bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
AdvSCOD: Bayesian-Based Out-Of-Distribution Detection via Curvature Sketching and Adversarial Sample Enrichment
Authors: Qiao Jiacheng , Zhong Chengzhi , Zhu Peican , Tang Keke
Published: January 2023

Detecting out-of-distribution (OOD) samples is critical for the deployment of deep neural networks (DNN) in real-world scenarios. An appealing direction in which to conduct OOD detection is to measure the epistemic uncertainty in DNNs using the Bayesian model, since it is much more explainable. SCOD sketches the curvature of DNN classifiers based on Bayesian posterior estimation and decomposes the OOD measurement into the uncertainty of the model parameters and the influence of input samples on the DNN models. However, since lots of approximation is applied, and the influence of the input samples on DNN models can be hardly measured stably, as demonstrated in adversarial attacks, the detection is not robust. In this paper, we propose a novel AdvSCOD framework that enriches the input sample with a small set of its neighborhoods generated by applying adversarial perturbation, which we believe can better reflect the influence on model predictions, and then we average their uncertainties, measured by SCOD. Extensive experiments with different settings of in-distribution and OOD datasets validate the effectiveness of AdvSCOD in OOD detection and its superiority to state-of-the-art Bayesian-based methods. We also evaluate the influence of different types of perturbation.
Efficient Multi-Biometric Secure-Storage Scheme Based on Deep Learning and Crypto-Mapping Techniques
Authors: Sedik Ahmed , El-Latif Ahmed A. Abd , Wani Mudasir Ahmad , El-Samie Fathi E. Abd , Bauomy Nariman Abdel-Salam , Hashad Fatma G.
Published: January 2023

Cybersecurity has been one of the interesting research fields that attract researchers to investigate new approaches. One of the recent research trends in this field is cancelable biometric template generation, which depends on the storage of a cipher (cancelable) template instead of the original biometric template. This trend ensures the confidential and secure storage of the biometrics of a certain individual. This paper presents a cancelable multi-biometric system based on deep fusion and wavelet transformations. The deep fusion part is based on convolution (Conv.), convolution transpose (Conv.Trans.), and additional layers. In addition, the deployed wavelet transformations are based on both integer wavelet transforms (IWT) and discrete wavelet transforms (DWT). Moreover, a random kernel generation subsystem is proposed in this work. The proposed kernel generation method is based on chaotic map modalities, including the Baker map and modified logistic map. The proposed system is implemented on four biometric images, namely fingerprint, iris, face, and palm images. Furthermore, it is validated by comparison with other works in the literature. The comparison reveals that the proposed system shows superior performance regarding the quality of encryption and confidentiality of generated cancelable templates from the original input biometrics.
Feature Paper Collection of Mathematical and Computational Applications—2022
Authors: Rozza Gianluigi , Schütze Oliver , Fantuzzi Nicholas
Published: January 2023

This Special Issue comprises the first collection of papers submitted by the Editorial Board Members (EBMs) of the journal Mathematical and Computational Applications (MCA), as well as outstanding scholars working in the core research fields of MCA [...]
Unveiling the Assembly of Neutral Marine Polysaccharides into Electrostatic-Driven Layer-by-Layer Bioassemblies by Chemical Functionalization
Authors: Monteiro Luís P. G. , Borges João , Rodrigues João M. M. , Mano João F.
Published: January 2023

Marine-origin polysaccharides, in particular cationic and anionic ones, have been widely explored as building blocks in fully natural or hybrid electrostatic-driven Layer-by-Layer (LbL) assemblies for bioapplications. However, the low chemical versatility imparted by neutral polysaccharides has been limiting their assembly into LbL biodevices, despite their wide availability in sources such as the marine environment, easy functionality, and very appealing features for addressing multiple biomedical and biotechnological applications. In this work, we report the chemical functionalization of laminarin (LAM) and pullulan (PUL) marine polysaccharides with peptides bearing either six lysine (K6) or aspartic acid (D6) amino acids via Cu(I)-catalyzed azide-alkyne cycloaddition to synthesize positively and negatively charged polysaccharide-peptide conjugates. The successful conjugation of the peptides into the polysaccharide’s backbone was confirmed by proton nuclear magnetic resonance and attenuated total reflectance Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, and the positive and negative charges of the LAM-K6/PUL-K6 and LAM-D6/PUL-D6 conjugates, respectively, were assessed by zeta-potential measurements. The electrostatic-driven LbL build-up of either the LAM-D6/LAM-K6 or PUL-D6/PUL-K6 multilayered thin film was monitored in situ by quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation monitoring, revealing the successful multilayered film growth and the enhanced stability of the PUL-based film. The construction of the PUL-peptide multilayered thin film was also assessed by scanning electron microscopy and its biocompatibility was demonstrated in vitro towards L929 mouse fibroblasts. The herein proposed approach could enable the inclusion of virtually any kind of small molecules in the multilayered assemblies, including bioactive moieties, and be translated into more convoluted structures of any size and geometry, thus extending the usefulness of neutral polysaccharides and opening new avenues in the biomedical field, including in controlled drug/therapeutics delivery, tissue engineering, and regenerative medicine strategies.
Bioactivity and Metabolome Mining of Deep-Sea Sediment-Derived Microorganisms Reveal New Hybrid PKS-NRPS Macrolactone from Aspergillus versicolor PS108-62
Authors: Magot Florent , Van Soen Gwendoline , Buedenbender Larissa , Li Fengjie , Soltwedel Thomas , Grauso Laura , Mangoni Alfonso , Blümel Martina , Tasdemir Deniz
Published: January 2023

Despite low temperatures, poor nutrient levels and high pressure, microorganisms thrive in deep-sea environments of polar regions. The adaptability to such extreme environments renders deep-sea microorganisms an encouraging source of novel, bioactive secondary metabolites. In this study, we isolated 77 microorganisms collected by a remotely operated vehicle from the seafloor in the Fram Strait, Arctic Ocean (depth of 2454 m). Thirty-two bacteria and six fungal strains that represented the phylogenetic diversity of the isolates were cultured using an One-Strain-Many-Compounds (OSMAC) approach. The crude EtOAc extracts were tested for antimicrobial and anticancer activities. While antibacterial activity against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Enterococcus faecium was common for many isolates, only two bacteria displayed anticancer activity, and two fungi inhibited the pathogenic yeast Candida albicans. Due to bioactivity against C. albicans and rich chemical diversity based on molecular network-based untargeted metabolomics, Aspergillus versicolor PS108-62 was selected for an in-depth chemical investigation. A chemical work-up of the SPE-fractions of its dichloromethane subextract led to the isolation of a new PKS-NRPS hybrid macrolactone, versicolide A (1), a new quinazoline (−)-isoversicomide A (3), as well as three known compounds, burnettramic acid A (2), cyclopenol (4) and cyclopenin (5). Their structures were elucidated by a combination of HRMS, NMR, [α]D, FT-IR spectroscopy and computational approaches. Due to the low amounts obtained, only compounds 2 and 4 could be tested for bioactivity, with 2 inhibiting the growth of C. albicans (IC50 7.2 µg/mL). These findings highlight, on the one hand, the vast potential of the genus Aspergillus to produce novel chemistry, particularly from underexplored ecological niches such as the Arctic deep sea, and on the other, the importance of untargeted metabolomics for selection of marine extracts for downstream chemical investigations.
Mini-Implants Retaining Removable Partial Dentures in Subjects without Posterior Teeth: A 5-Year Prospective Study Comparing the Maxilla and the Mandible
Authors: Celebic Asja , Kovacic Ines , Petricevic Nikola , Puljic Dario , Popovac Aleksandra , Kirsic Sanja Persic
Published: January 2023

Background and objectives: Long-term studies of clinical outcomes of mini-implants (MDIs) in the first premolar/canine sites retaining a bilateral free-ending removable partial dentures (RPD) in Kennedy class I subjects have not been well documented. The aim was to assess clinical outcomes in a prospective 5-year cohort study comparing the mandible and maxilla. Material and Methods: Participants (n = 92) who received two MDIs each and a new RPD were reviewed after one, three and five years. A total of 71 participants (82 mini-implants in the mandible; 58 in the maxilla) completed the study. Marginal bone level change, success, survival rates, Modified Plaque (MPI) and Bleeding Indices (MBI) were assessed. Results: The five-year success rate was 93.3% and 93.4% (p > 0.05), in the mandible and the maxilla, respectively. Mean peri-implant bone loss (MBL) increased significantly over five years (p < 0.01) to 0.50 mm in the mandible and 0.52 mm in the maxilla. Age had a significant effect on the MBL (higher rates in younger participants), while jaw of insertion, gender, and antagonistic jaw status did not. MPI and MBI were not significantly correlated with MBL. Conclusions: The insertion of two MDIs in previous first premolar/canine sites for retention of a free-end saddle RPD can be a successful treatment modality in subjects with narrow alveolar ridges.
Retrospective Comparison of Anesthetic Methods for Percutaneous Balloon Kyphoplasty Surgery: General Anesthesia and Erector Spinae Plane Block
Authors: Demir Ufuk , Taşkın Öztürk
Published: January 2023

Background and Objectives: This study aims to investigate whether erector spinae plane (ESP) block can be an alternative to general anesthesia as a primary anesthesia method in percutaneous balloon kyphoplasty surgery. In addition, postoperative intensive care needs were compared in terms of length of intensive care unit stay and length of hospital stay. Materials and Methods: Medical records of patients who underwent percutaneous balloon kyphoplasty operation at Kastamonu Training and Research Hospital between January 2020 and November 2022 were reviewed retrospectively. Among 70 patients who underwent percutaneous balloon kyphoplasty, 58 patients with ASA (American Association of Anesthesiologists) classification III or IV, who underwent general anesthesia as the anesthesia method or ESP block, were included in the study. The patients were divided into two groups according to the anesthesia method applied. Group GA: general anesthesia group (n = 19) and Group ESP: ESP block group (n = 39). Group data for age, gender, ASA classification, number of surgical levels, surgical urgency, duration of surgery, postoperative complications, need for intensive care, length of stay in the intensive care unit, and hospital stay were compared. Results: There was no statistically significant difference between Group GA and Group ESP in terms of age, gender, ASA classification, surgical urgency, number of surgical levels, duration of surgery, and postoperative complication data of the patients included in the study. Seven (36.6%) patients in Group GA and six (15.4%) patients in Group ESP needed intensive care, and there was no statistically significant difference between the groups (p = 0.06). However, the need for intensive care was higher in Group GA. A statistically significant difference was found in Group GA and Group ESP, which was higher in Group GA for the length of stay in the intensive care unit (p = 0.02) and length of hospitalization (p = 0.04). Conclusions: ESP block may be an alternative method to general anesthesia as the primary anesthetic option for single or multilevel percutaneous balloon kyphoplasty surgery. With the ESP block, the length of stay in the intensive care unit and the length of stay in the hospital can be reduced, especially in high-risk patients.
Pancreatic Cystic Tumors: A Single-Center Observational Study
Authors: Jabłońska Beata , Gudz Arkadiusz , Hinborch Tomasz , Bujała Bartosz , Biskup Katarzyna , Mrowiec Sławomir
Published: January 2023

Background and Objectives: The aim of the study was to analyze the prevalence and characteristics of pancreatic cystic tumors (PCTs). Material and Methods: A retrospective analysis of the medical records of 124 patients, 102 (69%) women and 46 (31%) men, who had undergone surgery for pancreatic cystic tumors in 2014–2018. Among 148 pancreatic cysts, 24 (16%) were non-neoplasmatic and 124 (84%) were neoplasmatic. The neoplasmatic cysts (n = 124) were included in our analysis. There were five main types of PCTs: IPMN (intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm) (n = 45), MCN (mucinous cystic neoplasm) (n = 30), SCN (serous cystic neoplasm) (n = 28), SPN (solid pseudopapillary neoplasm) (n = 8), and CPEN (cystic pancreatic endocrine neoplasm) (n = 8), as well as mixed-type tumors (n = 5). Results: A statistically significant dependency between PCT type and age was proven (p= 0.0001): IPMNs were observed in the older group of patients with an average age of 66.12 (40–79) years while SPNs were noted in the youngest group of patients with an average age of 36.22 (22–55) years. A statistically significant association between PCT type and gender (p = 0.0001) was found: IPMNs occurred among 24 (53.33%) men and 21 (46.6%) women. In the MCN and SPN groups, all patients were female (100%). Among the SCN group, the majority were women (27 (96.43%)), and there was only 1 (3.57%) man. A statistically significant dependency between PCT type and size was proven (p = 0.0007). The mean size of IPMNs was the smallest 2.95 (0.6–10 cm) and the mean size of MCNs was the largest 6.78 (1.5–19 cm). A statistically significant dependency between PCT type and tumor location was proven (p = 0.000238). The most frequent location of IPMN was the pancreatic head: 27 (60%). MCN was most frequently located in the pancreatic tail (18 (60%)). Most (10/28) SCNs were found in the pancreatic tail (10 (35.71%)). CPENs were most frequently located in the pancreatic tail (three (37.5%)) and pancreatic body and tail (three (37.5%)). SPNs were located commonly in the pancreatic head (five (62.5%)). The type of surgery depended on the tumor location. The most frequent surgery for IPMNs was pancreatoduodenectomy (44.4%), while for MCNs and SCNs, it was distal pancreatectomy (81%). The postoperative morbidity and mortality were 34.68% and 1.61%, respectively. Postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) was the most frequent (29%) complication. Conclusions: IPMN was the most frequent resected PCT in our material. A statistically significant association between the type of cyst and location within the pancreas, size, local lymph node involvement, and patient’s age and sex was proved. POPF was the most frequent postoperative complication. In patients with PCTs, due to substantial postoperative morbidity, adequate patient selection, considering both the surgical risk as well as the long-term risk of malignant transformation, is very important during qualification for surgery.
Impact of Innovative Treatment Using Biological Drugs for the Modulation of Diffuse Cutaneous Systemic Sclerosis: A Systematic Review
Authors: Fernández-Lázaro Diego , Iglesias-Lázaro María , Garrosa Evelina , Rodríguez-García Saray , Jerves Donoso David , Gutiérrez-Abejón Eduardo , Jorge-Finnigan Conrado
Published: January 2023

Scleroderma or systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune disease affecting the connective tissue, characterized by fibrosis of the skin and internal organs. There is currently no curative treatment available, so therapeutic action is aimed at a symptomatic treatment of the affected organs. The development of biotechnology has made it possible to implement certain biological drugs that could represent a window of opportunity to modulate the evolution and symptomatology of scleroderma with greater efficacy and less toxicity than conventional treatments. This study aimed to review the current evidence critically and systematically on the effects of biological drugs on the pulmonary function, skin disease, and health status of patients afflicted by diffuse cutaneous systemic sclerosis (dcSSc). Three electronic databases (Pubmed, Dialnet, and Cochrane Library Plus) were systematically searched until the cut-off date of October 2022. The review was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines and included original articles in English and Spanish with a controlled trial design, comparing biological drug treatments (tocilizumab, belimumab, riociguat, abatacept, and romilkimab) with a control group. The methodological quality of the studies was assessed using the McMaster quantitative form and the PEDro scale. A total of 383 studies were identified, 6 of them met the established criteria and were included in the present systematic review. A total of 426 patients treated with tocilizumab, belimumab, riociguat, abatacept, and romilkimab were included. The results showed substantial non-significant (p < 0.05) improvement trends after treatment with the biological drugs included in this review for the modified Rodnan Scale Value, Forced Vital Capacity, and Carbon Monoxide Diffusion Test; however, no benefits were shown on the Health Assessment Questionnaire–Disability Index when compared to the control group. Biological drugs, therefore, maybe a new therapeutic strategy for dcSSc and could be recommended as an additional and/or adjunctive treatment that promotes anti-fibrotic activity. This review could further define the clinical rationale for the use of biologics in the treatment of dcSSc and could provide key details on the study protocol, design, and outcome reporting.
Effect of Fenugreek on Hyperglycemia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Shabil Muhammed , Bushi Ganesh , Bodige Pavan Kalyan , Maradi Pavan Sagar , Patra Bibhu Prasad , Padhi Bijaya K. , Khubchandani Jagdish
Published: January 2023

Fenugreek is used for medicinal purposes in various traditions. Some studies have demonstrated that the seeds of this plant may have an anti-diabetic effect by lowering fasting blood sugar levels and improving glucose tolerance. We conducted a systematic review of the hypoglycemic effects of fenugreek. An electronic literature search was carried out in the PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, and Cochrane Library databases through 18 November 2022 to find trials that assessed fasting blood glucose, postprandial blood glucose, and HbA1c changes in participants treated with fenugreek and in the control group. The mean difference with 95% confidence intervals (CI) was calculated to represent the analysis. Fourteen trials, consisting of 894 participants, were included in the meta-analysis. The results showed a reduction in fasting blood glucose levels (MD: 3.70, 95% CI of −27.02, 19.62; p = 0.76), postprandial blood glucose (MD: −10.61, 95% CI of −68.48, 47.26; p = 0.72), and HbA1c (MD: −0.88, 95% CI −1.49, −0.27; p = 0.00) with fenugreek consumption. While this review and included trials that found beneficial effects of fenugreek consumption on glycemic control, the quality and heterogeneity of studies remain a concern. Given the wider availability and lower cost of fenugreek, rigorous double-blinded randomized controlled trials should be conducted with fenugreek to understand its true potential as a diabetes control herbal agent.
Bony Canal Method of Dexamethasone Injections in Aggressive Form of Central Giant Cell Granuloma—Case Series
Authors: Niedzielska Iwona , Bielecki Mateusz , Bąk Michał , Dziuk Barbara , Niedzielski Damian
Published: January 2023

Central Giant Cell Granuloma constitutes approximately 7% of benign tumors of the jaws. The aggressive form of CGCG clinically behaves like a classic semi-malignant neoplasm. In the literature, the suggested method of treatment of aggressive forms of CGCG is curettage or resection with the margin of 0.5 cm. Surgical treatment, especially in the developmental age, entails disturbances in the growth and differentiation of tissues and deforms and disturbs the functioning of the stomatognathic system. Alternative treatment methods of the CGCG presented in this article lead to the patient avoiding a mutilating procedure and improve their quality of life. The aim was to present alternative method of treatment of aggressive forms of Central Giant Cell Lesion of the jaws—injections of dexamethasone into the tumor mass through drilled bony canals. Here, we present the three cases of aggressive forms of CGCG of jaws treated with dexamethasone injections into the tumor mass. Two cases resulted in regression of the tumor, which was confirmed in histologic evaluation after remodeling surgery. Those two patients were uneventful and showed no signs of tumor recurrence at 8 and 9 years of thorough follow-up, respectively. The third patient was qualified for the mandible resection due to the enlargement of the lesion and destruction of the cortical bone. According to our observations, if the proper patient discipline, and thorough, careful clinical and radiological examinations are provided, the dexamethasone injections could be a recommended method of treatment of intraosseous giant cell granuloma. The indication is restricted to the cases with preserved bony borders despite deformation. Additionally, leaving vital teeth in the lesion is also possible.
Evaluation of Medication-Related Osteonecrosis of the Jaw (MRONJ) in Terms of Staging and Treatment Strategies by Dental Students at Different Educational Levels
Authors: Heimes Diana , Mark Nicolas Alexander , Kuchen Robert , Pabst Andreas , Becker Philipp , Kyyak Solomiya , Thiem Daniel G. E. , Schulze Ralf , Kämmerer Peer W.
Published: January 2023

Background: The role of medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) as a dento-maxillo-facial pathology is becoming increasingly important due to its growing prevalence. The success of preventive and therapeutic measures relies mainly on the dentist’s ability to correctly diagnose the disease. Methods: The aim of this study was to evaluate the skills of dental students of different educational levels in choosing the correct stage, diagnostics, and treatment option for MRONJ based on clinical and radiographic imaging (panoramic radiograph, CBCT). The study was designed as a cross-sectional cohort study. Twenty dental students were asked to complete a questionnaire in their third and fifth year of studies in which they had to correctly stage the disease, choose the radiological diagnostics and recommend the treatment. The control group contained experienced oral and maxillofacial surgeons. Results: With an overall performance of 59% (third year: 145.2/248 points; fifth year: 145.3/248 points), no statistically significant difference between the educational levels could be observed. The classification based on CBCT imaging was significantly more often correct compared to panoramic radiographs (p < 0.001). Conclusions: This study highlights students’ lack of knowledge in staging, diagnostics, and treatment of MRONJ, even though the CBCT positively affected decision-making. No significant increase in knowledge could be confirmed through clinical education. This study highlights the need for students to catch up on MRONJ diagnostics and treatment planning. Further expansion of teaching in this disease’s context and X-ray diagnostics is needed.
The Impact of Progesterone and Estrogen on the Tooth Mobility
Authors: Peruga Małgorzata , Piwnik Joanna , Lis Joanna
Published: January 2023

Background and Objectives: Progesterone and estrogen modify the bone metabolism directly related to the periodontium, this study aimed at answering the question whether fluctuations in the levels of these hormones or the use of their synthetic equivalents in modern contraceptives have a significant impact on the natural tooth mobility (TM) in its alveolus. Materials and Methods: Sixty healthy women who had never been pregnant and when interviewed reported either (1) having regular menstruations every 28–30 days or (2) taking oral two-phase two-ingredient hormonal contraceptives formed, respectively, groups M and S in the study. TM evaluated as the Periotest value (PTV) was checked in the menstruation, ovulation, and luteal phases of the menstrual cycle (group M) and on the days corresponding to the moment of the menstrual cycle in group S. Results: Although the PTV-s were within the limits of norm, the canines and the molars were always more stable than the other teeth. In group M, the TM was statistically comparable (p > 0.05) in the menstrual and ovulation phases, thus significantly increased (p < 0.001) in the luteal phase. The TM remained constant (p = 0.758) in all studies in group S. The results demonstrated that the canines and the molars in the luteal phase were significantly more mobile in group M than in group S (p < 0.001), although increased mobility of the teeth in group M affected the canines and the first molars to a significantly lesser degree than the other teeth. Conclusions: However, since women between 20 and 30 years old constitute the majority of ortho-dontic patients, possible determination of the optimum moment of force application in relation to the sex hormones cycle, namely, to its luteal phase, is clinically very promising.
Nociception Control of Bilateral Single-Shot Erector Spinae Plane Block Compared to No Block in Open Heart Surgery—A Post Hoc Analysis of the NESP Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Balan Cosmin , Tomescu Dana R. , Bubenek-Turconi Serban I.
Published: January 2023

Background and Objectives: The erector spinae plane block (ESPB) is an analgesic adjunct demonstrated to reduce intraoperative opioid consumption within a Nociception Level (NOL) index-directed anesthetic protocol. We aimed to examine the ESPB effect on the quality of intraoperative nociception control evaluated with the NOL index. Materials and Methods: This is a post hoc analysis of the NESP (Nociception Level Index-Directed Erector Spinae Plane Block in Open Heart Surgery) randomized controlled trial. Eighty-five adult patients undergoing on-pump cardiac surgery were allocated to group 1 (Control, n = 43) and group 2 (ESPB, n = 42). Both groups received general anesthesia. Preoperatively, group 2 received bilateral single-shot ESPB (1.5 mg/kg/side 0.5% ropivacaine mixed with dexamethasone 8 mg/20 mL). Until cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) was initiated, fentanyl administration was individualized using the NOL index. The NOL index was compared at five time points: pre-incision (T1), post-incision (T2), pre-sternotomy (T3), post-sternotomy (T4), and pre-CPB (T5). On a scale from 0 (no nociception) to 100 (extreme nociception), a NOL index > 25 was considered an inadequate response to noxious stimuli. Results: The average NOL index across the five time points in group 2 to group 1 was 12.78 ± 0.8 vs. 24.18 ± 0.79 (p < 0.001). The NOL index was significantly lower in the ESPB-to-Control group at T2 (12.95 ± 1.49 vs. 35.97 ± 1.47), T3 (13.28 ± 1.49 vs. 24.44 ± 1.47), and T4 (15.52 ± 1.49 vs. 34.39 ± 1.47) (p < 0.001) but not at T1 and T5. Compared to controls, significantly fewer ESPB patients reached a NOL index > 25 at T2 (4.7% vs. 79%), T3 (0% vs. 37.2%), and T4 (7.1% vs. 79%) (p < 0.001). Conclusions: The addition of bilateral single-shot ESPB to general anesthesia during cardiac surgery improved the quality of intraoperative nociception control according to a NOL index-based evaluation.
The Experience of a Tertiary Reference Hospital in the Study of Rare Neurological Diseases
Authors: Sintila Styliani-Aggeliki , Boziki Marina , Bakirtzis Christos , Stardeli Thomai , Smyrni Nikoletta , Nikolaidis Ioannis , Parissis Dimitrios , Afrantou Theodora , Karapanayiotides Theodore , Koutroulou Ioanna , Giantzi Virginia , Theotokis Paschalis , Kesidou Evangelia , Xiromerisiou Georgia , Dardiotis Efthimios , Ioannidis Panagiotis , Grigoriadis Nikolaos
Published: January 2023

Background and Objectives: Rare diseases (RDs) are life-threatening or chronically impairing conditions that affect about 6% of the world’s population. RDs are often called ‘orphan’ diseases, since people suffering from them attract little support from national health systems. Aim: The aim of this study is to describe the clinical characteristics of, and the available laboratory examinations for, patients who were hospitalized in a tertiary referral center and finally received a diagnosis associated with a Rare Neurological Disease (RND). Materials and Methods: Patients that were hospitalized in our clinic from 1 January 2014 to 31 March 2022 and were finally diagnosed with an RND were consecutively included. The RND classification was performed according to the ORPHAcode system. Results: A total of 342 out of 11.850 (2.9%) adult patients admitted to our department during this period received a diagnosis associated with an RND. The most common diagnosis (N = 80, 23%) involved an RND presenting with dementia, followed by a motor neuron disease spectrum disorder (N = 64, 18.7%). Family history indicative of an RND was present in only 21 patients (6.1%). Fifty-five (16%) people had previously been misdiagnosed with another neurological condition. The mean time delay between disease onset and diagnosis was 4.24 ± 0.41 years. Conclusions: Our data indicate that a broad spectrum of RNDs may reach a tertiary Neurological Center after a significant delay. Moreover, our data underline the need for a network of reference centers, both at a national and international level, expected to support research on the diagnosis and treatment of RND.
Thiotepa, Busulfan, Cyclophosphamide: Effective but Toxic Conditioning Regimen Prior to Autologous Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation in Central Nervous System Lymphoma
Authors: Delphine Lebon , Pierre-Edouard Debureaux , Bruno Royer , Bérengère Gruson , Magalie Joris , Patrick Votte , Jean-Pierre Marolleau , Pierre Morel
Published: January 2023

In primary central nervous system lymphoma, two-year progression-free survival rates of up to 63 percent have been reported for first-line autologous stem cell transplantation after conditioning with the thiotepa busulfan cyclophosphamide regimen. However, 11 percent of the patients died due to toxicity. Besides conventional survival, progression-free survival and treatment related mortality analyses, a competing-risk analysis was applied to our cohort of twenty-four consecutive patients with primary or secondary central nervous system lymphoma who underwent autologous stem cell transplantation after thiotepa busulfan cyclophosphamide conditioning. The two-year overall survival and progression-free survival rates were 78 percent and 65 percent, respectively. The treatment-related mortality rate was 21 percent. The competing risks analysis demonstrate that age 60 or over and the infusion of less than 4.6 × 106/kg CD34+ stem cells were significant adverse prognostic factors for overall survival. Autologous stem cell transplantation with thiotepa busulfan cyclophosphamide conditioning was associated with sustained remission and survival. Nevertheless, the intensive thiotepa busulfan cyclophosphamide conditioning regimen was highly toxic, especially in older patients. Thus, our results suggest that future studies should aim at identifying the subgroup of patients who will really benefit of the procedure and/or to reduce the toxicity of future conditioning regimen.
Separation of Hydrochloric Acid and Oxalic Acid from Rare Earth Oxalic Acid Precipitation Mother Liquor by Electrodialysis
Authors: Zhou Hengcheng , Ju Peihai , Hu Shaowei , Shi Lili , Yuan Wenjing , Chen Dongdong , Wang Yujie , Shi Shaoyuan
Published: January 2023

In this study, the hydrochloric acid from rare earth oxalic acid precipitation mother liquor was separated by electrodialysis (ED) with different anion exchange membranes, including selective anion exchange membrane (SAEM), polymer alloy anion exchange membrane (PAAEM), and homogenous anion exchange membrane (HAEM). In addition to actual wastewater, nine types of simulated solutions with different concentrations of hydrochloric acid and oxalic acid were used in the experiments. The results indicated that the hydrochloric acid could be separated effectively by electrodialysis with SAEM from simulated and real rare earth oxalic acid precipitation mother liquor under the operating voltage 15 V and ampere 2.2 A, in which the hydrochloric acid obtained in the concentrate chamber of ED is of higher purity (>91.5%) generally. It was found that the separation effect of the two acids was related to the concentrations and molar ratios of hydrochloric acid and oxalic acid contained in their mixtures. The SEM images and ESD–mapping analyses indicated that membrane fouling appeared on the surface of ACS and CSE at the diluted side of the ED membrane stack when electrodialysis was used to treat the real rare earth oxalic acid precipitation mother liquor. Fe, Yb, Al, and Dy were found in the CSE membrane section, and organic compounds containing carbon and sulfur were attached to the surface of the ACS. The results also indicated that the real rare earth precipitation mother liquor needed to be pretreated before the separation of hydrochloric acid and oxalic acid by electrodialysis.
Synthesizing Ti–Ni Alloy Composite Coating on Ti–6Al–4V Surface from Laser Surface Modification
Authors: Chen Yitao , Newkirk Joseph W. , Liou Frank
Published: January 2023

In this work, a Ni-alloy Deloro-22 was laser-deposited on a Ti–6Al–4V bar substrate with multiple sets of laser processing parameters. The purpose was to apply laser surface modification to synthesize different combinations of ductile TiNi and hard Ti2Ni intermetallic phases on the surface of Ti–6Al–4V in order to obtain adjustable surface properties. Scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersion spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction were applied to reveal the deposited surface microstructure and phase. The effect of processing parameters on the resultant compositions of TiNi and Ti2Ni was discussed. The hardness of the deposition was evaluated, and comparisons with the Ti–6Al–4V bulk part were carried out. They showed a significant improvement in surface hardness on Ti–6Al–4V alloys after laser processing, and the hardness could be flexibly adjusted by using this laser-assisted surface modification technique.
Influence of Cooling Rate on Solidification Process Ce-High Mo Austenite Stainless Steel: Nucleation, Growth, and Microstructure Evolution
Authors: Wang Qi , Wang Lijun , Zhang Wei , Chou Kuochih
Published: January 2023

Experiments were carried out to determine the effect of cooling rate on the nucleation, growth and microstructure evolution during the solidification process in Ce containing S31254 high Mo austenite stainless steel (HMASS). In situ observations and in situ quenching tests indicate that the Ce effects in this steel are to refine the equiaxed grain and change in the secondary phase from σ to δ, but are mainly suitable for the medium and low cooling rate. The high cooling rate is highly beneficial for austenite nucleation and significantly influence the primary austenite grain growth behavior. The growth velocity for austenite grain is increased with the increase in cooling rate. The morphology of the primary austenite would change from a crescent shape to rod shape with the cooling rate increased from 50 °C/min to 100 °C/min. Rod-shaped grains with high nucleation densities would make primary grains easy to be combined together, which would reduce the ability of the refined grain. Furthermore, a high cooling rate could slightly improve the solute redistribution, while it significantly deteriorated the micro-segregation of Mo in a solidified structure. The main reason is that high cooling rate could worsen the kinetic condition of ferrite precipitation and postpone the precipitation reaction at the end of the solidification process.
The Hot Ductility, Microstructures, Mechanical Properties and Corrosion Resistance in an Advanced Boron-Containing Complex Phase Steel Heat-Treated Using the Quenching and Partitioning (Q&P) Process
Authors: Salas-Reyes Antonio Enrique , Altamirano-Guerrero Gerardo , Deaquino Rogelio , Salinas Armando , Lara-Rodriguez Gabriel , Figueroa Ignacio Alejandro , González-Parra Jesús Rafael , Mintz Barrie
Published: January 2023

The objective of this research work is to obtain the hot ductility behavior, and the structural, microstructural and mechanical characteristics of one of the latest generation of AHSS steels, a complex phase (CP) steel microalloyed with boron (0.006 wt.%), processed by hot and cold rolling operations and heat-treated using two different quenching and partitioning (Q&P) treatments, a one-step partitioning (quenching to 420 °C) and the other a two-step partitioning (quenching to 420 °C and reheated to 600 °C). The results show that boron has a marked effect on the solidification process of the CP steel, refining the austenitic grain size. Due to its refinement, the boron-containing steel had better ductility throughout the temperature range examined (700–900 °C), i.e., the hot ductility trough. Thus, the minimum percentage of reduction in area (%RA) value occurring at 800 °C was 43% for the boron-free steel, compared with 58% for the boron-containing steel. Hence, cracking would not be a problem when straightening the strand on continuous casting. The benefit of boron addition on the room temperature properties was found to be very marked for the higher temperature two-step partitioning treatment, giving a yield stress of 1200 MPa, a UTS (ultimate tensile strength) of 1590 MPa and a total elongation above 11%. The final Q&P microstructure, in both one- and two-step partitioning conditions, consisted of retained austenite (RA-γ), martensite and ferrite islands in a bainitic matrix. Furthermore, the boron treated steel on quenching produced a greater amount of RA-γ, which accounted for its better room temperature ductility and produced a martensitic matrix rather than a bainitic one, giving it greater strength. The addition of boron improved the corrosion resistance of this type of third generation AHSS steel.
Room- and High-Temperature Fatigue Strength of the T5 and Rapid T6 Heat-Treated AlSi10Mg Alloy Produced by Laser-Based Powder Bed Fusion
Authors: Di Egidio Gianluca , Ceschini Lorella , Morri Alessandro , Zanni Mattia
Published: January 2023

The AlSi10Mg alloy produced by laser-based powder bed fusion (L-PBF) is widely used to produce high-value-added structural parts subjected to cyclic mechanical loads at high temperatures. The paper aims to widen the knowledge of the room- and high-temperature (200 °C) fatigue behavior of the L-PBF AlSi10Mg alloy by analyzing the fully reversed rotating bending test results on mechanically polished specimens. Two heat-treated conditions are analyzed: T5 (direct artificial aging: 4 h at 160 °C) and novel T6R (rapid solution: 10 min at 510 °C, artificial aging: 6 h at 160 °C). The study highlights that (i) the T6R alloy is characterized by higher fatigue strength at room (108 MPa) and high temperatures (92 MPa) than the T5 alloy (92 and 78 MPa, respectively); (ii) thermal exposure at 200 °C up to 17 h does not introduce macroscopical microstructural variation; (iii) fracture surfaces of the room- and high-temperature-tested specimens show comparable crack initiation, mostly from sub-superficial gas and keyhole pores, and failure propagation mechanisms. In conclusion, the L-PBF AlSi10Mg alloy offers good cyclic mechanical performances under various operating conditions, especially for the T6R alloy, and could be considered for structural components operating at temperatures up to 200 °C.
Observations of Contraction Twin Boundaries of High-Purity Titanium during Dynamic Loading
Authors: Ren Yi , Xu Feng , Lou Chao , Chen Wei , Yang Qingshan
Published: January 2023

High-purity titanium has been subjected to dynamic compression with a strain rate of 103 s−1 to activate {112-2} and {112-4} contraction twins. Electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and high-resolution TEM (HRTEM) were performed to observe the morphologies and twin boundaries of the contraction twins. The results show that {112-2} twins are the predominant twinning mode, as well as the formation of {112-4} twins due to the change in local stress state at the intersection region of {112-2} twin variants or {112-2} twin and grain boundary. The TEM and HRTEM observations reveal that (0001)‖(1122-) facets and (0001)‖(1121-) facets formed along the {112-2} and {112-4} twin boundaries, respectively. According to the theory of interfacial defects, the propagation of the {112-2} twin boundary was discussed with (b3, 3h{112-2}) and (b1, h{112-2}) twinning disconnections, as well as the growth process of the {112-4} twin boundary.
Inhibition Behavior of Edge Cracking in the AZ31B Magnesium Alloy Cold Rolling Process with Pulsed Electric Current
Authors: Sun Jingna , Zhang Junpeng , Liu Dongdong , Huang Huagui , Yan Meng
Published: January 2023

To solve the edge crack problem of AZ31B magnesium alloy cold rolling, a strong pulsed electric current was introduced to the cold rolling process. The influence of intensity, frequency, width of pulsed electric current and other parameters on edge cracking of AZ31B magnesium alloy plate cold rolling was analyzed based on the principle of a single variable. According to the experimental results, the assistance of pulsed electric current cut down edge cracking and the inhibition effect increased obviously with larger current parameters. When the parameters of pulsed electric current reached 4800 A, 500 Hz, 50 μs, zero edge cracking was achieved. Statistics of edge cracks, rolling load change, and microstructure analysis showed that the current thermal effect was not obvious and non-thermal effect played a more important role in the rolling process under pulse electric current. Edge cracks initiate at the shear bands. The addition of pulse current increases the number of shear bands and presents a blanket structure. Therefore, the amount of strain experienced by a single shear band decrease, which has a positive effect on inhibiting the formation of edge cracks. Furthermore, electroplastic rolling refines the grains and weakens the basal plane. As the current parameter increases, the hardness of the magnesium strip decreases and the yield and tensile strengths increase.
Multi-Objective Topology Optimization of a Broadband Piezoelectric Energy Harvester
Authors: Hu Siyang , Fitzer Ulrike , Nguyen Khai Chau , Hohlfeld Dennis , Korvink Jan G. , Bechtold Tamara
Published: January 2023

In recent years, topology optimization has proved itself to be state of the art in the design of mechanical structures. At the same time, energy harvesting has gained a lot of attention in research and industry. In this work, we present a novel topology optimization of a multi-resonant piezoelectric energy-harvester device. The goal is to develop a broadband design that can generate constant power output over a range of frequencies, thus enabling reliable operation under changing environmental conditions. To achieve this goal, topology optimization is implemented with a combined-objective function, which tackles both the frequency requirement and the power-output characteristic. The optimization suggests a promising design, with satisfactory frequency characteristics.
Photonic-Assisted Scheme for Simultaneous Self-Interference Cancellation, Fiber Dispersion Immunity, and High-Efficiency Harmonic Down-Conversion
Authors: Li He , Zhu Zihang , Gao Congrui , Wang Guodong , Zhou Tao , Li Xuan , Meng Qingqing , Zhou Yixiao , Zhao Shanghong
Published: January 2023

A photonic approach to the cancellation of self-interference in the optical domain with fiber dispersion immunity and harmonic frequency down-conversion function is proposed based on an integrated, dual-parallel, dual-drive Mach–Zehnder modulator (DP-DMZM). A dual-drive Mach–Zehnder modulator (DMZM) is used as an optical interference canceller, which cancels the self-interference from the impaired signal before fiber transmission to avoid the effect of fiber transmission on the cancellation performance. Another DMZM is used to provide carrier-suppressed, local-oscillation (LO)-modulated, high-order double optical sidebands for harmonic frequency down-conversion to release the strict demand for high-frequency LO sources. By regulating the DC bias of the main modulator, the signal of interest (SOI) can be down-converted to the intermediated frequency (IF) band after photoelectric conversion with improved frequency-conversion efficiency, immunity to the fiber-dispersion-induced power-fading (DIPF) effect, and effective signal recovery. Theoretical analyses and simulation results show that the desired SOI in the X and K bands with a bandwidth of 500 MHz and different modulation formats can be down-converted to the IF frequency. The self-interference noise with the 2 GHz bandwidth is canceled, and successful signal recovery is achieved after a 10 km fiber transmission. The recovery performance of down-converted signals and the self-interference cancellation depth under different interference-to-signal ratios (ISRs) is also investigated. In addition, the compensation performance of DIPF is verified, and a 6 dB improvement in frequency conversion gain is obtained compared with previous work. The proposed scheme is compact, cost-effective, and thus superior in wideband self-interference cancellation, long-range signal transmission, and effective recovery of weak desired signals.
Enhancement of Marine Lantern’s Visibility under High Haze Using AI Camera and Sensor-Based Control System
Authors: An Jehong , Son Kwonwook , Jung Kwanghyun , Kim Sangyoo , Lee Yoonchul , Song Sangbin , Joo Jaeyoung
Published: January 2023

This thesis describes research to prevent maritime safety accidents by notifying navigational signs when sea fog and haze occur in the marine environment. Artificial intelligence, a camera sensor, an embedded board, and an LED marine lantern were used to conduct the research. A deep learning-based dehaze model was learned by collecting real marine environment and open haze image data sets. By applying this learned model to the original hazy images, we obtained clear dehaze images. Comparing those two images, the concentration level of sea fog was derived into the PSNR and SSIM values. The brightness of the marine lantern was controlled through serial communication with the derived PSNR and SSIM values in a realized sea fog environment. As a result, it was possible to autonomously control the brightness of the marine lantern according to the concentration of sea fog, unlike the current marine lanterns, which adjust their brightness manually. This novel-developed lantern can efficiently utilize power consumption while enhancing its visibility. This method can be used for other fog concentration estimation systems at the embedded board level, so that applicable for local weather expectations, UAM navigation, and autonomous driving for marine ships.