bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Review of Slow Sand Filtration for Raw Water Treatment with Potential Application in Less-Developed Countries
Authors: Abdiyev Kaldibek , Azat Seitkhan , Kuldeyev Erzhan , Kabdrakhmanova Sana , Berndtsson Ronny , Khalkhabai Bostandyk , Kabdrakhmanova Ainur , Sultakhan Shynggyskhan
Published: April 2023

Providing safe drinking water to people in developing countries is an urgent world-wide water problem and a main issue in the UN Sustainability Goals. One of the most efficient and cheapest methods to attain these goals is the use of slow sand filters. Slow sand filters can efficiently provide safe drinking water to people living in small rural communities not served by central water supply systems. The purpose of this review article is to critically summarize and synthesize features and advantages of slow sand filtration methods to improve the quality of drinking water with special focus on less-developed countries. Even though slow sand filtration is an old technique, its efficiency and cost-effectiveness make it important to continue to develop the method in parallel to other chemical and biological methods. Thus, there are needs to continue to develop methods for slow sand filtration combined with simple disinfection techniques for treatment of microbiological pollutants such as bacteria, microbes, viruses, and parasites. These techniques can be applied before or after the sand filter application. Studies are also needed to investigate other types of porous material in areas where suitable sand and gravel are not readily available. Methods are needed to reduce the contents of emerging environmental pollutants such as surfactants and microplastics. Also, further studies are needed to determine design criteria (particle size distribution, depth of media, residence time, temperature, etc.) for different types of pollutants, existing and emerging. Finally, further research is needed to advise on life cycle time, operation (e.g., batch or continuous flow), and maintenance procedures (cleaning of media, back-flushing, etc.) for used porous media in slow the sand filtration.
Experimental Investigation on the Stochastically Forced Rijke-Type Supercritical Thermoacoustic Systems
Authors: ZHANG Hao , WANG Yuanhao , LI Xinyan , CHEN Geng , SUN Yuze
Published: April 2023

Intense thermoacoustic oscillations may lead to severe deterioration due to the induced intolerable damage to combustors. A better understanding of unstable behaviors is important to prevent or suppress these oscillations. Active thermoacoustic coupling in practical combustors is caused primarily by two approaches: inherent turbulent fluctuations and the flame response to acoustic waves. Turbulent fluctuations are generally characterized by random noise. This paper experimentally expands on previous analytic studies regarding the influence of colored disturbances on the thermoacoustic response near the supercritical bifurcation point. Therein, a laboratory-scale Rijke-type thermoacoustic system is established, and both supercritical and subcritical bifurcations are observed. Then, Ornstein–Uhlenbeck (OU)-type external colored noise is introduced near the supercritical bifurcation point, and the effects of the corresponding correlation time τc and noise intensity D are studied. The experimental results show that these variables of the colored noise significantly influence the dynamics of thermoacoustic oscillations in terms of the most probable amplitude, autocorrelation, and correlation time. A resonance-like behavior is observed as the noise intensity or the autocorrelation time of the colored noise is continuously varied, which means that the coherent resonance occurs in the thermoacoustic system. Finally, when the system is configured closer to the stability boundary, the extent of the coherence motion is intensified in the stochastic system response. Meanwhile, the Signal to Noise Ratios (SNRs) of the colored-noise-induced response are found to become more distinguished, the optimal colored noise intensity decreases, and the optimal autocorrelation time increases. This provides valuable guidance to predict the onset of thermoacoustic instabilities.
Hybrid Chaotic Based PRNG for Secure Cryptography Applications
Authors: Alnajim Abdullah , Abou-Bakr Ehab , Alruwisan Sarah , Khan Sheroz , Elmanfaloty Rania
Published: April 2023

This paper suggests a novel one-dimensional (1D) map to address the limitations of traditional chaotic 1D maps. The main challenge with traditional chaotic 1D maps is the limited control parameter range and the potential risk of collapsing as a result under the finite precision implementation. To overcome these limitations, the new 1D map hybridises the traditional logistic map with tent map, and a linear tent-like function. This hybridization results in a wider range of control parameters to produce chaotic behavior. The dynamic behavior of the new 1D map has been analyzed using well known numerical methods, including the bifurcation diagram and Lyapunov exponent. Both tests have shown their complex and diverse behavior. In addition, a novel image encryption scheme has been devised using the new function as its pseudo-random-number generator. The proposed encryption algorithm has been tested and found to be robust and secure, passing all statistical tests applied to the encrypted images. The results of this study demonstrate the effectiveness of the new 1D map for use in secure image cryptography applications, providing a more robust and secure alternative to traditional chaotic 1D maps. The proposed algorithm has demonstrated high performance in NPCR and UACI tests. It also has shown good results in the MSE and PSNR tests.
Application of Functionally Graded Shell Lattice as Infill in Additive Manufacturing
Authors: KEDZIORA Slawomir , DECKER Thierry , MUSEYIBOV Elvin
Published: April 2023

The presented research article shows a functionally graded lattice as an infill structure in designing a 3D printed mechanical element—a bicycle crank arm. The authors want to answer the fundamental question: whether the functionally graded lattice structures can efficiently improve structural performance and how they can be implemented in real complex components. Intuitively, everyone senses that using such elements must bring profit. A good example might be nature, which commonly reaches for such a solution in the skeletons of animals and humans. Two aspects determine their realisations: the lack of adequate construction and analysis methods and the limitations of existing manufacturing methods. Thus, the authors used relatively simple crank arm design and design exploration methods for structural analysis. The design exploration method enabled us to find the optimum solution efficiently. A developed prototype was created utilising additive manufacturing. One of the 3D printing methods - fused filament fabrication technology for metals, allowed the prototype of a crank arm with the optimised infill to be made. As a result, the authors developed a lightweight and manufacturable crank arm showing the new construction and analysis method implementable in similar 3D printed elements.
Molecular Mechanisms Driven by MT4-MMP in Cancer Progression
Authors: Muñoz-Sáez Emma , Moracho Natalia , Learte Ana I. R. , Collingnon Alice , Arroyo Alicia G. , Noel Agnés , Sounni Nor Eddine , Sánchez-Camacho Cristina
Published: April 2023

MT4-MMP (or MMP-17) belongs to the Membrane-Type Matrix Metalloproteinases (MT-MMPs), a distinct subset of the MMP family that is anchored to the cell surface by a glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI) motif. Its expression in a variety of cancers is well documented. However, the molecular mechanisms by which MT4-MMP contributes to tumor development need further investigation. In this review, we aim to summarize the contribution of MT4-MMP in tumorigenesis, focusing on the molecular mechanisms triggered by the enzyme in tumor cell migration, invasiveness, and proliferation, in the tumor vasculature and microenvironment, as well as during metastasis. In particular, we highlight the putative substrates processed and signaling cascades activated by MT4-MMP that may underlie these malignancy processes and compare this with what is known about its role during embryonic development. Finally, MT4-MMP is a relevant biomarker of malignancy that can be used for monitoring cancer diseases progression in patients as well as a potential target for future therapeutic drug development.
Reepithelization of the Damaged Cornea in the Presence of Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Baksa Viktória , Kiss Alexandra , Turani Melinda , Tálas László , Kovásznai-Oláh Richard , Pinczés Gyula , Szigeti Zsuzsa M. , Szemán-Nagy Gábor , Banfalvi Gaspar
Published: April 2023

We have established earlier a cell line from the human limbal area to study cell growth and response to the toxic effects of antibiotics used in ophthalmology. In the recent work, the effect of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) in cornea damage was investigated in vitro and in vivo in mice. In the in vitro experiments, the physiological effects of multi-walled carbon nano-tube (MWCNT) bundles on corneal wound healing were mimicked in vitro by a reepithelization limbal stem cell model. Murine in vivo experiments were performed with intact, non-functionalized MWCNTs to confirm the validity of in vitro tests. The MWCNTs of 10 -30 nm outer diameter at low concentration (5 µg/ml) did not interfere with the wound healing of the damaged limbal cell monolayer. Higher than 50 µg/ml concentrations: a) generated MWCNT aggregates, b) restrained the movement and prolonged the time of wound healing, c) increased the amplitudes of the oscillations of the cells, and d) resulted in scar formation affecting both cor-neal function and refraction. Chromatin condensation, a sensitive test of the viability of cells, including limbal stem cells revealed that the presence of a low concentration of nanotubes (5 µg/ml), did not significantly affect the viability of limbal cells. Chromatin condensation was completed and metaphase chromosomes were seen at higher MWCNT concentration proving that their aggregates did not affect the viability of limbal cells. This concentration of MWCNTs (5 µg/ml) did impact neither the reepithelization in vitro nor in vivo in the scratched eyes of mice. Scar formation took place at higher than 50 µg/ml concentrations and the healing of the cornea was prevented by the lack of movement of increasingly larger macroaggregates. In vivo murine experiments vali-dated in vitro monolayer regrowth followed by time-lapse microscopy portraying realistically the reepithelization of the damaged cornea that process was gradually slowed down by macro aggregate formation and caused the scarring of the cornea.
Teachers' Professional Training Through Augmented Reality: A Literature Review
Authors: Mena Juanjo , Estrada-Molina Odiel , Pérez-Calvo Esperanza
Published: April 2023

The Practicum is regarded as a fundamental aspect of the training of prospective teachers. In addition, digital tools are increasingly used to enrich a traditional face-to-face experience. However, the technological exploitation of augmented reality (AR) by undergraduate students studying early childhood and primary education is low. A Systematic Literature Review (SLR) on the use of augmented reality (AR) in teacher training was conducted. Based on the overarching objectives of the ERASMUS+ project, entitled Digital Practicum 3.0 Exploring Augmented Reality, Remote Classrooms, and Virtual Learning to Enrich and Expand Preservice Teacher Education Preparation (2020-1-ES01-KA226-HE- 096120), the ultimate purpose of this study was to assess whether the use of this resource favors learning and expertise. Two main results are prominent. First, it is noteworthy how the use of this digital technology is limited, given the scarcity of studies. Second, the research studies available focus largely on the benefits of the use of AR in teacher education at a theoretical level. Thus, future research needs to further explore the use of AR in teacher training specially focused on the student teachers’ learning processes.
Open-Source Designs for Distributed Manufacturing of Low-Cost Customized Walkers
Authors: So Anita , Reeves Jacob M. , Pearce Joshua M.
Published: April 2023

To improve accessibility, this article describes a static, four-legged, walker that can be constructed from materials and fasteners commonly available from hardware stores coupled by open-source 3-D printed joints. The designs are described in detail, shared under an open-source license, and fabricated with a low-cost open-source desktop 3-D printer and hand tools. The resulting device is loaded to failure to determine the maximum load that the design can safely support in both vertical and horizontal failure modes. The experimental results showed the average vertical failure load capacity was 3680±694.3N, equivalent to 375.3±70.8kg of applied weight with the fractured location at the wood dowel handlebars. The average horizontal load capacity was 315.6±49.4N, equivalent to 32.2±5.1kg. The maximum weight capacity of a user of 187.1±29.3kg was obtained, which indicates the open-source walker design can withstand the weight requirements of all genders with a 95% confidence interval that includes a safety factor of 1.8 when considering the lowest deviation weight capacity. The design has a cost at the bottom of the range of commercial walkers and reduces the mass compared to a commercial walker by 0.5kg (19% reduction). It can be concluded that this open-source walker design can aid accessibility in low-resource settings.
Measurement of the Acoustic Relaxation Absorption Spectrum of CO2 Using an Optical Fiber DBR Laser
Authors: Shen Kun , Yuan Jixian , Li Min , Wen Xiaoyan , Lu Haifei
Published: April 2023

Reconstruction of acoustic relaxation absorption curve is a powerful approach to ultrasonic gas sensing, but requires known of a series ultrasonic absorption at various frequencies around effective relaxation frequency. Ultrasonic transducer is a most widely deployed sensor for ultrasonic wave propagation measurement and works only at a fixed frequency or specific environment like water, so a large number of ultrasonic transducers operating at various frequencies are required to recover an acoustic absorption curve with a relative large bandwidth, which cannot suit for large-scale practical applications. This paper proposes a wideband ultrasonic sensor using a distributed Bragg reflector (DBR) fiber laser for gas concentration detection through acoustic relaxation absorption curve reconstruction. With a relative wide and flat frequency response, the DBR fiber laser sensor measures and restores a full acoustic relaxation absorption spectrum of CO2 using a decompression gas chamber between 0.1 and 1 atm to accommodate the main molecular relaxation processes, and interrogates with a non-equilibrium Mach-Zehnder (M-Z) interferometer to gain a sound pressure sensitivity of -45.4 dB. The measurement error of the acoustic relaxation absorption spectrum is less than 1.32%.
Laser Cavitation Peening: A Review
Authors: Soyama Hitoshi , Iga Yuka
Published: April 2023

During submerged laser peening using a pulsed laser, a bubble that behaves like cavitation is generated after laser ablation (LA). The bubble is referred to as laser cavitation (LC). The amplitude of the shock-wave in LA water is larger than that of LC; however, the impact passing through the target metal during LC is larger than that of LA. Thus, submerged laser peening is referred to as “laser cavitation peening”, as the peening method using the cavitation impact is known as “cavitation peening”. The impact induced by a hemispherical bubble is more aggressive than that of a spherical bubble with a microjet. Laser cavitation peening can improve the fatigue strength of metallic materials by producing work-hardening and the introduction of compressive residual stress. Three-dimensional additive manufactured metals (3D metals) such as titanium alloy are attractive materials for aviation components and medical implants; however, the fatigue strength of as-built components is nearly half that of bulk metals, and this is an obstacle for the applications of 3D metals. In the present study, published research papers were reviewed to identify the key factors of laser cavitation peening, with additional visualization of LC and data. Then, improvements in the fatigue strength of metallic materials, including 3D metals produced by laser cavitation peening, were summarized.
Combining low-cost SLAM and SfM-MVS for Rural and Forest Road-side Slope Erosion Control: a methodology
Authors: Gomez Christopher , Setiawan Muhammad Anggri , Listyaningrum Noviyanti , Bradák Balázs , Saleh Yousefi
Published: April 2023

Hillslope and mountain roads are often the source of erosion, which in turn can lead to larger landslides and other types of mass-movements. For this reason, low-cost repeat surveys that can be done by practitioners and not solely scientists and engineers is essential. To solve this issue the present contribution shows the testing and applicability of a mix of SfM-MVS and low-cost SLAM technology to provide erosion information. The low-cost SLAM generated between 300 ~ 900 points per square meter, while SfM-MVS created between ~11,000 to 900,000 points. The density is however a trade-off against a spatially varying error, although the variability at the road-cut scale only ranges from 2 cm vertically to 2.5 cm in x,y,z based on the C2C algorithm. Furthermore, this error tends to be more important in the higher section of the cutout (further away from the sensor and at a flatter angle). It is thus possible to measure small-scale roadside change, providing that the change is in the range of >5 cm (adding the maximum potential error twice) and providing that the road-cut is such that the sensors can be brought close to the surface (camera or sensor on a pole). The authors suggest that it can be a solution for state and agencies with limited funding and that cannot afford regular laser or for roadside that are difficult to access.
Sharp Stability for LSI
Authors: Indrei Emanuel
Published: April 2023

A fundamental tool in mathematical physics is the logarithmic Sobolev inequality. A quantitative version proven by Carlen with a remainder involving the Fourier-Wiener transform is equivalent to an entropic uncertainty principle more general than the Heisenberg uncertainty principle. In the stability, the remainder is in terms of an entropy, not a metric. Recently, a stability result for H1 was obtained by Dolbeault, Esteban, Figalli, Frank, and Loss in terms of an Lp norm. Afterwards, Brigati, Dolbeault, and Simonov discussed the stability problem involving a stronger norm. A full characterization with a necessary and sufficient condition to have H1 convergence is identified in this paper. Moreover, an explicit H1 bound via a moment assumption is shown. Also, the Lp stability of Dolbeault, Esteban, Figalli, Frank, and Loss is proven to be sharp.
Polyethylene Protective Coating with Anti-Reflective Properties for Silicon Photovoltaic Cells
Authors: Pociask-Bialy Malgorzata
Published: April 2023

The aim of the study was to find the effect of polyethylene (PE) coatings on the short-circuit current of silicon photovoltaic cells covered with glass, in order to improve the short-circuit current of the cells. Various combinations of PE films (thicknesses ranging from 9 to 23 µm, number of layers ranging from 2 to 6) with glasses (greenhouse, float, optiwhite and acrylic glass) were investigated. The best current gain of 4.05% was achieved for the coating combining a 1.5 mm-thick acrylic glass with 2 × 12 µm-thick PE films. This effect can be related to the formation of an array of micro-wrinkles and micrometer-sized air bubbles with a diameter of 50 to 600 µm in the films, which serve as micro-lenses and enhance light trapping.
Host-Bacterium Interaction Mechanisms in Staphylococcus Aureus Endocarditis: A Systematic Review
Authors: Nappi Francesco
Published: April 2023

Staphylococci sp. have become the primary pathogens implicated in infective endocarditis, especially within high-income nations. This along with the increasing burden of healthcare, aging populations and the protracted course the infections may take, contribute to a significant challenge for healthcare systems. A systematic review was conducted using relevant search criteria from PubMed, Ovid’s version of MEDLINE, and EMBASE, and data were tabulated from randomized controlled trials (RCT), observational cohort studies, meta-analysis, and basic research articles. The review was registered with the OSF register of systematic reviews and followed the PRISMA reporting guidelines. 35 studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in the final systematic review. The role of Staphylococcus aureus and its interaction with the protective shield and host protection functions was identified and highlighted in several studies. The interaction between infective endocarditis pathogens, vascular endothelium, and blood constituents was also explored giving rise to the potential use of antiplatelets as preventative and/or curative agents. Several factors allow Staphylococcus aureus infections to proliferate within the host with numerous promoting and perpetuating agents. The complex interaction with the hosts' innate immunity also potentiates its virulence. Ameliorating these molecular pathways may serve as a therapeutic avenue for the prevention and treatment of these infections in near future.
Pediatric Diabetes Technology Management: Italian Health Care Workers' Point of View
Authors: Tupputi Annamaria , Giardinieri Lucia , Monaco Silvia , Di Trani Michela
Published: April 2023

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) has shown an increase in the incidence rate of about 3% per year over the last two decades. Continuous Insulin Subcutaneous Therapy (CSII) is widely used in the paediatric population with diabetes; however, it requires more preparation by the treating team and careful selection of potential users. Prescriptive provisions vary from Region to Region and the perspective of health workers still remains an unexplored area. The aim of the research project is to explore the representations of a group of diabetologists and psychologists working in pediatric diabetology on the national territory, regarding roles, functions and activities as part of a multidisciplinary team; their views on the potential benefits of CSII and the types of individuals applying for the use of technology. A socio-anagraphic data sheet was administered and two homogeneous focus groups were conducted by profession; they were audio recorded. The transcripts produced were analysed using the Emotional Text Mining (ETM) methodology. Each of the two corpus generated three clusters and two factors: for diabetologists, a focus on the patient in different levels of care emerged, collaborating both with other health professionals and with the territory, through the proposal of an intervention where the medical aspect is often represented by technology; also for psychologists there was a representation of interdisciplinary networking, with a greater focus on the processes inherent the management of pathology, from acceptance to the elaboration and integration of diabetes in the family narrative. The understanding of the representations of health professionals working in pediatric diabetes about new technologies can contribute to the consolidation of a network of professionals through a targeted work on possible critical issues emerged.
Probability of Atlantic Salmon Post-Smolts Encountering a Tidal Turbine Installation in Minas Passage, Bay of Fundy
Authors: Sanderson Brian Gavin , Karsten Richard , Solda Cameron , Hardie David C , Hasselman Daniel James
Published: April 2023

Tidal stream energy is a renewable energy resource that might be developed to offset carbon emissions. A tidal energy demonstration (TED) area has been designated in Minas Passage, Bay of Fundy, for testing and installing marine hydrokinetic (MHK) turbines. Regulations require quantification of the potential for MHK turbine installations to harm local populations of marine animals. Here we use acoustic telemetry to quantify probability that post smolt Inner Bay of Fundy salmon encounter a turbine installation at the TED area. Previous work has quantified detection efficiency of Innovasea HR acoustic tags as a function of current speed and range from a moored HR2 receiver and also demonstrated that drifters carrying HR tags will be effectively detected when the drifter track crosses the array of HR2 receivers in Minas Passage. Salmon smolts were tagged and released in Gaspereau and Stewiacke Rivers, Nova Scotia, in order that the HR2 receiver array could monitor seaward migration of the post smolts through Minas Passage and particularly through the TED area. Presently we demonstrate methods by which tag signals detected by the HR2 array can be used to estimate the expected number of times that a post smolt would encounter a single near-surface MHK turbine installation during its seaward migration.
1901 Erzurum Depremi ve Afet Yönetimi
Authors: İRKİN Zehra , SATILMIŞ Selahattin
Published: April 2023

Doğu Anadolu ile Kuzey Anadolu Fay zonlarının etkisinde bulunan ve birçok fay hattını barındıran Erzurum, tarihte çok yıkıcı depremlere maruz kaldığı gibi, 8 Kasım 1901 tarihinde de büyük bir deprem yaşamıştır. Deprem, Erzurum’da çok büyük miktarda hasara, can kayıplarına ve binlerce insanın açıkta kalmasına yol açmıştır. Ana deprem sonrasında çok sık ve şiddetli derecede artçı sarsıntıların meydana gelmesi, halkın daha fazla endişe ve korku yaşamasına neden olmuştur. Depremzedeler, vilayet yönetimi tarafından çadırlara ve barakalara yerleştirilmiş ya da hasar almayan köylere gönderilmişlerdir. Bütün afetzedelerin beslenme, yakacak ve diğer ihtiyaçları da giderilmeye çalışılmıştır. Afetzedeler için büyük gayret gösterilmişse de baraka ve çadırlarda yaşayan depremzedeler Erzurum’un şiddetli soğuklarının tesiriyle büyük zorluklara maruz kalmış, hatta salgın hastalıklar baş göstermiştir. Deprem sonrasında hem İstanbul’da hem de Erzurum ve çevresindeki yerleşim birimlerinde yardım kampanyaları başlatılmış, toplanan büyük miktarlardaki paralarla afetzedelerin ihtiyaçları giderilmeye çalışılmıştır. Depremzedelere çeşitli kolaylıklar ve muafiyetler de sağlanarak bu büyük afetin açtığı yaralar sarılmak istenmiştir.
Experimental Investigation of Geopolymers for Application in High-Temperature and Geothermal Well Cementing
Authors: Denduluri Veerabhadra S. , Ulerio George , Genedy Moneeb , Juenger Maria , van Oort Eric
Published: April 2023

With recurrent calls for a reduction in carbon emissions, geothermal (GT) energy has received increasing attention in recent years as a prominent source of clean energy. With current drilling technology, GT wells are being constructed in extremely challenging temperature environments, which could reach more than 600°F (315°C) in situ. However, GT well-cementing technology has not changed much over the past few decades, with ordinary Portland cement (OPC) still being the primary choice of cementing material. OPC has several drawbacks, including brittle behavior, shrinkage upon setting, poor bond strength to formation and casing, susceptibility to an acid gas attack, temperature-induced strength retrogression, and low tolerance toward drilling fluid contamination. These factors could lead to a poor cementing job, thus compromising well integrity and not ensuring proper zonal isolation for the life of the GT well. Thus, there is a need to develop an alternative material that is compatible with the GT environment and able to provide long-term zonal isolation. With a low carbon footprint, self-healing ability, and low shrinkage sensitivity, geopolymers or alkali-activated materials could be a suitable option to augment or even replace OPC. Some of the previous studies on geopolymers have shown that they could be a potential candidate for oil and gas well cementing and civil engineering applications, with some being stable at very high temperatures [up to 1,470°F (800°C)]. Geopolymers are formed by mixing an aluminosilicate source such as fly ash (FA) with an alkali-activating solution, such as sodium or potassium hydroxide or silicate.

The aim of the study reported here is to demonstrate the applicability of geopolymers for GT well cementing. An experimental investigation was carried out to understand the behavior of geopolymer formulations made from FA, metakaolin (MK), and blast furnace slag in a high-temperature environment. The material properties such as porosity, viscosity, thickening/pump time, compressive strength, tensile strength, and bond strength were tested in the laboratory. It was found that geopolymer can be formulated to have the desired rheological properties with adequate pump time and resistance to drilling fluid contamination. In addition, the formulations can exceed the required compressive and tensile strength for GT cementing operations, while obtaining excellent bond strength values. These findings indicate that geopolymers are well-suited to provide long-term zonal isolation in high-temperature GT wells.
Stress analysis and wear life prediction of metal sheet of CVT under high speed condition
Authors: Liu Jingang , Zheng Jian yun , Ma Kai , Fu Bing , Chen Shilin , Zhao Youhong
Published: April 2023

In order to improve the stress state of the metal sheet of the continuously variable transmission (CVT) under high-speed conditions and prolong its wear life, it is proposed to replace the bearing steel material of the metal sheet in the CVT with magnesium alloy material. Based on the wear depth of side surface on the metal sheet, the improved wear life prediction model of the metal sheet is derived, so that the service life of the metal sheet can be more clearly represented by the total mileage of the electric vehicle. The three-dimensional finite element model (FEM) of the CVT is established and validated through experiments. The results obtained from simulation and experiment analysis show that: The deformation of the pulley obtained by simulation are in good agreement with the experimental data. After the magnesium alloy material is applied to the metal sheet, the stress state of metal sheet can be effectively improved under high-speed condition, especially at low speed ratio, and the peak stress of magnesium alloy metal sheet is significantly lower than that of existing bearing steel metal sheet. In addition, the deviation between the total mileage of electric vehicles equipped with magnesium alloy metal sheet and that of electric vehicles equipped with bearing steel metal sheet is only 5.65%. The research results can provides a certain reference for the application of magnesium alloy material on CVT metal belt.
Analysing the Nexus Between Public Health Spending, Health Outcomes, Labour Productivity and Economic Growth: Evidence from Nigeria
Authors: Adekunle Wasiu , Collins Olutosin , Omo-Ikirodah Beatrice
Published: April 2023

This study seeks to determine the impact of public health financing on health outcomes, and also, determine the impact of health outcomes on labour productivity and economic growth by collecting data on the relevant variable between 1981 and 2021 and employing the Two-Stage Least Squares (2SLS) approach. The study found that: rising public health spending significantly improves health outcomes including infant mortality, neonatal mortality and under-five mortality; improved health outcomes enhance labour productivity, but the neonatal mortality rate has the largest labour productivity elasticity. This suggests that a persistent decline in child deaths would contribute to building healthy individuals who grow up to become a healthy and productive workforce. In addition, the study established that improved health outcomes stimulate economic growth. This reflects the magnified impact of good health on labour productivity with multiplier effects on national output. The study suggests some measures and policy options.JEL Codes: H51; I12; J11, J24; J33; O40
Indigenous medicinal plants used in folk medicine for malaria treatment in Kwara State, Nigeria: An ethnobotanical study
Authors: Evbuomwan Ikponmwosa Owen , Adeyemi Oluyomi Stephen , Oluba Olarewaju Michael
Published: April 2023

BackgroundFolk medicine is crucial to healthcare delivery in the underdeveloped countries. It is frequently used as a primary treatment option or as a complementary therapy for malaria treatment. Malaria is a deadly disease which greatly threatens global public health, claiming incredible number of lives yearly. The study was aimed at documenting the medicinal plants used for malaria treatment in folk medicine in Kwara State, Nigeria.MethodsEthnobotanical information was collected from selected consenting registered traditional medicine practitioners (TMPs) through oral face-to-face interviews using in-depth, semi-structured questionnaires. Data were analysed and discussed in relation to published literature on the documented plants.ResultsSixty-two indigenous medicinal plants including 13 new plants used for malaria treatment were identified in this study. The TMPs preferred decoction in aqueous solvent (34%) and steeping in decaffeinated soft drink (19%) for herbal preparations. Oral administration (74%) was the main route of administration, while leaves (40%) and stem barks (32%) were the most dominant plant parts used in herbal preparations. The most cited families were Fabaceae (15%) and Rutaceae (6%), whileMangifera indica(77.14%),Enantia chlorantha(65.71%),Alstonia boonei(57.14%) followed byCymbopogon citratus(54.29%) were the most used plants. Besides, the antimalarial activities of many of the plants recorded and their isolated phytocompounds have been demonstrated. Furthermore, the conservation status of 4 identified plants were Vulnerable.ConclusionThe study showed strong ethnobotanical knowledge shared by the TMPs in the State and provides preliminary information that could be explored for discovery of more potent antimalarial compounds.
Structure basis rational engineering of glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase from Corynebacterium glutamicum for dual NAD/NADP cofactor specificity
Authors: Kim Kyung-Jin , Son Hyeoncheo , Yu Hyeonjeong , Hong Jiyeon , Lee Donghoon , kim Il-Kwon
Published: April 2023

Since the discovery of L-glutamate-producing Corynebacterium glutamicum, it has evolved to an industrial workhorse. For bio-based chemical production, suppling sufficient amounts of the NADPH cofactor is crucial. Glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GapDH), a glycolytic enzyme that converts glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate (G3P) to 1,3-bisphosphoglycerate and produces NAD(P)H, is a major prospective solution for the cofactor imbalance issue. In this study, we determined the crystal structure of GapDH from C. glutamicum ATCC13032 (CgGapDH). This structural information was used to construct rational protein engineering strategies. We generated four CgGapDH variants that can produce both NADH and NAPDH. The final CgGapDHL36S/T37K/F100V/P192S variant showed a 212-fold increase in enzyme activity for NADP as well as 200% and 30% increased activity for the G3P substrate under NAD and NADP cofactor conditions, respectively. In addition, crystal structures of CgGapDH variants in complex with NAD(P) permit elucidation of differences between wild-type CgGapDH and variants in relation to cofactor stabilization.
Optimization of Cutting Parameters for Milling Enset Fiber Reinforced Epoxy Composite
Authors: Muche Abebe Muluye , Workneh Henok Zewdu , Zewge Mesfin Gizaw
Published: April 2023

Machining of composite materials is accompanied by sever challenges. Fiber pullouts, fiber breakages, delamination of laminates, matrix burnings are some of the challenges, which brings significant quality and performance reductions of the product. These challenges able to be reduced with controlled or optimized machining parameters. This study investigates the optimization of cutting parameters for end milling of enset fiber reinforced epoxy composite materials to obtain optimum surface roughness and material removal rate simultaneously. The experimental runs designed based on Taguchi L9 (33 ) orthogonal arrays. The influence of cutting parameters is determined by the analysis of variance (ANOVA). Optimization is performed by coupling grey relational analysis and principal component analysis. The results revealed that depth of cut has greater contributions followed by spindle speed and feed rate respectively on the gray relational grades (GRG). The optimum values of surface roughness and material removal rate were obtained at spindle speed of 1000rpm, feed rate of 300mm/min and depth of cut of 1.5mm.
The influence of abscess location on surgical methods of non-lactation mastitis
Authors: zhang wenjie , ren hailiang , wu jian
Published: April 2023

The aim of the present study was to compare the characteristics and presentation of posterior space and non-posterior space abscesses of non-lactation mastitis and to determine the optimal surgical treatment for posterior space abscesses. A set of 98 cases diagnosed with non-lactational mastitis with abscess admitted to the Third People's Hospital of Chengdu from March 2014 to December 2020. According to the the presence or absence of posterior breast space with abscess, 40 patients were assigned to the posterior space abscess group and 58 patients were assigned to the non-posterior space abscess group. The clinical data of the two groups were compared, VAS scores before operation in posterior space abscess group was significent higher than that of the non-posterior space abscess group (p <�����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������
Multi-Agent Collision Avoidance with Provident Agents using Deep-Reinforcement Learning
Authors: Karkevandi Mohammad Bahrami , Semnani Samaneh Hosseini
Published: April 2023

Autonomous path planning is becoming more demanding, as the number of robotic agents in pedestrian-rich environments is gradually increasing. Collision-free navigation is an essential requirement for autonomous agents in a pedestrian-rich environment. In this paper, we will build upon the GA3C-CADRL algorithm to train agents that take the near future into consideration while moving around the environment. Specifically, we will introduce a new reward function and a novel rewarding mechanism to train provident agents that always prioritize finding a collision-free path. Agents that are trained with the new method will be shown to be more cautious of their surrounding environment and tend to avoid actions that may be seen as threatening by pedestrians. We will show that the new proposed algorithm outperforms the previous state-of-the-art algorithm, GA3C-CADRL, in terms of successful navigation throughout the entire test set.
Prostate Image Segmentation using Video Internet of Things (VIoT) applications in Biomedical Engineering depending on Deep Learning algorithms pre and during COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Abduljabbar Heamn Noori , Rashid Ameer Sardar Kwekha , Tout Kifah , Abdulrahim Ezamin Noori , Öztürk Bilal , Ismail Haidar Jalal , Mashohor Syamsiah N. , Suppiah Subapriya Noori , Yakan Ammar
Published: April 2023

This study highlights the role of imaging modalities through prostate image segmentation, using various algorithms depending on segmentation accuracy, and (VIoT) impact on improving imaging, via analyzing relevant articles to prostate segmentation during 2018–2021, from Springer, Science Direct, MDPI, IEEE, Nature Portfolio, Hindawi, with Taylor and Francis pre and during COVID-19. This study deals with 20 articles. Findings illustrated MRI was involved in (90%) of the articles in pre-COVID-19, while during COVID-19 declined to (60%). Furthermore, CNN algorithm was the most dependent method for prostate segmentation which was (50%) of the articles rather than other models. Whereas (80%) of the articles were depended on (DSC). In conclusion, the (VIoT) shows a significant role in all imaging modalities specifically MRI due to the real-time imaging. COVID-19 had impact on prostate segmentation research with the publishers was considerable in pre and during the pandemic. In addition, the best-utilized imaging modality was MRI due to its high image quality and ease applicable for (VIoT). Nevertheless, there is no study considered transabdominal ultrasound database as imaging modality for prostate segmentation. On the other hand, the segmentation performance referred to (DSC) that has a significant influence on prostate image segmentation Quality and performance.
Spatial position selection during collective movement in a nonhuman primate species with a multilevel social structure (Rhinopithecus roxellana)
Authors: wang chengliang , Wu Tong , Zhao Hongtao , Li Wei , Su Ziyi , Zhao Haitao , Ren Yi , Fu Weiwei , Wang Yan , Wang Xiaowei , Pan Ruliang , Li Baoguo
Published: April 2023

Substantial phylogenetic differences in the evolution of decision-making in group-living animals are observed in the animal kingdom. Decision-making is vital for maintaining a cohesive social structure, health, survival, and reproductive fitness. Thus, exploring such mechanisms in diverse social species living in the wild, especially nonhuman primates, provides insight into the coordinating rules, behaviors, regulations, and laws in human society. The golden snub-nosed monkey (Rhinopithecus roxellana) is characterized by a multilevel social system. The present study investigated individual spatial positioning during collective movements at departure and determination of consensus during decision-making. The results indicate that individuals traveling in the front of the group determine whether a collective movement succeeds or fails. These front positions provide various benefits and are typically occupied by adults in one-male units (OMUs). In addition to the hypotheses of protection and food resource competition proposed for species with a single-level social system, we suggest that communication between and within OMUs also plays an essential role in achieving consensus decisions. Social affiliations among individuals also significantly influence decision-making via mediation effects, a phenomenon observed in sophisticated multilevel societies. Thus, these findings illuminate avenues for further research on how communications between and within groups contribute to consensus decisions and how such decisions are initiated at lower levels and developed at higher levels in a multilevel society. Such avenues can provide insight for primatologists and social anthropologists.
Evaluation of T Cell Repertoire in Primary Immunodeficiencies With Dna Repair Defects
Authors: Karaaslan Betul Gemici , Demirkale Zeynep Hizli , Turan Isilay , Aydemir Sezin , Meric Zeynep , Taskin Zuleyha , Kilinc Ozgur Can , Burtecene Nihan , Topcu Birol , Yucel Esra , Aydogmus Cigdem , Kiykim Ayca , Cokugras Haluk
Published: April 2023

Inborn errors of immunity include multiple genetic abnormalities affecting different components of the innate and adaptive immune systems. More than 450 genes have been described so far including DNA repair defects which may result in predisposition to infections, but also malignancies, neurologic abnormalities and growth retardation. The group of patients with DNA repair and methylation defects exhibit impaired adaptive immunity, which increases susceptibility to infections due to impaired repertoire diversity. In this context, we aimed to investigate the TCRvβ repertoire and its interaction with clinical entities in a group of IEI patients with DNA repair defects including ATM, DCLRE1C, DNA-PRKDC, DNA ligase-4, and BLM. Thirty-nine patients with evidence of DNA repair defects and radiosensitivity and 15 age-matched healthy controls were included in this study. Peripheral lymphocyte subset and TCR-vβ repertoire analyses were performed by flow cytometry. To contrast TCR-repertoire in patients with DNA repair defects to healthy controls, we extracted data on lymphocyte phenotype, thymic function, immunoglobulins, and analysis of the TCRvβ repertoire from a prior study. The entire TCR-vβ repertoire was detected in all patients. However, compared with the control group, 9 of 24 clones (37.5%) were statistically significantly lower, whereas only 3 clones had high levels (p < 0.05). In addition, 62.5% of all clones had lower values than the control group. Some unique vβ clones have been associated with some clinical entities. Clonotypes associated with infections, autoimmunity and lymphoid proliferation were detected in the patient group. Lower TCR-vβ-9 and TCR-vβ23, higher TCR-vβ7.2 were detected in the patients with pneumonia (n = 13) (respectively p = 0.018, p = 0.044 p = 0.032). In addition, AT patients with pneumonia (n = 10) had a lower TCR-vβ-9 clone than patients without pneumonia (n = 25) (p = 0.008). In summary, we observed skewed clonal proliferation of most TCR-vβ clones in DNA repair defects, especially AT. In addition, our study demonstrated that some TCR-vβ clones might be predictive of some clinical entities. To further investigate the impact of the diversity of the TCR repertoire on the clinical phenotype, future studies should focus on the analysis of naïve and memory T cells, the detection of the source of oligoclonality, and the relationship between clonality and clinical entities.
Interobserver and Intraobserver Reliability of a new prognostic classification for foot and ankle Charcot arthropathy
Authors: Elghazy Mohamed Abdelaziz , Ali Samer , El-Hawary Ahmed , El-Mowafi Hani , Kandil Yasser Roshdy
Published: April 2023

Background
Recently, a new prognostic classification for foot and ankle Charcot arthropathy (Mansoura Classification) was published. The aim of this study was to evaluate both interobserver and intraobserver reliability of Mansoura classification for foot and ankle Charcot arthropathy.
Methods
Mansoura classification for foot and ankle Charcot arthropathy was presented to participants at an international foot and ankle course, then participants were given colored printed copy of the classification table and diagrams. Thereafter, twenty cases of foot and ankle Charcot were presented to participants and they were asked to rate each case according to the classification. Furthermore, six raters who were specialized in foot and ankle surgery were asked to repeat the classification of the cases after three weeks from the initial evaluation. Kappa statistics was used to evaluate both interobserver and intraobserver reliability using STATA 14.2 program.
Results
Sixty-one participants with different level of experience completed the evaluation of the twenty cases of foot and ankle Charcot. The interobserver reliability for all participants was moderate (Kappa = 0.5). Further analysis according to the level of experience based on the years of practice of orthopedic surgery showed similar moderate reliability (range, 0.4–0.57). Intraobserver reliability was excellent for all six participants (range, 0.81–0.93). Further analysis of the interobserver reliability of the former six raters who were specialized in foot and ankle surgery showed substantial reliability; Kappa = 0.67.
Conclusion
Mansoura classification for Charcot arthropathy of foot and ankle has an excellent intraobserver reliability. The overall interobserver reliability among orthopedic surgeons was moderate and comparable to other classifications, and the interobserver reliability for orthopedic surgeons who were specialized in foot and ankle surgery was substantial. Therefore, Mansoura classification for foot and ankle Charcot has an acceptable reliability and could be promising in the evaluation and guiding the management of such cases.
LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV case series