bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of the Effectiveness of Zone 1-Landing Hybrid TEVAR by Comparing Its Outcomes with Those of Zone 2-Landing Hybrid TEVAR
Authors: Kudo Tomoaki , Kuratani Toru , Sawa Yoshiki , Miyagawa Shigeru
Published: August 2023

Background: Hybrid thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) without median sternotomy is increasingly being performed in high-risk patients with aortic arch disease. The outcomes of hybrid TEVAR were reported to be worse with a more proximal landing zone. This study aims to clarify the effectiveness of zone 1-landing hybrid TEVAR by comparing the outcomes of zone 2-landing hybrid TEVAR. Methods: From April 2008 to October 2020, 213 patients (zone 1: zone 1-landing hybrid TEVAR, n = 82, 38.5%; zone 2: zone 2-landing hybrid TEVAR, n = 131, 61.5%) were enrolled (median age, 72 years; interquartile range [IQR], 65–78 years), with a median follow-up period of 6.0 years (IQR, 2.8–9.7 years). Results: The mean logistic EuroSCORE was 20.9 ± 14.8%: the logistic EuroSCORE of the zone 1 group (23.3 ± 16.1) was significantly higher than that of the zone 2 group (19.3 ± 12.4%, p = 0.045). The operative time and hospital stay of the zone 1 group were significantly longer than those of the zone 2 group. On the other hand, the in-hospital and late outcomes did not differ significantly between the two groups. There were no significant differences in cumulative survival (66.8% vs. 78.0% at 10 years, Log-rank p = 0.074), aorta-related death-free rates (97.6% vs. 99.2% at 10 years, Log-rank p = 0.312), and aortic event-free rates (81.4% vs. 87.9% at 10 years, Log-rank p = 0.257). Conclusions: Zone 1- and 2-landing hybrid TEVAR outcomes were satisfactory. Despite the high procedural difficulty and surgical risk, the outcomes of zone 1-landing hybrid TEVAR were equal to those of zone 2-landing hybrid TEVAR. If the surgical risk is high, zone 1-landing hybrid TEVAR should not be avoided.
Quality of Life 6 Months after COVID-19 Hospitalisation: A Single-Centre Polish Registry
Authors: Koźlik Maciej , Kaźmierski Maciej , Kaźmierski Wojciech , Lis Paulina , Lis Anna , Łowicka Weronika , Chamera Marta , Romanowska Barbara , Kufel Jakub , Cebula Maciej , Jędrzejek Marek
Published: August 2023

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic, which affected the entire global population, had an impact on our health and quality of life. Many people had complications, were hospitalised or even died due to SARS-CoV-2 infection. The health systems of many countries had to radically change their way of functioning and scientists around the world worked intensively to develop a vaccine for the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Aim: The aim of this work is to assess the quality of life of patients who were hospitalised for COVID-19, using the SF-36 questionnaire. Methods: Between May and August 2022, we conducted a telephone assessment of quality of life in patients who were hospitalised for COVID-19 at the Temporary Hospital in Pyrzowice (Silesia, Poland), between November 2021 and January 2022. Results: Quality of life was significantly lower in women (p = 0.040), those with DM2 (p = 0.013), CKD (p = 0.041) and the vaccinated (p = 0.015). Conclusions: People with chronic kidney disease, diabetes mellitus and women had a lower quality of life after COVID-19 disease. However, people who were vaccinated for SARS-CoV-2 had a lower quality of life than non-vaccinated people did. This is possibly due to the higher mean age, and probably the higher disease burden, in the vaccinated group.
Robotic Rectal Resection for Rectal Cancer in Elderly Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Reddavid Rossella , Sofia Silvia , Puca Lucia , Moro Jacopo , Ceraolo Simona , Jimenez-Rodriguez Rosa , Degiuli Maurizio
Published: August 2023

Rectal cancer is estimated to increase due to an expanding aging population, thus affecting elderly patients more frequently. The optimal surgical treatment for this type of patient remains controversial because they are often excluded from or underrepresented in trials. This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the feasibility and the safety of robotic surgery in elderly patients (>70 years old) undergoing curative treatment for rectal cancer. Studies comparing elderly (E) and young (Y) patients submitted to robotic rectal resection were searched on PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library. Data regarding surgical oncologic quality, post-operative, and survival outcomes were extracted. Overall, 322 patients underwent robotic resection (81 in the E group and 241 in the Y group) for rectal cancer. No differences between the two groups were found regarding distal margins and the number of nodes yielded (12.70 in the E group vs. 14.02 in the Y group, p = 0.16). No differences were found in conversion rate, postoperative morbidity, mortality, and length of stay. Survival outcomes were only reported in one study. The results of this study suggest that elderly patients can be submitted to robotic resection for rectal cancer with the same oncologic surgical quality offered to young patients, without increasing postoperative mortality and morbidity.
Efficacy of Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Using Automatic Compression—Defibrillation Apparatus: An Animal Study and A Manikin-Based Simulation Study
Authors: Jung Woo Jin , Roh Young-Il , Im Hyeonyoung , Lee Yujin , Im Dahye , Cha Kyoung-Chul , Hwang Sung Oh
Published: August 2023

Background: Chest compression and defibrillation are essential components of cardiac arrest treatment. Mechanical chest compression devices (MCCD) and automated external defibrillators (AED) are used separately in clinical practice. We developed an automated compression–defibrillation apparatus (ACDA) that performs mechanical chest compression and automated defibrillation. We investigated the performance of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) with automatic CPR (A-CPR) compared to that with MCCD and AED (conventional CPR: C-CPR). Methods: Pigs were randomized into A-CPR or C-CPR groups: The A-CPR group received CPR+ACDA, and the C-CPR group received CPR+MCCD+AED. Hemodynamic parameters, outcomes, and time variables were measured. During a simulation study, healthcare providers performed a basic life support scenario for manikins with an ACDA, MCCD, and AED, and time variables and chest compression parameters were measured. Results: The animals showed no significant in hemodynamic effects, including aortic pressures, coronary perfusion pressure, carotid blood flow, and end-tidal CO2, and resuscitation outcomes between the two groups. In both animal and simulation studies, the time to defibrillation, time to chest compression, and hands-off time were significantly shorter in the A-CPR group than those in the C-CPR group. Conclusions: CPR using ACDA showed similar hemodynamic effects and resuscitation outcomes as CPR using AED and MCCD separately, with the advantages of a reduction in the time to compression, time to defibrillation, and hands-off time.
The Surface Behavior of ZnO Films Prepared at Room Temperature
Authors: Wei Da-Hua , Tong Sheng-Kai , Chen Sheng-Chiang , Huang Rong-Tan
Published: August 2023

The surface behavior of ZnO-based films can be modulated via the postannealing and ultraviolet (UV) illumination of different strengths and durations, respectively. The present results could provide the basis for modulating their microstructures with respect to the grain-size distribution and photocatalytic behavior, and act as a potential guide in the field of wide-bandgap semiconducting oxides. ZnO films were prepared at room temperature onto Corning-1737 glass substrates by applying radio-frequency magnetron sputtering without supplying an oxygen source. With the purpose of obtaining modulational grain microstructures, the as-prepared ZnO films (Z0) were treated via a postannealing modification in a vacuum furnace at 300 °C for 30 min after deposition (Z300), accompanied by adjustable internal stress. The contact angle (CA) value of the ZnO films was reduced from 95° to 68°, owing to the different grain microstructure accompanied by a change in the size variation. In addition, UV light with different illumination strengths could be used to improve the hydrophilicity, which varied from a hydrophobic status to a superhydrophilic status due to the desirable surface characteristics of its photocatalytic action. In addition, the photocatalytic activity of the ZnO films exhibited an effectual photodegradation of methylene blue (MB) under UV illumination, with a chemical reaction constant of 2.93 × 10−3 min−1. In this present work, we demonstrated that the CA value of the ZnO films not only caused a change from a hydrophobic to hydrophilic status, accompanied by a change in grain size combined with internal stress, but also, induced by the UV light illumination, was combined with photocatalytic activity simultaneously. On the other hand, an enhanced surface plasmonic resonance was observed, which was due to couple oscillations between the electrons and photons and was generated from the interface by using a flat, continuous Pt capping nanolayer. This designed structure may also be considered as a Pt electrode pattern onto ZnO (metal Pt/ceramic ZnO) for multifunctional, heterostructured sensors and devices in the near future.
Sedimentary Characteristics and Model of Lacustrine Deep Water Gravity Flow in the Third Member of Paleogene Shahejie Formation in Niuzhuang Sag, Bohai Bay Basin, China
Authors: Zhang Yuanpei , Xie Jun , Gu Kuiyan , Zhao Haibo , Li Chuanhua , Hao Xiaofan
Published: August 2023

This article studies the sedimentary characteristics and models of the delta and gravity flow system of the third member of the Shahejie Formation in the Niuzhuang Sag area. Through seismic, logging, and core observation methods, a thorough investigation is conducted to examine the lithologic characteristics, grain size characteristics, sedimentary structure characteristics, and sedimentary facies distribution characteristics of this region. The results show that the third middle member of the Shahejie Formation in the Niuzhuang Sag can be classified into four sedimentary types: sliding, collapse, clastic flow, and turbidity flow. This article aimed to establish the distribution characteristics and depositional models of the deltaic and gravity flow depositional systems within the study area. The findings reveal that slip deposition primarily occurs near the delta front, while collapse and clastic flow depositions are concentrated near the far slope. Moreover, turbidity flow deposition is found near the far slope. This study significantly contributes to our understanding of the sedimentary characteristics and models associated with deltas and gravity flow systems in faulted lacustrine basins. Furthermore, it enriches existing theories related to gravity flow and provides a valuable reference for the investigation of deep-water sedimentation in continental faulted lacustrine basins.
Features of Dynamism Wharf-Cable-Dynamic-Positioning Vessel Rigid-Flexible Coupling Multi-Body System Analysis
Authors: Zhang Dapeng , Zhao Bowen , Jiang Haoyu , Zhu Keqiang
Published: August 2023

The conventional mooring positioning technique is cost-effective; however, it shows poor maneuverability and positioning precision. In this study, to calculate the mooring tension, mooring cables were discretized into lumped mass models using the lumped mass technique. Dock fender nonlinear response forces were modeled in OrcaFlex using the Link unit. The multi-body system’s entire coupling vibrant time-frequency features have been examined. The effect of the side thrusters on removing the vessel motion carried on by the first-order wave loads has been determined under mooring conditions by comparing the difference in horizontal degree of freedom motion and the mooring line’s mooring tension between dynamic and non-dynamic positioning vessels (DPV). The impact of the wharf-cable and target position on side thrusters and positioning capabilities are analyzed, considering the results of both vessels under identical environmental loads. The results demonstrate that deep evaluation of the target position can greatly improve side thruster performance and ship positioning precision. DP systems are weak to cancel linear wave forces, and the missing ship motions for DP ships may be due to the combined action of the fender, moorings and the selection of a good target position. When the selection of the target position is unreasonable, the size of the pre-tension of the mooring line cannot meet the requirement of absorbing the first-order wave load on the vessel.
Undrained Triaxial Shear Tests on Hydrate-Bearing Fine-Grained Sediments from the Shenhu Area of South China Sea
Authors: Wei Ruchun , Liu Lele , Jia Chao , Dong Xiao , Bu Qingtao , Zhang Yongchao , Liu Changling , Wu Nengyou
Published: August 2023

Changes in undrained shear strength are important to the stability analysis of hydrate reservoirs during natural gas hydrate production. This study proposes a prediction model of undrained shear strength of hydrate-bearing fine-grained sediments based on the critical state theory. Several consolidated undrained triaxial shear tests are conducted on hydrate-bearing fine-grained samples from the Shenhu area of the South China Sea. The effects of effective consolidation stresses and hydrate saturations on the undrained shear strength are investigated. The results show that the undrained shear strength increases linearly with increasing effective consolidation stress. When the hydrate saturation is greater than the effective hydrate saturation, the undrained shear strength significantly increases with increasing hydrate saturation. The undrained shear strength of hydrate-bearing fine-grained sediments is a two-parameter function of effective hydrate saturation and a void ratio. The instability risk of the hydrate reservoir under undrained conditions is greater than that of under-drained or partially drained conditions. Furthermore, low-porosity reservoirs face more shear strength loss from hydrate decomposition yet lower risk than high-porosity ones. These results can improve the understanding of mechanical properties of hydrate-bearing fine-grained sediments under undrained conditions. This study also has implications for the design of marine structures in areas with hydrate-bearing sediment.
Proteomic Profiling of Paracoccidioides brasiliensis in Response to Phenacylideneoxindol Derivative: Unveiling Molecular Targets and Pathways
Authors: Silva Lívia do Carmo , Rocha Olivia Basso , Portis Igor Godinho , Santos Thaynara Gonzaga , Freitas e Silva Kleber Santiago , Santos Filho Raimundo Francisco dos , Cunha Silvio , Alonso Antônio , Soares Célia Maria de Almeida , Pereira Maristela
Published: August 2023

Background: The treatment of paracoccidioidomycosis (PCM) is a challenge, and the discovery of new antifungal compounds is crucial. The phenacylideneoxindoles exhibited promising antifungal activity against Paracoccidioides spp., but their mode of action remains unknown. Methods: Through proteomic analysis, we investigated the effects of (E)-3-(2-oxo-2-phenylethylidene)indolin-2-one on P. brasiliensis. In addition, we investigated the metabolic alterations of P. brasiliensis in response to the compound. Furthermore, the effects of the compound on the membrane, ethanol production, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production were verified. Results: We identified differentially regulated proteins that revealed significant metabolic reorganization, including an increase in ethanol production, suggesting the activation of alcoholic fermentation and alterations in the rigidity of fungal cell membrane with an increase of the ergosterol content and formation of ROS. Conclusions: These findings enhance our understanding of the mode of action and response of P. brasiliensis to the investigated promising antifungal compound, emphasizing its potential as a candidate for the treatment of PCM.
Generalized Method of Moments Estimation of Realized Stochastic Volatility Model
Authors: Zhang Luwen , Wang Li
Published: August 2023

The purpose of this paper is to study the generalized method of moments (GMM) estimation procedures of the realized stochastic volatility model; we give the moment conditions for this model and then obtain the estimation of parameters. Then, we apply these moment conditions to the realized stochastic volatility model to improve the volatility prediction effect. This paper selects the Shanghai Composite Index (SSE) as the original data of model research and completes the volatility prediction under a realized stochastic volatility model. Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) estimation and quasi-maximum likelihood (QML) estimation are applied to the parameter estimation of the realized stochastic volatility model to compare with the GMM method. And the volatility prediction accuracy of these three different methods is compared. The results of empirical research show that the effect of model prediction using the parameters obtained by the GMM method is close to that of the MCMC method, and the effect is obviously better than that of the quasi-maximum likelihood estimation method.
The Impact of Spiritual Leadership on Knowledge-Hiding Behavior: Professional Commitment as the Underlying Mechanism
Authors: Ullah Yaseen , Jan Shahid , Ullah Hamid
Published: August 2023

Purpose—The purpose of this study is to investigate the impact of spiritual leadership on knowledge-hiding behavior in agriculture research institutes of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. The study aims to analyze theoretical and empirical evidence regarding the mediation pathway, specifically professional commitment, in order to clarify the significant association between spiritual leadership and subordinates’ knowledge-hiding behavior. Design/methodology—This survey-based study used cross-sectional data and a five-point Likert scale to investigate the given hypotheses. In order to address the primacy effect and mitigate any potential for common method bias, data were collected at two distinct time points, with a four-week interval between them. Smart PLS4 was used to assess a sample of 298 complete and valid responses for hypothesis testing. Findings—The results show that spiritual leadership has a negative impact on employees’ knowledge-hiding behavior. Additionally, this relationship is mediated by professional commitment. Originality/value—First, in contrast to the majority of previous studies, which focused on the factors influencing knowledge sharing, the present study investigates the influence of spiritual leadership on employees’ knowledge-hiding behaviors, which are two contrasting concepts. Secondly, the study empirically examined the mediation effect of professional commitment. These three variables have not previously been studied together.
Exploring the Impacts of Protected Areas’ Attributes on Pediatric Health: The Case for Additional Research beyond Greenspace
Authors: Rice William L. , Michels Sarah Y. , Foster Miranda , Graham Jon , Whitney Peter , Thomsen Jennifer M.
Published: August 2023

An increasingly vast segment of the literature examines the relationship between greenspace and pediatric health. However, the bulk of this research continues to use proximate relative greenness as a measure for exposure to the ecosystem services provisioned by natural areas, despite increasing recognition that relative greenness fails to capture the public accessibility, recreation potential, or desirability of natural areas. Thus, this present research demonstrates the use of emerging data sources that can be used in conjunction with traditional greenspace measures to improve modeling as it relates to nature’s impacts on pediatric health. Using spatial park and protected area data in concert with mobile phone location data, we demonstrate exploratory analysis on how park and protected area attributes may influence pediatric health in northwest Montana, USA. Suggestive findings concerning how the attributes of park and protected areas (i.e., conservation status, access, recreation demand) influence pediatric health (i.e., attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, asthma, and anxiety/mood disorders) lead us to introduce directions for future research beyond greenspace. Importantly, this research does not intend to provide definitive or generalizable findings concerning how parks and protected areas influence pediatric health. Instead, we aim to provide an initial exploration toward a larger, future body of the literature, evaluating parks and protected areas’ influence on pediatric health.
Effect of ‘Peatland-Use’ Type on Culturable Microbial Groups in Irish Peatlands in the Midlands
Authors: Atapattu Gouri , Obeng Samuel Apori , Battersby Tara , Giltrap Michelle , Tian Furong
Published: August 2023

Soil microbial ecology in the Irish wetlands is still poorly understood, although it is crucial in introducing effective rewetting schemes to restore and conserve the Irish peatlands. As an initiative, peatlands with distinct land-use types (cutaway, raised semi-degraded, unimproved grassland and grassland) were collected from farms in the midlands to analyse various microbial populations. Peat was homogenized and serially diluted to culture on a range of specific and non-specific culture media. Culture isolation and microbial enumeration were performed. Gram staining and other microscopic observations of morphologically distinct microorganisms were performed, followed by isolation procedures. The numbers of total viable bacteria of cutaway bog and unimproved grassland were 4.23 × 103 CFU g−1 and 9.81 × 107 CFU g−1, respectively, with a significant statistical difference (p ≤ 0.05). Raised semi-degraded bogs comprised low values of both aerobes and fungal populations. Penicillium spp. and Trichoderma spp. were common in many vegetation types. Phosphate-solubilizing bacteria were present in the majority of the study sites. This indicated that the soluble form of phosphorus was being assimilated by plants. Cutaway peat contained the bacteria with the highest phosphate-solubilizing index (3.167). Overall, the number of culturable microbial groups in cutaway and raised semi-degraded peatlands exhibited significant differences, while the rest did not show drastic changes according to land-use type. This study provides baseline data to continue studies on bog microbiology, which provides a new outlook for restoration. Future work should consider microbial interaction with environmental variables in different land-use types.
Tocilizumab Is Associated with Increased Risk of Fungal Infections among Critically Ill Patients with COVID-19 and Acute Renal Failure: An Observational Cohort Study
Authors: Burger Barrett J. , Epps Sarenthia M. , Cardenas Victor M. , Jagana Rajani , Meena Nikhil K. , Atchley William T.
Published: August 2023

Research Question: Does treatment with tocilizumab increase the risk of a fungal infection in critically ill patients with coronavirus-19? Background: Numerous therapies have been evaluated as possible treatments for coronavirus-2019 caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2. Tocilizumab is a humanized monoclonal antibody directed against the interleukin-6 receptor that has found a role as a therapy for patients with severe coronavirus-19 pneumonia. The immunomodulatory effects of tocilizumab may have the unintended consequence of predisposing recipients to secondary infections. We sought to assess the risk of invasive fungal disease and the therapeutic impact of tocilizumab on the hospital length of stay, duration of mechanical ventilation, and intensive-care-unit length of stay in critically ill patients with severe coronavirus-19 pneumonia. Methods: Records of critically ill patients with coronavirus-2019 admitted from March to September 2020 at our institution were reviewed. The risk for fungal infections, intensive-care-unit length of stay, hospital length of stay, and duration of mechanical ventilation in those that received tocilizumab in addition to standard coronavirus-2019 treatments was assessed. Results: Fifty-six critically ill patients treated with dexamethasone and remdesivir for coronavirus-2019 were included, of which 16 patients also received tocilizumab. The majority of the cohort was African American, Asian, or of other ethnic minorities (53.6%). Invasive fungal infections occurred in 10.7% of all patients, and infection rates were significantly higher in the tocilizumab group than in the control group (31.2% vs. 2.5%, risk difference [RD] = 28.8%, p < 0.01). The increased risk in the tocilizumab group was strongly associated with renal replacement therapy. There was a dose–response relationship between the risk of fungal infection and number of tocilizumab doses received, with 2.5% of infections occurring with zero doses, 20% with a single dose (RD = 17.5%), and 50% with two doses (RD = 47.5%) (trend test p < 0.001). In addition, ICU LOS (23.4 days vs. 9.0 days, p < 0.01), the duration of mechanical ventilation (18.9 vs. 3.5 days, p = 0.01), and hospital length of stay (LOS) (29.1 vs. 15.5, p < 0.01) were increased in patients that received tocilizumab. Conclusions: Repurposed immunomodulator therapies, such as tocilizumab, are now recommended treatments for severe coronavirus-2019 pneumonia, but safety concerns remain. In this early pandemic cohort, the addition of tocilizumab to dexamethasone was associated with an increased risk of fungal infection in those that were critically ill and received renal replacement therapy. Tocilizumab use was also associated with increased ICU and hospital LOSs and duration of mechanical ventilation.
Assessment of Ileal Crohn’s Disease Activity by Gastrointestinal Ultrasound and MR Enterography: A Pilot Study
Authors: Statie Răzvan-Cristian , Iordache Sevastița , Florescu Lucian Mihai , Gheonea Ioana-Andreea , Sacerdoțianu Victor-Mihai , Ungureanu Bogdan Silviu , Rogoveanu Ion , Gheonea Dan-Ionuț , Ciurea Tudorel , Florescu Dan Nicolae
Published: August 2023

Introduction: In some cases, there may be a discrepancy between the symptomatology alleged by Crohn’s disease (CD) patients and the results of laboratory tests or imaging investigations. Ileocolonoscopy with biopsy is the primary investigation for diagnosing and monitoring CD patients. Cross-sectional imaging techniques such as CT or MR enterography (MRE) and intestinal ultrasonography (IUS) have been proposed as complementary methods to colonoscopy for a complete evaluation of this category of patients. This study aims to identify the role of IUS, contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) and MRE in evaluating ileal CD activity, using clinical severity scores (Crohn’s disease activity index—CDAI, Harvey–Bradshaw index—HBI) and faecal calprotectin or C-reactive protein (CRP) levels as reference methods. Materials and Methods: A total of 44 adult patients with ileal CD confirmed using an ileocolonoscopy with biopsy and histopathological examination were assessed by IUS, CEUS and MRE. The evaluation of the disease activity based on the results obtained from the cross-sectional imaging tests was carried out by using some severity scores available in the literature. The sensitivity and specificity of IUS + CEUS and MRE for differentiating active from inactive forms of CD were determined using CDAI, HBI, faecal calprotectin and CRP as reference methods. The accuracy of the results was assessed by the receiver operating characteristics method. The Pearson correlation coefficient was used to determine the types of correlation. A p-value less than 0.05 suggested a statistically significant relationship. Results: Compared to CDAI, the best correlation was identified for Limberg score (r = 0.667, 95% confidence interval (CI) [0.46, 0.8], p < 0.001), followed by MaRIAs score (r = 0.614, 95% CI [0.39, 0.77], p < 0.001). A sensitivity of 93.33% and a specificity of 71.43% (AUC = 0.98) were demonstrated in the case of Limberg score for differentiating patients with active disease from those in remission and for MaRIAs score a sensitivity of 100.00% and a specificity of 57.14% (AUC = 0.97). Regarding HBI, the best correlation was observed for MaRIAs score (r = 0.594, 95% CI [0.36, 0.76], p < 0.001). Also, faecal calprotectin showed the best correlation with MaRIAs score (r = 0.697, 95% CI [0.46, 0.84], p < 0.001), but in the case of CRP, there was only a weak correlation for all evaluated scores. Conclusions: Although magnetic resonance imaging does not appear to be superior to ultrasonography in terms of accuracy for differentiating active forms of CD from those in remission, the results of our study suggest that MRE associates a better correlation with clinical severity scores and faecal calprotectin levels compared to ultrasonography. More studies are needed to validate these results.
The Relationship between Lean Practices and Organizational Performance: An Analysis of Operations Management in a Public Institution
Authors: Schwantz Patricia Inês , Klein Leander Luiz , Simonetto Eugênio de Oliveira
Published: August 2023

Background: This study aims to analyze the relationship between lean practices and organizational performance in a public institution, specifically, a military organization. Methods: The research has a quantitative approach with a descriptive character, having as a sample the members of a military unit located in Rio Grande do Sul. A valid sample of 116 answered questionnaires was obtained. Data analysis was carried out through multivariate statistical treatment, known as Structural Equation Modeling (SEM), using the Smart-PLS software. Results: At the end of the study, it was possible to confirm the central hypothesis of the study and conclude that lean practices (waste elimination, continuous improvement, support and leadership, member involvement, education and training, long-term thinking, quality, and systemic vision) positively impact organizational performance. Together, these elements combine to engender organizational effectiveness and success, promoting more productivity, quality, profitability, and customer satisfaction, thus improving the organization’s performance. Conclusions: It is evident that the members of the military unit are committed to optimizing organizational performance, showing constant improvement in productivity, rarely committing errors, cost reduction in activities and works, high effectiveness in meeting goals, prioritizing cost reduction in the execution of activities, as well as achieving goals and objectives related to the services provided.
Friedländer-Type Reaction of 4-Cholesten-3-one with 2′-Aminoacetophenone: Angular versus Linear Quinoline-Fused Steroids
Authors: Momoli Caterina , Morlacci Valerio , Chiarini Marco , Palombi Laura , Arcadi Antonio
Published: August 2023

To optimize the experimental conditions used for the Friedländer-type condensation, an angular fused 4-substituted quinoline steroid has been obtained in very high yield and regioselectivity using readily available 4-cholesten-3-one and 2′-aminoacetophenone. Moreover, by varying the reaction conditions and the catalyst, the corresponding linear regioisomer was also achieved with an acceptable isolated yield and high chemoselectivity. Both structures have been definitively elucidated via 2D-NMR and fully characterized.
Study on Aging Mechanism and High-Temperature Rheological Properties of Low-Grade Hard Asphalt
Authors: Song Liang , Xie Xiaodong , Tu Pengcheng , Fan Jingjing , Gao Jie
Published: August 2023

In order to investigate the potential application of low-grade hard asphalt in high-temperature and high-altitude areas, various tests were conducted to analyze the performance and high-temperature rheological properties of 30#, 50#, and 70# matrix asphalt under thermo-oxidative aging and ultraviolet aging. The tests utilized for analysis included the examination of basic asphalt properties, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), atomic force microscopy (AFM), gel permeation chromatography (GPC), dynamic shear rheology (DSR), and multi-stress creep recovery (MSCR). The results indicate a progressive decrease in asphalt performance with increasing aging time. Prolonged exposure to thermal oxygen aging and ultraviolet irradiation significantly diminishes the plasticity of asphalt. The carbonyl index and sulfoxide index of asphalt increase after thermal oxygen aging and ultraviolet aging. Notably, 30# asphalt demonstrates greater resistance to aging compared to 50# and 70# asphalt under long-term high ultraviolet radiation. The LMS% of 30#, 50#, and 70# asphalt increases by 14%, 15%, and 16%, respectively. Following photothermal oxidative aging, a larger proportion of lighter components in the asphalt transforms into resins and asphaltenes. The high-temperature rheological properties of the three types of asphalt rank as 30# > 50# > 70#, while within the same type of asphalt, the high-temperature rheological properties rank as PAV > UV3 > UV2 > UV1 > RTFOT > virgin. Elevating temperature, stress level, and stress duration negatively impact the high-temperature stability of asphalt. In general, low-grade asphalt demonstrates superior anti-aging ability and high-temperature rheological properties during the aging process.
Recent Progress in Photonic Upconversion Materials for Organic Lanthanide Complexes
Authors: Yin Hong-Ju , Xiao Zhong-Gui , Feng Yansong , Yao Chang-Jiang
Published: August 2023

Organic lanthanide complexes have garnered significant attention in various fields due to their intriguing energy transfer mechanism, enabling the upconversion (UC) of two or more low-energy photons into high-energy photons. In comparison to lanthanide-doped inorganic nanoparticles, organic UC complexes hold great promise for biological delivery applications due to their advantageous properties of controllable size and composition. This review aims to provide a summary of the fundamental concept and recent developments of organic lanthanide-based UC materials based on different mechanisms. Furthermore, we also detail recent applications in the fields of bioimaging and solar cells. The developments and forthcoming challenges in organic lanthanide-based UC offer readers valuable insights and opportunities to engage in further research endeavors.
Study on the Modification of Silty Soil Sites Using Nanosilica and Methylsilicate
Authors: Cao Pengke , Ma Qingwen , Zha Mingming , Zhang Jian , Huo Zijian
Published: August 2023

The special particle grading properties of silt lead to the strong water sensitivity and low soil strength of silt sites, many of which are severely damaged and urgently need to be repaired. This article takes the powder soil from a certain burial site area in Xizhu Village, Luoyang as the research object, which is improved by adding nanosilica and potassium methylsilicate. The modified soil is studied through mechanical and waterproof performance tests, and the mechanism of action of the modified material is analyzed through SEM and XRD. The experimental results show that the mechanical properties and waterproof properties of the composite modified soil were improved when the nanosilica content was 2% and the potassium methylsilicate content was 0.5%; the durability of the composite modified soil is improved, making this the optimum ratio. The mechanical properties and water resistance of the silty soil were significantly improved by adding the appropriate amount of nanosilica and potassium methylsilicate. Nanosilica can be evenly dispersed in the soil matrix, absorb a small amount of water to form a gel state, fill the pores in the silt aggregates, and improve soil compactness. In addition, nanosilica aggregates can attach to the surface of the soil particles and extend from the particle surface to the particle edge. By increasing the contact between soil particles and increasing the particle size, the mechanical properties of the modified soil are improved. When potassium methylsilicate solution is added to the soil, it reacts with water and carbon dioxide, decomposes into methylsilicate, and quickly generates a polymethylsiloxane film to cover the surface of soil particles, forming a waterproof film on the surface and thereby improving the waterproof performance of modified soil. Our research results can provide a reference for the restoration and protection of silty and silt-like sites. The next step is to apply the composite modified soil in engineering restoration through field tests in order to study the repairing ability of composite modified soil and its actual protective effects.
Study on the Effect of Three Types of Calcium Sulfate on the Early Hydration and Workability of Self-Compacting Repair Mortar
Authors: Ding Hao , Shen Xuepeng , Chen Aili , Gu Rulin , Fang Ying , Li Dongxu
Published: August 2023

Despite having a high early mechanical strength and using sulfoaluminate cement as the primary cementitious material, self-compacting repair mortar (SCRM) suffers from rapid hydration rates leading to construction time constraints. This study examined how several forms of calcium sulfate, including hemihydrate gypsum, anhydrite, and dihydrate gypsum, affected SCRM’s workability, hydration process, and microstructure. The outcomes demonstrated that adding hemihydrate gypsum sped up SCRM’s early hydration rate and boosted its expansion rate. For a cement with 8% hemihydrate gypsum, 6 h after adding the water, the flexural strength and compressive strength increased by 39.02% and 34.08%, respectively. The hydration rate of SCRM can be efficiently delayed by dihydrate gypsum, although the result is subpar. The material exhibited the lowest fluidity loss in 20 min, the setting time was extended, and the 28-day flexural and compressive strengths were raised by 26.56% and 28.08%, respectively, after adding 8 percent anhydrite.
Novel Bio-Based Materials: From Castor Oil to Epoxy Resins for Engineering Applications
Authors: Gaina Constantin , Ursache Oana , Gaina Viorica , Serban Alexandru-Mihail , Asandulesa Mihai
Published: August 2023

The paper presents the synthesis and thermal behavior of novel epoxy resins prepared from epoxidized castor oil in the presence of or without trimethylolpropane triglycidyl ether (TMP) crosslinked with 3-hexahydro-4-methylphtalic anhydride (MHHPA) and their comparison with a petroleum-based epoxy resin (MHHPA and TMP). Epoxidized castor oil (ECO) was obtained via in situ epoxidation of castor oil with peroxyacetic acid. The chemical structures of castor oil (CO), ECO, and epoxy matrix were confirmed using FT-IR and 1H-NMR spectroscopy. The morphological and thermal behavior of the resulting products have been investigated. Compared to petroleum-based resins, castor oil-based ones have a lower Tg. Anyway, the introduction of TMP increases the Tg of the resins containing ECO. The morphological behavior is not significantly influenced by using ECO or by adding TMP in the synthesis of resins. The dielectric properties of epoxy resins have been analyzed as a function of frequency (1 kHz–1 MHz) and temperature (−50 to 200 °C). The water absorption test showed that as Tg increased, the percent mass of water ingress decreased.
Redundancy Allocation of Components with Time-Dependent Failure Rates
Authors: Zio Enrico , Gholinezhad Hadi
Published: August 2023

The Redundancy Allocation Problem (RAP) is well-known in the field of reliability optimization. In this paper, RAP is investigated assuming that the distribution of the time to failure of the components has the form of an Erlang distribution with a time-dependent rate parameter and considering that the choice of redundancy for each subsystem can be none, active, standby or mixed. A genetic algorithm is used to solve the problem of optimal allocation. To analyze the effect of the time dependence, some numerical examples are worked out. Then, a case study of RAP from the literature is analyzed. The obtained results show that time dependence of the failure time distribution parameters can lead to significant differences in the optimal redundancy allocation.
Link Prediction for Temporal Heterogeneous Networks Based on the Information Lifecycle
Authors: Cao Jiaping , Li Jichao , Jiang Jiang
Published: August 2023

Link prediction for temporal heterogeneous networks is an important task in the field of network science, and it has a wide range of real-world applications. Traditional link prediction methods are mainly based on static homogeneous networks, which do not distinguish between different types of nodes in the real world and do not account for network structure evolution over time. To address these issues, in this paper, we study the link prediction problem in temporal heterogeneous networks and propose a link prediction method for temporal heterogeneous networks (LP-THN) based on the information lifecycle, which is an end-to-end encoder–decoder structure. The information lifecycle accounts for the active, decay and stable states of edges. Specifically, we first introduce the meta-path augmented residual information matrix to preserve the structure evolution mechanism and semantics in HINs, using it as input to the encoder to obtain a low-dimensional embedding representation of the nodes. Finally, the link prediction problem is considered a binary classification problem, and the decoder is utilized for link prediction. Our prediction process accounts for both network structure and semantic changes using meta-path augmented residual information matrix perturbations. Our experiments demonstrate that LP-THN outperforms other baselines in both prediction effectiveness and prediction efficiency.
Output Stabilization of Linear Systems in Given Set
Authors: Nguyen Ba Huy , Furtat Igor B.
Published: August 2023

This paper presents a method for designing control laws to achieve output stabilization of linear systems within specified sets, even in the presence of unknown bounded disturbances. The approach consists of two stages. In the first stage, a coordinate transformation is utilized to convert the original system with output constraints into a new system without constraints. In the second stage, a controller is designed to ensure the boundedness of the controlled variable of the transformed system obtained in the first stage. Two distinct control strategies are presented in the second stage, depending on the measurability of the state vector. If the state vector is measurable, a controller is designed using state feedback based on the Lyapunov method and Linear Matrix Inequalities (LMIs). Alternatively, if only the output vector is measurable, an observer-based controller is designed using a Luenberger observer. In this case, the state estimation error does not need to converge to zero but must remain bounded. The efficacy of the proposed method and the validity of the theoretical results are demonstrated through simulations performed in MATLAB/Simulink.
FE2 Computations with Deep Neural Networks: Algorithmic Structure, Data Generation, and Implementation
Authors: Eivazi Hamidreza , Tröger Jendrik-Alexander , Wittek Stefan , Hartmann Stefan , Rausch Andreas
Published: August 2023

Multiscale FE2 computations enable the consideration of the micro-mechanical material structure in macroscopical simulations. However, these computations are very time-consuming because of numerous evaluations of a representative volume element, which represents the microstructure. In contrast, neural networks as machine learning methods are very fast to evaluate once they are trained. Even the DNN-FE2 approach is currently a known procedure, where deep neural networks (DNNs) are applied as a surrogate model of the representative volume element. In this contribution, however, a clear description of the algorithmic FE2 structure and the particular integration of deep neural networks are explained in detail. This comprises a suitable training strategy, where particular knowledge of the material behavior is considered to reduce the required amount of training data, a study of the amount of training data required for reliable FE2 simulations with special focus on the errors compared to conventional FE2 simulations, and the implementation aspect to gain considerable speed-up. As it is known, the Sobolev training and automatic differentiation increase data efficiency, prediction accuracy and speed-up in comparison to using two different neural networks for stress and tangent matrix prediction. To gain a significant speed-up of the FE2 computations, an efficient implementation of the trained neural network in a finite element code is provided. This is achieved by drawing on state-of-the-art high-performance computing libraries and just-in-time compilation yielding a maximum speed-up of a factor of more than 5000 compared to a reference FE2 computation. Moreover, the deep neural network surrogate model is able to overcome load-step size limitations of the RVE computations in step-size controlled computations.
Growth Behavior, Biomass Composition and Fatty Acid Methyl Esters (FAMEs) Production Potential of Chlamydomonas reinhardtii, and Chlorella vulgaris Cultures
Authors: López-Pacheco Itzel Y. , Ayala-Moreno Victoria Guadalupe , Mejia-Melara Catherinne Arlette , Rodríguez-Rodríguez José , Cuellar-Bermudez Sara P. , González-González Reyna Berenice , Coronado-Apodaca Karina G. , Farfan-Cabrera Leonardo I. , González-Meza Georgia María , Iqbal Hafiz M. N. , Parra-Saldívar Roberto
Published: August 2023

The production of biomolecules by microalgae has a wide range of applications in the development of various materials and products, such as biodiesel, food supplements, and cosmetics. Microalgae biomass can be produced using waste and in a smaller space than other types of crops (e.g., soja, corn), which shows microalgae’s great potential as a source of biomass. Among the produced biomolecules of greatest interest are carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, and fatty acids. In this study, the production of these biomolecules was determined in two strains of microalgae (Chlamydomonas reinhardtii and Chlorella vulgaris) when exposed to different concentrations of nitrogen, phosphorus, and sulfur. Results show a significant microalgal growth (3.69 g L−1) and carbohydrates (163 mg g−1) increase in C. reinhardtii under low nitrogen concentration. Also, higher lipids content was produced under low sulfur concentration (246 mg g−1). It was observed that sulfur variation could affect in a negative way proteins production in C. reinhardtii culture. In the case of C. vulgaris, a higher biomass production was obtained in the standard culture medium (1.37 g L−1), and under a low-phosphorus condition, C. vulgaris produced a higher lipids concentration (248 mg g−1). It was observed that a low concentration of nitrogen had a better effect on the accumulation of fatty acid methyl esters (FAMEs) (C16-C18) in both microalgae. These results lead us to visualize the effects that the variation in macronutrients can have on the growth of microalgae and their possible utility for the production of microalgae-based subproducts.
Detection of Neuroendocrine Tumours by Enteroscopy: A Case Report
Authors: Ortega Larrode Adriana , Farrais Villalba Sergio , Guerrero Muñoz Claudia , Blas Jhon Leonardo , Martin Relloso Maria Jesus , Sanchez-Fayos Calabuig Paloma , Calero Baron Daniel , Varela Silva Andres , Porres Cubero Juan Carlos
Published: August 2023

We present the case of a 62-year-old patient who developed melenas and in whom conventional endoscopic tests could not detect any bleeding lesion. In our case, capsule endoscopy and enteroscopy were the pivotal elements in establishing the diagnosis of a neuroendocrine tumour with an atypical location. As a result, it was possible to surgically remove the lesions at an early stage of the malignancy without metastatic disease and without the need for adjuvant therapy. Our case demonstrates the need for these new techniques in tumours of atypical location and aggressive course. Otherwise, this malignancy may be underdiagnosed until an advanced stage.