breast implant capsules have produced conflicting results, particularly regarding the enrichment of Ralstonia spp. Methods: We analyzed the microbiota profiles in seroma samples from 10 BIA-ALCL patients and 12 patients with non-neoplastic effusion, subclassified into acute-, mixed-, and chronic-type based on cellular composition. We used two metagenomic approaches: 16S rRNA gene sequencing and Nanopore sequencing with the “What’s in My Pot?” (WIMP) taxonomic classifier. Our analyses included alpha and beta diversity metrics, as well as comparisons of Gram status and oxygen requirements. Results: Both sequencing methods identified Staphylococcaceae, Propionibacteriaceae, and Bradyrhizobiaceae as the most prevalent bacterial families in both BIA-ALCL and benign seroma samples. Notably, the Burkholderiaceae family was more abundant in some of the benign seromas according to the 16S rRNA sequencing, but Ralstonia spp. were not detected. BIA-ALCL showed higher richness (based on Nanopore data) and higher evenness (based on 16S rRNA data) compared to acute-type seromas, indicating a more homogenous representation of the different taxa identified. BIA-ALCL seromas did not cluster together based on Nanopore data, but they did form a distinct cluster with 16S rRNA data. This cluster was differentiated from the other two clusters by a relatively balanced presence of multiple families without overt dominance. We observed no significant differences in Gram staining between BIA-ALCL and benign samples using either method. However, non-aerobic bacterial families were enriched in BIA-ALCL cases only when analyzed with the Nanopore pipeline. Conclusions: Overall, our findings did not identify a distinctive microbial signature specifically associated with BIA-ALCL. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Oncogenesis of Lymphoma)
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15 pages, 517 KB  
Article
Qualitative Alterations of Mandibular Kinematics in Patients with Myogenous Temporomandibular Disorders: An Axiographic Study Using the Cadiax Diagnostic System
by Daniel Surowiecki, Malgorzata Tomasik and Jolanta Kostrzewa-Janicka
Diagnostics 2025, 15(23), 3044; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics15233044 - 28 Nov 2025
Viewed by 171
Abstract
Background: Myogenous temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) typically present with pain but without obvious restriction of mandibular motion, making subtle dysfunctions difficult to detect clinically. In this study, we evaluated mandibular kinematics in myogenous TMDs using an electronic axiography system (Cadiax Diagnostic). The specific [...] Read more.
Background: Myogenous temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) typically present with pain but without obvious restriction of mandibular motion, making subtle dysfunctions difficult to detect clinically. In this study, we evaluated mandibular kinematics in myogenous TMDs using an electronic axiography system (Cadiax Diagnostic). The specific objective of this study was to evaluate whether patients with myogenous temporomandibular disorders exhibit qualitative abnormalities in mandibular movements that are not detectable using conventional clinical examination. Methods: Twenty-six patients with myogenous TMD (muscle pain without intra-articular disorders, diagnosed per DC/TMD) and 26 matched controls were examined. Clinical assessment (DC/TMD Axis I) measured mandibular range of motion and deviations. Instrumental recordings of maximal opening, protrusion, and laterotrusion were obtained with Cadiax 4. Quantitative (excursion ranges) and qualitative (movement symmetry and sagittal deviations) parameters were analyzed. Condylar position changes between the reference position and maximum intercuspation were evaluated (Condyle Position Measurement, CPM). Exact χ2 or Fisher tests were applied with effect sizes (φ) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). Results: Maximal opening, lateral excursions, and protrusion ranges were statistically similar between groups (mean opening: 47.96 ± 6.5 mm in TMDs vs. 49.46 ± 5.4 mm in controls, p = 0.40; 95% CI of difference −1.8 to 4.8 mm). However, qualitative deviations were more frequent in TMD. Of note, 12/26 (46.2%) patients vs. 6/26 (23.1%) controls showed a ΔY deflection during protrusion (χ2 = 3.06, p = 0.08; φ ≈ 0.24; difference = 23.1%, 95% CI −2.0–48.2%). Identical proportions (46.2% vs. 23.1%) showed a ΔY deflection upon opening (χ2 = 3.06, p = 0.08). Inferior condylar shifts (distractions) on closing into intercuspation occurred only in the mTMD group: 5/26 (19.2%) left condyles vs. 0% (p ≈ 0.05; 95% CI diff 4.1–34.4%) and 2/26 (7.7%) right vs. 0% (p ≈ 0.49; 95% CI −2.5–17.9%). Condylar compressions (superior shifts) were similar between groups. In summary, roughly half of TMD patients exhibited lateral jaw deflections (ΔY) and exclusive condylar “distraction” on closure; upon comparison, these conditions were rare in controls. Conclusions: Despite normal mandibular range of motion, patients with myogenous TMDs exhibited qualitative abnormalities in jaw kinematics, including movement deflections, condylar asymmetries, and centric–intercuspal discrepancies. Axiographic analysis with Cadiax enabled detection of subtle functional changes not identifiable in routine examinations, underscoring its diagnostic value in early dysfunction and potential therapeutic planning. The detection of kinematic abnormalities could influence early diagnosis or treatment planning for myogenous TMDs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Dental Diagnostics)
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18 pages, 12668 KB  
Article
Water-Body Detection from SAR Images Using Connectivity Refinement Network
by Zile Gao, Jinkai Sun, Puyan Xu, Lin Wu, Yabo Huang, Ning Li, Zhuang Zhu and Qianchao Pu
Earth 2025, 6(4), 148; https://doi.org/10.3390/earth6040148 - 27 Nov 2025
Viewed by 113
Abstract
Synthetic aperture radar (SAR) is an active microwave imaging system equipped with penetration capability, enabling all-time and all-weather Earth observation, and demonstrates significant advantages in large-scale surface water-body detection. Although SAR images can provide relatively clear water-body details, they are susceptible to interference [...] Read more.
Synthetic aperture radar (SAR) is an active microwave imaging system equipped with penetration capability, enabling all-time and all-weather Earth observation, and demonstrates significant advantages in large-scale surface water-body detection. Although SAR images can provide relatively clear water-body details, they are susceptible to interference from external factors such as complex terrain and background noise, resulting in fragmented detection outcomes and poor connectivity. Therefore, a Connectivity Refinement Network (ConRNet) is proposed in this study to address the issue of fragmented water-body regions in water-body detection results, combining HISEA-1 and Chaohu-1 SAR data. ConRNet is equipped with attention mechanisms and a connectivity prediction module, combined with dual supervision from segmentation and connectivity labels. Unlike conventional attention modules that only emphasize pixel-wise saliency, the proposed Dual Self-Attention Module (DSAM) jointly captures spatial and channel dependencies. Meanwhile, the Connectivity Prediction Module (CPM) reformulates water-body connectivity as a regression problem to directly optimize structural coherence without relying on post-processing. Leveraging dual supervision from segmentation and connectivity labels, ConRNet achieves simultaneous improvements in topological consistency and pixel-level accuracy. The performance of the proposed ConRNet is evaluated by con-ducting comparative experiments with five deep learning models: FCN, U-Net, DeepLabv3+, HRNet, and MAGNet. The experimental results demonstrate that the ConRNet achieves the highest accuracy in water-body detection, with an intersection over union (IoU) of 88.59% and an F1-score of 93.87%. Full article
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25 pages, 10489 KB  
Article
An SSA-SARIMA-GSVR Hybrid Model Based on Singular Spectrum Analysis for O3-CPM Prediction
by Chaoli Tang, Wenlong Liu, Yuanyuan Wei and Yue Pan
Remote Sens. 2025, 17(23), 3826; https://doi.org/10.3390/rs17233826 - 26 Nov 2025
Viewed by 176
Abstract
Ozone density at cold-point mesopause (O3-CPM) can provide information on long-term atmospheric trends. Compared to ground-level ozone, O3-CPM is not only adversely affected by chemical substances emitted from human activities but is also regulated by solar radiation. Therefore, an accurate prediction of O3-CPM [...] Read more.
Ozone density at cold-point mesopause (O3-CPM) can provide information on long-term atmospheric trends. Compared to ground-level ozone, O3-CPM is not only adversely affected by chemical substances emitted from human activities but is also regulated by solar radiation. Therefore, an accurate prediction of O3-CPM is necessary. However, it is difficult for traditional forecasting methods to predict the main trends and seasonal characteristics of ozone time series while capturing the random components and noise of O3-CPM. In order to improve the prediction accuracy of O3-CPM, this paper proposes a hybrid SSA-SARIMA-GSVR model based on the Singular Spectrum Analysis (SSA) method, which combines the Seasonal Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average Model (SARIMA) and the Gray Wolf Algorithm Optimized Support Vector Regression Algorithm (GSVR). First, the O3-CPM sequence is decomposed using SSA, and the concept of reconstruction threshold (RT) is introduced to categorize the decomposed singular values into two classes. The categorized RT reconstructed sequences containing periodic features and major trends are fed into the SARIMA model for prediction, and the N-RT reconstructed sequences (original sequence N minus RT reconstructed sequence) containing stochastic components and nonlinear features are fed into the GSVR model for prediction. The final prediction results are obtained by superimposing the outputs of these two models. The results confirm that, compared to various commonly used time series forecasting models such as Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM), Informer, SVR, SARIMA, GSVR, SSA-GSVR, and SSA-SARIMA models, the proposed SSA-SARIMA-GSVR hybrid prediction model has the lowest error evaluation metrics, enabling accurate and efficient prediction of the O3-CPM time series. Specifically, the proposed model achieved an RMSE of 0.26, MAE of 0.212, and R2 of 0.987 on the test set, outperforming the best baseline model (SARIMA) by 45.8%, 42.1%, and 3.1%, respectively. Full article
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13 pages, 245 KB  
Case Report
Noncontact Gesture-Based Switch Improves Communication Speed and Social Function in Advanced Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy: A Case Report
by Daisuke Nishida, Takafumi Kinoshita, Tatsuo Hayakawa, Takashi Nakajima, Yoko Kobayashi, Takatoshi Hara, Ikushi Yoda and Katsuhiro Mizuno
Healthcare 2025, 13(22), 2989; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13222989 - 20 Nov 2025
Viewed by 348
Abstract
Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) enables digital access for individuals with severe motor impairment. Conventional contact-based switches rely on residual voluntary movement, limiting efficiency. We report the clinical application of a novel, researcher-developed noncontact assistive switch, the Augmentative Alternative Gesture Interface (AAGI), in [...] Read more.
Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) enables digital access for individuals with severe motor impairment. Conventional contact-based switches rely on residual voluntary movement, limiting efficiency. We report the clinical application of a novel, researcher-developed noncontact assistive switch, the Augmentative Alternative Gesture Interface (AAGI), in a 39-year-old male with late-stage Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) retaining minimal motion. The AAGI converts subtle, noncontact gestures into digital inputs, enabling efficient computer operations. Before intervention, the participant used a conventional mechanical switch, achieving 12 characters per minute (CPM) in a 2 min text entry task and was unable to perform high-speed ICT tasks such as gaming or video editing. After 3 months of AAGI use, the input speed increased to 30 CPM (+2.5-fold), and previously inaccessible tasks became feasible. The System Usability Scale (SUS) improved from 82.5 to 90.0, indicating enhanced usability, whereas the Short Form 36 (SF-36) Social Functioning (+13) and Mental Health (+4) demonstrated meaningful gains. Daily living activities remained stable. This case demonstrates that the AAGI system, developed by our group can substantially enhance communication efficiency, usability, and social engagement in advanced DMD, highlighting its potential as a practical, patient-centered AAC solution that extends digital accessibility to individuals with severe motor disabilities. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Applications of Assistive Technologies in Health Care Practices)
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12 pages, 501 KB  
Article
Peritoneal Cancer Index Dominates Prognosis After CRS–HIPEC for Colorectal Peritoneal Metastases: A Consecutive Single-Centre Cohort with 3-Year Follow-Up
by Michał Kazanowski, Paweł Lesiak, Jędrzej Wierzbicki, Bartosz Kapturkiewicz, Paweł Maciejewski, Marcin Pawłowski, Tomasz Jastrzębski and Marek Bębenek
Cancers 2025, 17(22), 3614; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17223614 - 10 Nov 2025
Viewed by 864
Abstract
Background: Cytoreductive surgery (CRS) with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) can cure selected patients with colorectal peritoneal metastases (CPM). Real-world prognostic data, especially for the Peritoneal Cancer Index (PCI) and completeness of cytoreduction (CCR), are limited. Methods: We retrospectively analysed 75 consecutive patients treated [...] Read more.
Background: Cytoreductive surgery (CRS) with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) can cure selected patients with colorectal peritoneal metastases (CPM). Real-world prognostic data, especially for the Peritoneal Cancer Index (PCI) and completeness of cytoreduction (CCR), are limited. Methods: We retrospectively analysed 75 consecutive patients treated with CRS + HIPEC at a tertiary centre (2014–2022), giving ≥36 months potential follow-up. Overall survival (OS) was assessed by Kaplan–Meier and Cox models. PCI was grouped 0–10, 11–20, >20; CCR was dichotomised (CCR-0 vs. CCR 1/2). Multivariable analysis included PCI, CCR, and resection extent; HIPEC drug was examined univariately. Results: The median follow-up was 41 months. Crude 3-year OS was 50.7% (38/75). Survival decreased with higher PCI: 69% for 0–10 (n = 42), 38% for 11–20 (n = 21), and 0% for > 20 (n = 4). Versus PCI 0–10, the adjusted hazard ratios (HR) were 3.02 (95% CI 1.52–6.03) for PCI 11–20 and 7.29 (1.72–30.81) for > 20. CCR-0 improved OS univariately (HR 0.43) but was non-significant after adjustment (HR 0.89). Resection limited to the peritoneum (HR 0.99) and choice of intraperitoneal drug showed no independent effect. Conclusions: In this real-world cohort, PCI was the only independent predictor of 3-year survival after CRS + HIPEC for CPM; neither CCR status, surgical extent, nor HIPEC agent altered prognosis once PCI was considered. PCI should therefore remain the principal selection criterion while molecular and biological markers are integrated into future risk models. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Cancer Metastasis)
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31 pages, 1406 KB  
Article
Performance Analysis of Unmanned Aerial Vehicle-Assisted and Federated Learning-Based 6G Cellular Vehicle-to-Everything Communication Networks
by Abhishek Gupta and Xavier Fernando
Drones 2025, 9(11), 771; https://doi.org/10.3390/drones9110771 - 7 Nov 2025
Viewed by 777
Abstract
The paradigm of cellular vehicle-to-everything (C-V2X) communications assisted by unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) is poised to revolutionize the future of sixth-generation (6G) intelligent transportation systems, as outlined by the international mobile telecommunication (IMT)-2030 vision. This integration of UAV-assisted C-V2X communications is set to [...] Read more.
The paradigm of cellular vehicle-to-everything (C-V2X) communications assisted by unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) is poised to revolutionize the future of sixth-generation (6G) intelligent transportation systems, as outlined by the international mobile telecommunication (IMT)-2030 vision. This integration of UAV-assisted C-V2X communications is set to enhance mobility and connectivity, creating a smarter and reliable autonomous transportation landscape. The UAV-assisted C-V2X networks enable hyper-reliable and low-latency vehicular communications for 6G applications including augmented reality, immersive reality and virtual reality, real-time holographic mapping support, and futuristic infotainment services. This paper presents a Markov chain model to study a third-generation partnership project (3GPP)-specified C-V2X network communicating with a flying UAV for task offloading in a Federated Learning (FL) environment. We evaluate the impact of various factors such as model update frequency, queue backlog, and UAV energy consumption on different types of communication latency. Additionally, we examine the end-to-end latency in the FL environment against the latency in conventional data offloading. This is achieved by considering cooperative perception messages (CPMs) that are triggered by random events and basic safety messages (BSMs) that are periodically transmitted. Simulation results demonstrate that optimizing the transmission intervals results in a lower average delay. Also, for both scenarios, the optimal policy aims to optimize the available UAV energy consumption, minimize the cumulative queuing backlog, and maximize the UAV’s available battery power utilization. We also find that the queuing delay can be controlled by adjusting the optimal policy and the value function in the relative value iteration (RVI). Moreover, the communication latency in an FL environment is comparable to that in the gross data offloading environment based on Kullback–Leibler (KL) divergence. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in UAV Networks Towards 6G)
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11 pages, 648 KB  
Article
Permeation of 2-Butoxyethanol Through Multiple Layers of a Disposable Nitrile Glove Material and a Single Layer of Microflex 93-260
by Eun Jin Song Kuramoto and Shane Que Hee
Materials 2025, 18(21), 5055; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18215055 - 6 Nov 2025
Viewed by 418
Abstract
Double gloving of disposable gloves occurs in healthcare when extra protection is required against carcinogens, sensitizers, pathogens and sharps. Triple gloving is much rarer. The resistances of single, double and triple layers of disposable nitrile glove material against 2-butoxyethanol (2-BE) were compared with [...] Read more.
Double gloving of disposable gloves occurs in healthcare when extra protection is required against carcinogens, sensitizers, pathogens and sharps. Triple gloving is much rarer. The resistances of single, double and triple layers of disposable nitrile glove material against 2-butoxyethanol (2-BE) were compared with the resistance of a single layer of Microflex 93-260 (Microflex). Three 2.54 cm ASTM F739 permeation cells with closed-loop water collection without recirculation in a moving tray water bath at 35.0 ± 0.5 °C facilitated the permeation relative to a blank cell. Capillary gas chromatography/mass spectrometry allowed the determination of the standardized breakthrough time (SBT), steady state permeation rate (SSPR) and cumulated permeated mass/area (CPM/A) by 30 min. Two nitrile layers (267 ± 14 µm) were about the same thickness as the Microflex layer (249 ± 6 µm). Statistical analysis showed equivalence at p ≤ 0.05 of the multiple layers and the Microflex layer relative to average SBT and CPM/A by 30 min, all such comparisons with the single nitrile layer also being statistically different. The triple layer had an average SSPR or post-breakthrough permeation rate 8 times lower than its single layer, while that for the Microflex layer was 1.5 times lower. Thus, the Microflex layer in terms of CPM/A by 30 min at 210 ± 40 µg/cm2 appeared closer to two nitrile layers (520 ± 560 µg/cm2) than three (93 ± 93 µg/cm2). Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Advanced Materials Characterization)
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22 pages, 5253 KB  
Article
Torque Ripple Reduction and Efficiency Enhancement of Flared-Type Consequent-Pole Motors via Asymmetric Air-Gap and Structural Optimization
by Keun-Young Yoon and Soo-Whang Baek
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(21), 11520; https://doi.org/10.3390/app152111520 - 28 Oct 2025
Viewed by 388
Abstract
The consequent-pole interior permanent-magnet (CPM) motor is a promising alternative for minimizing rare-earth magnet usage while supporting high-speed operation. However, rotor flux asymmetry often leads to distorted back-electromotive force waveforms and increased torque ripple. This study investigated a flared-type CPM motor that employs [...] Read more.
The consequent-pole interior permanent-magnet (CPM) motor is a promising alternative for minimizing rare-earth magnet usage while supporting high-speed operation. However, rotor flux asymmetry often leads to distorted back-electromotive force waveforms and increased torque ripple. This study investigated a flared-type CPM motor that employs ferrite magnets arranged in a flared configuration to enhance flux concentration within a compact rotor. To address waveform distortion, structural modifications such as bridge removal and an asymmetric air-gap design were implemented. Three rotor parameters—polar angle, asymmetric air-gap length, and rotor opening length—were optimized using Latin hypercube sampling combined with an evolutionary algorithm. Finite element method analyses conducted under no-load and rated-load conditions showed that the optimized model achieved a 77.8% reduction in torque ripple, a 43.4% decrease in cogging torque, and a 0.5% improvement in efficiency compared with the basic model. Stress analyses were performed to examine the structural bonding strength and rotor deformation of the optimized model under high-speed operation. The results revealed a 5.5× safety margin at four times the rated speed. The proposed approach offers a cost-effective and sustainable alternative to rare-earth magnet machines for high-efficiency household appliances, where vibration reduction, cost stability, and energy efficiency are critical. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering)
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37 pages, 12943 KB  
Article
Natural Disaster Information System (NDIS) for RPAS Mission Planning
by Robiah Al Wardah and Alexander Braun
Drones 2025, 9(11), 734; https://doi.org/10.3390/drones9110734 - 23 Oct 2025
Viewed by 752
Abstract
Today’s rapidly increasing number and performance of Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPASs) and sensors allows for an innovative approach in monitoring, mitigating, and responding to natural disasters and risks. At present, there are 100s of different RPAS platforms and smaller and more affordable [...] Read more.
Today’s rapidly increasing number and performance of Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPASs) and sensors allows for an innovative approach in monitoring, mitigating, and responding to natural disasters and risks. At present, there are 100s of different RPAS platforms and smaller and more affordable payload sensors. As natural disasters pose ever increasing risks to society and the environment, it is imperative that these RPASs are utilized effectively. In order to exploit these advances, this study presents the development and validation of a Natural Disaster Information System (NDIS), a geospatial decision-support framework for RPAS-based natural hazard missions. The system integrates a global geohazard database with specifications of geophysical sensors and RPAS platforms to automate mission planning in a generalized form. NDIS v1.0 uses decision tree algorithms to select suitable sensors and platforms based on hazard type, distance to infrastructure, and survey feasibility. NDIS v2.0 introduces a Random Forest method and a Critical Path Method (CPM) to further optimize task sequencing and mission timing. The latest version, NDIS v3.8.3, implements a staggered decision workflow that sequentially maps hazard type and disaster stage to appropriate survey methods, sensor payloads, and compatible RPAS using rule-based and threshold-based filtering. RPAS selection considers payload capacity and range thresholds, adjusted dynamically by proximity, and ranks candidate platforms using hazard- and sensor-specific endurance criteria. The system is implemented using ArcGIS Pro 3.4.0, ArcGIS Experience Builder (2025 cloud release), and Azure Web App Services (Python 3.10 runtime). NDIS supports both batch processing and interactive real-time queries through a web-based user interface. Additional features include a statistical overview dashboard to help users interpret dataset distribution, and a crowdsourced input module that enables community-contributed hazard data via ArcGIS Survey123. NDIS is presented and validated in, for example, applications related to volcanic hazards in Indonesia. These capabilities make NDIS a scalable, adaptable, and operationally meaningful tool for multi-hazard monitoring and remote sensing mission planning. Full article
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18 pages, 3511 KB  
Article
Nb2CTx Mxene—Pistachio Shell-Filled Chitosan Coatings on Zn Biomaterial for In Vitro Corrosion and Bioactivity Improvement
by Mehmet Topuz and Fatma Coskun Topuz
Coatings 2025, 15(10), 1210; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings15101210 - 14 Oct 2025
Viewed by 1102
Abstract
This study aims to enhance the corrosion resistance and bioactivity of zinc surfaces through the development of chitosan–pistachio shell (CPM) coatings reinforced with Nb2CTx MXene. The approach introduces a sustainable pathway by incorporating waste pistachio shells as a natural, eco-friendly [...] Read more.
This study aims to enhance the corrosion resistance and bioactivity of zinc surfaces through the development of chitosan–pistachio shell (CPM) coatings reinforced with Nb2CTx MXene. The approach introduces a sustainable pathway by incorporating waste pistachio shells as a natural, eco-friendly additive within a biopolymer matrix. Comprehensive structural and surface characterizations confirmed the homogeneous dispersion of Nb2CTx and the successful fabrication of the hybrid coating. Electrochemical analyses in simulated body fluid demonstrated that the CPM coatings markedly improved the corrosion protection of zinc by shifting the corrosion potential to more noble values, reducing current density and increasing polarization resistance. Impedance results further indicated enhanced charge transfer resistance and stable diffusion-controlled behavior. The coatings also exhibited stronger adhesion, higher hydrophilicity, and improved surface compatibility. After immersion in simulated body fluid, the formation of a dense apatite layer on the CPM surface confirmed the coating’s excellent bioactivity. These findings demonstrate that Nb2CTx-reinforced CPM coatings significantly enhance the functional performance of zinc, combining corrosion resistance, biocompatibility, and mechanical stability. Moreover, the use of pistachio shell waste underscores the potential of sustainable biomaterials in developing environmentally friendly coatings for biomedical applications. Full article
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16 pages, 238 KB  
Article
Understanding Patient Decision-Making in Breast Cancer Surgery: Risk Perception, Communication, and Psychosocial Influences
by Eman Sbaity, Tasnim Diab, Jana Haroun, Nagham Ramadan, Ghina Khalil, Nathalie Chamseddine, Rawan Diab, Hadi Mansour, Mohyeddine El Sayed, Maya Charafeddine, Jaber Abbas and Hazem I. Assi
Med. Sci. 2025, 13(4), 225; https://doi.org/10.3390/medsci13040225 - 9 Oct 2025
Viewed by 680
Abstract
Background: Despite evidence discouraging contralateral prophylactic mastectomy (CPM) in average-risk patients, its use is increasing globally. While well-studied in Western settings, little is known about the factors influencing CPM decisions in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. This study explores clinical, [...] Read more.
Background: Despite evidence discouraging contralateral prophylactic mastectomy (CPM) in average-risk patients, its use is increasing globally. While well-studied in Western settings, little is known about the factors influencing CPM decisions in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. This study explores clinical, psychosocial, and communication-related factors associated with CPM choices among women with early-stage breast cancer. Methods: We conducted a retrospective study of 253 early-stage breast cancer patients who underwent mastectomy, with or without CPM, at the American University of Beirut Medical Center. Clinical and demographic data were extracted from medical records, and decision-making factors were assessed through tailored patient questionnaires. Associations were analyzed using chi-square tests and multivariable logistic regression. Results: Of the 253 women included in the study, 37 underwent CPM, while 216 had unilateral mastectomy (UM). Compared to the UM group, women who chose CPM were more likely to have a college education (96.9% vs. 57.6%, p < 0.001), be employed (69.7% vs. 41.3%, p = 0.002), and report a family history of breast cancer (55.6% vs. 30.2%, p = 0.003). Immediate reconstruction was significantly more common among CPM patients (67.6% vs. 16.4%, p < 0.001), and the 30-day rehospitalization rate was also higher (16.2% vs. 6.1%, p = 0.031). Women in the CPM group were more likely to prioritize extending life (84.6% vs. 56.7%, p = 0.007) and achieving peace of mind (80.8% vs. 49.3%, p = 0.003). Although all CPM patients cited risk reduction as a primary motivator, only 46.2% believed they had a lower recurrence risk than their peers (vs. 20% of UM patients, p < 0.001). Decisions to undergo UM were more frequently influenced by physicians’ recommendations (95.3% vs. 53.8%, p < 0.001), whereas CPM decisions appeared to be more patient-driven. Additionally, CPM patients reported more negative expectations and higher dissatisfaction with pain (57.7% vs. 32.0%, p = 0.012) and reconstructive outcomes (54.5% vs. 27.5%, p = 0.035). Conclusions: In this first study from the MENA region exploring CPM decision-making, choices were largely driven by personal preferences rather than clinical risk. These findings highlight the need for improved risk communication, shared decision-making, and broader integration of genetic counseling in surgical planning. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Cancer and Cancer-Related Research)
19 pages, 1183 KB  
Article
Changes in Autonomic Balance, Cardiac Parasympathetic Modulation, and Cardiac Baroreflex Gain in Older Adults Under Different Orthostatic Stress Conditions
by Dihogo Gama de Matos, Jefferson Lima de Santana, Felipe J. Aidar, Stephen M. Cornish, Gordon G. Giesbrecht, Albena Nunes-Silva, Roman Romero-Ortuno, Todd A. Duhamel and Rodrigo Villar
Healthcare 2025, 13(19), 2404; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13192404 - 24 Sep 2025
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Abstract
Background: As we age, our autonomic function declines, resulting in altered autonomic balance during postural transitions. These changes can affect the dynamic interplay between sympathetic and parasympathetic modulation, compromising short-term compensatory responses to active standing. Objectives: This study aimed to compare [...] Read more.
Background: As we age, our autonomic function declines, resulting in altered autonomic balance during postural transitions. These changes can affect the dynamic interplay between sympathetic and parasympathetic modulation, compromising short-term compensatory responses to active standing. Objectives: This study aimed to compare heart rate variability (HRV) at baseline, cardiac parasympathetic modulation (CPM), and cardiac baroreflex gain (CRG) between younger adults (YA) and older adults (OA) following active standing orthostatic stress. A secondary objective was to analyze the incidence of orthostatic intolerance (OI) symptoms. Methods: Participants (n = 76) completed sit-to-stand and lie-to-stand maneuvers with continuous beat-to-beat blood pressure and heart rate (HR, electrocardiogram). HRV at baseline was analyzed in both time and frequency domains. CPM was measured by the HR 30:15 ratio on standing. CBG was determined as the ratio of HR and SBP changes (ΔHR/ΔSBP) at specific phase time points (30 s, 60 s, 180 s, and 420 s). Results: At baseline, OA showed reduced Standard Deviation of RR intervals (SDRR), Root Mean Square of Successive Differences (RMSSD), low-frequency (LF), and high-frequency (HF) power, and elevated LF/HF ratio (all p < 0.05), indicating a shift toward sympathetic dominance. During active standing orthostatic stress, OA demonstrated a lower HR30:15 ratio and CBG in later phases (phases 2–4) (all p < 0.05). Also, OA reported more symptoms (14%) of OI than YA (0%) (p = 0.041). Conclusions: These findings indicate that older adults have impaired autonomic function characterized by reduced HRV, CPM and CBG responses. These impairments lead to diminished autonomic regulation under active-standing orthostatic stress and a higher incidence of OI symptoms. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Chronic Disease Management for Older Adults)
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17 pages, 299 KB  
Review
Indications and Mechanisms of Action of the Main Treatment Modalities for Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer
by Marcio F. Chedid, Aline C. Tregnago, Floriano Riva, Lucas Prediger, Anisha Agarwal and Jane Mattei
Life 2025, 15(9), 1447; https://doi.org/10.3390/life15091447 - 16 Sep 2025
Viewed by 1263
Abstract
Skin cancer is the most common cancer worldwide. The incidence of skin cancer has been increasing worldwide. Nearly 75% of all skin cancers are basal cell carcinomas (BCC), cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) represents approximately 20%, and those remaining are melanomas (4%) or [...] Read more.
Skin cancer is the most common cancer worldwide. The incidence of skin cancer has been increasing worldwide. Nearly 75% of all skin cancers are basal cell carcinomas (BCC), cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) represents approximately 20%, and those remaining are melanomas (4%) or other rare tumors (1%). Given the high cure rates and the ability to histologically confirm tumor clearance, surgical therapy is the gold standard for the treatment of skin cancer. Conventional surgery is the most employed technique for the removal of non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSCs). Mohs Micrographic Surgery (MMS) is the most precise surgical method for the treatment of non-melanoma skin cancer, allowing for 100% margin evaluation, being the gold-standard method for surgical treatment of non-melanoma skin cancer. Whenever it is possible to obtain wide margins (4 to 6 mm), cure rates vary from 70% to 99%. Imiquimod, a synthetic imidazoquinolinone amine, is a topical immune response modifier approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of external anogenital warts, actinic keratosis (AK), and superficial basal cell carcinoma (sBCC). The efficacy of imiquimod is primarily attributed to its ability to modulate both innate and adaptive immune responses, as well as its direct effects on cancer cells. Imiquimod exerts its immunomodulatory effects by activating Toll-like receptors 7 and 8 (TLR7/8) on various immune cells, including dendritic cells, macrophages, and natural killer (NK) cells. Upon binding to these receptors, imiquimod triggers the MyD88-dependent signaling pathway, leading to the activation of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) and interferon regulatory factors (IRFs). This cascade leads to the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, including interferon-alpha (IFN-α), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-12 (IL-12), and interleukin-6 (IL-6). These cytokines enhance local inflammation, recruit additional immune cells to the tumor site, and stimulate antigen presentation, thereby promoting an anti-tumor immune response. Radiation therapy (RTh) may be employed as a primary treatment to BCC. It may also be employed as an adjuvant treatment to surgery for SCC and aggressive subtypes of BCC. RTh triggers both direct and indirect DNA damage on cancer cells and generates reactive oxygen species (ROS) within cells. ROS trigger oxidative damage to DNA, proteins, and lipids, exacerbating the cellular stress and contributing to tumor cell death. Recently, immunotherapy emerged as a revolutionary treatment for all stages of SCC. Cemiplimab is a human programmed cell death 1 (PD-1)-blocking antibody that triggers a response to over 50% of patients with locally advanced and metastatic SCC. A randomized clinical trial (RCT) published in 2022 revealed that cemiplimab was highly effective in the neoadjuvant treatment of large SCCs. The drug promoted a significant tumor size decrease, enabling organ-sparing operations and a much better cosmetic effect. A few months ago, a RCT of cemiplimab on adjuvant therapy for locally aggressive SCC was published. Interestingly, cemiplimab was administered to patients with local or regional cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma after surgical resection and postoperative radiotherapy, at high risk for recurrence owing to nodal features, revealed that cemiplimab led to much lower risks both of locoregional recurrence and distant recurrence. Full article
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