Search Results (9,461)

Psychedelic compounds are gaining renewed attention across disciplines for their profound psychological and neurobiological effects. Emerging research highlights their efficacy in treating mood disorders, PTSD, and addiction by enhancing neuroplasticity and disrupting maladaptive cognitive patterns. From a psychological standpoint, psychedelics facilitate introspection, emotional processing, and therapeutic breakthroughs. Neuroscientific findings reveal altered brain network dynamics, while anthropological and philosophical perspectives contextualize their cultural and existential significance. In medicine, they offer novel interventions for chronic pain and palliative care. The present review article underscores the need for rigorous, ethically grounded research to explore psychedelics’ potential in reshaping mental health paradigms and cognitive science from a multidisciplinary perspective. Full article

Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) remains the leading cause of death worldwide, with myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury (MIRI) emerging as a significant factor influencing patient outcomes despite timely reperfusion therapy. MIRI refers to paradoxical myocardial damage that occurs upon restoration of coronary blood flow and is driven by complex inflammatory, oxidative, and metabolic mechanisms, which can exacerbate infarct size (IS), contributing to adverse outcomes. This review explores the molecular and cellular pathophysiology of MIRI, emphasizing both its clinical and forensic relevance. The principal mechanisms discussed include oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction, calcium overload and ion homeostasis imbalance, inflammatory responses, with particular focus on the NLRP3 inflammasome and cytokine pathways, and multiple forms of cell death (apoptosis, necroptosis, pyroptosis, and autophagy). Additionally, the authors present original immunohistochemical findings from autopsy cases of patients who suffered ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and underwent percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), but subsequently died. These findings underscore that successful reperfusion does not completely prevent delayed complications, like arrhythmias, ventricular fibrillation (VF), and sudden cardiac death (SCD), often caused by secondary MIRI-related mechanisms. Moreover, the case series highlight the diagnostic value of inflammatory markers for pathologists in identifying MIRI as a contributing factor in such fatalities. Finally, immunotherapeutic strategies—including IL-1 and IL-6 inhibitors such as Canakinumab and Tocilizumab—are reviewed for their potential to reduce cardiovascular events and mitigate the effects of MIRI. The review advocates for continued multidisciplinary research aimed at improving our understanding of MIRI, developing effective treatments, and informing forensic investigations of reperfusion-related deaths. Full article

This paper presents the design, manufacturing, testing, and validation of the MASKARA (Multiple Apertures for high-resolution SAR based on Ka-band Reflectarray) Breadboard Model (BBM), a large Ka-band reflectarray antenna developed for Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) applications. The BBM features a dual-offset antenna configuration intended for a high-resolution, wide-swath SAR instrument. At the core of the system is a 1.5 m × 0.55 m reflectarray operating between 35.5–36.0 GHz in the Ka-band. To our knowledge, this is the first demonstration of a reflectarray antenna designed to support two distinct modes of operation, exploiting the inherent advantages of reflectarrays—such as reduced cost and compact stowage—over traditional solutions. The antenna provides a high-resolution mode requiring a higher-gain beam in one polarization and a low-resolution mode covering a larger swath with broader beam coverage in the orthogonal polarization. The design process follows a holistic, multidisciplinary approach, integrating RF and thermomechanical considerations through iterative and concurrent design reviews. The BBM has been successfully manufactured and experimentally tested, and the measurement results show good agreement with simulations, confirming the validity of the proposed concept and demonstrating its potential for future high-performance SAR missions. Full article

The low-altitude economy represents an important facet of emerging productive forces, and flying cars serve as key vehicles driving its development. This paper proposes an aerodynamic design for the aerial vehicle module of split-type flying cars, which meets the functional requirements for vertical takeoff, climb, and cruising, and provides a reference solution for urban air mobility. A multidisciplinary constraint-based approach was employed to define the design requirements of the aerial vehicle module, ensuring its capability to operate in various complex environments. Through theoretical analysis and Computer-Aided Design (CAD) methods, key geometric, aerodynamic, and stability parameters were developed and evaluated. After finalizing the design concept of the aerial vehicle module, aerodynamic analysis was conducted, and aerodynamic coefficients were assessed using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations across angles of attack ranging from −5° to 20°. The results indicated that the aerial vehicle module achieved a maximum lift-to-drag ratio of 13.40 at an angle of attack of 2°, and entered a stall condition at 13°. The aerodynamic design enhances the module’s stability under various operating conditions, thereby improving handling performance. Overall, the aerial vehicle module demonstrates favorable aerodynamic characteristics during low-altitude flight and low-speed cruising, satisfying the design requirements and constraints. Full article

Background: We present a multidisciplinary training experience based on simulation techniques and critical resource management implemented in the emergency department. Methods: Simulation courses/workshops were conducted with a multidisciplinary team from the Hospital Emergency Department. The timeline for their development includes a preliminary analysis of needs, objectives, and scenario design, development of the simulation course, and finally, areas of implementation. In this last phase, the teaching team prepares a document and/or report/summary of the activity in which, among other things, the aspects with the greatest capacity for improvement or the areas for implementation of safety measures are determined. A total of 112 healthcare professionals (doctors, nurses, and care assistants) participated in this training program. Its design consisted of the following stages: a preliminary analysis of training needs, the establishment of objectives and scenario design, the development of the simulation workshop, and finally, a report on areas for improvement in patient safety identified during the workshop learning process. Results: The workshops enabled us to identify areas for improvement and develop local protocols/recommendations aimed at improving patient safety in the emergency department, such as standardizing a protocol to guide us in managing resources in crisis situations, a protocol for airway management, a protocol for massive transfusion, and a review of the triage process. In addition, we added value by incorporating cognitive aids and visual tools into the standardization of processes. Conclusions: For resource management in this type of crisis in the hospital emergency setting, it is essential to use a debriefing process guided by experienced instructors after a specific experiential learning experience through simulation scenarios. This helps to contextualize and analyze the advantages and disadvantages of general recommendations. Full article

The digital revolution is transforming the financial services sector. Risk is not static; emerging risks continue to pose threats to the financial services sector which influences financial stability and consumer protection regulation mandates. This novel study presents a comparative bibliometric analysis of China and India in examining the effect of trends on the scholarly research outputs discussing the emerging risks in the fintech-driven digital banking environment. Furthermore, the mapping presents the geographical dynamics of Asia, followed by country-level perspectives. The period of study was from 2015 to 2024. Leveraging the Scopus database, data was extracted based on a specified query using the SPAR 4 SLR protocol. Analysis was performed on 162 articles from an initial list of 1257 articles using Scival and Vos viewer tools. Performance indicator metrics and science mapping enabled the answering of research questions. The findings revealed that research output is inclined towards India rather than China; this is despite China domiciling some big tech firms. Comparatively, India dominates when it comes to performance analysis metrics compared to China. The scientific mapping depicted in both countries shows the multifaceted effects of fintech on banking, including trends in user acceptance, competition, emerging risks, technological innovation, and financial stability. The strong connections in both countries across clusters highlight how fintech research is multi-disciplinary, spanning consumer behavior, finance, economics, and financial technology. This study provides a foundation on which a robust risk management framework, which is customized to digital banking existence, can be developed in the face of emerging risks. Full article

Background/Objectives: Cardiac implantable electronic device-related infective endocarditis (CIED-RIE) is a serious condition with significant morbidity and mortality. Although recent advances in imaging and therapeutic approaches have improved management, diagnosing and treating CIED-RIE continues to be challenging. This study aimed to identify factors associated with mortality in CIED-RIE patients. Methods: We conducted a retrospective, multicenter international study of adult patients diagnosed with CIED-RIE between January 2014 and June 2024. Data on demographics, clinical presentation, microbiological findings, imaging results, treatment modalities, and outcomes were collected and analyzed to determine predictors of short-term mortality. Results: A total of 197 patients (mean age: 65.3 ± 14.4 years; 75.1% male) were included. The most common device type was permanent pacemaker (48.2%). Staphylococcus species were the predominant pathogens (62.4%). Surgical intervention was performed in 67.5% of patients, and 90-day mortality occurred in 19.3%. Multivariable analysis identified higher Charlson comorbidity index (HR: 1.31), tricuspid valve involvement (HR: 2.35), vegetation size ≥ 10 mm (HR: 2.53), pulmonary embolism (HR: 3.92), and absence of surgical intervention (HR: 2.90) as independent predictors of increased 90-day mortality. Conclusions: Early identification of high-risk patients and prompt multidisciplinary management, including surgical intervention when indicated, are critical to improving outcomes in patients with CIED-RIE. Full article

Background/Introduction: Colorectal carcinoma (CRC) belongs to the most commonly diagnosed malignancies to this date, ranking as third across the globe. In addition, CRC remains a leading cause of cancer-related deaths as it is ranked as the second most common cause of mortality. Therapeutic strategies for the management and treatment of CRC have made significant progress in the last two decades, with both adjuvant and neoadjuvant approaches playing critical roles in enhancing favorable outcomes with regimens like FOLFOX, CAPOX, and 5-FU-based therapies demonstrating effectiveness. Nevertheless, growing evidence indicates that these therapies may pose a risk of cardiotoxicity development. A systematic review will be conducted to map the mechanistic pathways of chemotherapy-induced in CRC in order to bridge oncology and cardiology perspectives, highlighting emerging diagnostic tools and long-term surveillance gaps. Purpose: The objective of this study is the investigation of the prevalence and characteristics of cardiovascular problems linked to frequently employed chemotherapy regimens, as well as to evaluate existing diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. Methodology: A thorough search across databases, including PubMed (MEDLINE), Embase, and Cochrane Library, was performed to locate articles published up to 2025. The final studies included in the review underwent quality assessment. Results: Fourteen qualifying studies, comprising both prospective trials and case reports from diverse geographies, were included. Cardiovascular outcomes including myocardial strain, arrhythmias, angina, heart failure, and Takotsubo cardiomyopathy were evaluated. The diagnostic methods assessed comprised echocardiography, cardiac biomarkers, and electrocardiograms. In the reviewed trials, chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity varied from asymptomatic ventricular strain to serious cardiac complications. The FOLFOX and 5-FU regimens were predominantly linked to adverse cardiac outcomes. Prompt identification by echocardiographic strain imaging and biomarker monitoring facilitated timely intervention. Case studies revealed that, given proper cardiological support, certain patients could safely recommence chemotherapy following recovery. No standardized cardiac screening protocol was identified among the trials. Conclusions: Chemotherapy for colorectal cancer may present considerable cardiovascular hazards, highlighting the necessity for routine cardiac monitoring prior to and throughout treatment. This systematic review promotes collaborative cardio-oncology strategies to reduce risk and enhance therapeutic safety. Full article

The selection of suitable sites for the disposal of radioactive waste constitutes a critical component of nuclear waste management. This study presents an original methodological proposal based on the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), designed to support early-stage site screening for a near-surface repository in Italy. AHP could be used to identify appropriate locations, focusing on 51 areas that have already undergone a preliminary screening phase. These areas, included in the National Map of Suitable Areas (CNAI), were selected as they fulfill all the technical requirements (geological, geomorphological, and hydraulic stability) necessary to ensure the safety performance of the engineering structures to be implemented through multiple artificial barriers, as specified in Technical Guide N. 29. The proposed methodology is applicable in cases where multiple sites listed in the CNAI have been identified as potential candidates for hosting the repository. A panel of 20 multidisciplinary experts, including engineers, environmental scientists, sociologists, and economists, evaluated two environmental, two economic, and two social criteria not included among the criteria outlined in Technical Guide N. 29. Pairwise comparisons were aggregated using the geometric mean, and consistency ratios (CRs) were calculated to ensure the coherence of expert judgements. Results show that social criteria received the highest overall weight (0.53), in particular the “degree of site acceptability”, followed by environmental (0.28) and economic (0.19) criteria. While the method does not replace detailed site investigations (which will nevertheless be carried out once the site has been chosen), it can facilitate the early identification of promising areas and guide future engagement with local communities. The approach is reproducible, adaptable to additional criteria or national requirements, and may be extended to other countries facing similar nuclear waste management challenges. Full article

Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA) is the second most common primary liver cancer with a poor prognosis. Negative-margin resection is presently the only potentially curative treatment option. Emerging trends with direct applicability to surgical strategy include margin thickness, lymphadenectomy, optimization of future liver remnant (FLR), minimally invasive techniques, incorporation of systemic therapy, and reconsideration of liver transplantation. This review emphasizes areas of consensus and ongoing debate. Margins ≥5–10 mm are associated with improved results, but biology generally takes precedence over prognosis. Regional lymphadenectomy enhances staging accuracy, although its therapeutic benefit remains unsettled. PVE is standard for FLR enlargement, LVD provides faster hypertrophy, and ALPPS remains reserved for highly selective cases. Minimally invasive and robotic hepatectomy share oncologic results in skilled institutions. Systemic therapies, including immunotherapy and biomarker-directed targeted therapy, are increasingly being incorporated perioperatively. Liver transplant may be of potential value in early-stage disease or on strict indications after neoadjuvant treatment. The modern surgical management of iCCA encompasses a blend of oncologic considerations, FLR optimization, minimally invasive surgery, and systemic therapy according to tumor biology. Multidisciplinary planning and participation in clinical trials are necessary to align surgical innovation with advancements in molecular and systemic treatments, ultimately leading to improved long-term outcomes. Full article

Electric fields (EFs) have emerged as effective, non-chemical tools for modulating microbial populations in complex matrices such as wastewater. This review consolidates current advances on EF-induced alterations in microbial structures and functions, focusing on both vegetative cells and spores. Key parameters affected include membrane thickness, transmembrane potential, electrical conductivity, and dielectric permittivity, with downstream impacts on ion homeostasis, metabolic activity, and viability. Such bioelectrical modifications underpin EF-based detection methods—particularly impedance spectroscopy and dielectrophoresis—which enable rapid, label-free, in situ microbial monitoring. Beyond detection, EFs can induce sublethal or lethal effects, enabling selective inactivation without chemical input. This review addresses the influence of field type (DC, AC, pulsed), intensity, and exposure duration, alongside limitations such as species-specific variability, heterogeneous environmental conditions, and challenges in achieving uniform field distribution. Emerging research highlights the integration of EF-based platforms with biosensors, machine learning, and real-time analytics for enhanced environmental surveillance. By linking microbiological mechanisms with engineering solutions, EF technologies present significant potential for sustainable water quality management. Their multidisciplinary applicability positions them as promising components of next-generation wastewater monitoring and treatment systems, supporting global efforts toward efficient, adaptive, and environmentally benign microbial control strategies. Full article

In the current digital era, the spread of fake news presents serious difficulties. This study offers a thorough analysis of recent developments in false news automatic detection techniques, from traditional methods to the most recent developed models like large language models. The review identifies four perspectives on automatic detection of fake news that are oriented towards knowledge, style, propagation, and source of the misinformation. This paper describes how automatic detection methods use data science techniques such as deep learning, large language models, and traditional machine learning. In addition to discussing the shortcomings of existing approaches, such as the absence of datasets, this paper emphasizes the multidimensional function of large language models in creating and identifying fake news while underlining the necessity for textual, visual, and audio common analysis, multidisciplinary collaboration, and greater model transparency. Full article

Introduction: The direct participation and leadership of breast cancer patients in program design and implementation can facilitate a nuanced understanding of how individuals perceive and address challenges within their unique contexts. To achieve truly patient-centered care, patients must be formally integrated as a critical component of multidisciplinary healthcare teams. Materials and Methods: A descriptive, retrospective observational study was conducted. A group of 122 patients (“Breast Unit”) was formed and actively implemented initiatives related to education, prevention, peer support, co-design, and institutional guidance over two years. A second group, consisting of 466 individuals diagnosed with and treated for breast cancer, served as the Beneficiary Patient group. From the “Breast Unit”, 93 patients responded to a structured interview about their experience. Results: The Breast Unit group developed strong leadership skills and collaborated with the multidisciplinary healthcare team to improve care workflows, contributing at both strategic and operational levels. In total, 97% of patients received their first oncology evaluation within 48 h, ensuring timely intervention. The percentage of early-stage breast cancer diagnoses improved, from 67% to 76%. Furthermore, patients who participated in the support group reported no new diagnoses of clinical depression in the past two years. Conclusions: By elevating the patient voice into a substantive role within leadership, strategic planning, and co-design initiatives, healthcare systems can advance a more equitable, effective, and sustainable model of care. Integrating patient contributions with multidisciplinary collaboration is essential for optimizing care processes, improving clinical outcomes. It strengthens the person-centered culture, impacting on a personal and organizational level. Full article

The integration of AI-powered plush robots in educational and therapeutic settings for children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) necessitates a robust interdisciplinary methodology to evaluate usability, psychological impact, and therapeutic efficacy. This study proposes and applies a four-phase research framework designed to guide the development and assessment of AI-powered plush robots for social rehabilitation and education. Phase 1 involved semi-structured interviews with 13 ASD specialists to explore robot applications. Phase 2 tested initial usability with typically developing children (N = 10–15) through structured sessions. Phase 3 involved structured interaction sessions with children diagnosed with ASD (N = 6–8) to observe the robot’s potential for rehabilitation, observed by specialists and recorded on video. Finally, Phase 4 synthesized data via multidisciplinary triangulation. Results highlighted the importance of iterative, stakeholder-informed design, with experts emphasizing visual properties (color, texture), psychosocial aspects, and adjustable functions. The study identified key technical and psychological evaluation criteria, including engagement, emotional safety, and developmental alignment with ASD intervention models. Findings underscore the value of qualitative methodologies and phased testing in developing child-centered robotic tools. The research establishes a robust methodological framework and provides preliminary evidence for the potential of AI-powered plush robots to support personalized, ethically grounded interventions for children with ASD, though their therapeutic efficacy requires further longitudinal validation. This methodology bridges engineering innovation with psychological rigor, offering a template for future assistive technology research by prioritizing a rigorous, stakeholder-centered design process. Full article

Background: Appropriate medication management before surgery is essential to minimise perioperative risk. Patient adherence to preoperative medication advice demonstrates considerable variability and is influenced by multiple interacting factors. This study assessed patient understanding and adherence to preoperative medication advice provided in the Pre-Admission Clinic (PAC) and identified factors contributing to non-adherence. Methods: A cross-sectional survey study was conducted over 12 weeks in 2022 at a tertiary hospital. Adult patients scheduled for elective surgery who received preoperative medication advice in PAC were surveyed on the day of surgery. Data collected included demographics, clinical characteristics, adherence, reasons for non-adherence, and communication preferences. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used for analysis. Results: Of 156 participants, 91 (58.3%) adhered to medication advice, while 65 (41.7%) did not. Common reasons for non-adherence included forgotten advice (35.4%), misunderstood advice (33.8%), and intentional deviation due to surgery (18.5%). Non-adherence rates were highest for NSAIDs (50.0%) and P2Y12 inhibitors (45.5%). Two surgeries were cancelled due to the delayed cessation of anticoagulants. Non-adherence was significantly associated with a greater number of medications requiring perioperative management (p = 0.004) and a longer duration between PAC and surgery (p = 0.010). Most non-adherent patients (64.7%) preferred a combination of verbal and written advice. Conclusions: A substantial proportion of patients were non-adherent to preoperative medication advice, often due to unclear communication or a lack of understanding of the clinical rationale for the advice. Multimodal strategies, including written or digital reinforcement of verbal advice, multidisciplinary collaboration, and patient-centred education, may improve adherence and reduce preventable cancellations. Future studies should evaluate the impact of these interventions. Full article