bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Strategic Approach to Aberrant Hepatic Arterial Anatomy during Laparoscopic Pancreaticoduodenectomy: Technique with Video
Authors: Wang Jiaguo , Xu Jie , Lei Kai , You Ke , Liu Zuojin
Published: March 2023

Background: It is critical for every pancreatic surgeon to determine how to protect the aberrant hepatic artery intraoperatively in order to safely implement laparoscopic pancreatoduodenectomy (LPD). “Artery-first” approaches to LPD are ideal procedures in selected patients with pancreatic head tumors. Here, we described our surgical procedure and experience of aberrant hepatic arterial anatomy-LPD (AHAA-LPD) in a retrospective case series. In this study, we also sought to confirm the implications of the combined SMA-first approach on the perioperative and oncologic outcomes of AHAA-LPD. Methods: From January 2021 to April 2022, the authors completed a total of 106 LPDs, of which 24 patients underwent AHAA-LPD. We evaluated the courses of the hepatic artery via preoperative multi-detector computed tomography (MDCT) and classified several meaningful AHAAs. The clinical data of 106 patients who underwent AHAA-LPD and standard LPD were retrospectively analyzed. We compared the technical and oncological outcomes of the combined SMA-first approach, AHAA-LPD, and the concurrent standard LPD. Results: All the operations were successful. The combined SMA-first approaches were used by the authors to manage 24 resectable AHAA-LPD patients. The mean age of the patients was 58.1 ± 12.1 years; the mean operation time was 362 ± 60.43 min (325–510 min); blood loss was 256 ± 55.72 mL (210–350 mL); the postoperation ALT and AST were 235 ± 25.65 IU/L (184–276 IU/L) and 180 ± 34.43 IU/L (133–245 IU/L); the median postoperative length of stay was 17 days (13.0–26.0 days); the R0 resection rate was 100%. There were no cases of open conversion. The pathology showed free surgical margins. The mean number of dissected lymph nodes was 18 ± 3.5 (14–25); the number of tumor-free margins was 3.43 ± 0.78 mm (2.7–4.3 mm). There were no Clavien–Dindo III–IV classifications or C-grade pancreatic fistulas. The number of lymph node resections was greater in the AHAA-LPD group (18 vs. 15, p < 0.001). Surgical variables (OT) or postoperative complications (POPF, DGE, BL, and PH) showed no significant statistical differences in both groups. Conclusions: In performing AHAA-LPD, the combined SMA-first approach for the periadventitial dissection of the distinct aberrant hepatic artery to avoid hepatic artery injury is feasible and safe when performed by a team experienced in minimally invasive pancreatic surgery. The safety and efficacy of this technique need to be confirmed in large-scale-sized, multicenter, prospective randomized controlled studies in the future.
Femoral Tunnel Position Affects Postoperative Femoral Tunnel Widening after Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction with Tibialis Anterior Allograft
Authors: Lee Sung-Sahn , Kim Il Su , Shin Tae Soo , Lee Jeounghun , Lee Dae-Hee
Published: March 2023

This study aims to identify potential factors for both femoral and tibial tunnel widening (TW) and to investigate the effect of TW on postoperative outcomes after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction with a tibialis anterior allograft. A total 75 patients (75 knees) who underwent ACL reconstruction with tibialis anterior allografts were investigated between February 2015 and October 2017. TW was calculated as the difference in tunnel widths between the immediate and 2-year postoperative measurements. The risk factors for TW, including demographic data, concomitant meniscal injury, hip–knee–ankle angle, tibial slope, femoral and tibial tunnel position (quadrant method), and length of both tunnels, were investigated. The patients were divided twice into two groups depending on whether the femoral or tibial TW was over or less than 3 mm. Pre- and 2-year follow-up outcomes, including the Lysholm score, International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) subjective score, and side-to-side difference (STSD) of anterior translation on stress radiographs, were compared between TW ≥ 3 mm and TW < 3 mm. The femoral tunnel position depth (shallow femoral tunnel position) was significantly correlated with femoral TW (adjusted R2 = 0.134). The femoral TW ≥ 3 mm group showed greater STSD of anterior translation than the femoral TW < 3 mm group. The shallow position of the femoral tunnel was correlated with the femoral TW after ACL reconstruction using a tibialis anterior allograft. A femoral TW ≥ 3 mm showed inferior postoperative knee anterior stability.
Systemic Disease Associations in a Cohort of Hispanic Patients with Scleritis
Authors: Arruza Cristina , Requejo Figueroa Guillermo A. , Colón Javier , Ramirez Marquez Estefania , Puebla Guillermo , Ortega Daniela , Pappaterra Rodriguez Mariella , López Fontanet José , Colón Alexandra , Ayala Rodríguez Sofía C. , Rivera Grana Erick , Marrero Frances , Báez Emilio , Santos Carmen , Oliver Armando L.
Published: March 2023

(1) Purpose: A patient with scleritis may have an associated systemic disease, which is often autoimmunological and seldom infectious in origin. The data regarding such associations in Hispanic populations are scarce. Therefore, we evaluated the clinical characteristics and systemic-disease associations of a cohort of Hispanic patients with scleritis. (2) Methods: A retrospective review of the medical records (January 1990–July 2021) of two private uveitis practices in Puerto Rico was performed. Clinical characteristics and systemic-disease associations observed either at presentation or diagnosed as a consequence of the initial workup were recorded. (3) Results: A total of 178 eyes of 141 patients diagnosed with scleritis were identified. An associated autoimmune disease was present in 33.3% of the patients (rheumatoid arthritis, 22.7%; Sjögren’s syndrome, 3.5%; relapsing polychondritis, 2.8%; sarcoidosis, 1.4%; systemic lupus erythematosus, 1.4%; and systemic vasculitis, 0.7%). An associated infectious disease was present in 5.7% of the patients (2.13%, syphilis; 1.41%, herpes simplex; 1.14%, herpes zoster; and 0.71%, Lyme disease). One patient had all-trans retinoic-acid-associated scleritis. Statistical analysis revealed that patients with nodular anterior scleritis were less likely to have an associated immune-mediated disease (OR: 0.21; p = 0.011). (4) Conclusion: Rheumatoid arthritis was the most common systemic autoimmune disease association, while syphilis was the most common infectious disease associated with scleritis patients. Our study suggests that patients with nodular scleritis have a lower risk of having an associated immune-mediated disease.
Recent Advances in Small Molecule Inhibitors for the Treatment of Osteoarthritis
Authors: Lin Jianjing , Jia Shicheng , Zhang Weifei , Nian Mengyuan , Liu Peng , Yang Li , Zuo Jianwei , Li Wei , Zeng Hui , Zhang Xintao
Published: March 2023

Osteoarthritis refers to a degenerative disease with joint pain as the main symptom, and it is caused by various factors, including fibrosis, chapping, ulcers, and loss of articular cartilage. Traditional treatments can only delay the progression of osteoarthritis, and patients may need joint replacement eventually. As a class of organic compound molecules weighing less than 1000 daltons, small molecule inhibitors can target proteins as the main components of most drugs clinically. Small molecule inhibitors for osteoarthritis are under constant research. In this regard, by reviewing relevant manuscripts, small molecule inhibitors targeting MMPs, ADAMTS, IL-1, TNF, WNT, NF-κB, and other proteins were reviewed. We summarized these small molecule inhibitors with different targets and discussed disease-modifying osteoarthritis drugs based on them. These small molecule inhibitors have good inhibitory effects on osteoarthritis, and this review will provide a reference for the treatment of osteoarthritis.
Cytotoxicity and Biomineralization Potential of Flavonoids Incorporated into PNVCL Hydrogels
Authors: Braga Gabriela Pacheco de Almeida , Caiaffa Karina Sampaio , Rabelo Rafaela Laruzo , Santos Vanessa Rodrigues dos , Souza Amanda Caselato Andolfatto , Ribeiro Lucas da Silva , Camargo Emerson Rodrigues de , Prakki Anuradha , Duque Cristiane
Published: March 2023

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of flavonoids incorporated into poly(N-vinylcaprolactam) (PNVCL) hydrogel on cell viability and mineralization markers of odontoblast-like cells. MDPC-23 cells were exposed to ampelopsin (AMP), isoquercitrin (ISO), rutin (RUT) and control calcium hydroxide (CH) for evaluation of cell viability, total protein (TP) production, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and mineralized nodule deposition by colorimetric assays. Based on an initial screening, AMP and CH were loaded into PNVCL hydrogels and had their cytotoxicity and effect on mineralization markers determined. Cell viability was above 70% when MDPC-23 cells were treated with AMP, ISO and RUT. AMP showed the highest ALP activity and mineralized nodule deposition. Extracts of PNVCL+AMP and PNVCL+CH in culture medium (at the dilutions of 1/16 and 1/32) did not affect cell viability and stimulated ALP activity and mineralized nodules’ deposition, which were statistically higher than the control in osteogenic medium. In conclusion, AMP and AMP-loaded PNVCL hydrogels were cytocompatible and able to induce bio-mineralization markers in odontoblast-cells.
Managing the Next Wave of Influenza and/or SARS-CoV-2 in the ICU—Practical Recommendations from an Expert Group for CAPA/IAPA Patients
Authors: Peral Jose , Estella Ángel , Nuvials Xavier , Rodríguez Alejandro , Seijas Iratxe , Soriano Cruz , Suberviola Borja , Zaragoza Rafael
Published: March 2023

The aim of this study was to establish practical recommendations for the diagnosis and treatment of influenza-associated invasive aspergillosis (IAPA) based on the available evidence and experience acquired in the management of patients with COVID-19-associated pulmonary aspergillosis (CAPA). The CAPA/IAPA expert group defined 14 areas in which recommendations would be made. To search for evidence, the PICO strategy was used for both CAPA and IAPA in PubMed, using MeSH terms in combination with free text. Based on the results, each expert developed recommendations for two to three areas that they presented to the rest of the group in various meetings in order to reach consensus. As results, the practical recommendations for the management of CAPA/IAPA patients have been grouped into 12 sections. These recommendations are presented for both entities in the following situations: when to suspect fungal infection; what diagnostic methods are useful to diagnose these two entities; what treatment is recommended; what to do in case of resistance; drug interactions or determination of antifungal levels; how to monitor treatment effectiveness; what action to take in the event of treatment failure; the implications of concomitant corticosteroid administration; indications for the combined use of antifungals; when to withdraw treatment; what to do in case of positive cultures for Aspergillus spp. in a patient with severe viral pneumonia or Aspergillus colonization; and how to position antifungal prophylaxis in these patients. Available evidence to support the practical management of CAPA/IAPA patients is very scarce. Accumulated experience acquired in the management of CAPA patients can be very useful for the management of IAPA patients. The expert group presents eminently practical recommendations for the management of CAPA/IAPA patients.
Barriers to Effective Communication between Patients, Relatives, and Health Care Professionals in the Era of COVID-19 Pandemic at Public Hospitals in Limpopo Province
Authors: Raliphaswa Ndidzulafhi Selina , Ramathuba Dorah Ursula , Luhalima Takalani Rhodah , Mulondo Seani Adrinah , Malwela Thivhulawi , Tshililo Azwidihwi Rose , Mafumo Julia Langanani , Maputle Maria Sonto , Maluleke Mary , Mbedzi Takalani Ellen , Shilubane Hilda Nwamuhohova , Ndou Nthomeni Dorah , Netshisaulu Khathutshelo Grace , Netshikweta Mutshinyalo Lizzy
Published: March 2023

Background: Effective communication between health care professionals, admitted patients, and their families is crucial to improving the health care outcomes and patient satisfaction. Hence, barriers to effective communication cause a lot of confusion, frustration, and misunderstanding. The study aimed to identify the perceived barriers to effective communication between patients, their families, and health care professionals during the COVID-19 pandemic in public hospitals in Limpopo Province. The study was conducted in rural areas of Vhembe District, Limpopo Province. Methodology: A qualitative exploratory descriptive method was adopted to explore and describe the barriers of effective communication among patients, relatives, and health care professionals during the COVID-19 pandemic in public hospitals in the Vhembe District. Eleven (11) participants were purposively selected. Unstructured in-depth individual interviews were used to collect data and analyzed using thematic analysis following Tesch’s eight steps. Results: The study findings revealed that there was ineffective communication by health care professionals. This was discussed under three themes that emerged: poor communication of diagnosis and prognosis and treatment outcomes; lack of accurate knowledge regarding the virus morphology, variant, and treatment protocols; and the inconsistencies in the dissemination of COVID-19 protocols. Conclusions: Full communication benefits both patients, relatives, and health care professionals as knowledge and understanding are enhanced through communication. Therefore, health care professionals should provide the patients and their relatives with full information about the disease and the visitation protocols to be followed. The study contribution was to explore barriers to effective communication to the patients and relatives by the health care professionals.
Dissecting the Explanatory Power of ESG Features on Equity Returns by Sector, Capitalization, and Year with Interpretable Machine Learning
Authors: Assael Jérémi , Carlier Laurent , Challet Damien
Published: March 2023

We systematically investigate the links between price returns and Environment, Social and Governance (ESG) scores in the European equity market. Using interpretable machine learning, we examine whether ESG scores can explain the part of price returns not accounted for by classic equity factors, especially the market one. We propose a cross-validation scheme with random company-wise validation to mitigate the relative initial lack of quantity and quality of ESG data, which allows us to use most of the latest and best data to both train and validate our models. Gradient boosting models successfully explain the part of annual price returns not accounted for by the market factor. We check with benchmark features that ESG data explain significantly better price returns than basic fundamental features alone. The most relevant ESG score encodes controversies. Finally, we find the opposite effects of better ESG scores on the price returns of small and large capitalization companies: better ESG scores are generally associated with larger price returns for the latter and reversely for the former.
Case Analysis on the CAS Ad Hoc Division Decisions for the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics
Authors: Yan Wenjun
Published: March 2023

Whether it is the Summer Olympics or the Winter Olympics, in order to resolve potential sports disputes, the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) sets up a special ad hoc tribunal in the host city of the Olympic Games. Although CAS ad hoc rules have many similarities with ordinary procedures, they are different in terms of the legal basis, legal remedies, and certain procedural rules. During the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics (Beijing 2022), the CAS Ad Hoc Division and the CAS Anti-Doping Division heard a total of seven cases. These cases involve issues such as provisional suspension of games, protection of minors, unreasonable delays in test results, cancellation of award ceremonies, and the timing of disputes. the CAS Ad Hoc Division decisions on the above issues can be regarded as the latest developments in the application of international sports arbitration rules.
Domoic Acid Oxidative Effects on the Microalgae Phaeodactylum tricornutum
Authors: Cabrera Joaquin , Puntarulo Susana , González Paula Mariela
Published: March 2023

Domoic acid (DA) is a natural occurring marine biotoxin. Oxidative stress generation due to DA exposure was reported in animals, but little is known on the phytoplankton community. The aim of this work was to verify whether exposure to DA in the marine diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum favors reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation in the intracellular environment modifying its antioxidant capacity. Active species production, non-enzymatic antioxidant content, and antioxidant enzyme activities over the three growth phases of P. tricornutum exposed to 64 µM DA were evaluated. Results obtained in exponential growing cells showed a time-depending seven-fold increase in the 2′,7′ dichlorofluorescein diacetate dye oxidation rate. Superoxide dismutase and catalase activities showed a two-fold increase, and glutathione related enzymes activities were also significantly increased in treated diatoms as compared to controls. However, glutathione and ascorbate contents significantly decreased after incubation of the cells with DA. Similar effects were observed in latent and stationary phases of cell development. These results showed that DA could cause a severe oxidant-dependent impact on a non-toxic algae.
Friction Stir Welding of AA5754-H24: Impact of Tool Pin Eccentricity and Welding Speed on Grain Structure, Crystallographic Texture, and Mechanical Properties
Authors: Ahmed Mohamed M. Z. , Essa Ahmed R. S. , Ataya Sabbah , El-Sayed Seleman Mohamed M. , El-Aty Ali Abd , Alzahrani Bandar , Touileb Kamel , Bakkar Ashraf , Ponnore Joffin J. , Mohamed Abdelkarim Y. A.
Published: March 2023

This study investigates the effect of tool pin eccentricity and welding speed on the grain structure, crystallographic texture, and mechanical properties of friction stir welded (FSWed) AA5754-H24. Three tool pin eccentricities of 0, 0.2, and 0.8 mm at different welding speeds ranging from 100 mm/min to 500 mm/min and a constant tool rotation rate of 600 rpm were investigated. High-resolution electron backscattering diffraction (EBSD) data were acquired from each weld’s center of the nugget zone (NG) and processed to analyze the grain structure and texture. In terms of mechanical properties, both hardness and tensile properties were investigated. The grain structure in the NG of the joints produced at 100 mm/min, 600 rpm, and different tool pin eccentricities showed significant grain refining due to dynamic recrystallization with average grain sizes of 18, 15, and 18 µm at 0, 0.2, and 0.8 mm pin eccentricities, respectively. Increasing the welding speed from 100 to 500 mm/min further reduced the average grain size of the NG zone to 12.4, 10, and 11 µm at 0, 0.2, and 0.8 mm eccentricity, respectively. The simple shear texture dominates the crystallographic texture with both B¯/B texture component with the C component at their ideal positions after rotating the data to align the shear reference frame with the FSW reference frame in both the PFs and ODF sections. The tensile properties of the welded joints were slightly lower than the base material due to the hardness reduction in the weld zone. However, the ultimate tensile strength and the yield stress for all welded joints increased by increasing the friction stir welding (FSW) speed from 100 to 500 mm/min. Welding using the pin eccentricity of 0.2 mm resulted in the highest tensile strength; at a welding speed of 500 mm/min, it reached 97% of the base material strength. The hardness profile showed the typical W shape with a reduction in the hardness of the weld zone and a slight recovery of the hardness in the NG zone.
Influence of Waste Glass Particle Size on the Physico-Mechanical Properties and Porosity of Foamed Geopolymer Composites Based on Coal Fly Ash
Authors: Ziejewska Celina , Grela Agnieszka , Hebda Marek
Published: March 2023

In order to protect the environment and counteract climate change, it is necessary to take any actions that enable a reduction in CO2 emissions. One of the key areas is research focused on developing alternative sustainable materials for construction to reduce the global demand for cement. This work presents the properties of foamed geopolymers with the addition of waste glass as well as determined the optimal size and amount of waste glass for improving the mechanical and physical features of the produced composites. Several geopolymer mixtures were fabricated by replacing coal fly ash with 0%, 10%, 20%, and 30% of waste glass by weight. Moreover, the effect of using different particle size ranges of the addition (0.1–1200 µm; 200–1200 µm; 100–250 µm; 63–120 µm; 40–63 µm; 0.1–40 µm) in the geopolymer matrix was examined. Based on the results, it was found that the application of 20–30% of waste glass with a particle size range of 0.1–1200 µm and a mean diameter of 550 µm resulted in approximately 80% higher compressive strength in comparison to unmodified material. Moreover, the samples produced using the smallest fraction (0.1–40 µm) of waste glass in the amount of 30% reached the highest specific surface area (43.711 m2/g), maximum porosity (69%), and density of 0.6 g/cm3.
Experimental and Numerical Study on the Influence of Lubrication Conditions on AA6068 Aluminum Alloy Cold Deformation Behavior
Authors: Pop Mariana Florica , Neag Adriana Voica , Sas-Boca Ioana-Monica
Published: March 2023

The aim of this manuscript is the experimental and numerical study regarding the influence of friction conditions on plastic deformation behavior by upsetting the A6082 aluminum alloy. The upsetting operation is characteristic of a significant number of metal forming processes: close die forging, open die forging, extrusion, and rolling. The purpose of the experimental tests was to determine: by the ring compression method, the friction coefficient for 3 surface lubrication conditions (dry, mineral oil, graphite in oil) by using the Coulomb friction model; the influence of strains on the friction coefficient; the influence of friction conditions on the formability of the A6082 aluminum alloy upsetted on hammer; study of non-uniformity of strains in upsetting by measuring hardness; change of the tool-sample contact surface and non-uniformity of strains distribution in a material by numerical simulation. Regarding the tribological studies involving numerical simulations on the deformation of metals, they mainly focused on the development of friction models that characterize the friction at the tool-sample interface. The software used for the numerical analysis was Forge@ from Transvalor.
Properties, Applications and Toxicities of Organotrialkoxysilane-Derived Functional Metal Nanoparticles and Their Multimetallic Analogues
Authors: Pandey Prem C.
Published: March 2023

Sol–gel chemistry offers a very unique tool for nanoscale mastering of material preparation from metal alkoxides [...]
Concrete Shrinkage Analysis with Quicklime, Microfibers, and SRA Admixtures
Authors: Židanavičius Daumantas , Augonis Mindaugas , Adamukaitis Nerijus , Fornes Ignacio Villalon
Published: March 2023

This research explores the effect of various humidity conditions and the efficiency of shrinkage-reducing admixtures on the free shrinkage strain of ordinary Portland cement (OPC) concrete and its mechanical properties. An OPC concrete C30/37 mixture was replenished with 5% of quicklime and 2% of organic-compound-based liquid shrinkage-reducing agent (SRA). The investigation revealed that a combination of quicklime and SRA led to the highest reduction in concrete shrinkage strain. Polypropylene microfiber addition was not so effective in reducing the concrete shrinkage as the previous two additives did. The prediction of concrete shrinkage without quicklime additive was performed according to EC2 and B4 model methods, and the obtained results were compared with the experimental ones. The B4 model evaluates the parameters more than the EC2 model does and, therefore, was modified to calculate the concrete shrinkage for the case of variable humidity and to evaluate the effect of quicklime additive. The experimental shrinkage curve that best coincides with the theoretical one was that obtained by the modified B4 model.
LSTM-Based Multi-Task Method for Remaining Useful Life Prediction under Corrupted Sensor Data
Authors: Zhang Kai , Liu Ruonan
Published: March 2023

Data-driven remaining useful life (RUL) prediction plays a vital role in modern industries. However, unpredictable corruption may occur in the collected sensor data due to various disturbances in the real industrial conditions. To achieve better RUL prediction performance under this situation, we propose a novel multi-task method for RUL prediction, which is named multi-task deep long short-term memory (MTD-LSTM). In MTD-LSTM, convolutional neural network (CNN) and long short-term memory (LSTM) are first employed for feature extraction and fusion. Then, the extracted features are fed into the multi-task learning module, which contains missing value imputation and RUL prediction module. The missing values imputation task and RUL prediction task are performed simultaneously. The purpose of the missing value imputation is to obtain integral degradation information by recovering the complete data; thus, the RUL prediction task performs better under corrupted sensor data. In addition, a novel loss term is proposed to smooth the RUL prediction results without any manual post-processing. The effectiveness of the proposed method is verified on the simulated dataset based on the C-MAPSS dataset.
Equivalent Dynamic Modeling for the Relative Rotation of Bolted Joint Interface Using Valanis Model of Hysteresis
Authors: Zhang Guowei , Liu Fushou
Published: March 2023

Dynamic modeling of the joint interface is critical to the performance analysis of bolt-jointed structures. In this work, an equivalent modeling method was presented for modeling the relative rotation of the joint interface in bolt-jointed beam structures. As the transverse vibration of the studied structure is closely related to the rotation of the joint, which is different from previous studies that focused on the tangential slip of the joint interface, the Valanis model is used to model the relative rotation of the joint. In addition, the shear deformation and rotational inertia of the beam were considered in the modeling, using a finite element method that employed Timoshenko beam elements. The parameters of the Valanis model were determined by fitting a series of hysteresis loops obtained from the transient nonlinear analysis of a 3D FEM model. The results show that the proposed equivalent modeling method can accurately simulate the dynamic response and dissipation of the jointed beam structure with a significantly high computational efficiency. The maximum errors of the dynamic response amplitude and the energy dissipation are 5.5% and 8.3%.
Proof of Concept Control of a T1DM Model Using Robust Fixed-Point Transformations via Sliding Mode Differentiators
Authors: Czakó Bence , Drexler Dániel András , Kovács Levente
Published: March 2023

Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM) is a disease where insulin production is obstructed in the pancreas, and exogenous administration of the hormone must be utilized. Automatic control of the administration can be achieved using the Artificial Pancreas (AP) concept, whose performance is heavily reliant on the underlying control algorithm. A Robust Fixed-Point Transformations (RFPT)-based control strategy was designed to automate the insulin delivery process, which incorporates a Sliding Mode Differentiator (SMD) to provide higher order derivatives of the blood glucose level. Inter-patient variability, carbohydrate disturbances, and real-life sampling were included in the validation of the method. Results showed that the algorithm could regulate the blood glucose level, with a significant overshoot at the beginning of the control action due to the adaptive nature of the controller. Results indicate that the design requires additional modifications to be feasible in practice, including an extended validation with more virtual patients and realistic simulation settings in the future. Nevertheless, the current control algorithm has several attractive features, which are discussed with respect to PID and Model Predictive Control (MPC).
Research Progress of Complex Network Modeling Methods Based on Uncertainty Theory
Authors: Wang Jing , Wang Jing , Guo Jingfeng , Wang Liya , Zhang Chunying , Liu Bin
Published: March 2023

A complex network in reality contains a large amount of information, but some information cannot be obtained accurately or is missing due to various reasons. An uncertain complex network is an effective mathematical model to deal with this problem, but its related research is still in its infancy. In order to facilitate the research into uncertainty theory in complex network modeling, this paper summarizes and analyzes the research hotspots of set pair analysis, rough set theory and fuzzy set theory in complex network modeling. This paper firstly introduces three kinds of uncertainty theories: the basic definition of set pair analysis, rough sets and fuzzy sets, as well as their basic theory of modeling in complex networks. Secondly, we aim at the three uncertainty theories and the establishment of specific models. The latest research progress in complex networks is reviewed, and the main application fields of the three uncertainty theories are discussed, respectively: community discovery, link prediction, influence maximization and decision-making problems. Finally, the prospect of the modeling and development of uncertain complex networks is put forward.
New Applications of Faber Polynomial Expansion for Analytical Bi-Close-to-Convex Functions Defined by Using q-Calculus
Authors: Wang Ridong , Singh Manoj , Khan Shahid , Tang Huo , Khan Mohammad Faisal , Kamal Mustafa
Published: March 2023

In this investigation, the q-difference operator and the Sălăgean q-differential operator are utilized to establish novel subclasses of analytical bi-close-to-convex functions. We determine the general Taylor–Maclaurin coefficient of the functions in this class using the Faber polynomial method. We demonstrate the unpredictable behaviour of initial coefficients a2, a3 and investigate the Fekete–Szegő problem a3−a22 for the subclasses of bi-close-to-convex functions. To highlight the connections between existing knowledge and new research, certain known and unknown corollaries are also highlighted.
Effective Dose Range of Intrathecal Isobaric Bupivacaine to Achieve T5–T10 Sensory Block Heights for Elderly and Overweight Patients: An Observational Study
Authors: Visavakul Ornwara , Leurcharusmee Prangmalee , Pipanmekaporn Tanyong , Khorana Jiraporn , Patumanond Jayanton , Phinyo Phichayut
Published: March 2023

Background and Objectives: The dose selection for isobaric bupivacaine determines the success of spinal anesthesia (SA). A dose higher than the optimal dose causes high SA, whereas an underdose leads to inadequate spread of cephalad. As it involves anatomical and physiological alterations, the dosing should be reduced with advancing age and body mass index values. Therefore, this study aimed to demonstrate the association between the isobaric bupivacaine dose and block height, and to determine the dose intervals of bupivacaine to achieve the T5–T10 sensory block with a low probability of high SA in elderly and overweight patients. Material and Methods: This retrospective observational study recruited 1079 adult patients who underwent SA with 0.5% isobaric bupivacaine from 2018 to 2021. The patients were divided into four categories: category 1 (age < 60, BMI < 25), category 2 (age < 60, BMI ≥ 25), category 3 (age ≥ 60, BMI < 25), and category 4 (age ≥ 60, BMI ≥ 25). The bupivacaine dose and sensory block height (classified into three levels: high (T1–T4), favorable (T5–T10), and low (T11–L2)) were recorded. Results: The sensory block level increased significantly with increasing doses of bupivacaine for patients in categories 1 and 2. The suggested dose ranges for the favorable block heights were 15–17 and 10.5–16 mg in patient categories 1–2 and 3–4, respectively. In these dose ranges, the probability range of high SA was 10–15%. Conclusions: The sensory block height following SA was associated with the bupivacaine dose in patients aged <60 years. Regardless of the BMI, the suggested dose ranges of 0.5% isobaric bupivacaine are 15–17 mg (3.0–3.4 mL) and 10.5–16 mg (2.1–3.2 mL) for patients aged <60 and ≥60 years, respectively.
Ablative Techniques for Sarcoma Metastatic Disease: Current Role and Clinical Applications
Authors: Efthymiou Evgenia , Charalampopoulos Georgios , Velonakis Georgios , Grigoriadis Stauros , Kelekis Alexis , Kelekis Nikolaos , Filippiadis Dimitrios
Published: March 2023

Sarcomas are heterogenous mesenchymal neoplasms with more than 80 different histologic subtypes. Lung followed by liver and bone are the most common sites of sarcoma metastatic disease. Ablative techniques have been recently added as an additional alternative curative or palliative therapeutic tool in sarcoma metastatic disease. When compared to surgery, ablative techniques are less invasive therapies which can be performed even in non-surgical candidates and are related to decreased recovery time as well as preservation of the treated organ’s long-term function. Literature data upon ablative techniques for sarcoma metastatic disease are quite heterogeneous and variable regarding the size and the number of the treated lesions and the different histologic subtypes of the original soft tissue or bone sarcoma. The present study focuses upon the current role of minimal invasive thermal ablative techniques for the management of metastatic sarcoma disease. The purpose of this review is to present the current minimally invasive ablative techniques in the treatment of metastatic soft tissue and bone sarcoma, including local control and survival rates.
Application of Deep Learning System Technology in Identification of Women’s Breast Cancer
Authors: Al Fryan Latefa Hamad , Shomo Mahasin Ibrahim , Alazzam Malik Bader
Published: March 2023

Background and Objectives: The classification of breast cancer is performed based on its histological subtypes using the degree of differentiation. However, there have been low levels of intra- and inter-observer agreement in the process. The use of convolutional neural networks (CNNs) in the field of radiology has shown potential in categorizing medical images, including the histological classification of malignant neoplasms. Materials and Methods: This study aimed to use CNNs to develop an automated approach to aid in the histological classification of breast cancer, with a focus on improving accuracy, reproducibility, and reducing subjectivity and bias. The study identified regions of interest (ROIs), filtered images with low representation of tumor cells, and trained the CNN to classify the images. Results: The major contribution of this research was the application of CNNs as a machine learning technique for histologically classifying breast cancer using medical images. The study resulted in the development of a low-cost, portable, and easy-to-use AI model that can be used by healthcare professionals in remote areas. Conclusions: This study aimed to use artificial neural networks to improve the accuracy and reproducibility of the process of histologically classifying breast cancer and reduce the subjectivity and bias that can be introduced by human observers. The results showed the potential for using CNNs in the development of an automated approach for the histological classification of breast cancer.
A Sequential Membrane Process of Ultrafiltration Forward Osmosis and Reverse Osmosis for Poultry Slaughterhouse Wastewater Treatment and Reuse
Authors: Fatima Faryal , Du Hongbo , Kommalapati Raghava R.
Published: March 2023

To address some challenges of food security and sustainability of the poultry processing industry, a sequential membrane process of ultrafiltration (UF), forward osmosis (FO), and reverse osmosis (RO) is proposed to treat semi-processed poultry slaughterhouse wastewater (PSWW) and water recovery. The pretreatment of PSWW with UF removed 36.7% of chemical oxygen demand (COD), 38.9% of total phosphorous (TP), 24.7% of total solids (TS), 14.5% of total volatile solids (TVS), 27.3% of total fixed solids (TFS), and 12.1% of total nitrogen (TN). Then, the PSWW was treated with FO membrane in FO mode, pressure retarded osmosis (PRO) mode, and L-DOPA coated membrane in the PRO mode. The FO mode was optimal for PSWW treatment by achieving the highest average flux of 10.4 ± 0.2 L/m2-h and the highest pollutant removal efficiency; 100% of COD, 100% of TP, 90.5% of TS, 85.3% of TVS, 92.1% of TFS, and 37.2% of TN. The performance of the FO membrane was entirely restored by flushing the membrane with 0.1% sodium dodecyl sulfate solution. RO significantly removed COD, TS, TVS, TFS, and TP. However, TN was reduced by only 62% because of the high ammonia concentration present in the draw solution. Overall, the sequential membrane process (UF-FO-RO) showed excellent performance by providing high rejection efficiency for pollutant removal and water recovery.
Physico-Chemical, Mechanical, and Biological Properties of Polylactide/Portulaca oleracea Extract Electrospun Fibers
Authors: Stoyanova Nikoleta , Spasova Mariya , Manolova Nevena , Rashkov Iliya , Taneva Sabina , Momchilova Svetlana , Georgieva Ani
Published: March 2023

Electrospinning was used to create fibrous polylactide (PLA) materials loaded with Portulaca oleracea (P. oleracea) plant extract obtained by supercritical carbon dioxide. Morphological, physico-chemical, mechanical, and biological characteristics of the fibers were studied. According to the SEM results, the diameters of smooth and defect-free fibers fabricated by a one-pot electrospinning method were at micron scale. All the obtained materials possess good mechanical properties. Additionally, it was found that the composite fibers exhibited considerable antioxidant activity. The antimicrobial activity of the fibrous materials against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria was determined as well. In vitro studies showed that the electrospun biomaterials had no cytotoxic effects and that the combination of PLA and the P. oleracea extract in the fiber structure promoted cell survival and proliferation of normal mouse fibroblasts. The obtained results reveal that microfibrous mats containing the polyester—PLA and the plant extract—P. oleracea can be suitable for applications in wound healing.
High Ductile Medium Mn Lightweight Alloy: The Role of Intensive Quenching and Deep Cryogenic Treatment
Authors: Fei Fan , Sun Shenghui , Wei Ziqiang , Li Huiwen , Cai Minghui
Published: March 2023

Medium Mn lightweight steels with a relatively higher Mn content of 9–12 wt% have been actively developed recently to meet the demands of crashworthiness and lightweight vehicles. In this study, a combined intensive quenching (IQ) and deep cryogenic treatment (DCT) was first proposed to achieve the microstructural homogeneity as well as the final strength–ductility synergy of medium Mn lightweight steels with Mn segregation bands, together with a comparison with the conventional intercritical annealing. The proposed IQ and DCT process induced the formation of finer large fractioned plate-like martensite in the austenite matrix and thereby contributed to finer and uniform austenite grains after subsequent intercritical annealing. The martensitic transformation rate (dVγ/dε) and transformation kinetics (k value) were used to evaluate the mechanical stability of retained austenite, showing that the D700&750 sample exhibited a similar dVγ/dε value and extremely low k value when compared to the conventional IA650–850 samples, implying that the former had the higher mechanical stability of austenite. The higher mechanical stability of austenite enabled the TRIP effect to occur in a larger strain range, leading to continuous strain hardening behavior. Thus, the highest yield strength (728 MPa) and the largest total elongation of 61.6% were achieved in the D700&750 sample, where the ductility was more than three times higher than that of the conventional IA samples. The grain size and morphologies of retained austenite were believed to be the main factors influencing the strain-hardening behavior of this type of ultrafine lamellar and equiaxed ferrite and austenite duplex structure.
Geometric and Material Modelling Aspects for Strength Prediction of Riveted Joints
Authors: Lundkvist Axel , Barsoum Imad , Barsoum Zuheir , Khurshid Mansoor
Published: March 2023

The aim of this study is to develop a methodology for static strength and failure mode simulation of hot-driven riveted joints. The purpose is to be able to accurately estimate a rivet joint’s static strength behaviour and its failure mode without relying on experiments, to save both time and resources during the design of joints. The non-linear finite element analysis modelling framework considered the rivet joint configurations and geometry, the material properties of the plate and rivet as well as the clamping force of the hot-driven rivet. A ductile damage model was also implemented to capture the stress softening of the materials and the failure modes of the joints. Using experimental data from literature, the modelling framework is validated, and it is shown that it is able to capture the strength behaviour and failure modes of different configurations of rivet joints markedly well. The effect of the rivet pre-load on the mechanical response of the joint is also studied and it is shown that the strength of the joint increased with the increase in rivet pre-load. The modelling framework is then applied to an industrial component. The modelling framework is used to compare welding and riveting as joining methods in a component built in two grades of high-strength steel. It is found that the welded joint possessed greater strength compared to the proposed riveted joint. However, using the proposed simulation methodology developed, a riveted joint with matching strength to the welded joint could be designed.
The Offset Crashworthiness and Parameter Optimization of C-Shaped Frame for Rail Vehicle Anti-Climbing Device
Authors: Wei Wei , Zhang Fengqiang , Xing Youdong , Wang Hongxiang , Liu Rongqiang
Published: March 2023

Thin-walled structures are widely used in anti-collision devices for various vehicles due to their light weight and high energy absorption. Offset collision is a common scene in various traffic accidents. Because the commonly used thin-walled structures do not consider this complex collision method, the energy absorption effect of the structure cannot meet the requirements. In this paper, a C-shaped frame structure composed of thin-walled steel tubes is proposed. The configuration of the structure is studied through theoretical analysis and numerical simulation, and it is found that the structure can absorb energy stably in the offset collision. The offset experiment and simulation were carried out, and the crashworthiness of the structure was investigated to verify the accuracy and feasibility of the numerical analysis method. A large-scale parameter simulation analysis was carried out, and the influence characteristics of the structure configuration, different materials and different sections were investigated. Based on the above test and numerical analysis results, an optimal design method for improving the crashworthiness of structures considering offset collisions is proposed. This paper can provide theoretical and technical support for the related research on the integrated anti-climbing energy-absorbing parts of rail trains under offset collision.
Insight into the FCC→HCP Transformation in Co-Rich Co-Cr-Fe-Mn-Ni High-Entropy Alloys
Authors: Wang Yuchen , Wu Changjun , Liu Ya , Tian Mengyun , Lu Xiaowang , Su Xuping
Published: March 2023

The existence of an HCP phase in FCC-type high-entropy alloys can improve the alloy’s mechanical properties. In many cases, an HCP phase is induced by deformation. In the present work, an FCC to HCP transition was detected during the cooling of Co1.5CrFeMnNi0.5 and Co1.75CrFeMnNi0.25 alloys. Therefore, arc-melted annealed CoxCrFeMnNi2−x (x = 0.25–1.75) alloys that were then subjected to long-term vacuuming were investigated using XRD, DSC, HT-XRD, thermodynamic calculation, and first-principle calculation. It was confirmed that the FCC to HCP transition occurred at ~450 °C during the cooling of the alloys with x ≥ 1.5. The volume fraction of the HCP phase increased with Co content. It was proven that the HCP phase was not stable above 600 °C. First-principle calculations further indicated that the HCP structure was more stable than the FCC structure for Co1.75CrFeMnNi0.25 alloy, and there was a likelihood of an FCC to HCP transition. Moreover, experimental tests confirmed that the microhardness of the Co1.75CrFeMnNi0.25 alloy reached 213 HV because it contained a substantial HCP phase. This value is much higher than those of other non-HCP-containing alloys, either in their as-cast states or after annealing. These results provide guidance for the design of FCC-type high-entropy alloys with desirable mechanical properties through HCP phase strengthening.
Advances in Friction, Lubrication, Wear and Oxidation in Metals Manufacturing
Authors: Deng Guanyu , Zhu Hongtao , Tieu Anh Kiet
Published: March 2023

When quickly reviewing the developments of new materials design and fabrication, and engineering and industrial manufacturing, it was found that tribology is a very complicated and highly challenging field that cannot be avoided to improve the manufacturing cost and increase the material service life [...]
Failure Analysis of a Femoral Cephalomedullary Nail
Authors: Hamandi Farah , Whatley Stephen , Simon Gerard , Venkatarayappa Indresh , Goswami Tarun
Published: March 2023

A fractured cephalomedullary femoral nailing system was investigated for the clinical and mechanical reasons responsible for its failure. Optical and scanning electron microscopes were utilized to investigate the fracture surface characteristics. Striations presented on the surface indicated mechanical fatigue. A qualitative material conformity test was conducted using available resources and found to be inconclusive, requiring more advanced testing of Ti-15Mo per ASTM standards in a third-party laboratory. In addition, the investigation showed that there is evidence of overloading failure once the fatigue-propagated crack reached a critical size. Based on the observed features, it is possible that nail and self-tapping helical screw interference may have occurred. The interior wall of the nail exhibited damage, allowing a surface crack to form. This surface crack was propagated due to cyclic loading occurring as a result of activities of daily living. The propagation of cracks formed the striations seen on the failed device. This continued for a period of time up until the crack grew to the point where the structure of the nail could no longer withstand the load and catastrophically failed by overloading.