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17 pages, 1256 KiB  
Systematic Review
Integrating Artificial Intelligence into Orthodontic Education: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Clinical Teaching Application
by Carlos M. Ardila, Eliana Pineda-Vélez and Anny Marcela Vivares Builes
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(15), 5487; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14155487 (registering DOI) - 4 Aug 2025
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly emerging as a transformative force in healthcare education, including orthodontics. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the integration of AI into orthodontic training programs, focusing on its effectiveness in improving diagnostic accuracy, learner engagement, [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly emerging as a transformative force in healthcare education, including orthodontics. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the integration of AI into orthodontic training programs, focusing on its effectiveness in improving diagnostic accuracy, learner engagement, and the perceived quality of AI-generated educational content. Materials and Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase through May 2025. Eligible studies involved AI-assisted educational interventions in orthodontics. A mixed-methods approach was applied, combining meta-analysis and narrative synthesis based on data availability and consistency. Results: Seven studies involving 1101 participants—including orthodontic students, clinicians, faculty, and program directors—were included. AI tools ranged from cephalometric landmarking platforms to ChatGPT-based learning modules. A fixed-effects meta-analysis using two studies yielded a pooled Global Quality Scale (GQS) score of 3.69 (95% CI: 3.58–3.80), indicating moderate perceived quality of AI-generated content (I2 = 64.5%). Due to methodological heterogeneity and limited statistical reporting in most studies, a narrative synthesis was used to summarize additional outcomes. AI tools enhanced diagnostic skills, learner autonomy, and perceived satisfaction, particularly among students and junior faculty. However, barriers such as limited curricular integration, lack of training, and faculty skepticism were recurrent. Conclusions: AI technologies, especially ChatGPT and digital cephalometry tools, show promise in orthodontic education. While learners demonstrate high acceptance, full integration is hindered by institutional and perceptual challenges. Strategic curricular reforms and targeted faculty development are needed to optimize AI adoption in clinical training. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Orthodontics: State of the Art and Perspectives)
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23 pages, 1799 KiB  
Systematic Review
Physical Training Protocols for Improving Dyspnea and Fatigue in Long COVID: A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis
by Lisa Fernanda Mazzonetto, Jéssica Fernanda Correa Cordeiro, Igor Massari Correia, Alcivandro de Sousa Oliveira, Chimenny Moraes, Joana Brilhadori, Eurípedes Barsanulfo Gonçalves Gomide, Michal Kudlacek, Dalmo Roberto Lopes Machado, Jeferson Roberto Collevatti dos Anjos and André Pereira dos Santos
Healthcare 2025, 13(15), 1897; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13151897 - 4 Aug 2025
Abstract
Objective: This study aimed to evaluate physical training protocols for alleviating long COVID symptoms, especially dyspnea and fatigue, through a systematic review with meta-analysis. Method: Data were collected from EMBASE, LILACS, PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, Web of Science, and grey literature (Google Scholar, medRxiv). [...] Read more.
Objective: This study aimed to evaluate physical training protocols for alleviating long COVID symptoms, especially dyspnea and fatigue, through a systematic review with meta-analysis. Method: Data were collected from EMBASE, LILACS, PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, Web of Science, and grey literature (Google Scholar, medRxiv). Studies evaluating dyspnea and/or fatigue before and after physical rehabilitation, using validated questionnaires, were included. Studies lacking pre- and post-assessments or physical training were excluded. Two reviewers independently extracted data on intervention type, duration, frequency, intensity, and assessment methods for dyspnea and fatigue. Bias risk was evaluated using the Cochrane tool. Results: Combined methods, such as respiratory muscle training with strength and aerobic exercise, were common for long COVID symptoms. Aerobic exercise notably improved dyspnea and/or fatigue. Among 25 studies, four had a low risk of bias. Meta-analysis of two studies found no significant reduction in fatigue. Conclusion: Combined training methods, particularly aerobic exercise, alleviate dyspnea and fatigue in long COVID. More high-quality studies are needed to confirm these findings. Full article
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23 pages, 470 KiB  
Systematic Review
Current Understanding and Future Research Direction for Estimating the Postmortem Interval: A Systematic Review
by Gabriela Strete, Andreea Sălcudean, Adina-Alexandra Cozma and Carmen-Corina Radu
Diagnostics 2025, 15(15), 1954; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics15151954 - 4 Aug 2025
Abstract
Background: Accurate estimation of the postmortem interval (PMI) is critical in forensic death investigations. Traditional signs of death—algor mortis, livor mortis, and rigor mortis—are generally reliable only within the first two to three days after death, with their accuracy decreasing as decomposition [...] Read more.
Background: Accurate estimation of the postmortem interval (PMI) is critical in forensic death investigations. Traditional signs of death—algor mortis, livor mortis, and rigor mortis—are generally reliable only within the first two to three days after death, with their accuracy decreasing as decomposition progresses. This paper presents a systematic review conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines, aiming to evaluate and compare current methods for estimating the PMI. Specifically, the study identifies both traditional and modern techniques, analyzes their advantages, limitations, and applicable timeframes, critically synthesizes the literature, and highlights the importance of combining multiple approaches to improve accuracy. Methods: A systematic search was conducted in the PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases, following the PRISMA guidelines. The review included original articles and reviews that evaluated PMI estimation methods (through thanatological signs, entomology, microbial succession, molecular, imaging, and omics approaches). Extracted data included study design, methodology, PMI range, and accuracy information. Out of the 1245 identified records, 50 studies met the inclusion criteria for qualitative synthesis. Results: Emerging methods, such as molecular markers, microbial succession, omics technologies, and advanced imaging show improved accuracy across extended postmortem intervals. RNA degradation methods demonstrated higher accuracy within the first 72 h, while entomology and microbial analysis are more applicable during intermediate and late decomposition stages. Although no single method is universally reliable, combining traditional and modern approaches tailored to case-specific factors improves overall PMI estimation accuracy. Conclusions: This study supports the use of an integrative, multidisciplinary, and evidence-based approach to improve time-since-death estimation. Such a strategy enhances forensic outcomes by enabling more precise PMI estimates in complex or delayed cases, increasing legal reliability, and supporting court-admissible expert testimony based on validated, multi-method protocols. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Pathology and Molecular Diagnostics)
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15 pages, 1265 KiB  
Systematic Review
Optimal Recipient Nerve Selection for Breast Neurotization with Abdominal Flaps: A Comprehensive Meta-Analysis of Anterior and Lateral Intercostal Approaches
by Woonhyeok Jeong, Jaehoon Choi, Junhyung Kim, Daegu Son and Taehee Jo
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(15), 5461; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14155461 (registering DOI) - 3 Aug 2025
Abstract
Background: Breast reconstruction post-mastectomy has increasingly emphasized the importance of sensory restoration. This study aimed to evaluate the comparative efficacy of anterior versus lateral cutaneous intercostal nerve branches in neurotization during abdominal-based autologous breast reconstruction. Methods: Through a systematic literature search and meta-analysis, [...] Read more.
Background: Breast reconstruction post-mastectomy has increasingly emphasized the importance of sensory restoration. This study aimed to evaluate the comparative efficacy of anterior versus lateral cutaneous intercostal nerve branches in neurotization during abdominal-based autologous breast reconstruction. Methods: Through a systematic literature search and meta-analysis, we reviewed studies published between January 2003 and August 2023. Our methods involved categorizing studies based on the nerve branch used, extracting relevant data, and conducting a quality assessment. To determine the difference in the magnitude of sensory recovery, a meta-analysis was conducted to pool the effect sizes (mean differences) from individual studies. Given the potential for heterogeneity across studies, a random-effects model was employed using the DerSimonian and Laird method. Subgroup analysis was then performed to separately evaluate the effect sizes for the anterior and lateral groups. Results: We identified five studies for the anterior group and five studies for the lateral group. The anterior group included a total of 225 non-neurotized and 240 neurotized breasts, while the lateral group consisted of 62 non-neurotized and 51 neurotized breasts. The anterior group exhibited superior sensory recovery compared to the lateral group (p = 0.08 for the common effect model). The result was borderline significant, suggesting a trend towards a difference between the two groups. In terms of patient-reported outcomes, the anterior group provided data, while the lateral group lacked such data, underscoring a potential research gap. Conclusions: Results indicated a trend favoring the anterior cutaneous branch, with studies showing improved sensory outcomes and patient satisfaction. However, the choice between the two should be individualized, considering the patient’s unique needs and the surgeon’s expertise. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current State of Breast Reconstruction)
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38 pages, 6505 KiB  
Review
Trends in Oil Spill Modeling: A Review of the Literature
by Rodrigo N. Vasconcelos, André T. Cunha Lima, Carlos A. D. Lentini, José Garcia V. Miranda, Luís F. F. de Mendonça, Diego P. Costa, Soltan G. Duverger and Elaine C. B. Cambui
Water 2025, 17(15), 2300; https://doi.org/10.3390/w17152300 - 2 Aug 2025
Viewed by 51
Abstract
Oil spill simulation models are essential for predicting the oil spill behavior and movement in marine environments. In this study, we comprehensively reviewed a large and diverse body of peer-reviewed literature obtained from Scopus and Web of Science. Our initial analysis phase focused [...] Read more.
Oil spill simulation models are essential for predicting the oil spill behavior and movement in marine environments. In this study, we comprehensively reviewed a large and diverse body of peer-reviewed literature obtained from Scopus and Web of Science. Our initial analysis phase focused on examining trends in scientific publications, utilizing the complete dataset derived after systematic screening and database integration. In the second phase, we applied elements of a systematic review to identify and evaluate the most influential contributions in the scientific field of oil spill simulations. Our analysis revealed a steady and accelerating growth of research activity over the past five decades, with a particularly notable expansion in the last two. The field has also experienced a marked increase in collaborative practices, including a rise in international co-authorship and multi-authored contributions, reflecting a more global and interdisciplinary research landscape. We cataloged the key modeling frameworks that have shaped the field from established systems such as OSCAR, OIL-MAP/SIMAP, and GNOME to emerging hybrid and Lagrangian approaches. Hydrodynamic models were consistently central, often integrated with biogeochemical, wave, atmospheric, and oil-spill-specific modules. Environmental variables such as wind, ocean currents, and temperature were frequently used to drive model behavior. Geographically, research has concentrated on ecologically and economically sensitive coastal and marine regions. We conclude that future progress will rely on the real-time integration of high-resolution environmental data streams, the development of machine-learning-based surrogate models to accelerate computations, and the incorporation of advanced biodegradation and weathering mechanisms supported by experimental data. These advancements are expected to enhance the accuracy, responsiveness, and operational value of oil spill modeling tools, supporting environmental monitoring and emergency response. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Remote Sensing for Coastal System Monitoring and Management)
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36 pages, 699 KiB  
Article
A Framework of Indicators for Assessing Team Performance of Human–Robot Collaboration in Construction Projects
by Guodong Zhang, Xiaowei Luo, Lei Zhang, Wei Li, Wen Wang and Qiming Li
Buildings 2025, 15(15), 2734; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15152734 - 2 Aug 2025
Viewed by 48
Abstract
The construction industry has been troubled by a shortage of skilled labor and safety accidents in recent years. Therefore, more and more robots are introduced to undertake dangerous and repetitive jobs, so that human workers can concentrate on higher-value and creative problem-solving tasks. [...] Read more.
The construction industry has been troubled by a shortage of skilled labor and safety accidents in recent years. Therefore, more and more robots are introduced to undertake dangerous and repetitive jobs, so that human workers can concentrate on higher-value and creative problem-solving tasks. Nevertheless, although human–robot collaboration (HRC) shows great potential, most existing evaluation methods still focus on the single performance of either the human or robot, and systematic indicators for a whole HRC team remain insufficient. To fill this research gap, the present study constructs a comprehensive evaluation framework for HRC team performance in construction projects. Firstly, a detailed literature review is carried out, and three theories are integrated to build 33 indicators preliminarily. Afterwards, an expert questionnaire survey (N = 15) is adopted to revise and verify the model empirically. The survey yielded a Cronbach’s alpha of 0.916, indicating excellent internal consistency. The indicators rated highest in importance were task completion time (µ = 4.53) and dynamic separation distance (µ = 4.47) on a 5-point scale. Eight indicators were excluded due to mean importance ratings falling below the 3.0 threshold. The framework is formed with five main dimensions and 25 concrete indicators. Finally, an AHP-TOPSIS method is used to evaluate the HRC team performance. The AHP analysis reveals that Safety (weight = 0.2708) is prioritized over Productivity (weight = 0.2327) by experts, establishing a safety-first principle for successful HRC deployment. The framework is demonstrated through a case study of a human–robot plastering team, whose team performance scored as fair. This shows that the framework can help practitioners find out the advantages and disadvantages of HRC team performance and provide targeted improvement strategies. Furthermore, the framework offers construction managers a scientific basis for deciding robot deployment and team assignment, thus promoting safer, more efficient, and more creative HRC in construction projects. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Construction Management, and Computers & Digitization)
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23 pages, 1211 KiB  
Review
Dealuminated Metakaolin in Supplementary Cementitious Material and Alkali-Activated Systems: A Review
by Mostafa Elsebaei, Maria Mavroulidou, Amany Micheal, Maria Astrid Centeno, Rabee Shamass and Ottavia Rispoli
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(15), 8599; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15158599 (registering DOI) - 2 Aug 2025
Viewed by 71
Abstract
This paper presents a comprehensive review of dealuminated metakaolin (DK), a hazardous industrial by-product generated by the aluminium sulphate (alum) industry and evaluates its potential as a component in cementitious systems for the partial or full replacement of Portland cement (PC). Positioned within the [...] Read more.
This paper presents a comprehensive review of dealuminated metakaolin (DK), a hazardous industrial by-product generated by the aluminium sulphate (alum) industry and evaluates its potential as a component in cementitious systems for the partial or full replacement of Portland cement (PC). Positioned within the context of waste valorisation in concrete, the review aims to establish a critical understanding of DK formation, properties, and reactivity, particularly its pozzolanic potential, to assess its suitability for use as a supplementary cementitious material (SCM), or as a precursor in alkali-activated cement (AAC) systems for concrete. A systematic methodology is used to extract and synthesise relevant data from existing literature concerning DK and its potential applications in cement and concrete. The collected information is organised into thematic sections exploring key aspects of DK, beginning with its formation from kaolinite ores, followed by studies on its pozzolanic reactivity. Applications of DK are then reviewed, focusing on its integration into SCMs and alkali-activated cement (AAC) systems. The review consolidates existing knowledge related to DK, identifying scientific gaps and practical challenges that limit its broader adoption for cement and concrete applications, and outlines future research directions to provide a solid foundation for future studies. Overall, this review highlights the potential of DK as a low-carbon, circular-economy material and promotes its integration into efforts to enhance the sustainability of construction practices. The findings aim to support researchers’ and industry stakeholders’ strategies to reduce cement clinker content and mitigate the environmental footprint of concrete in a circular-economy context. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Applications of Waste Materials and By-Products in Concrete)
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17 pages, 1651 KiB  
Article
A Comprehensive User Acceptance Evaluation Framework of Intelligent Driving Based on Subjective and Objective Integration—From the Perspective of Value Engineering
by Wang Zhang, Fuquan Zhao, Zongwei Liu, Haokun Song and Guangyu Zhu
Systems 2025, 13(8), 653; https://doi.org/10.3390/systems13080653 (registering DOI) - 2 Aug 2025
Viewed by 41
Abstract
Intelligent driving technology is expected to reshape urban transportation, but its promotion is hindered by user acceptance challenges and diverse technical routes. This study proposes a comprehensive user acceptance evaluation framework for intelligent driving from the perspective of value engineering (VE). The novelty [...] Read more.
Intelligent driving technology is expected to reshape urban transportation, but its promotion is hindered by user acceptance challenges and diverse technical routes. This study proposes a comprehensive user acceptance evaluation framework for intelligent driving from the perspective of value engineering (VE). The novelty of this framework lies in three aspects: (1) It unifies behavioral theory and utility theory under the value engineering framework, and it extracts key indicators such as safety, travel efficiency, trust, comfort, and cost, thus addressing the issue of the lack of integration between subjective and objective factors in previous studies. (2) It establishes a systematic mapping mechanism from technical solutions to evaluation indicators, filling the gap of insufficient targeting at different technical routes in the existing literature. (3) It quantifies acceptance differences via VE’s core formula of V = F/C, overcoming the ambiguity of non-technical evaluation in prior research. A case study comparing single-vehicle intelligence vs. collaborative intelligence and different sensor combinations (vision-only, map fusion, and lidar fusion) shows that collaborative intelligence and vision-based solutions offer higher comprehensive acceptance due to balanced functionality and cost. This framework guides enterprises in technical strategy planning and assists governments in formulating industrial policies by quantifying acceptance differences across technical routes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Modeling, Planning and Management of Sustainable Transport Systems)
36 pages, 807 KiB  
Article
A KPI-Based Framework for Evaluating Sustainable Agricultural Practices in Southern Angola
by Eduardo E. Eliseu, Tânia M. Lima and Pedro D. Gaspar
Sustainability 2025, 17(15), 7019; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17157019 (registering DOI) - 1 Aug 2025
Viewed by 121
Abstract
Agricultural production in southern Angola faces challenges due to unsustainable practices, including inefficient use of water, fertilizers, and machinery, resulting in low yields and environmental degradation. Therefore, clear and measurable indicators are needed to guide farmers toward more sustainable practices. The scientific literature [...] Read more.
Agricultural production in southern Angola faces challenges due to unsustainable practices, including inefficient use of water, fertilizers, and machinery, resulting in low yields and environmental degradation. Therefore, clear and measurable indicators are needed to guide farmers toward more sustainable practices. The scientific literature insufficiently addresses this issue, leaving a significant gap in the evaluation of key performance indicators (KPIs) that can guide good agricultural practices (GAPs) adapted to the context of southern Angola, with the goal of promoting a more resilient and sustainable agricultural sector. So, the objective of this study is to identify and assess KPIs capable of supporting the selection of GAPs suitable for maize, potato, and tomato cultivation in the context of southern Angolan agriculture. A systematic literature review (SLR) was conducted, screening 2720 articles and selecting 14 studies that met defined inclusion criteria. Five KPIs were identified as the most relevant: gross margin, net profit, water use efficiency, nitrogen use efficiency, and machine energy. These indicators were analyzed and standardized to evaluate their contribution to sustainability across different GAPs. Results show that organic fertilizers are the most sustainable option for maize, drip irrigation for potatoes, and crop rotation for tomatoes in southern Angola because of their efficiency in low-resource environments. A clear, simple, and effective representation of the KPIs was developed to be useful in communicating to farmers and policy makers on the selection of the best GAPs in the cultivation of different crops. The study proposes a validated KPI-based methodology for assessing sustainable agricultural practices in developing regions such as southern Angola, aiming to lead to greater self-sufficiency and economic stability in this sector. Full article
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25 pages, 1105 KiB  
Review
Review and Decision-Making Tree for Methods to Balance Indoor Environmental Comfort and Energy Conservation During Building Operation
by Shan Lin, Yu Zhang, Xuanjiang Chen, Chengzhi Pan, Xianjun Dong, Xiang Xie and Long Chen
Sustainability 2025, 17(15), 7016; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17157016 (registering DOI) - 1 Aug 2025
Viewed by 175
Abstract
Effective building operation requires a careful balance between energy conservation and indoor environmental comfort. Although numerous methods have been developed to reduce energy consumption during the operational phase, their objectives and applications vary widely. However, the complexity of building energy management makes it [...] Read more.
Effective building operation requires a careful balance between energy conservation and indoor environmental comfort. Although numerous methods have been developed to reduce energy consumption during the operational phase, their objectives and applications vary widely. However, the complexity of building energy management makes it challenging to identify the most suitable methods that simultaneously achieve both comfort and efficiency goals. Existing studies often lack a systematic framework that supports integrated decision-making under comfort constraints. This research aims to address this gap by proposing a decision-making tree for selecting energy conservation methods during building operation with an explicit consideration of indoor environmental comfort. A comprehensive literature review is conducted to identify four main energy-consuming components during building operation: the building envelope, HVAC systems, lighting systems, and plug loads and appliances. Three key comfort indicators—thermal comfort, lighting comfort, and air quality comfort—are defined, and energy conservation methods are categorized into three strategic groups: passive strategies, control optimization strategies, and behavioural intervention strategies. Each method is assessed using a defined set of evaluation criteria. Subsequently, a questionnaire survey is administered for the calibration of the decision tree, incorporating stakeholder preferences and expert judgement. The findings contribute to the advancement of understanding regarding the co-optimization of energy conservation and occupant comfort in building operations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Technologies and Digital Design in Smart Construction)
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12 pages, 549 KiB  
Review
Genetic and Gene-by-Environment Influences on Aggressiveness in Dogs: A Systematic Review from 2000 to 2024
by Stefano Sartore, Riccardo Moretti, Stefania Chessa and Paola Sacchi
Animals 2025, 15(15), 2267; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15152267 - 1 Aug 2025
Viewed by 90
Abstract
Aggressiveness in dogs is a complex behavioral trait with implications for animal welfare and public safety. Despite domestication, dogs retain aggressive tendencies shaped by both genetic and environmental factors. This systematic review synthesizes the literature from 2000 to 2024 on the genetic and [...] Read more.
Aggressiveness in dogs is a complex behavioral trait with implications for animal welfare and public safety. Despite domestication, dogs retain aggressive tendencies shaped by both genetic and environmental factors. This systematic review synthesizes the literature from 2000 to 2024 on the genetic and environmental bases of canine aggression. Using PRISMA 2020 guidelines, 144 articles were retrieved from Scopus and PubMed and screened in two phases, resulting in 33 studies selected for analysis. These were evaluated using a 20-question grid across seven categories, including phenotyping, genetic analysis, population structure, and future directions. The studies support a polygenic model of aggressiveness, with associations reported for genes involved in neurotransmission, hormone signaling, and brain function. However, inconsistencies in phenotyping, small sample sizes, and a limited consideration of environmental factors hinder robust conclusions. Most studies focused on popular companion breeds, while those commonly labeled as aggressive were underrepresented. The findings highlight the relevance of gene–environment interactions but underscore that aggression is often poorly defined and measured across studies. Future research should prioritize standardized phenotyping tools, broader breed inclusion, and the functional validation of genetic findings. These efforts will improve the understanding of dog aggression and inform breeding, behavioral assessment, and public policy. Full article
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18 pages, 1491 KiB  
Review
Monocyte Distribution Width for Sepsis Diagnosis in the Emergency Department and Intensive Care Unit: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
by Jessica Elisabetta Esposito, Milena D’Amato, Giustino Parruti and Ennio Polilli
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(15), 7444; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26157444 (registering DOI) - 1 Aug 2025
Viewed by 86
Abstract
We planned a systemic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of Monocyte Distribution Width (MDW) in aiding the diagnosis of sepsis in the Emergency Department (ED) and Intensive Care Unit (ICU). A systematic literature search was performed in PubMed, Scopus, and [...] Read more.
We planned a systemic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of Monocyte Distribution Width (MDW) in aiding the diagnosis of sepsis in the Emergency Department (ED) and Intensive Care Unit (ICU). A systematic literature search was performed in PubMed, Scopus, and OVID to retrieve studies published up to 29 January 2024. We examined results using mean difference and conducted a diagnostic test accuracy (DTA) meta-analysis using a bivariate random effects model. Pooled results showed that MDW was significantly higher in sepsis patients admitted to the ED (MD = 5.59, 95%CI: 4.14–7.05) or to the ICU (MD = 8.30, 95%CI: 2.98–13.62). Nine studies conducted in the ED were included in the DTA review. The overall sensitivity was 0.80 (95%CI: 0.75–0.85), the specificity was 0.76 (95%CI: 0.66–0.83), and the false-positive rate (FPR) was 0.24 (95%CI: 0.17–0.34). Three studies were conducted in the ICU, but only two were included in the DTA meta-analysis. Of the 662 patients admitted to the ICU, 175 developed sepsis, showing higher MDW values than non-septic patients. However, significant heterogeneity was noted among the studies. MDW is a helpful biomarker for sepsis in adult patients admitted to the ED and ICU. In the ED, MDW could aid clinicians in ruling out sepsis. Full article
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23 pages, 2227 KiB  
Article
Assessing the Systemic Impact of Heat Stress on Human Reliability in Mining Through FRAM and Hybrid Decision Models
by Ana Carolina Russo
Mining 2025, 5(3), 50; https://doi.org/10.3390/mining5030050 (registering DOI) - 1 Aug 2025
Viewed by 67
Abstract
Occupational heat stress represents an increasing challenge to safety and operational performance in underground mining, where elevated temperatures, humidity, and limited ventilation are common. This study proposes an integrated framework to analyze the systemic impact of heat stress on human reliability in mining [...] Read more.
Occupational heat stress represents an increasing challenge to safety and operational performance in underground mining, where elevated temperatures, humidity, and limited ventilation are common. This study proposes an integrated framework to analyze the systemic impact of heat stress on human reliability in mining operations. We conducted a systematic literature review to identify empirical studies addressing thermal exposure, extracting key operational functions for modeling. These functions were structured using the Functional Resonance Analysis Method (FRAM) to reveal interdependencies and performance variability. Human reliability was evaluated using Fuzzy CREAM, which quantified the degree of contextual control associated with each function. Finally, we applied the Gaussian Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) to prioritize functions based on thermal impact, contextual reliability, and systemic connectivity. The results showed that functions involving subjective or complex judgment, such as assessing thermal stress or identifying psychophysiological indicators, exhibited lower reliability and higher vulnerability. In contrast, monitoring and control functions based on standardized procedures were more stable and resilient. This combined approach identified critical points of systemic fragility and offers a robust decision-support tool for prioritizing thermal risk mitigation. The findings contribute to advancing the scientific understanding of heat stress impacts in mining and support the development of targeted interventions to enhance human performance and safety in extreme environments. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Innovative Strategies to Mitigate the Impact of Mining)
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31 pages, 5480 KiB  
Review
Solid Core Magnetic Gear Systems: A Comprehensive Review of Topologies, Core Materials, and Emerging Applications
by Serkan Sezen, Kadir Yilmaz, Serkan Aktas, Murat Ayaz and Taner Dindar
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(15), 8560; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15158560 (registering DOI) - 1 Aug 2025
Viewed by 213
Abstract
Magnetic gears (MGs) are attracting increasing attention in power transmission systems due to their contactless operation principles, low frictional losses, and high efficiency. However, the broad application potential of these technologies requires a comprehensive evaluation of engineering parameters, such as material selection, energy [...] Read more.
Magnetic gears (MGs) are attracting increasing attention in power transmission systems due to their contactless operation principles, low frictional losses, and high efficiency. However, the broad application potential of these technologies requires a comprehensive evaluation of engineering parameters, such as material selection, energy efficiency, and structural design. This review focuses solely on solid-core magnetic gear systems designed using laminated electrical steels, soft magnetic composites (SMCs), and high-saturation alloys. This review systematically examines the topological diversity, torque transmission principles, and the impact of various core materials, such as electrical steels, soft magnetic composites (SMCs), and cobalt-based alloys, on the performance of magnetic gear systems. Literature-based comparative analyses are structured around topological classifications, evaluation of material properties, and performance analyses based on losses. Additionally, the study highlights that aligning material properties with appropriate manufacturing methods, such as powder metallurgy, wire electrical discharge machining (EDM), and precision casting, is essential for the practical scalability of magnetic gear systems. The findings reveal that coaxial magnetic gears (CMGs) offer a favorable balance between high torque density and compactness, while soft magnetic composites provide significant advantages in loss reduction, particularly at high frequencies. Additionally, application trends in fields such as renewable energy, electric vehicles (EVs), aerospace, and robotics are highlighted. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering)
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24 pages, 1154 KiB  
Article
Psychic and Cognitive Impacts of Cardiovascular Disease: Evidence from an Observational Study and Comparison by a Systematic Literature Review
by Irene Cappadona, Anna Anselmo, Davide Cardile, Giuseppe Micali, Fabio Mauro Giambò, Francesco Speciale, Daniela Costanzo, Piercataldo D'Aleo, Antonio Duca, Alessia Bramanti, Marina Garofano, Placido Bramanti, Francesco Corallo and Maria Pagano
Med. Sci. 2025, 13(3), 105; https://doi.org/10.3390/medsci13030105 - 1 Aug 2025
Viewed by 146
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are frequently associated with psychiatric and cognitive comorbidities. These conditions have been shown to significantly impact quality of life and clinical outcomes. This study aims to evaluate the prevalence of anxiety, depression, and cognitive deficits in patients with [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are frequently associated with psychiatric and cognitive comorbidities. These conditions have been shown to significantly impact quality of life and clinical outcomes. This study aims to evaluate the prevalence of anxiety, depression, and cognitive deficits in patients with CVD and to compare the results with existing evidence in the literature. Methods: A total of 74 patients were assessed using the following standardized screening tools: Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II), and Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI). A systematic review was then conducted to compare the findings with those reported in the literature. Results: Most previous studies using the MoCA reported an over 70% absence of cognitive impairment, whereas this study shows a balanced distribution between the absence of (32.4%) and mild (35%) or moderate (32%) impairment. Studies with the MMSE indicated high rates of absence of cognitive deficits (74–79%), but here, the rate of absence was lower (58%), with an increase in mild impairment (42%). Regarding depression, compared with studies showing only absence or moderate/severe forms, this study reveals a more balanced profile, with 57% without depression and with varying severity levels (22% mild, 19% moderate, and 3% severe). Finally, for anxiety, unlike previous asymmetric distributions, greater variability was observed, with 58% without anxiety and significant percentages of mild (26%), moderate (12%), and severe (4%) anxiety. Conclusions: The results highlight a significant and varied prevalence of anxiety, depression, and cognitive deficits, emphasizing the importance of a multidimensional assessment to improve clinical management and therapeutic outcomes. Full article
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