bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Towards a Thalassemia Free Society: A Study of Service Delivery Challenges for Premarital Screening in Punjab
Authors: Tehreem Abida , Usman Ahmed , Saleem Javeria
Published: April 2023

Thalassemia is one of the common genetic disorders. Nearly 7.9 million children are born with genetic birth defects worldwide, out of which 94% are in middle-income countries. Pakistan bears 5-8% carrier rate prevalence of beta-thalassemia. Premarital screening is considered one of the effective ways of preventing thalassemia and reducing its prevalence. The present study explores the challenges and barriers to service delivery of premarital screening programs in Punjab. The qualitative methods are used for carrying out this study. The study positions itself within epistemological grounds of interpretive approach. Thirteen health care providers from teaching hospitals of Lahore are selected through purposive sampling. Data is collected using in-depth interviews and thematic analysis is carried out to analyze the results. The findings of the study identify the barriers that include lack of infrastructure (technical support and human resource), economic barriers, public-related barriers (awareness, responsibility, cultural beliefs and family setup), provider-related barriers i.e. knowledge and skill, ambiguity about the professional roles, time constraints and difficulty discussing health anxiety and consanguinity. Moreover, potential burdens in the form of ethical implications and legal concerns are also identified. The study recommends improvements and steps to be taken to address the challenges for the implementation of a failure free policy.
Knee stability training exercise versus Biodex balance training on dynamic balance indices in individuals with knee osteoarthritis: A Randomized clinical trial
Authors: Ahmed Yomna F. , Shafeek Marian M. , Abdelaziz Sarah. S. , Ghuiba Karim , Ibrahim Maha G.
Published: April 2023

Objective. To compare the impacts of Knee stability training exercise versus Biodex balance training on dynamic balance indices in individuals suffering from knee osteoarthritis. Methods. This randomized, double-blind, pre-post measurement study included forty patients aged 45 to 65 with knee osteoarthritis. They were classified into 2 groups at random: group A (n = 20), which received knee stability training plus strengthening exercise, and group B (n = 20), which received Biodex balance training plus strengthening exercise. The Biodex Balance System and Visual Analog Scale were utilized to quantify dynamic balance indices as well as pain intensity at baseline and four weeks following therapy. Results. Statistically significant differences were reported in the overall stability index (OASI), anterior-posterior stability index (APSI), medial-lateral stability indices (MLSI), and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) values before and after treatment for group A (p < 0.05) as well as before and after treatment for group B (p < 0.05). Statistically significant differences were reported among the two groups (A & B) regarding the post-treatment values of the OASI, APSI, MLSI, and VAS (p < 0.05). Conclusion. Improvement in all dynamic balance indices and pain was reported after knee stability training exercises and after Biodex balance training, with greater improvement after Biodex balance training.
Pterygium in corneal graft: how to act?
Authors: akannour younes , elakhdari meryem , mrad khalil , EL MAJDOUBI EL IDRISSI KAMAL , serghini louai , abdallah El hassan , berraho amina
Published: April 2023

The development of pterygium after keratoplasty is a very unusual situation. We report a case of pterygium that developed 8 years after corneal transplantation, which makes our case quite unusual. The fact that few similar cases have been reported in the literature on the association between pterygium and corneal transplantation makes our decision very difficult.
METODE INKUIRI TERHADAP KEMAMPUAN BERPIKIR KRITIS SISWA PADA PEMBELAJARAN IPA DI SDN TANJUNGSARI I DAN SDN MEKARPOHACI III
Authors: Gianistika Chika , Ajeng Arini Dede , Azizah Syifa
Published: April 2023

Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui kemampuan berpikir kritis siswa dengan menggunakan metode pembelajaran inkuiri dalam mata pelajaran IPA. Penelitian ini menggunakan Kuasi Eksperimental. Pemilihan subyek penelitian secara acak yaitu  kelompok eksperimen dan kelompok kontrol. Berdasarkan dapat diketahui metode inkuiri memberikan pengaruh terhadap kemampuan berpikir kritis siswa. Uji perbedaan rata-rata gain didapat kemampuan berpikir kritis IPA mencapai lebih dari 50% yaitu sebesar 70,1% dengan kategori tinggi. Sehingga dapat disimpulkan bahwa pembelajaran inkuiri memberikan pengaruh positif bagi pembelajaran IPA dan terdapat pengaruh yang signifikan antara kemampuan berpikir kritis IPA melalui metode inkuiri dengan siswa yang menggunakan  pembelajaran direct instruction. Diketahui hasil postes nilai rata-rata kelas kontrol adalah 51.71 sedangkan nilai rata-rata kelas eksperimen adalah 74,05. Dengan kata lain kemampuan berpikir kritis siswa dalam pembelajaran IPA kelas eksperimen lebih tinggi dari pada kelas kontrol. Dengan demikian dapat disimpulkan bahwa metode pembelajaran inkuiri dalam mata pelajaran IPA dapat mempengaruhi kemampuan berpikir kritis siswa.
Influence of Relative Humidity on Electrical Properties of Textile Laminates
Authors: GULBINIENĖ Ada , VALATKIENĖ Loreta
Published: April 2023

The aim of this paper is to determine the influence of relative humidity on the comfort and electrical resistance properties of textile laminates in order to predict possible changes in footwear protection levels. Four textile laminates of different structure and fibre nature were selected for the study. It was determined that water vapour absorption of textile laminates strongly depends on the humidity of the storage environment. The absorption ability of laminates increases about 1.8 – 3 times as relative humidity increases from 65 % up to 95 %. The degree of increase depends on the textile laminate structure and the nature of the materials layers. The electrical properties of protective footwear can be influenced by the structure, thickness, relative humidity, and voltage of textile laminates. For textile laminates composed of natural and synthetic fibres and polymer foam as insulators, the resistivity increases with the thickness of the synthetic fibre and polymer layer. At low voltage (U = 100 V), the textile laminates tested became insulating materials, as the electrical resistivity exceeded the threshold values for antistatic materials in all relative humidity ranges. At high voltage  (U = 500 V) the electrical resistivity of textile the laminates drops dramatically when the relative air humidity increases and the level of protection of the laminates depend on the amount of moisture absorbed and the nature of the layer materials. The laminates possessed insulating properties in environments of up to 65 % relative humidity. In a high humidity of the environment, the insulating properties of textile laminates turned to antistatic, except for laminate without a polymeric membrane, which became conductive.
Ein Erfolg für digitale Bildung, Wissenschaft und Forschung? – Zur Evaluation des UrhWissG
Authors: Denga Michael
Published: April 2023

Die Evaluationen des Urheberrechts-Wissensgesellschafts-Gesetzes von 2022 zeichnen ein positives Bild von dessen Wirkung für digitale Wissenschaft und Bildung. Die beiden Berichte von BMJ und iRights.Law/BMBF greifen dabei breit und empirisch fundiert die Einschätzungen von Rechtsinhabern und Nutzern auf. Sie gehen auch auf die kontroversen Punkte der Gesetzgebungsgeschichte ein. Der Beitrag stellt die Ergebnisse der beiden Berichte dar und geht ausführlich auf die fortbestehenden Kontroversen um die §§ 60a ff. UrhG ein: Insbesondere sollten unter § 60a UrhG auch Publikumszeitschriften in Unterricht und Lehre vollständig genutzt werden können; eine pauschale Vergütung für Schrankennutzungen unter § 60h UrhG sollte stets an repräsentative Stichproben gekoppelt werden; die TDM-Schranken der §§ 44b, 60d UrhG sollten als rechtspolitisches Instrument zur Begrenzung bzw. Ermöglichung künstlicher Intelligenz verstanden werden.
The Role of V-Strategist Endophytes in Stimulating the Formation of Mycorrhizal Interactions and Soil Regeneration
Authors: Oliferchuk Viktorija , Kendzora Nataliia , Shukel Igor , Samarska Mariia , Olejniuk-Puchniak Oksana
Published: April 2023

Endophyte, new species of yeast fungus, which belongs to the genera Debariomycetaceae Vitasergia svidasoma Oliferchuk PRJNA807518 was isolated from the fruiting body of Tuber melanosporum VS1223 (IMB F-100106). The preparation Mykovital was created on its basis. The possibility of regulation of soil fertility was established through the influence on the “bacteria-fungus-plant” system by stimulation of mycorrhizal formation. By the introduction of seedlings and saplings of trees and shrubs of endophyte species in rhysosphere applying the preparation Mykovital at the different types of devastated soils. Environmental efficiency of biological recultivation of devastated lands is determined during the cultivation of forest crops, which is proved by their biological sustainability and morphological indicators. The research shows the possibility to systematize microorganisms according to the strategies of their survival in ecosystems in such a way, that besides К, r, and L strategists it is necessary to introduce another notion about another group of microorganisms in ecology and soil microbiology—endophytes which are proposed to be named as V-strategies. These are fungi endophytes that are capable to restore and stimulate mycorrhizal symbiosis in the “bacteria-fungus-plant” system and function as provision of “heterotrophic” nutrition of plants on the Earth. Based on the research, a conceptual model of recultivation of devastated lands was proposed and priority of soil ecosystem support services was established.
Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C)
Authors: Yagnam Rojas Felipe
Published: April 2023

The burden of disease caused by the new SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus is focused on adults. In children, this infection manifests as a mild and even asymptomatic acute respiratory illness. Reports in April 2020 described a multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) occurring 2 to 6 weeks after SARS-CoV-2 wave peak. Clinical manifestations included fever, gastrointestinal symptoms, Kawasaki Disease criteria, hypercoagulability, and laboratory parameters within severe inflammatory range. There is no certainty of the pathophysiology of this syndrome. It is thought to be driven by a post-viral dysregulated immune response. The disease can be life threatening, frequently presented as rapid-onset severe organ failure and need for pediatric critical care support. Cardiovascular dysfunction and coronary involvement are the most serious complications. The clinical and laboratory features of MIS-C indicate that the inflammation is exceptionally high; thus, empirical immunomodulation is the current therapy, leading to good clinical results. Once vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 began, a drop in the incidence of MIS-C happened. In the post-COVID era, permanent vaccination of the population in countries that are already vaccinated is necessary to keep MIS-C incidence rates low. While SARS-CoV-2 is circulating in the world, MIS-C will remain as a differential diagnosis in the evaluation of sick children.
Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Derived Exosomes for Myocardial Infarction Treatment
Authors: Zheng Huifeng , Hong Yimei , Hu Bei , Li Xin , Zhang Yuelin
Published: April 2023

Myocardial infarction (MI) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in modern society. Over the past decades, mesenchymal stem cell (MSCs)-based therapy has shown promising results in the treatment of MI due to their unique properties of multi-differentiation ability, immune-privileged phenotype and paracrine activity. Recently, MSC-derived exosomes (MSC-EXO) have been proposed as a promising therapeutic strategy for MI with their ability to inhibit cardiomyocyte apoptosis and stimulate vascular angiogenesis. They also aid immunoregulation and rejuvenation of cardiomyocyte senescence by transporting their unique content such as proteins, lipids, and miRNAs. Compared with MSC transplantation, MSC-EXO administration has shown several advantages, including lower toxicity and immunogenicity and no risk of tumor formation. Nonetheless the potential mechanisms underlying MSC-EXO-based therapy for MI are not fully understood. In addition, lack of modification of MSC-EXOs can impact therapeutic efficacy. It is vital to optimize MSC-EXO and enhance their therapeutic efficacy for MI. We summarize the recent advances regarding biological characteristics, therapeutic potential and mechanisms, and optimal approaches to the use of MSC-EXOs in the treatment of MI.
CT Measurement Realization Process: The Need for Advanced Correction Methods
Authors:   Federal University of ABC (UFABC), Baldo Crhistian Raffaelo ,   CERTI Foundation, Fernandes Thiago Linhares ,   CERTI Foundation, Donatelli Gustavo D. ,   KOTEM Hungary Ltd, Szikszay-Molnar Gergely ,   KOTEM Hungary Ltd, Doytchinov Kostadin
Published: April 2023

Computed tomography use as a dimensional metrology technique has increased steadily, despite the fact that the uncertainty has been rarely determined and expressed in measurements of production parts. This perception may be attributed in part to a limited way of employing the uncertainty concept. From this perspective, the conceptual integration of the product (and measurement) realization process with the uncertainty approach is first emphazised in this paper. The reasoning behind it is to employ different methods for uncertainty evaluation in a rational sense, where the accuracy required to the uncertainty evaluation process drives the method selection. For critical measurement cases, which can be identified in the proposed concept, the need for advanced correction methods, using master part reference measurements for point-based compensation, is presented, tested and justified for GD&T characteristics.
Artifact reduction in X-ray computed tomography by multipositional data fusion using local image quality measures
Authors:   Fraunhofer Anwendungszentrum CT in der Messtechnik, Herl Gabriel ,   Deggendorf Institute of Technology, Hiller Jochen ,   University of Passau, Sauer Tomas
Published: April 2023

Metal artifacts are still a major problem in X-ray industrial computed tomography. In order to reduce metal artifacts and increase the image quality of X-ray CT-scans, we suggest using projection data from multiple scans with differently positioned object orientations. We present two different approaches for multipositional CT, which are especially effective for multimaterial objects with high absorbing metal parts. On one hand, we reconstruct the different scans separatly, estimate the local quality of the resulting volumes and then fuse these volumes to an optimized volume. On the other hand, we introduce smART (shrinking merged Algebraic Reconstruction Technique) and merge sinograms of different scans, estimate the reliability of each projection pixel and then reconstruct the merged sinogram with an adapted SART reconstruction method. We demonstrate our approaches on simulations and on measurement data and are able to show a significant reduction of image artifacts qualitatively and quantitatively with the help of dimensional measurement results.
Development of 950 kV X-ray source with small focal spot using a linear accelerator
Authors:   Nikon Corporation, Matsunaga Norihito ,   Nikon Corporation, Yamada Atsushi ,   Nikon Corporation, Zaike Masayuki ,   Nikon Corporation, Tsuruya Toshinori ,   AET, Inc., Nakanishi Kosuke ,   Accuthera Inc., Hatano Tadashi ,   Accuthera Inc., Yamamoto Masashi ,   Nikon Corporation, Suzuki Kazuaki
Published: April 2023

A 950 kV X-ray source with small focal spot using a linear accelerator (LINAC) has been developed. By installing a focusing mechanism for electron beam in this system, a small focal spot (less than 0.3 mm in FWHM of Line Spread Function) is successfully achieved at 950 kV with the target electron beam current greater than 30 mA. Several comparison data of conventional focal spot are also acquired and clearer images are obtained with the small focal spot. We are convinced that this new X-ray source is useful for industrial non-destructive inspection of large structures because of high transmission ability and spatial resolution.
Analysis of Cone Beam Artefact Influences with Respect to Calibration of Metrology Qualified X-Ray Computed Tomogrophy Systems
Authors:   YXLON International GmbH, Matern Dierck
Published: April 2023

System calibration of industrial computed tomography systems, used for dimensional measurement, is often based on scanning a reference object, measuring the deviations in the resulting tomogram, and using this information for later reconstructions [1, 2]. Because uncertainty is a factor in the process [3, 4], this calibration procedure itself is limited. In this paper, a simulation is used to determine the best case scenario in order to qualify lower limits of this procedure. The target is to analyse the measurability of the artefacts in the tomogram of the calibration object, independent from other influences.
Effect of iterative sparse-view CT reconstruction with task-specific projection angles on dimensional measurements
Authors:   University of Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Butzhammer Lorenz ,   University of Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Hausotte Tino
Published: April 2023

X-ray computed tomography based on a small number of radiographic projections (sparse-view CT) is relevant for several

application cases in industry, where reducing the measurement time plays a major role (e.g. for in-line CT). Because of low data

quality of sparse-view CT scans due to insufficient sampling, new concepts are needed to reduce measurement uncertainties for

dimensional metrology. Iterative image reconstruction techniques provide a promising opportunity for this purpose as they are

in principle able to handle limited data or noise well and give the possibility to select specific projection angles (i.e. perspective

views) for circular scan trajectories. In this paper, the influence of task-specific projection angles on dimensional measurements

is discussed using algebraic and statistical iterative reconstruction of simulated and experimentally obtained sparse-view scans. It

is shown that measurement deviations for specific dimensional measurands can be reduced by selecting projection angles which

are expected to have a high contribution to a good imaging of relevant geometric features.
Sinogram interpolation to decrease acquisition time in X-ray computed tomography measurement of surface topography
Authors:   University of Nottingham, Körner Lars ,   University of Nottingham, Lawes Simon ,   University of Nottingham, Newton Lewis ,   University of Nottingham, Senin Nicola ,   Nikon Metrology UK Ltd, Bate David ,   University of Nottingham, Leach Richard
Published: April 2023

The effects of reducing the number of projections and using sinogram interpolation in X-ray computed tomography measurement were evaluated by considering the quality of volumetric reconstruction and extracted surface topographies. Using a test sample, the number of projections acquired was reduced in steps of 20% from the theoretical reference value. The obtained data sets were upsampled by sinogram interpolation. The quality of the volumetric reconstructions was assessed by introducing dedicated measures of noise and resolution. The surface topographies extracted from the data sets were evaluated using statistical topography models. It was shown that sinogram interpolation can be used as a tool to reduce the number of projections and still obtain sufficient quality surface topographies.
Uncertainty Evaluation of Pore Analysis for Additively Manufactured Parts using Cross Sections
Authors:   Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Schild Leonard ,   Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Fülling Manuel ,   Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Häfner Benjamin ,   Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Lanza Gisela
Published: April 2023

Additively manufactured (AM) workpieces, which have been produced by means of laser beam melting (LBM), tend to show quality relevant pores and cracks on the inside. Quality assurance on these parts may be conducted using x-ray Computed Tomography (CT), as CT is able to spot pores and cracks in the entire volume of a specimen. However, the uncertainty of detection of such cavities in a CT measurement is unknown. To tackle this shortcoming, different authors have compared metallographic cross sections to CT images. None of these investigations have compared the cross section’s plane directly to the corresponding plane of the CT’s 3D voxel image, without using features of the CT image itself, though. This paper introduces a special artifact as reference standard, whose pyramid like form allows a direct comparison of a metallographic cross section and the corresponding plane in a CT scan. The shape of the test object allows to calculate the parameters of the plane equation of the metallographic cross section in a coordinate system fixed to the test object. The plane equation is used to identify and investigate the corresponding plane in the CT scan. By comparing this artificial cross section from the CT scan with the cross section from the metallography specimen, the CT’s performance for detecting pores is assessed. As a result, a general method to test any CT’s capability to detect pores in an AM part is given by using cross sections of test objects with the proposed pyramid like form.
Accurate surface extraction on CT volume using gradients obtained by differentiating FDK formula
Authors:   Tokyo Metropolitan University, Nagai Yukie ,   University of Tokyo, Ohtake Yutaka ,   University of Tokyo, Suzuki Hiromasa
Published: April 2023

In this paper, we propose an accurate surface extraction algorithm from X-ray CT volumes for industrial applications. Isosurfacing

is well known and the most widely used surface extraction, but varying the isovalue may cause deformation of the extracted

shape and the resulting surface is not very suitable to some industrial applications. Another type of surface is the gradient maximal

surface that is the set of the maxima of the gradient norm of CT value. The gradient maximal surface gives more accurate

surface in the sense of being less affected by inhomogeneity of the CT value than the isosurface. For computing the gradient,

there are two ways. The discrete gradient first integrates the projection values to obtain the CT value, and then differentiates the

CT value. In contrast, the analytical gradient first differentiate the projection value, and then integrates the obtained gradient by

the filtered back projection (FDK). In this paper, we investigate the influence of the gradient computation ways on the accuracy

of their extracted surfaces. We found that the analytical gradient contributes more than the discrete gradient to the accuracy of

the extracted gradient maximal surface, and show this fact with some experimental results and comparisons of them.
Possibilities and Limitations of Automatic Feature Extraction shown by the Example of Crack Detection in 3D-CT Images of Concrete Specimen
Authors:   Konrad-Zuse-Institut Berlin (ZIB), Paetsch Olaf
Published: April 2023

To assess the influence of the alkali-silica reaction (ASR) on pavement concrete 3D-CT imaging has been applied to concrete
samples. Prior to imaging these samples have been drilled out of a concrete beam pre-damaged by fatigue loading. The resulting
high resolution 3D-CT images consist of several gigabytes of voxels. Current desktop computers can visualize such big datasets
without problems but a visual inspection or manual segmentation of features such as cracks by experts can only be carried out on
a few slices. A quantitative analysis of cracks requires a segmentation of the whole specimen which could only be done by an
automatic feature detection.
This arises the question of the reliability of an automatic crack detection algorithm, its certainty and limitations. Does the algorithm
find all cracks? Does it find too many cracks? Can parameters of that algorithm, once identified as good, be applied
to other samples as well? Can ensemble computing with many crack parameters overcome the difficulties with parameter finding?
By means of a crack detection algorithm based on shape recognition (template matching) these questions will be discussed. Since
the author has no access to reliable ground truth data of cracks the assessment of the certainty of the automatic crack is restricted
to visual inspection by experts. Therefore, an artificial dataset based on a combination of manually segmented cracks processed
together with simple image processing algorithms is used to quantify the accuracy of the crack detection algorithm.
Part of the evaluation of cracks in concrete samples is the knowledge of the surrounding material. The surrounding material can
be used to assess the detected cracks, e.g. micro-cracks within the aggregate-matrix interface may be starting points for cracks
on a macro scale. Furthermore, the knowledge of the surrounding material can help to find better parameter sets for the crack
detection itself because crack characteristics may vary depending on their surrounding material. Therefore, in addition to a crack
detection a complete segmentation of the sample into the components of concrete, such as aggregates, cement matrix and pores is
needed. Since such a segmentation task cannot be done manually due to the amount of data, an approach utilizing convolutional
neuronal networks stemming from a medical application has been applied. The learning phase requires a ground truth i.e. a
segmentation of the components. This has to be created manually in a time-consuming task. However, this segmentation can be
used for a quantitative evaluation of the automatic segmentation afterwards.
Even though that work has been performed as a short term subtask of a bigger project funded by the German Research Foundation
(DFG) this paper discusses problems which may arise in similar projects, too.
Grain and pore shape analysis and generation of digital twins from digital images
Authors:   Math2Market GmbH, Biebl Fabian ,   Math2Market GmbH, Cvjetkovic Tom ,   Math2Market GmbH, Schwarz Jens-Oliver ,   Math2Market GmbH, Glatt Erik ,   Math2Market GmbH, Grießer Andreas ,   Math2Market GmbH, Wagner Christian ,   Math2Market GmbH, Wiegmann Andreas
Published: April 2023

The properties of granular or sintered manufactured materials or natural materials depend on their microstructure. Obtaining
meaningful insights on the microstructure of these materials often relies on the correct identification of individual grains and
pores. Their direct identification on 3D digital images is challenging but opens the possibility to detailed simulations and accurate
predition of material behavior, such as mechanical simulations that depend on the grain orientation. Such simulations give vital
information to figure out the most promising designs of manufactured materials such as electrodes or to reach decisions based
on reservoir rock properties and determined by Digital Rock Physics.
With this motivation, several new algorithms have been integrated into the GeoDict® [1] software. GeoDict’s capabilities to
segment 3D scans, e.g. CT or FIB-SEM scans have been expanded to identify also individual grains and pores through the new
modules GrainFind and PoreFind that are presented here, together with the option to use the results of GrainFind for the creation
of digital twins of granular materials.
Characterization of resolution performance of novel high energy X-CT : eXTRACT
Authors:   Hitachi Ltd, Sato Katsutoshi ,   National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), Abe Makoto ,   National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), Takatsuji Toshiyuki
Published: April 2023

Characterization of resolution performance by means of MTF for a newly developed high-energy and high-resolution X-ray CT
system : eXTRACT is performed. eXTRACT has shown the unique characteristics such as the averaged X-ray energy of 1 MeV
and demonstrates the structural resolution performance of 0.1 mm in case line and space periodical structure built by metal and
air were scanned. The current study reports the characterization result of the modulation transfer function (MTF). A cylindrical
feature made of aluminum is scanned and the MTF is evaluated under several different modes of scan on eXTRACT. A series
of experimental data show almost satisfactory results in the spatial resolution performance except for the mode of operation
supposed to realize the highest resolution performance. The source of the imperfect performance is identified and solved by
redesigning the supporting structure of tungsten wire target built in the X-ray source. The improvement in the resolution
performance is experimentally verified. It realizes 29.2 line pair par cm when 1/3 and 3/8 offset scan mode is applied on field of
view size of 300 mm in the diameter.
On the impact of probing errors on form measurement in Computed Tomography
Authors:   Novo Nordisk A/S, Hillerød, Andreasen Jan Lasson ,   Technical University of Denmark (DTU), Montanari Filippo ,   Technical University of Denmark (DTU), De Chiffre Leonardo
Published: April 2023

The work deals with an experimental investigation over the influence of probing form error on form measurements using Computed Tomography. In a first part of the investigation, a 2 mm sphere on a reference ball bar was scanned for probing form error (PForm) evaluation. A study was carried out involving different scan parameter settings, i.e., magnification, image averaging, gain, number of projections, and position in the measurement volume. Scanning was performed on a Zeiss Metrotom 800 CT-scanner. The results show that probing form error will decrease with increased magnification. For a fixed magnification, the probing form error can be reduced by increasing the parameters affecting the scanning time, i.e., image averaging and number of projections. In a second part of the investigation, an industrial injection moulded Cyclic Olefin Copolymer (COC) tubular component was scanned, and roundness was measured of the external and internal cylindrical surfaces showing the impact of magnification on the error of the roundness determined using CT scanning. Reference measurements on the component were carried out using a Zeiss O-Inspect CMM. Both probing form error and measured component roundness decrease with increased magnification. A conclusion from our investigation is that the effect of magnification is important in connection with measurement of form and also dimensions that are influenced by form. An overall conclusion from the investigation is that reducing the scanning time by scanning several objects together is problematic in connection with measurement of form but also in connection with dimensions which depend on form.
Roughness Investigation of SLM Manufactured Conformal Cooling Channels Using X-ray Computed Tomography
Authors:   Technical University of Denmark (DTU), Klingaa Christopher G. ,   Technical University of Denmark (DTU), Bjerre Mathias K. ,   Technical University of Denmark (DTU), Baier Sina ,   Technical University of Denmark (DTU), De Chiffre Leonardo ,   Technical University of Denmark (DTU), Mohanty Sankhya ,   Technical University of Denmark (DTU), Hattel Jesper H.
Published: April 2023

Conformal cooling channels are becoming one of the next big steps in the fabrication of moulds and tools. Mass flow rate and heat transfer are affected by the surface roughness in the cooling channels. The freeform shape of conformal cooling channels makes it difficult to evaluate the internal roughness with respect to classic planar techniques. This work presents a fitted-ellipse method to evaluate internal surface features of helical cooling channels. The investigated cooling channel was made from maraging steel 300 and manufactured with the selective laser melting process. X-ray computed tomography and image analysis were utilized in order to generate a freeform nominal surface by fitting ellipses to the reconstructed surface. The nominal surface was compared to the reconstructed surface and resulted in a point cloud of deviation values. The deviation values were used as input for deviation plots, inner area and volume estimations together with estimations of classic area surface parameters, according to ISO 25178-2:2012. Results showed that the internal surface features were highly orientation dependent, with extreme roughness observed on the downward facing surface of the cooling channel. The arithmetical mean height and average maximum height of the total inner surface were estimated at Sa = 13.7 μm and Sz20 = 251 μm, respectively. The mass distribution was positively skewed, the root mean square height was Sq = 21.8 μm and the peaks observed on the surface were characterized as spiked. The obtained results suggested that the proposed method could evaluate the internal features of a helical cooling channel efficiently and qualitatively, while giving realistic quantitative estimations of the surface roughness characteristics.
A Transportable End-station for a Novel Inverse Compton Scattering X-ray Source
Authors:   University of Ghent (UGent), Boone Matthieu ,   University of Ghent (UGent), Vanheule Sander ,   University of Ghent (UGent), Van hoorebeke Luc ,   XRE N.V.,, Van Loo Denis ,   Eindhoven University of Technology, Luiten Jom ,   Eindhoven University of Technology, Stragier Xavier ,   Eindhoven University of Technology, Mutsaers Peter ,   Delft University of Technology (TU Delft), Castricum Hessel
Published: April 2023

To bridge the gap between lab-based high-resolution X-ray tomography (micro-CT) and synchrotron-based micro-CT, lab-scale accelerator-based or Inverse Compton Scattering (ICS) X-ray sources are a promising technology. In the scope of a large-scale project funded by the European Regional Development Fund (Interreg Grensregio), a new ICS source dubbed Smart*Light is being developed at TU Eindhoven. In this work, we present the advantages of this source compared to existing systems and its potential in industrial X-ray CT.
Image metrics for geometric calibration of a cone-beam tomographic X-ray system based on a single plastic brick
Authors:   Fraunhofer Institute for Integrated Circuits (IIS), Waldyra Adrian ,   Fraunhofer Institute for Integrated Circuits (IIS), Suth Daniel ,   Fraunhofer Institute for Integrated Circuits (IIS), Amr Mahmoud ,   Fraunhofer Institute for Integrated Circuits (IIS), Schön Tobias
Published: April 2023

The exact knowledge of the geometric acquisition parameters directly influences the quality of a tomographic reconstruction. Most calibration procedures use calibration phantoms that consist of metal beads arranged in a specific order. If the exact positions of the metal beads are to be sufficiently known, the production of such calibration phantoms can become very expensive. To avoid this problem, we propose a method that uses single plastic bricks (e.g. LEGO bricks) as calibration phantom. Based on a CAD model, projections with given acquisition parameters are simulated and then compared to the real projection using a metric. The objective of our research is to evaluate which metrics are best suited for the comparison of such projections. The results of applying two metrics on simulated and real data are presented.
X-ray Micro-Computed Tomography for monitoring the behavior of single particles under tensile strain
Authors:   Upper Austrian University of Applied Sciences (FH OÖ), Furtner Sara ,   Upper Austrian University of Applied Sciences (FH OÖ), Reiter Michael ,   Upper Austrian University of Applied Sciences (FH OÖ), Maurer Julia ,   Borealis Polyolefine GmbH, Salaberger Dietmar ,   Upper Austrian University of Applied Sciences (FH OÖ), Kastner Johann
Published: April 2023

X-ray computed tomography was used to evaluate single particles that were artificially deposited in a polyethylene matrix, after interrupted tensile tests. Therefore, the prepared specimens were loaded from strain 0% to strain 30% with the CT500 Deben tension/compression in-situ stage (Deben, UK). Single particles and emerged defects were detected, characterised and assessed using VG Studio MAX 3.2. Within this work, different kinds and shapes of particles and defects were investigated. The elongation was measured and stress over strain curves were calculated. The shape of the particles has an impact on the defect formation. Spherical particles tend to be pulled out of the matrix while non spherical particles tend to rupture.
XCT inspection in bonded aircraft repairs for composites
Authors:   Polymer Competence Center Leoben GmbH, Röper Florian ,   Upper Austrian University of Applied Sciences (FH OÖ), Hannesschläger Christian ,   Upper Austrian University of Applied Sciences (FH OÖ), Glinz Jonathan ,   Upper Austrian University of Applied Sciences (FH OÖ), Plank Bernhard ,   Polymer Competence Center Leoben GmbH, Wolfahrt Markus ,   Montan Universität (University of Leoben), Pinter Gerald
Published: April 2023

As bonded composite repairs are gaining importance for modern civil aircraft, it is necessary to investigate such repairs in detail under relevant environmental conditions. In this work, X-ray computed tomography (XCT) was performed on bonded repairs for carbon fiber (CF) reinforced epoxy matrix composites before and after cyclic conditioning between dry/cold and hot/wet conditions. In detail, high resolution XCT scans in absorption contrast (AC) mode as well as Talbot-Lau grating interferometer (TLGI)-XCT scans to obtain additional differential phase contrast (DPC) and dark-field contrast (DFC) modalities were performed. The repair bonds' constituents could be identified by the high resolution XCT scans. Additional information about fiber alignment, at least of the fiber bundles, could be extracted from the TLGI-XCT scans. In order to gain detailed information on certain specimen features, specimen dimensions were reduced for additional high resolution XCT scans.
3D Segmentation of CT Volumetric Image for Mechanical Assemblies with Forcible Edge Enhancement
Authors:   University of Tokyo, Doi Yuki ,   University of Tokyo, Suzuki Hiromasa ,   University of Tokyo, Ohtake Yutaka ,   Zodiac Co., Ltd., Matsukawa Mitsuhiko ,   Zodiac Co., Ltd., Hotta Jun
Published: April 2023

We propose a new segmentation method for separating parts of a mechanical assembly in a CT volumetric image. Part segmentation is generally based on edge detection with gradient norms of the CT volumetric image, which often fails when parts made of the same material come into close contact. This is because an image is blurry between the parts with low gradient norms and indistinct edges. In order to enhance weak edges at such faded part boundaries, our idea is to enhance the gradient norm in a CT volumetric image. To find such faded boundaries, auxiliary information needs to be introduced. In this paper, two practical cases of the faded boundaries in plastic and welded assemblies of sheet metal parts are studied. For the former case, CAD mesh models of target parts are used. The faded boundaries are found in blurred regions on the CAD mesh boundaries. For the latter case, the thickness value of the sheet metal parts used, and it is assumed to be constant. The faded boundary can be located at the distance of the thickness from the outer surface of the part. By enhancing the gradient norms in those faded boundaries, the assembly of parts made of the same material can be segmented. The algorithms are implemented, and experimental results are demonstrated.
Hot crack assessment of LTT welds using μCT
Authors:   Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Vollert Florian ,   BAM Federal Institute for Materials Research and Testing, Thomas Maximilian ,   BAM Federal Institute for Materials Research and Testing, Kromm Arne ,   Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Gibmeier Jens
Published: April 2023

Investigations on weldability often deal with hot cracking, as one of the most popular failure during weld fabrication. The modified varestraint transvarestraint hot cracking test (MVT) is well known for the assessment of the hot cracking susceptibility of materials [1, 2]. The shortcoming of this approach is that the information is only from the very near surface region, which inhibits access to the characteristic of the hot crack network in the bulk. Here, we report about a new approach, illustrated in the example of low transformation temperature (LTT) weld filler materials, to monitor the entire 3D hot crack network after welding by means of microfocus X-ray computer tomography (?CT).
ĐẶC ĐIỂM LO ÂU TRÊN THANG GAD-7 Ở BỆNH NHÂN SAU PHẪU THUẬT TIM MẠCH TẠI ĐƠN VỊ PHẪU THUẬT TIM MẠCH – BỆNH VIỆN BẠCH MAI
Authors: Trần Tuấn Việt
Published: April 2023

Phẫu thuật tim là một phương pháp điều trị, gây ra sang chấn có ảnh hưởng nhất định đến cơ thể, làm biến đổi tâm lý của bệnh nhân, gây sợ hãi, lo lắng, căng thẳng cho bệnh nhân. Nghiên cứu nhằm đánh giá thực trạng rối loạn lo âu của bệnh nhân sau phẫu thuật tim.

Phương pháp nghiên cứu: nghiên cứu mô tả cắt ngang, 100 bệnh nhân sau phẫu thuật tim tại Đơn vị Phẫu thuật Tim mạch – Bệnh viện Bạch Mai từ tháng 5/2022 đến hết tháng 8/2022 được đánh giá về thực trạng rối loạn lo âu theo thang điểm GAD-7 và khảo sát một số yếu tố liên quan đến rối loạn lo âu sau phẫu thuật.

Kết quả: Có 51% bệnh nhân sau phẫu thuật tim mạch có biểu hiện mắc rối loạn lo âu ở mức độ nặng thông qua sàng lọc bằng thang điểm GAD-7. Nguy cơ mắc rối loạn lo âu đặc biệt cao hơn ở nhóm bệnh nhân nữ, gấp 7.35 lần so với nhóm nam giới (p < 0.05) và ở nhóm bệnh nhân không thể tự chăm sóc được bản thân, nhóm bệnh nhân phụ thuộc hoàn toàn hoặc nghiêm trọng vào người chăm sóc có nguy cơ mắc rối loạn lo âu cao gấp 8.67 lần so với nhóm phụ thuộc mức độ trung bình và nhẹ vào người chăm sóc (p < 0.05); nguy cơ mắc rối loạn lo âu không có mối liên hệ với độ tuổi hay trình độ học vấn của các bệnh nhân (p < 0.05).

Kết luận: Thang điểm GAD-7 là thang điểm sàng lọc lo âu đơn giản và hiệu quả, giúp cho việc thực hành lâm sàng có phương án điều trị và tư vấn tâm lý tốt hơn đối với các bệnh nhân sau phẫu thuật tim, góp phần nâng cao chất lượng cuộc sống cho bệnh nhân.
THỰC TRẠNG KIỂM SOÁT HUYẾT ÁP TẠI THỜI ĐIỂM XUẤT VIỆN CỦA NGƯỜI BỆNH TĂNG HUYẾT ÁP CÓ BỆNH THẬN MẠN ĐIỀU TRỊ NỘI TRÚ TẠI KHOA NỘI THẬN BỆNH VIỆN ĐA KHOA TỈNH THANH HOÁ
Authors: Dương Quang Hiệp , Đỗ Doãn Lợi
Published: April 2023

Mục tiêu Khảo sát kiểm soát huyết áp tại thời điểm xuất viện của của người bệnh tăng huyết áp có bệnh thận mạn điều trị nội trú tại khoa Nội thận, Bệnh viện đa khoa tỉnh Thanh Hóa.

Đối tượng và phương pháp nghiên cứu: 440 bệnh nhân ≥ 18 tuổi, được chẩn đoán tăng huyết áp kèm bệnh thận mạn được điều trị nội trú tại khoa Nội Thân, Bệnh viện đa khoa tỉnh Thanh Hóa từ ngày 01/08/2021 đến 30/08/2022. Bệnh nhân khi nhập viện được khám lâm sàng, đo huyết áp, làm các xét nghiệm cận lâm sàng. Trước khi ra viện, bệnh nhân được đo huyết áp vào buổi sáng ngày ra viện. Những bệnh nhân nằm viện ít nhất 5 ngày mới được đưa vào nghiên cứu.

Kết quả:  Trong 440 bệnh nhân được đưa vào nghiên cứu, tuổi trung bình bệnh nhân nghiên cứu là: 59,2 ±14,6, cao nhất 99 tuổi, thấp nhất 18 tuổi. Huyết áp bệnh nhân nhập viện gặp nhiều THA độ II và III là 67,5%, THA độ I 32,5%; bệnh thận mạn giai đoạn V gặp nhiều 75%, giai đoạn IV 20,5%. Với nồng độ Creatinin và ure trung bình: 519,5±276,1µmol/l và 24,5±10,6mmol/l. Sử dụng thuốc: Phối hợp 2 nhóm thuốc trong điều trị chiếm tỷ lệ 53,8%, 3 nhóm 35,5%, 1 nhóm 6,4%, 4 nhóm 3,8% và 5 nhóm 0,5%. Thuốc sử dụng nhiều nhóm lợi tiểu quai 91,8%, nhóm CCB 81,8%, nhóm ACEI 27,3%, ARB 11,4%. Huyết áp tâm thu, tâm trương khi xuất viện giảm rõ so với khi vào viện (p <0,05); Huyết áp khi xuất viện: Đạt mục tiêu 65%, không đạt mục tiêu 35%.

Kết luận: Có 65% bệnh nhân tăng huyết áp có bệnh thận mạn được điều trị nội trú tại khoa nội thận BVĐK tỉnh Thanh Hoá khi ra viện đạt mốc huyết áp mục tiêu.
DỰ ĐOÁN ÁP LỰC TĨNH MẠCH TRUNG TÂM BẰNG SIÊU ÂM DOPPLER TĨNH MẠCH ĐÙI
Authors: Nguyễn Anh Quân , Phạm Mạnh Hùng
Published: April 2023

Đặt vấn đề. Áp lực tĩnh mạch trung tâm (Central Venous Pressure-CVP) là một giá trị hữu ích để hướng dẫn đánh giá tình trạng tiền tải của tim và thể tích mạch máu. Các nghiên cứu trên thế giới đã chỉ ra mối tương quan chặt chẽ của đường kính tĩnh mạch (TM) đùi với CVP với giá trị dự đoán chính xác khá cao. Tuy nhiên tại Việt Nam, chúng tôi chưa tìm thấy những nghiên cứu nào chi tiết về vấn đề này.

Mục tiêu nghiên cứu. Tìm hiểu khả năng dự đoán CVP của một số thông số siêu âm doppler TM đùi và một số yếu tố ảnh hưởng ở bệnh nhân điều trị tại Viện tim mạch-Bệnh viện Bạch Mai.

Đối tượng và phương pháp nghiên cứu. Nghiên cứu mô tả cắt ngang tiến hành tại Viện Tim mạch-Bệnh viện Bạch Mai từ tháng 09/2020 đến tháng 10/2021 trên 88 bệnh nhân có chỉ định đặt catheter TM trung tâm. Thu thập và tiến hành phân tích các thông tin về đặc điểm lâm sàng, cận lâm sàng, chỉ số đường kính và vận tốc dòng chảy tại TM đùi chung trên siêu âm với chỉ số đo CVP qua catheter TM trung tâm.

Kết quả. Đường kính TM đùi chung (FVD) bên phải, bên trái và trung bình là các thông số tốt để dự đoán CVP, trong đó giá trị của FVD bên phải và trung bình có khả năng dự đoán tốt hơn giá trị của FVD bên trái. Vận tốc dòng chảy tĩnh mạch đùi chung (CFVv) bên phải, bên trái và trung bình là các thông tốt để dự đoán CVP, trong đó giá trị của CFVv bên phải và trung bình có khả năng dự đoán CVP tốt hơn so với giá trị CFVv bên trái.

Dự đoán giảm CVP (<8 mmHg): khi FVD bên phải ≤ 5,6 mm hoặc CFVv bên phải ≤ 30,6 cm/s.

Dự đoán tăng CVP (>12 mmHg): khi FVD bên phải ≥ 8 mm hoặc CFVv bên phải ≥ 45,5 cm/s.

Kết luận. Các thông số của TM đùi chung trên siêu âm doppler bao gồm đường kính TM và vận tốc dòng chảy TM có khả năng dự đoán CVP tốt và ít bị ảnh hưởng bởi các yếu tố lâm sàng và cận lâm sàng trong điều trị, ngoại trừ các yếu tố: phù phổi cấp, suy thận.
Conservation Pillar Policy: Sustainable Corporate Performance Improvement Strategy Model
Authors: Waliuddin Achmad Nauval , Rachmadi Moch Faizal , Ridloah Siti , Humaira Hanina
Published: April 2023

This research aims to investigate, comprehend, and examine further the conservation pillar policy to become a sustainable corporate performance improvement strategy model. In general, conservation is defined as an effort to manage, control, preserve, or other terms that show nature preservation. This research adopts the pillars of conservation at Universitas Negeri Semarang, consisting of seven types, which are: 1) biodiversity conservation, 2) green architecture & internal transportation, 3) paperless policy, 4) waste management, 5) clean energy, 6) ethics, arts, and culture, and 7) conservation cadres. The method used in this research is qualitative, with the acquisition of secondary data or literature study. Based on the studies conducted, implementing the seven pillars of conservation has its characteristics, benefits, and advantages for a company's operations and sustainability performance. Therefore, a policy on the pillars of conservation is suitable as a basis for development in sustainable company performance. Moreover, besides being profit-oriented, it also prioritizes environmental sustainability.