bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Physical Restraint Use in Nursing Homes—Regional Variances and Ethical Considerations: A Scoping Review of Empirical Studies
Authors: Hakverdioğlu Yönt Gülendam , Kisa Sezer , Princeton Daisy Michelle
Published: August 2023

Background: Physical restraints are known to violate human rights, yet their use persists in long-term care facilities. This study aimed to explore the prevalence, methods, and interventions related to physical restraint use among the elderly in nursing homes. Methods: The method described by Joanna Briggs was followed to conduct a scoping review without a quality assessment of the selected studies. An electronic search was conducted to find eligible empirical articles using MEDLINE, PsycINFO, EMBASE, Web of Science, Scopus, Google Scholar, CINAHL, and grey literature. The database search was performed using EndNote software (version X9, Clarivate Analytics), and the data were imported into Excel for analysis. Results: The prevalence of physical restraint use was found to be highest in Spain (84.9%) and lowest in the USA (1.9%). The most common device reported was bed rails, with the highest prevalence in Singapore (98%) and the lowest (4.7%) in Germany, followed by chair restraint (57%). The largest number of studies reported the prevention and/or risk of falls to be the main reason for using physical restraints, followed by behavioral problems such as wandering, verbal or physical agitation, and cognitive impairment. Most studies reported guideline- and/or theory-based multicomponent interventions consisting of the training and education of nursing home staff. Conclusions: This review provides valuable insights into the use of physical restraints among elderly residents in nursing homes. Despite efforts to minimize their use, physical restraints continue to be employed, particularly with elderly individuals who have cognitive impairments. Patient-related factors such as wandering, agitation, and cognitive impairment were identified as the second most common reasons for using physical restraints in this population. To address this issue, it is crucial to enhance the skills of nursing home staff, especially nurses, in providing safe and ethical care for elderly residents with cognitive and functional impairments, aggressive behaviors, and fall risks.
Evaluation of the Early Intervention Physiotherapist Framework for Injured Workers in Victoria, Australia: Data Analysis Follow-Up
Authors: Akbarzadeh Khorshidi Hadi , Aickelin Uwe , de Silva Andrea
Published: August 2023

Purpose: This study evaluates the performance of the Early Intervention Physiotherapist Framework (EIPF) for injured workers. This study provides a proper follow-up period (3 years) to examine the impacts of the EIPF program on injury outcomes such as return to work (RTW) and time to RTW. This study also identifies the factors influencing the outcomes. Methods: The study was conducted on data collected from compensation claims of people who were injured at work in Victoria, Australia. Injured workers who commenced their compensation claims after the first of January 2010 and had their initial physiotherapy consultation after the first of August 2014 are included. To conduct the comparison, we divided the injured workers into two groups: physiotherapy services provided by EIPF-trained physiotherapists (EP) and regular physiotherapists (RP) over the three-year intervention period. We used three different statistical analysis methods to evaluate the performance of the EIPF program. We used descriptive statistics to compare two groups based on physiotherapy services and injury outcomes. We also completed survival analysis using Kaplan–Meier curves in terms of time to RTW. We developed univariate and multivariate regression models to investigate whether the difference in outcomes was achieved after adjusting for significantly associated variables. Results: The results showed that physiotherapists in the EP group, on average, dealt with more claims (over twice as many) than those in the RP group. Time to RTW for the injured workers treated by the EP group was significantly lower than for those who were treated by the RP group, indicated by descriptive, survival, and regression analyses. Earlier intervention by physiotherapists led to earlier RTW. Conclusion: This evaluation showed that the EIPF program achieved successful injury outcomes three years after implementation. Motivating physiotherapists to intervene earlier in the recovery process of injured workers through initial consultation helps to improve injury outcomes.
Molecular and Cellular Mechanisms of Epilepsy
Authors: Zaitsev Aleksey V. , Khazipov Roustem
Published: August 2023

Despite the availability of a large number of antiepileptic drugs, about 30% of patients with epilepsy, especially temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE), continue to experience seizures [...]
The Effects of Bisphenol A on Human Male Infertility: A Review of Current Epidemiological Studies
Authors: Presunto Mafalda , Mariana Melissa , Lorigo Margarida , Cairrao Elisa
Published: August 2023

Endocrine disruptor chemicals (EDCs) can have a harmful effect on the human body’s endocrine system and thus adversely affect the development, reproduction, neurological, cardiovascular, and immune systems and metabolism in humans and wildlife. According to the World Health Organization, EDCs are mostly man-made and found ubiquitously in our daily lives, notably in pesticides, metals, and additives or contaminants in food and personal care products. Human exposure occurs through ingestion, inhalation, and dermal contact. Bisphenol A (BPA) is a proven EDC capable of mimicking or blocking receptors and altering hormone concentrations and metabolism. Although consumed in low doses, it can stimulate cellular responses and affect the body’s functions. In humans, exposure to BPA has been correlated with the onset or development of several diseases. This literature review aimed to verify the effects of BPA on human male infertility using the most recently published literature. Thus, this review allowed us to conclude that this compound seems to have harmful effects on human male fertility, causing changes in hormonal and semen characteristics. However, these conclusions lack more robust and reproducible scientific studies. Even so, and since male infertility prevalence is increasing, preventive measures must be taken to ensure male fertility.
Polystyrene Microplastics Exacerbate Systemic Inflammation in High-Fat Diet-Induced Obesity
Authors: Lee Aden Geonhee , Kang Sora , Yoon Hye Ji , Im Suyeol , Oh Seung Jun , Pak Youngmi Kim
Published: August 2023

Microplastics (MPs) are recognized as environmental pollutants with potential implications for human health. Considering the rapid increase in obesity rates despite stable caloric intake, there is a growing concern about the link between obesity and exposure to environmental pollutants, including MPs. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive investigation utilizing in silico, in vitro, and in vivo approaches to explore the brain distribution and physiological effects of MPs. Molecular docking simulations were performed to assess the binding affinity of three plastic polymers (ethylene, propylene, and styrene) to immune cells (macrophages, CD4+, and CD8+ lymphocytes). The results revealed that styrene exhibited the highest binding affinity for macrophages. Furthermore, in vitro experiments employing fluorescence-labeled PS-MPs (fPS-MPs) of 1 μm at various concentrations demonstrated a dose-dependent binding of fPS-MPs to BV2 murine microglial cells. Subsequent oral administration of fPS-MPs to high-fat diet-induced obese mice led to the co-existence of fPS-MPs with immune cells in the blood, exacerbating impaired glucose metabolism and insulin resistance and promoting systemic inflammation. Additionally, fPS-MPs were detected throughout the brain, with increased activation of microglia in the hypothalamus. These findings suggest that PS-MPs significantly contribute to the exacerbation of systemic inflammation in high-fat diet-induced obesity by activating peripheral and central inflammatory immune cells.
Bioengineered Kidney Tubules Efficiently Clear Uremic Toxins in Experimental Dialysis Conditions
Authors: Faria João , Ahmed Sabbir , Stamatialis Dimitrios , Verhaar Marianne C. , Masereeuw Rosalinde , Gerritsen Karin G. F. , Mihăilă Silvia M.
Published: August 2023

Patients with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) suffer from high levels of protein-bound uremic toxins (PBUTs) that contribute to various comorbidities. Conventional dialysis methods are ineffective in removing these PBUTs. A potential solution could be offered by a bioartificial kidney (BAK) composed of porous membranes covered by proximal tubule epithelial cells (PTECs) that actively secrete PBUTs. However, BAK development is currently being hampered by a lack of knowledge regarding the cytocompatibility of the dialysis fluid (DF) that comes in contact with the PTECs. Here, we conducted a comprehensive functional assessment of the DF on human conditionally immortalized PTECs (ciPTECs) cultured as monolayers in well plates, on Transwell® inserts, or on hollow fiber membranes (HFMs) that form functional units of a BAK. We evaluated cell viability markers, monolayer integrity, and PBUT clearance. Our results show that exposure to DF did not affect ciPTECs’ viability, membrane integrity, or function. Seven anionic PBUTs were efficiently cleared from the perfusion fluid containing a PBUTs cocktail or uremic plasma, an effect which was enhanced in the presence of albumin. Overall, our findings support that the DF is cytocompatible and does not compromise ciPTECs function, paving the way for further advancements in BAK development and its potential clinical application.
A Review on the Crosstalk between Insulin and Wnt/β-Catenin Signalling for Bone Health
Authors: Wong Sok Kuan , Mohamad Nur Vaizura , Jayusman Putri Ayu , Ibrahim Nurul ‘Izzah
Published: August 2023

A positive association between insulin resistance and osteoporosis has been widely established. However, crosstalk between the signalling molecules in insulin and Wingless (Wnt)/beta-(β-)catenin transduction cascades orchestrating bone homeostasis remains not well understood. The current review aims to collate the existing evidence, reporting (a) the expression of insulin signalling molecules involved in bone-related disorders and (b) the expression of Wnt/β-catenin signalling molecules involved in governing insulin homeostasis. The downstream effector molecule, glycogen synthase kinase-3 beta (GSK3β), has been identified to be a point of convergence linking the two signal transduction networks. This review highlights that GSK3β may be a drug target in the development of novel anabolic agents and the potential use of GSK3β inhibitors to treat bone-related disorders.
Trofinetide for Rett Syndrome: Highlights on the Development and Related Inventions of the First USFDA-Approved Treatment for Rare Pediatric Unmet Medical Need
Authors: Hudu Shuaibu A. , Elmigdadi Fayig , Qtaitat Aiman Al , Almehmadi Mazen , Alsaiari Ahad Amer , Allahyani Mamdouh , Aljuaid Abdulelah , Salih Magdi , Alghamdi Adel , Alrofaidi Mohammad A. , Abida  , Imran Mohd
Published: August 2023

Rett syndrome (RTT) is a rare disability causing female-oriented pediatric neurodevelopmental unmet medical need. RTT was recognized in 1966. However, over the past 56 years, the United States Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) has authorized no effective treatment for RTT. Recently, Trofinetide was approved by the USFDA on 10 March 2023 as the first RTT treatment. This article underlines the pharmaceutical advancement, patent literature, and prospects of Trofinetide. The data for this study were gathered from the PubMed database, authentic websites (Acadia Pharmaceuticals, Neuren Pharmaceuticals, and USFDA), and free patent databases. Trofinetide was first disclosed by Neuren Pharmaceuticals in 2000 as a methyl group containing analog of the naturally occurring neuroprotective tripeptide called glycine-proline-glutamate (GPE). The joint efforts of Acadia Pharmaceuticals and Neuren Pharmaceuticals have developed Trofinetide. The mechanism of action of Trofinetide is not yet well established. However, it is supposed to improve neuronal morphology and synaptic functioning. The patent literature revealed a handful of inventions related to Trofinetide, providing excellent and unexplored broad research possibilities with Trofinetide. The development of innovative Trofinetide-based molecules, combinations of Trofinetide, patient-compliant drug formulations, and precise MECP2-mutation-related personalized medicines are foreseeable. Trofinetide is in clinical trials for some neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs), including treating Fragile X syndrome (FXS). It is expected that Trofinetide may be approved for treating FXS in the future. The USFDA-approval of Trofinetide is one of the important milestones for RTT therapy and is the beginning of a new era for the therapy of RTT, FXS, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), brain injury, stroke, and other NDDs.
Reply to Mattei et al. Jacob Disease, Osteochondroma of the Coronoid Process, Coronoid Process Hyperplasia or Langenbeck Disease: The Big Jumble. Comment on “Raccampo et al. Jacob’s Disease: Case Series, Extensive Literature Review and Classification Proposal. J. Clin. Med. 2023, 12, 938”
Authors: Raccampo Luca , Panozzo Giorgio , Tel Alessandro , Trevisiol Lorenzo , D’agostino Antonio , Sembronio Salvatore , Robiony Massimo
Published: August 2023

As authors of the text, we can only thank Mattei et al. [...]
Respiratory Muscle Function in Older Adults with Chronic Respiratory Diseases after Pulmonary Rehabilitation in Subterranean Salt Chambers
Authors: Mętel Sylwia , Kostrzon Magdalena , Adamiak Justyna , Janus Paweł
Published: August 2023

Training the respiratory muscles is a crucial aspect of pulmonary rehabilitation. The purpose of this study was to assess the function of respiratory muscles in older adults both before and after a period of pulmonary rehabilitation and treatment stay within the underground chambers of a salt mine. A total of 50 patients aged 65 years and older with chronic respiratory conditions was enrolled in the study. These participants underwent a 3-week subterranean pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) program in the “Wieliczka” Salt Mine. Levels of sniff nasal inspiratory pressure (SNIP), maximum inspiratory pressure (MIP), and maximum expiratory pressure (MEP) were measured using the MicroRPM both before and after the outpatient PR program conducted 135 m underground. A total of 44 patients with a mean age of 68.8 ± 2.9 years who completed the PR program and tests were included in the analysis. The average changes in the parameters of pulmonary function before and after the PR were: MIP 8.8 cmH2O, MEP 7.1 cmH2O, and SNIP 11.2 cmH2O (for p < 0.05). For patients older than 70 years, beneficial changes were only observed for MEP, which increased by 9.3 cmH2O (for p < 0.05). Speleotherapy combined with pulmonary rehabilitation improves respiratory muscle function in older adults with chronic respiratory diseases, mainly in terms of MEP. Therefore, a greater emphasis on inspiratory muscle training in the rehabilitation program should be considered.
Phase Angle, Inflammation, and Sarcopenia in Late Postoperative Roux-En-Y Gastric Bypass
Authors: Florêncio Gisele , Souza Aglécio , Chaim Elinton , Santos Allan , Duran Louise , Carvalho Camila , Monte Alegre Sarah
Published: August 2023

Sarcopenic obesity is characterized by a disproportion between the amount of muscle to fat. Contrary to most studies evaluating parameters related to sarcopenic obesity in the elderly, this study aims to evaluate the phase angle (PhA) and sarcopenia in young individuals pre- and post-Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. A total of 69 volunteers (46 women and 23 men; 38.5 ± 8.1 years) participated in this study. Body composition and PhA were assessed using BIA. Sarcopenia was assessed using a handgrip strength test (HGS) and gait speed (GS), and appendicular lean mass (ALM) was assessed using Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DXA). The PhA was significantly lower (p < 0.0007) and the resistance (R) significantly higher (p = 0.0026) in the postoperative group. HGS was negatively correlated with R (r = −0.63669; p < 0.0001), hs-CRP (r = −0.45436; p = 0.0197), and leptin (r = −0.46505; p = 0.0043). GS was negatively correlated with R (r = −0.36220; p = 0.0254), and ALM was negatively correlated with reactance (r = −0.49485; p = 0.0034) and R (r = −0.65797; p ≤ 0.0001). PhA and other components of BIA provide a good correlation with sarcopenia, especially regarding the reduction in muscle function, in an early form, in individuals in the pre- and postoperative period of gastric bypass.
Relationship between Laser Intensity at the Peripheral Nerve and Inhibitory Effect of Percutaneous Photobiomodulation on Neuronal Firing in a Rat Spinal Dorsal Horn
Authors: Uta Daisuke , Ishibashi Naoya , Kawase Yuki , Tao Shinichi , Sawahata Masahito , Kume Toshiaki
Published: August 2023

Photobiomodulation is an effective treatment for pain. We previously reported that the direct laser irradiation of the exposed sciatic nerve inhibited firing in the rat spinal dorsal horn evoked by mechanical stimulation, corresponding to the noxious stimulus. However, percutaneous laser irradiation is used in clinical practice, and it is unclear whether it can inhibit the firing of the dorsal horn. In this study, we investigated whether the percutaneous laser irradiation of the sciatic nerve inhibits firing. Electrodes were inserted into the lamina II of the dorsal horn, and mechanical stimulation was applied using von Frey filaments (vFFs) with both pre and post laser irradiation. Our findings show that percutaneous laser irradiation inhibited 26.0 g vFF-evoked firing, which corresponded to the noxious stimulus, but did not inhibit 0.6 g and 8.0 g vFF-evoked firing. The post- (15 min after) and pre-irradiation firing ratios were almost the same as those for direct and percutaneous irradiation. A photodiode sensor implanted in the sciatic nerve showed that the power density reaching the sciatic nerve percutaneously was attenuated to approximately 10% of that on the skin. The relationship between the laser intensity reaching the nerve and its effect could be potentially useful for a more appropriate setting of laser conditions in clinical practice.
Evaluation of Biocompatibility of PLA/PHB/TPS Polymer Scaffolds with Different Additives of ATBC and OLA Plasticizers
Authors: Trebuňová Marianna , Petroušková Patrícia , Balogová Alena Findrik , Ižaríková Gabriela , Horňak Peter , Bačenková Darina , Demeterová Jana , Živčák Jozef
Published: August 2023

One of the blends that is usable for 3D printing while not being toxic to cell cultures is the lactic acid (PLA)/polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB)/thermoplastic starch (TPS) blend. The addition of plasticizers can change the rate of biodegradation and the biological behavior of the material. In order to evaluate the potential of the PLA/PHB/TPS material in combination with additives (plasticizers: acetyl tributyl citrate (ATBC) and oligomeric lactic acid (OLA)), for use in the field of biomedical tissue engineering, we performed a comprehensive in vitro characterization of selected mixture materials. Three types of materials were tested: I: PLA/PHB/TPS + 25% OLA, II: PLA/PHB/TPS + 30% ATBC, and III: PLA/PHB/TPS + 30% OLA. The assessment of the biocompatibility of the materials included cytotoxicity tests, such as monitoring the viability, proliferation and morphology of cells and their deposition on the surface of the materials. The cell line 7F2 osteoblasts (Mus musculus) was used in the experiments. Based on the test results, the significant influence of plasticizers on the material was confirmed, with their specific proportions in the mixtures. PLA/PHB/TPS + 25% OLA was evaluated as the optimal material for biocompatibility with 7F2 osteoblasts. The tested biomaterials have the potential for further investigation with a possible change in the proportion of plasticizers, which can have a fundamental impact on their biological properties.
The Development of a Short Form of the Indonesian Version of the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale—Fourth Edition
Authors: Suwartono Christiany , Hendriks Marc P. H. , Hidajat Lidia L. , Halim Magdalena S. , Kessels Roy P. C.
Published: August 2023

(1) Background: The Wechsler intelligence scales are very popular in clinical practice and for research purposes. However, they are time consuming to administer. Therefore, researchers and psychologists have explored the possibility of shorter test battery compositions. (2) Methods: In this study, we investigated 13 potential short forms of the Indonesian version of the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale—Fourth Edition (WAIS-IV-ID). An existing standardization data set of 1745 Indonesian participants collected for the validation of the WAIS-IV-ID was used to examine the short forms’ validity. These ranged from 2-subtest versions to 7-subtest versions. Regression analyses with goodness-of-fit measures were performed, and regression equations were determined for each short form to estimate the Full Scale IQ (FSIQ) score. Discrepancies between the FSIQ and the estimated FSIQ (FSIQEst) scores were examined and classification accuracies were calculated for each short form (% agreement of intelligence classification between the FSIQEst and FSIQ). (3) Results: None of the 13 short form FSIQEst values significantly differed from the FSIQ scores based on the full WAIS-IV-ID, and strong correlations were observed between each of these values. The classification accuracies of the short forms were between 56.8% and 81.0%. The 4-subtest short form of the WAIS-IV-ID consisting of the subtests Matrix Reasoning, Information, Arithmetic, and Coding had the optimal balance between best classification values and a short administration duration. The validity of this short form was demonstrated in a second study in an independent sample (N = 20). (4) Conclusions: Based on the results presented here, the WAIS-IV-ID short forms are able to reliably estimate the FSIQ, with a significant shorter administration duration. The WAIS-IV-ID short form consisting of four subtests, Matrix Reasoning, Information, Arithmetic, and Coding, was the best version according to our criteria.
TCI Tester: A Chip Tester for Inductive Coupling Wireless Through-Chip Interface
Authors: Kayashima Hideto , Amano Hideharu
Published: August 2023

The building block computation system is constructed by stacking various chips three-dimensionally. The stacked chips incorporate the same TCI IP (Through Chip Interface Intellectual Property) but cannot provide identical characteristics, requiring adjustments in power supply and bias voltage. However, providing characteristics measurement hardware for all chips is difficult due to the limitation of chip area or pin numbers. To address this problem, we developed TCI Tester, a small chip to measure electric characteristics by stacking on TCI of every chip. By stacking two TCI Tester chips, it appears that the up-directional data transfer has a stricter condition than down directional one on power supply voltage and operational frequency. Also, the transfer performance is poorer than designed. Similar measurement results are obtained by stacking TCI Tester on other chips with TCI IP. To investigate the reason, we analyzed the power grid resistance of various chips with the TCI IP. Results also showed that the chips with higher resistance have a narrow operational condition and poorer performance. The results suggest that the power grid design is important for keeping the performance through the TCI channel.
Pullout Bearing Capacity of End-Bearing Torpedo Anchors in Cohesive Soil Seabed
Authors: Li Gang , Zhang Jinli , Liu Jia , Xi Yu , Kou Honggang
Published: August 2023

As a new type of deep-sea anchoring foundation, thetorpedo anchor has the characteristics of simple installation, low cost, and high bearing capacity. Compared with the torpedo anchor without an anchor wing, the end-bearing torpedo anchor forms pile end resistance using a bearing plate, thus further improving its uplift bearing capacity. By conducting the pullout model test of torpedo anchors, we have compared and analyzed the effects of the pullout angle and bearing-plate radius on the bearing characteristics of T, EN3, EN4, and EC types of torpedo anchors. Based on the model test results, we established the V-H envelope of torpedo-anchor bearing capacity using the regression analysis method. The results show that when the displacement is small, the load-displacement curve of the torpedo anchor increases in an approximately linear mode, and the curve fluctuates and gradually entersa stable state with the gradual increase of the displacement. With the increasing pullout angle, the bearing capacity of the torpedo anchor increases first and then decreases. When the pullout angle is 45°, the torpedo anchor has the maximum bearing capacity. When the pullout angle is constant, the order of bearing capacity generated by different types of torpedo anchors is as follows: EC > EN4 > EN3 > T, and the bearing capacity rises with the increasing bearing-plate area. Through regression analysis, it is concluded that for the torpedo anchors of T, EN3, EN4, and EC types, the V-H envelope of bearing capacity shows an outward convex trend, and the determination coefficient reaches 0.930, indicating that the established V-H envelope is suitable for predicting the bearing capacity of torpedo anchors.
Evidence Synthesis towards a Holistic Landscape Decision Framework: Insight from the Landscape Decisions Programme
Authors: Ofoegbu Chidiebere , Balzter Heiko , Phillips Martin
Published: August 2023

The development of a decision framework for landscape governance and management has become one of the prioritised policy instruments for actualising policy objectives related to agri-food systems, biodiversity conservation, nature restoration, environmental management, climate change mitigation and adaptation, net-zero greenhouse gas emissions, and the transition to renewable energy supplies. However, the landscape lens in policy making is challenging because of the diverse landscape archetypes, environmental problems, and diverging policy targets that it must address. This highlights the importance of having a robust, evidence-based landscape decision framework. To address this issue, this study undertook a transdisciplinary synthesis of research outputs from the Landscape Decisions Programme (LDP). This study compiles and synthesises outputs from the LDP projects in the context of the relevant literature to develop an understanding of the relationships among the emerging evidence with respect to decision making for sustainable and multifunctional landscapes. The synthesis identified six themes that define the drivers of landscape decisions, and four themes that define the dominant methodological approaches used to generate evidence for landscape decisions. The emergent themes from the synthesis were distilled into five principles that can be used as a basis for the development of a holistic landscape decision framework.
How Does the Renewal of Urban Villages Affect the Resettled Villagers’ Subjective Well-Being? A Case Study in Wuhan, China
Authors: Yang Qing , Zhang Chaozheng
Published: August 2023

To achieve sustainable development, the improvement of villagers’ subjective well-being has become the main policy goal of urban village renewal. However, the mechanism of how urban village renewal affects subjective well-being remains untested in previous research. Utilizing the survey data on 414 resettled households in the urban village renewal through a random sample method in Wuhan, China, we adopted the intermediary model to test the mechanism of how urban village renewal affects the resettled villagers’ subjective well-being. We explored the contribution rate of each intermediary variable to subjective well-being through Oaxaca–Blinder decomposition and, consequently, proposed corresponding policy suggestions. The results show that the renewal of urban villages can improve the economic conditions, housing conditions, social security status, and living environments of residents and significantly enhance the subjective well-being of the resettled villagers and households. The multi-dimensional changes resulting from the renewal of urban villages increase subjective well-being through complete mediation. The Oaxaca–Blinder decomposition results demonstrate that improvement of the living environment has the strongest influence on subjective well-being, with a contribution rate of 69.81%. In the future, the renewal of urban villages should focus on environmental improvement, protect neighborhood networks, and promote community engagement, so as to realize the sustainable redevelopment of urban villages.
Research on Rolling Contact Fatigue Failure of the Bearing Used in High-Speed Electric Multiple Units’ Axle Box Based on a Damage-Coupled Elastic–Plastic Constitutive Model
Authors: Ma Ling , Liu Junyi , Guo Feng , Li Xinming , Zhang Xiaohan
Published: August 2023

The axle box bearing is a crucial component of high-speed electric multiple units (EMU) and is exposed to harsh working conditions, making it susceptible to subsurface-induced rolling contact fatigue (RCF) under long-term alternating stress. The objective of this paper is to develop a damage-coupled elastic–plastic constitutive model that can accurately predict the RCF life of EMU axle box bearings made from AISI 52100 bearing steel. The total damage is divided into elastic damage related to the shear stress range and plastic damage associated with plastic deformation. Material parameters are determined based on experimental data from the literature, and validation is conducted to ensure the validity of the model. Finally, the RCF behavior of the EMU axle box bearing, including crack initiation, crack propagation, and spalling, is simulated, and reasonable results are obtained. This study provides valuable insights into the RCF behavior of EMU axle box bearings and contributes to the accurate prediction of the fatigue life.
Recent Progress in Electrically Conductive and Thermally Conductive Lubricants: A Critical Review
Authors: Bustami Bayazid , Rahman Md Mahfuzur , Shazida Mst. Jeba , Islam Mohaiminul , Rohan Mahmudul Hasan , Hossain Shakhawat , Nur Alam S. M. , Younes Hammad
Published: August 2023

Electrically as well as thermally conductive lubricants have drawn considerable attention and are an emerging research topic because they have unique advantages and advanced lubrication performance over traditional lubricants such as corrosion protection and efficient heat dissipation. For instance, some components of electric vehicles (EVs) such as bearings, seals, pads and gears require conductive lubricants to avoid premature failure and electromagnetic interference (EMI) problems due to induced shaft voltages and currents. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the recent developments in conductive lubricants. The review focuses on the important aspects to enhance the thermal and electrical conductivities as well as the tribological behavior (COF, and wear rate) of conductive solid, semisolid, and liquid lubricants. The lubricants that are electrically and thermally conductive with superior tribological performances have been identified through extensive literature review and presented in tabular form. This review summarizes the effect of various additives used to improve the conductive properties of the lubricants, such as polyalphaolefin oil, hydraulic oil, paraffin oil, and mineral oil. Furthermore, the review discusses the lubricating mechanism of conductive solid and liquid lubricants to facilitate a deeper understanding. Finally, the future perspectives and the research directions for conductive lubricants are also addressed.
Circulating Flow–Electric-Field-Configuration-Enhanced Cadmium Cementation from Sulfate Systems and Its Optimization Mechanism
Authors: Ding Wenjie , Wang Yunyan , Zeng Weizhi , Sun Zhumei
Published: August 2023

In this work, a novel flow–electric field coupling configuration was designed and implemented for enhancing Zn-Cd cementation. A series of tests was conducted to explore the optimization of the Zn-Cd cementation process and its mechanism. Firstly, the various characteristics of the sponge cadmium at various locations in the device were compared, and it was concluded that the optimum purity of the sponge cadmium obtained from the anode was up to 94.1%. The generation and stripping of the cadmium sponge was revealed for the first time by cross-sectional electron microscopy. The four stages of the apparent reaction in the system were analyzed in relation to the pH, cadmium concentration and cadmium sponge flaking at each flow rate. It was proved that the separation of cadmium sponge mainly occurred in the third phase. Secondly, by comparing the morphology and specific surface area of the cadmium sponge at different flow rates, the optimum flow field velocity was identified as 30 mL/s. At this point, the specific surface area reached a maximum of 1.151 m2/g. Six flow field configurations were compared and preferred. The results demonstrated that the LCAH (Low-Cathode-Anode-High) modulation resulted in a sparser structure of the cadmium sponge, which was more easily exfoliated from the zinc anode surface by fluid impact. This was considered to be the most beneficial flow field configuration for improving the cadmium cementation rate and reducing the cost of the reaction. Moreover, the reaction steps of the system were analyzed. Its rate-limiting step was initially empirically identified as the diffusion step and proven by calculating the activation energy of 12.6 kJ/mol. It was confirmed that the diffusion process under different flow field configurations followed the first-order kinetic principle. In addition, the system’s reaction phases were compared. Calculations confirmed that the diffusion process under various flow field configurations followed first-order kinetics. The diffusion coefficient of LACH proved to be the highest in the comparative tests, and the evident experimental results supported this conclusion.
Integration of Deep Learning for Automatic Recognition of 2D Engineering Drawings
Authors: Lin Yi-Hsin , Ting Yu-Hung , Huang Yi-Cyun , Cheng Kai-Lun , Jong Wen-Ren
Published: August 2023

In an environment where manufacturing precision requirements are increasing, complete project plans can consist of hundreds of engineering drawings. The presentation of these drawings often varies based on personal preferences, leading to inconsistencies in format and symbols. The lack of standardization in these aspects can result in inconsistent interpretations during subsequent analysis. Therefore, proper annotation of engineering drawings is crucial as it determines product quality, subsequent inspections, and processing costs. To reduce the time and cost associated with interpreting and analyzing drawings, as well as to minimize human errors in judgment, we developed an engineering drawing recognition system. This study employs geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) in accordance with the ASME (American Society of Mechanical Engineers) Y14.5 2018 specification to describe the language of engineering drawings. Additionally, PyTorch, OpenCV, and You Only Look Once (YOLO) are utilized for training. Existing 2D engineering drawings serve as the training data, and image segmentation is performed to identify objects such as dimensions, tolerances, functional frames, and geometric symbols in the drawings using the network model. By reading the coordinates corresponding to each object, the correct values are displayed. Real-world cases are utilized to train the model with multiple engineering drawings containing mixed features, resulting in recognition capabilities surpassing those of single-feature identification. This approach improves the recognition accuracy of deep learning models and makes engineering drawing and image recognition more practical. The recognition results are directly stored in a database, reducing product verification time and preventing errors that may occur due to manual data entry, thereby avoiding subsequent quality control issues. The accuracy rates achieved are as follows: 85% accuracy in detecting views in 2D engineering drawings, 70% accuracy in detecting annotation groups and annotations, and 80% accuracy in text and symbol recognition.
Design and Verification of Offline Robust Model Predictive Controller for Wheel Slip Control in ABS Brakes
Authors: Seyyed Esmaeili Jaffar , Başçi Abdullah , Farnam Arash
Published: August 2023

Wheel slip control is a critical aspect of vehicle safety systems, notably the antilock braking system (ABS). Designing a robust controller for the ABS faces the challenge of accommodating its strong nonlinear behavior across varying road conditions and parameters. To ensure optimal performance during braking and prevent skidding or lock-up, the ideal wheel slip value can be determined from the peak of the tire–road friction curve and maintained throughout the braking process. Among various control approaches, model predictive control (MPC) demonstrates superior performance and robustness. However, online MPC implementation encounters significant computational burdens and real-time limitations, particularly when dealing with larger problem sizes. To address these issues, this study introduces an offline robust model predictive control (RMPC) methodology. The proposed approach is based on the robust asymptotically stable invariant ellipsoid methodology, which employs linear matrix inequalities (LMIs) to calculate a collection of invariant state feedback laws associated with a sequence of nested invariant stable ellipsoids. Simulation results indicate a significant reduction in computational burden with the offline RMPC approach compared to online implementation, while effectively tracking the desired wheel slip reference values and system constraints. Moreover, the offline RMPC design aligns well with the online MPC design and verifies its effectiveness in practice.
Automated Configuration of Gripper Fingers from a Construction Kit for Robotic Applications
Authors: Friedmann Marco , Klüpfel David , Frech Christian , Liu Mijian , Hauf Jan , Li Gaole , Friedrich Christian , Fleischer Jürgen
Published: August 2023

Gripper finger design is a complex process that requires a lot of experience, time, and effort. For this reason, automating this design process is an important area of research that has the potential to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of robotic systems. The current approaches are aimed at the automated design of monolithic gripper fingers, which have to be manufactured additively or by machining. This paper describes a novel approach for the automated design of gripper fingers. The motivation for this work stems from the increasing demand for flexible, adaptable handling systems in various industries in response to the increasing individualization of products as well as the increasing volatility in the markets. Based on the CAD data of the handling objects, the most suitable configuration of gripper fingers can be determined from the existing modules of a construction kit for the respective handling object, which can significantly reduce the provisioning time for new gripper fingers. It can be shown that gripper fingers can be effectively configured for a variety of objects and two different grippers, increasing flexibility in industrial handling processes.
The Homology of Warped Product Submanifolds of Spheres and Their Applications
Authors: Alqahtani Lamia Saeed , Ali Akram , Laurian-Ioan Pişcoran , Alkhaldi Ali H.
Published: August 2023

The aim of the current article is to formulate sufficient conditions for the Laplacian and a gradient of the warping function of a compact warped product submanifold Σβ1+β2 in a unit sphere Sd that provides trivial homology and fundamental groups. We also validate the instability of current flows in π1(Σβ1+β2). The constraints are also applied to the warped function eigenvalues and integral Ricci curvatures.
Effects of Heat-Killed Lacticaseibacillus paracasei MCC1849 on the Maintenance of Physical Condition in Healthy Adults: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Parallel-Group Study
Authors: Sato Soichiro , Arai Satoshi , Iwabuchi Noriyuki , Tanaka Miyuki , Hase Ryosuke , Sakane Naoki
Published: August 2023

We previously reported that the intake of heat-killed Lacticaseibacillus paracasei MCC1849 suppressed the onset of cold-like symptoms in healthy young women who were susceptible to colds. This study aimed to investigate the effects of MCC1849 on subjective symptoms of physical condition in healthy adults of a wide age range. In this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group study, 200 healthy adults were randomly divided into the MCC1849 group or placebo group. The participants received test powder with 50 billion MCC1849 cells or placebo powder without MCC1849 for 24 weeks. Subjective symptoms were assessed by diary scores. Analysis was performed on 183 participants (MCC1849 group; n = 91, placebo group; n = 92) in the per-protocol set. The number of days of stuffy nose and cold-like symptoms was significantly reduced in the MCC1849 group compared with the placebo group. In addition, the duration of stuffy nose, sore throat and cold-like symptoms was significantly lower in the MCC1849 group. No side effects were observed. Therefore, oral intake of MCC1849 suppressed subjective symptoms in healthy adults of a wide age range. These data suggest that MCC1849 may help maintain physical condition.
Association of Eating Behaviors with Variability in Weight Change in Response to Physical Activity Interventions in Adults with Overweight
Authors: Jakicic John M. , Rogers Renee J.
Published: August 2023

There is individual variability in weight change in response to physical activity interventions. Secondary analyses explored whether there were differences in physical activity, dietary intake, and the domains of hunger, dietary disinhibition, or dietary restraint in response to different physical activity interventions and by pattern of weight change across 6 months of an intervention. Participants (N = 207; age: 44.8 ± 8.2 years; body mass index: 27.0 ± 1.7 kg/m2) were included in these secondary analyses. Participants were randomly assigned to (1) a self-help physical activity intervention, (2) a prescription to progress to 150 min/week of physical activity, or (3) a prescription to progress to 300 min/week of physical activity and following 6 months were categorized based on weight change (weight gain, stability, or loss). Intervention conditions did not differ for change in weight, physical activity, dietary intake, and measures of hunger, dietary disinhibition, and total dietary restraint. Categories of weight change did not differ for change in physical activity or dietary intake, but the category of weight loss had significantly greater decreases in hunger and increases in flexible dietary restraint compared to the categories of weight stability and weight gain. The findings may provide insight into the variability in weight change in response to physical activity.
Males Have a Higher Energy Expenditure than Females during Squat Training
Authors: del-Cuerpo Indya , Jerez-Mayorga Daniel , Chirosa-Ríos Luis Javier , Morenas-Aguilar María Dolores , Mariscal-Arcas Miguel , López-Moro Alejandro , Delgado-Floody Pedro
Published: August 2023

The main objective of this study was to determine the differences in energy expenditure (EE) according to sex during and after two different squat training protocols in a group of healthy young adults. Twenty-nine Sports Sciences students volunteered to participate in this study. They attended the laboratory on four different days and completed four sessions: two sessions with 3 sets of 12 repetitions at 75% of their one-repetition maximum (RM) and two sessions with 3 sets of 30 repetitions at 50% of their 1RM. Energy expenditure was evaluated using an indirect calorimeter. Males consistently demonstrated higher EE in all sessions and intensities. The linear regression model identified a significant association between sex, BMI, and total EE across all sessions and intensities. In conclusion, males exhibited higher EE in both protocols (50% and 75% of 1RM) throughout all sessions. Furthermore, sex and BMI were found to influence EE in healthy young adults. Therefore, coaches should consider sex when assessing EE, as the metabolic response differs between males and females.
Parasitic Contamination of Fresh Leafy Green Vegetables Sold in Northern Lebanon
Authors: El Safadi Dima , Osman Marwan , Hanna Angel , Hajar Iman , Kassem Issmat I. , Khalife Sara , Dabboussi Fouad , Hamze Monzer
Published: August 2023

Contaminated, raw or undercooked vegetables can transmit parasitic infections. Here, we investigated parasitic contamination of leafy green vegetables sold in local markets in the Tripoli district, Lebanon, during two consecutive autumn seasons (2020–2021). The study involved the microscopic examination of 300 samples of five different types of vegetables (60 samples per type) and used standardized qualitative parasitological techniques for some protozoa and helminths. The results showed that 16.7% (95% interval for p: 12.6%, 21.4%) (50/300) of the vegetable samples were contaminated with at least one parasite. The most frequently detected parasite was Blastocystis spp. (8.7%; 26/300); this was followed in frequency by Ascaris spp. (3.7%; 11/300). Among the different vegetable types, lettuce (23.3%; 14/60) was the most contaminated, while arugula was the least contaminated (11.7%; 7/60). The statistical analysis did not reveal any significant association between the prevalence of parasitic contamination and the investigated risk factors, which included collection date, vegetable type, market storage status, and wetness of vegetables at the time of purchase (p > 0.05). The high prevalence of parasitic contamination also suggested the potential presence of other microbial pathogens. These findings are important because leafy green vegetables are preferentially and heavily consumed raw in Lebanon. Thus, implementing effective measures that target the farm-to-fork continuum is recommended in order to reduce the spread of intestinal pathogens.
Integrated Transcriptome Analysis Identified Key Expansin Genes Associated with Wheat Cell Wall, Grain Weight and Yield
Authors: Mira Juan P. , Arenas-M Anita , Calderini Daniel F. , Canales Javier
Published: August 2023

This research elucidates the dynamic expression of expansin genes during the wheat grain (Triticum aestivum L.) development process using comprehensive meta-analysis and experimental validation. We leveraged RNA-seq data from multiple public databases, applying stringent criteria for selection, and identified 60,852 differentially expressed genes across developmental stages. From this pool, 28,558 DEGs were found to exhibit significant temporal regulation in at least two different datasets and were enriched for processes integral to grain development such as carbohydrate metabolism and cell wall organization. Notably, 30% of the 241 known expansin genes showed differential expression during grain growth. Hierarchical clustering and expression level analysis revealed temporal regulation and distinct contributions of expansin subfamilies during the early stages of grain development. Further analysis using co-expression networks underscored the significance of expansin genes, revealing their substantial co-expression with genes involved in cell wall modification. Finally, qPCR validation and grain morphological analysis under field conditions indicated a significant negative correlation between the expression of select expansin genes, and grain size and weight. This study illuminates the potential role of expansin genes in wheat grain development and provides new avenues for targeted genetic improvements in wheat.