bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using a Rigid Restraint with a Built-In Tuned Mass Damper to Control the Vibration of Cables
Authors: Li Honghai , Zhou Peng , Li Zeping
Published: November 2024

Cables are widely utilized as load-carrying members due to their excellent mechanical properties. However, the inherent damping of cables is usually extremely low, thereby causing undesired vibrations to occur frequently under various external excitations. This study investigates the utilization of rigid restraints with a built-in tuned mass damper to mitigate the vibration of cables. First, the configuration of a rigid restraint with a built-in tuned mass damper is presented, followed by the development of a problem formulation for controlled cables using such a device. A discrete model is further established to describe the dynamic behavior of the system. Thereafter, a series of numerical simulations are conducted. The influence of the mass ratio of the tuned mass damper and installation position is analyzed. Then, examples are presented to verify the control effectiveness under sinusoidal excitations. As indicated by the numerical results, the proposed device can mitigate cable vibration exceptionally well. Taking aerodynamic effects into account, model cables and control devices are manufactured. Two installation positions, namely, quarter-span and mid-span, are considered. Wind tunnel tests are performed. As shown by the experimental tests, the proposed rigid restraint with a built-in tuned mass damper can suppress the first two modal vibrations. Overall, the rigid restraint with built-in tuned mass damper can mitigate cable vibration, though several issues should be further addressed.
Experimental Study on Fatigue Properties of Q420 Bridge Steel in a Deicing Salt Corrosion Environment in Western China
Authors: Zhou Tingkun , Qiao Wenjing , Li Shoufu , Yang Fan , Li Yiqian , Li Zhuoda
Published: November 2024

The corrosive environment in the western region will adversely affect the fatigue performance of bridges. In order to determine the influence of the corrosion environment in western China on the fatigue failure of bridges, this paper simulated corrosion environment characteristics in northwest China, conducted alternating corrosion and high-cycle fatigue experiments on Q420 bridge steel, and used Origin (2019b 64Bit) to fit S-N curves of specimens with different corrosion periods to study the influence of corrosion damage in western China on their fatigue properties. Based on the damage theory, the corrosion fatigue failure degree of Q420 bridge steel was analyzed, and the crack propagation law was revealed by microscopic scanning of the fracture. The findings indicate that the damage to Q420 bridge steel progressively worsens with more prolonged corrosion exposure in the deicing salt conditions of western China. The 60-day corrosion resulted in a rust rate ηs of 2.17% and a corrosion rate K of 1.413 mm/a. The fatigue life of Q420 bridge steel is significantly affected by the coupling of stress level and corrosion damage. After 60 days of corrosion, the specimen’s fatigue limit decreases by 12.28%, which accelerates the fatigue property degradation rate of the specimen. The damage index effectively represents the internal damage behavior of materials under corrosion fatigue conditions. Fatigue damage escalates as the corrosion period extends, and the number of fatigue bands decreases, with the stress corrosion threshold σth diminishing by 1.77%, 3.55%, 4.61%, and 6.38% across various corrosion durations. The research results are significant for the fatigue failure prediction and reliability analysis of Q420 bridge steel in a deicing salt corrosion environment in western China.
Snap Diagnosis: Developing an Artificial Intelligence Algorithm for Penile Cancer Detection from Photographs
Authors: Liu Jianliang , O’Brien Jonathan S. , Nandakishor Kishor , Sathianathen Niranjan J. , Teh Jiasian , Manning Todd , Woon Dixon T. S. , Murphy Declan G. , Bolton Damien , Chee Justin , Palaniswami Marimuthu , Lawrentschuk Nathan
Published: November 2024

Background/Objective: Penile cancer is aggressive and rapidly progressive. Early recognition is paramount for overall survival. However, many men delay presentation due to a lack of awareness and social stigma. This pilot study aims to develop a convolutional neural network (CNN) model to differentiate penile cancer from precancerous and benign penile lesions. Methods: The CNN was developed using 136 penile lesion images sourced from peer-reviewed open access publications. These images included 65 penile squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), 44 precancerous lesions, and 27 benign lesions. The dataset was partitioned using a stratified split into training (64%), validation (16%), and test (20%) sets. The model was evaluated using ten trials of 10-fold internal cross-validation to ensure robust performance assessment. Results: When distinguishing between benign penile lesions and penile SCC, the CNN achieved an Area Under the Receiver Operating Characteristic Curve (AUROC) of 0.94, with a sensitivity of 0.82, specificity of 0.87, positive predictive value of 0.95, and negative predictive value of 0.72. The CNN showed reduced discriminative capability in differentiating precancerous lesions from penile SCC, with an AUROC of 0.74, sensitivity of 0.75, specificity of 0.65, PPV of 0.45, and NPV of 0.88. Conclusion: These findings demonstrate the potential of artificial intelligence in identifying penile SCC. Limitations of this study include the small sample size and reliance on photographs from publications. Further refinement and validation of the CNN using real-life data are needed.
Upper Urinary Tract Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy Using a 1.5 Tesla Magnetic Resonance Imaging-Guided Linear Accelerator: Workflow and Physics Considerations
Authors: Zhao Yao , Cozma Adrian , Ding Yao , Perles Luis Augusto , Reiazi Reza , Chen Xinru , Kang Anthony , Prajapati Surendra , Yu Henry , Subashi Ergys David , Brock Kristy , Wang Jihong , Beddar Sam , Lee Belinda , Mohammedsaid Mustefa , Cooper Sian , Westley Rosalyne , Tree Alison , Mohamad Osama , Hassanzadeh Comron , Mok Henry , Choi Seungtaek , Tang Chad , Yang Jinzhong
Published: November 2024

Background/Objectives: Advancements in radiotherapy technology now enable the delivery of ablative doses to targets in the upper urinary tract, including primary renal cell carcinoma (RCC) or upper tract urothelial carcinomas (UTUC), and secondary involvement by other histologies. Magnetic resonance imaging-guided linear accelerators (MR-Linacs) have shown promise to further improve the precision and adaptability of stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT). Methods: This single-institution retrospective study analyzed 34 patients (31 with upper urinary tract non-metastatic primaries [RCC or UTUC] and 3 with metastases of non-genitourinary histology) who received SBRT from August 2020 through September 2024 using a 1.5 Tesla MR-Linac system. Treatment plans were adjusted by using [online settings] for “adapt-to-position” (ATP) and “adapt-to-shape” (ATS) strategies for anatomic changes that developed during treatment; compression belts were used for motion management. Results: The median duration of treatment was 56 min overall and was significantly shorter using the adapt-to-position (ATP) (median 54 min, range 38–97 min) in comparison with adapt-to-shape (ATS) option (median 80, range 53–235 min). Most patients (77%) experienced self-resolving grade 1–2 acute radiation-induced toxicity; none had grade ≥ 3. Three participants (9%) experienced late grade 1–2 toxicity, potentially attributable to SBRT, with one (3%) experiencing grade 3. Conclusions: We conclude that MR-Linac-based SBRT, supported by online plan adaptation, is a feasible, safe, and highly precise treatment modality for the definitive management of select upper urinary tract lesions.
Clinical Success of Pulpotomies Using Intermediate Restorations and Preformed Metal Crowns in the Context of a Developing Country: A Retrospective Questionnaire-Based Investigation
Authors: Montero-Copoya Ana Luisa , Robles-Bermeo Norma Leticia , Lucas-Rincón Salvador Eduardo , Márquez-Corona María de Lourdes , Guadarrama-Reyes Saraí Carmina , Lovera-Rojas Nayeli , Casanova-Rosado Juan Fernando , Villalobos-Rodelo Juan José , Escoffié-Ramírez Mauricio , Medina-Solís Carlo Eduardo
Published: November 2024

Background: Dental caries is one of the most prevalent dental illnesses in children. Untreated severe caries can damage teeth, requiring pulpotomy to save them. Objective: To evaluate the clinical success rate of treatments involving pulpotomies + IRM (Intermediate Restorative Material, composed of reinforced zinc oxide–eugenol polymers) + preformed metal crowns (PMCs) in primary teeth of children treated at a public university in Mexico. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional ambispective study was conducted on children aged 10 years or younger, treated at a public university in Mexico. A total of 1281 medical records from February 2018 to June 2023 were reviewed, yielding a sample of 199 children treated with pulpotomy + IRM + PMC. Information was collected via telephone interviews with parents/caregivers to inquire about any symptoms following the pulpotomy and metal crown treatments. Success was defined as the absence of pain, inflammation, or infection. Results: During the study period, the number of teeth treated with pulpotomy + IRM + PMC was 414, with follow-ups ranging from 6 to 69 months. Most participants were girls (54.3%), while 45.7% were boys. Out of the 167 pulpotomy + IRM + PMC treatments included in the study, the clinical success rate was 98.2%. Conclusions: The clinical success rate of primary teeth treated with pulpotomy + IRM + PMCs was high, close to 100%, based on evidence and symptom reports from parents/caregivers. It would be beneficial to implement its use in public health institutions in countries such as Mexico.
Improving Prediction Model for Colorimetric Changes Due to Coating Processes with Oil-Based and UV Coatings
Authors: Zjakić Igor , Galić Eduard , Ljevak Ivana , Matijević Mile
Published: November 2024

The measurability and predictability of the printing process are influenced by the impact of various coating methods. Besides enhancing and protecting the printed product, these methods can alter the colorimetric properties of spot colors across different wavelengths. Prediction models based on ink trapping formulas were analyzed, particularly those from Deshpande, Green, and Hoffstadt, designed to forecast colorimetric values in overprinted spot color scenarios. This study examined the influence of coating methods on the colorimetric properties of spot colors and evaluated the applicability of the prediction model for these conditions. Spectrophotometric and densitometric methods, combined with mathematical analysis, were used to quantify the degree of color change induced by different coatings. The findings clearly indicate the extent of colorimetric changes in spot colors resulting from various coating applications. They also highlight the potential, albeit limited, application of this model in predicting color changes for improved process repeatability and predictability. While the prediction method analyzed in this study proved inadequate for coating-over-spot-color scenarios, it remains useful for predicting colorimetric shifts in spot-on-spot-color overprinting. The model demonstrated that it is not entirely accurate, as some coatings show ∆E00 deviations of up to 10. To improve the model’s applicability, a varnishing coefficient, V, should be introduced, which can reduce ∆E00 variation for each color and substrate. The research showed that a coefficient range from 0.8 to 1.2 yields acceptable results, bringing ∆E00 below 2, thus making the model suitable for coating processes with oil-based and UV coatings.
Analysis of Wear Mechanisms Under Cutting Parameters: Influence of Double Layer TiAlN/TiN PVD and TiCN/Al2O3 Chemical Vapor Deposition-Coated Tools on Milling of AISI D2 Steel
Authors: Minquiz Gustavo M. , González-Sierra N. E. , Méndez Javier Flores , Reyes Ana C. Piñón , Moreno Mario Moreno , Morales-Sánchez Alfredo , López José Alberto Luna , Hernandez-Simon Zaira Jocelyn , Carral Claudia Denicia
Published: November 2024

Tool selection is relevant because a wide variety of materials exhibit different machinability behaviors. Tool life during manufacturing is commonly associated with productivity. Insert developers have been using coatings on cutting tools to enhance their performance, with chemical vapor deposition (CVD) and physical vapor deposition (PVD) being the two most used techniques. This study analyzed the cutting tool wear mechanism by machining AISI D2 steel using two different inserts of TiAlN/TiN PVD and TiCN/Al2O3 CVD as layers deposited on a carbide substrate. The two inserts were tested at three different cutting speeds, namely, low, medium, and high; these values were below the data suggested by the supplier catalog. The flank wear and rake face were analyzed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometry (EDX). The adhesion material, edge deformation, and abrasion were the main wear mechanisms before catastrophic damage occurred at the three different cutting speeds in the PVD cutting tool. Nevertheless, increasing the cutting speed reduced the tool life from 84% to 61% at high values compared to the medium values of PVD and CVD, respectively, where the medium value resulted in a balance between the material removal rate and tool life. The wear mechanism of the CVD tool was BUE and chipping; nevertheless, its craters were larger than those of the PVD. Compared to those configured for PVD, the CVD insert demonstrated the ability to machine D2 steel at twice the cutting speed with a workpiece surface roughness of 0.3 µm, in contrast to a variation of 0.6 to 0.15 µm with the PVD tool.
Preparation of Diamond Films with Cracked Textures on Stainless Steel Using W/W-N Film as an Interlayer
Authors: Li Xiao , Shan Yule , Xia Fan , Chen Chengke , Lu Shaohua , Hu Xiaojun
Published: November 2024

The growth of diamond film with texture on stainless steel can significantly improve its wear properties, while conventional methods such as laser etching and ultrasonic vibration superimposed machining suffered from complex processes and extra equipment. Here, we propose a simple new method to prepare textured diamond film on stainless steel without any special apparatus. In this method, a W/W-N interlayer was first deposited on the stainless steel surface, and then the sample with the interlayer was put into a hot filament chemical vapor deposition (HFCVD) chamber to grow diamond films. The interlayer becomes cracked during the warm-up stage due to the large tensile stress formed by the thermal expansion coefficient difference between the interlayer and the steel. Then the deposited diamond films copy the morphology of the interlayer, forming the textured diamond film. The textured diamond film exhibits a small amount of stress, ~3.4 GPa, and greatly improved wear resistance. Our results provide a way to prepare textured diamond films with good wear resistance.
Effects of Copper Content and Thermo-Mechanical Treatment on Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of AlMgSi(Cu) Alloys
Authors: Boczkal Sonia , Korczak Piotr , Żyłka Konrad , Limanówka Kamila , Płonka Bartłomiej , Remsak Krzysztof , Szymański Wojciech , Leśniak Dariusz
Published: November 2024

This study presents the results of research on the influence of different contents of copper in aluminium alloys based on the 6xxx series on mechanical and structural properties. The investigation started with the alloying, and casting four billet variants with different copper content—0.8% Cu; 2B—1% Cu; 3A—1.2% Cu; and 3B—1.4% Cu. The prepared materials were homogenised and extruded on a 500T horizontal press with two different process temperatures and ram speeds ranging from 1 mm/s to 9 mm/s. After heat treating to the T6 and T5 tempers, their mechanical properties were tested. On this basis, the two most promising alloys 2A and 3B were selected and subjected to further tests. After extrusion and heat treatment of the profiles (to F, T1, T2, T5, and T5510), their mechanical properties were determined to select the preferred process parameters. Finally, a structural test based on crystallographic orientation based on the EBSD technique and TEM observations allowed for the characterisation of grain size, dispersoids, and phase analysis. Bright-field (BF) analysis allowed us to compare the deformed areas for T1, T5, and T5510 temperatures. The results showed significant growth in the mechanical properties of all the subjected alloys, and the best properties were shown for a Cu content of 1.4% with a tensile strength of 460 MPa and an elongation of 16% (T5510 tempering). The structural test showed an average grain size of 18 µm to 23 µm and solid solution decomposition differences for different heat-treating parameters.
Impact of Personal Health Records on Diabetes Management: A Propensity Score Matching Study
Authors: Ono Yuriko , Okada Hiroshi , Kitagawa Noriyuki , Majima Saori , Okamura Takuro , Senmaru Takafumi , Ushigome Emi , Nakanishi Naoko , Hamaguchi Masahide , Fukui Michiaki
Published: November 2024

Background: Effective self-management is crucial in diabetes care. This study investigates the impact of Personal Health Records (PHR) on diabetes management and person self-management behaviors. Methods: Retrospective cohort study was conducted involving individuals with diabetes using insulin and prescribed FreeStyle Libre®. Participants were categorized into PHR users and non-users. Key metrics such as HbA1c, Time in Range (TIR), Time above Range (TAR), and body weight were analyzed. Results: Among 212 intermittently scanned continuous glucose monitoring (isCGM) users, 25 individuals used PHR. Comparing 21 individuals using a PHR with 42 matched controls, the TIR significantly increased (ΔTIR 17.2% vs. 1.90%, p = 0.020), and HbA1c levels showed a greater decrease (ΔHbA1c −0.83% vs. −0.22%, p = 0.023). A significant reduction was also observed in TAR among PHR users (ΔTAR −17.6% vs. −1.63%, p = 0.017). There were no significant changes in body weight (ΔBW −0.51 kg vs. −1.60 kg, p = 0.578). Conclusions: PHR systems demonstrate potential in improving diabetes management by enhancing self-management practices and glycemic control. Although the sample size of PHR users was relatively low, PHR should be more widely used. The study underscores the need for further research on PHR’s long-term impact and its applicability in diverse diabetic populations.
Implementation of Mycoplasma genitalium Diagnostics with Macrolide-Resistance Detection Improves Patient Treatment Outcomes in Bulgaria
Authors: Philipova Ivva , Mademova Maria , Birindjieva Elena , Milanova Venelina , Levterova Viktoriya
Published: November 2024

Background/Objectives: The increasing prevalence of Mycoplasma genitalium infections with macrolide-resistance, causing high azithromycin failure rates, is a major concern internationally. In response to this challenge, diagnostics that simultaneously detect M. genitalium and genetic markers for macrolide-resistance enable the therapy to be individually tailored, i.e., to implement resistance-guided therapy (RGT). This study aimed to evaluate patient treatment outcomes of M. genitalium therapy, guided by a macrolide-resistance assay in Bulgaria. Methods: Consecutively referred M. genitalium infection cases (n = 17) were analyzed for macrolide-resistance mutations (MRMs) and specific antimicrobial treatment was recommended accordingly (MRMs-negative infections received azithromycin and MRMs-positive infections received moxifloxacin). The treatment outcome based on test-of-cure was recorded, and the treatment failure rates and time to achieve a microbiological cure were compared to treatment outcomes in patients treated before the implementation of RGT. Results: Among patients given RGT (n = 17), the overall treatment failure rate was 1/17 (5.9%). This was significantly lower than the rate (47.6%) observed in patients treated pre-RGT (p = 0.002). The time to achieve a microbiological cure was 29.4 days (CI 24.5–34.3), compared to 45.2 days (CI 36.5–53.7) pre-RGT (p = 0.001). Conclusions: The implementation of M. genitalium diagnostics with macrolide-resistance detection improved treatment outcomes in Bulgaria, with significantly lower treatment failure rates and reduced time to achieve a microbiological cure. In light of the limited treatment options and concerns about their decreasing efficacy in response to misuse and overuse, a diagnostic macrolide-resistance assay is critical to direct the appropriate first-line treatment, to maintain the efficacy of antimicrobial treatment (antibiotic stewardship) and to minimize the spread of antimicrobial resistance.
MRI-Based Circumferential Strain in Boys with Early Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Liu Zhan-Qiu , Maforo Nyasha G. , Magrath Patrick , Prosper Ashley , Renella Pierangelo , Halnon Nancy , Wu Holden H. , Ennis Daniel B.
Published: November 2024

Background: In boys with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), cardiomyopathy has become the primary cause of death. Although both positive late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) and reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) are late findings in a DMD cohort, LV end-systolic circumferential strain at middle wall (Ecc) serves as a biomarker for detecting early impairment in cardiac function associated with DMD. However, Ecc derived from cine Displacement Encoding with Stimulated Echoes (DENSE) has not been quantified in boys with DMD. We aim to: (1) use cine DENSE to quantify regional Ecc in LGE negative (-) boys with DMD and healthy controls; and (2) compare Ecc with LVEF in terms of differentiating DMD boys with LGE (-) from healthy boys. Methods: 10 LGE (-) boys with DMD and 12 healthy boys were enrolled prospectively in an IRB-approved study for CMR at 3T. Navigator-gated cine DENSE was used to obtain short-axis mid-ventricular data and estimate global and regional Ecc. Group-wise differences were tested via a Wilcoxon rank-sum test. Within-group differences were tested via a Skillings-Mack test followed by pairwise Wilcoxon signed-rank tests. A binomial logistic regression model was adopted to differentiate between DMD boys with LGE (-) and healthy boys. Results: When compared to healthy boys, LGE (-) boys with DMD demonstrated significantly impaired septal Ecc [−0.13 (0.01) vs. −0.16 (0.03), p = 0.019]. In comparison to the Ecc in other segments, both groups of boys exhibited significantly reduced septal Ecc and significantly elevated lateral Ecc. Septal Ecc outperformed LVEF in distinguishing DMD boys with LGE (-) from healthy boys. Conclusions: Reduced septal Ecc may serve as an early indicator of cardiac involvement in LGE (-) DMD boys prior to reduced LVEF and a positive LGE finding.
A Practical Multidisciplinary Approach to Identifying Interstitial Lung Disease in Systemic Autoimmune Rheumatic Diseases: A Clinician’s Narrative Review
Authors: Biciusca Viorel , Rosu Anca , Stan Sorina , Cioboata Ramona , Biciusca Teodora , Balteanu Mara , Florescu Cristina , Camen Georgiana , Cimpeanu Ovidiu , Bumbea Ana , Boldeanu Mihail , Banicioiu-Covei Simona
Published: November 2024

Interstitial lung disease (ILD) is one of the common and potentially lethal manifestations of systemic autoimmune rheumatic diseases (SARDs). ILD’s prevalence, clinical patterns, imaging, and natural history are variable. Each of the representative diseases—systemic sclerosis (SSc), idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIMs), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), Sjӧgren’s syndrome (SjS), mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)—have distinct clinical, paraclinical and evolutionary features. Risk factors with predictive value for ILD have been identified. This review summarizes, from the clinician’s perspective, recent data from the literature regarding the specificity of ILD for each of the autoimmune rheumatic diseases, with an emphasis on the role of the multidisciplinary team in early diagnosis, case management, as well as the particularities of the clinical approach to the progressive phenotype of ILD in SARDs.
Diagnostic and Therapeutic Approaches to Jaw Osteoradionecrosis
Authors: Wang Yufan , Turkstani Heba , Alfaifi Afrah , Akintoye Sunday O.
Published: November 2024

Jaw osteoradionecrosis (ORN) is a major complication of head and neck cancer radiotherapy. Treatment complications account for most of the poor outcomes for head and neck cancers and the associated racial health disparities in cancer survivorship. The global incidence of jaw ORN is improving due to pre-radiotherapy patient preparations and improved head and neck cancer radiotherapy protocols. The diagnosis and management of jaw ORN are based on the patient’s history and clinical presentation combined with radiological and histopathological tests. Evidence-based jaw ORN therapies focus on preventive, palliative, and surgical principles. However, new and innovative therapeutic approaches based on the cellular and molecular pathophysiological processes of jaw ORN and the jawbone’s susceptibility to radiation bone damage are limited. The rationale for this narrative review is to highlight the current diagnostic approaches to jaw ORN and the pathophysiological basis for new therapeutic options for ORN.
Adipokines and Cardiometabolic Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction: A State-of-the-Art Review
Authors: Theodorakis Nikolaos , Kreouzi Magdalini , Hitas Christos , Anagnostou Dimitrios , Nikolaou Maria
Published: November 2024

Background: Cardiometabolic heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is largely driven by obesity-related factors, including adipokines and bioactive peptides primarily secreted by the adipose tissue, such as leptin, adiponectin, and resistin. These molecules link metabolic dysregulation to cardiovascular dysfunction, influencing HFpEF progression and patient outcomes Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted in PubMed up to 20 November 2024, using keywords and MeSH terms, such as “HFpEF”, “adipokines”, “leptin”, “adiponectin”, and “resistin”, yielding 723 results. Boolean operators refined the search, and reference lists of key studies were reviewed. After screening for duplicates and irrelevant studies, 103 articles were included, providing data on adipokines’ roles in HFpEF pathophysiology, biomarkers, and therapeutic implications. Results: Both preclinical and clinical studies have demonstrated that adipokines play a role in modulating cardiovascular function, thereby contributing to the development of cardiometabolic HFpEF. Leptin promotes myocardial hypertrophy, fibrosis, endothelial dysfunction, and inflammation, though contradictory evidence suggests potential cardioprotective roles in subgroups like obese African American women. Adiponectin generally offers protective effects but presents a paradox, where elevated levels may correlate with worse outcomes, which may reflect either a compensatory response to cardiac dysfunction or a maladaptive state characterized by adiponectin resistance. Resistin is associated with increased cardiovascular risk through pro-inflammatory and pro-fibrotic effects, though its role in HFpEF requires further clarification. Other adipokines, like retinol-binding protein 4 and omentin-1, have emerged as potential contributors. Despite growing insights, clinical translation remains limited, underscoring a significant gap between experimental evidence and therapeutic application. Conclusions: Future research should focus on targeted interventions that modulate adipokine pathways to potentially improve HFpEF outcomes. Innovative treatment strategies addressing underlying metabolic disturbances and adipokine dysregulation are essential for advancing the management of this challenging condition.
Enhancing Pain Management and Psychological Recovery in Earthquake Victims: The Role of Continuous Regional Analgesic Techniques Assessed by QoR-15
Authors: Mendes Ergun , Adiyeke Ozal , Sarban Onur , Civan Melih , Altas Okyar , Korucu Alperen , Ozcan Funda Gumus , Oksuz Gozen
Published: November 2024

Background/Objectives: After the earthquakes in Turkey, many citizens were injured, and a long ongoing process requiring physiological and psychological treatments began. The aim of this study was to observe the pain and psychological changes in earthquake victims in light of the QoR-15 score. Methods: After approval by the local ethics committee (Decision No. 2023-194), earthquake victims with catheters in trauma and reconstructive surgery were retrospectively evaluated. Demographic and catheterization data were collected. Baseline, 24 h, 72 h QoR-15 (Quality of Recovery-15), and VAS (Visual Analog Scala) scores were compared for changes over time. Results: A total of 40 catheters were placed in 29 patients (after the exclusion of children, 36 catheters were evaluated in 26 (15 w/11 m) patients). The mean age of the patients was 35.57 ± 13.69 years, and the duration of catheterization was 8 (4.25–12.75) days. An infusion of 0.1% bupivacaine 0.5–1 mg/kg/24 h was started routinely. The QoR-15 scores of the patients at baseline, 24 h, and 72 h were 80.45 ± 17.76, 95.27 ± 15.16, and 101.06 ± 15.52, respectively (p < 0.001). The VAS scores of the patients at baseline, 24 h, and 72 h were 4.61 ± 1.41, 1.79 ± 1.36, and 0.76 ± 0.86, respectively (p < 0.001). Conclusions: In this study, a significant improvement in QoR-15 and VAS scores was achieved as a result of catheter insertion in earthquake victims. Considering that post-traumatic injuries require repeated surgeries and that pain aggravates the existing psychological state, it can be said that catheterization is beneficial.
Analysis of the Sensitivity and Specificity of Histopathological Findings for Diagnosing Lupus Nephritis
Authors: da Luz Neto Epitácio Rafael , Tavares Maria Brandão , de Melo Ana Gabriela de Jesus Torres , dos-Santos Washington L. C. , Malheiros Denise Maria Avancini Costa , Yu Luís
Published: November 2024

Background: Since the introduction of the SLICC criteria in 2012, biopsy-proven lupus nephritis (LN) has been the only independent diagnostic criterion for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). This was reaffirmed by the EULAR/ACR in 2019, emphasizing the importance of renal biopsy in LN. However, the current classification lacks specific histopathological criteria for defining LN. This study describes the histological findings of patients with LN, compares them with those of other glomerular diseases, and evaluates their diagnostic accuracy in a large Latin American population. Methods: This retrospective cohort included 731 kidney biopsies from two distinct academic centers. The patients were divided into two groups as follows: a LN group and a control group comprising patients with membranous nephropathy, IgA nephropathy, membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis, pauci-immune glomerulonephritis, and proliferative glomerulonephritis. Sensitivity and specificity analyses were conducted for various histopathological features. Results: We identified the following five features strongly correlated with LN: mesangial proliferation, subendothelial deposits, C1q staining ≥1+, dominant IgG, and ≥4 positive immunofluorescence elements. Combined, these features yielded an area under the ROC curve of 0.94 (95% CI: 0.91–0.95). These results were validated in a diverse population. In membranous nephropathy, histological features such as mesangial deposits, C1q positivity, and ≥4 positive immunofluorescence elements effectively distinguished class V LN from non-lupus membranous nephropathy, with an area under the ROC curve of 0.85 (95% CI: 0.76–0.93). Conclusions: The combination of mesangial proliferation, subendothelial deposits, C1q staining ≥1+, dominant IgG, and ≥4 positive immunofluorescence elements offer good accuracy for diagnosing renal involvement in SLE in a large Latin American population. In the absence of pathognomonic features, combined criteria are valuable diagnostic tools, particularly when other SLE criteria are lacking.
Changes in the Periodontal Gap After Long-Term Tooth Movement into Augmented Critical-Sized Defects in the Jaws of Beagle Dogs
Authors: Duske Kathrin , Warkentin Mareike , Salbach Anja , Lenz Jan-Hendrik , Stahl Franka
Published: November 2024

Background/Objectives: Extensive and closely coordinated remodeling processes take place in the periodontal ligament (PDL) and the adjacent bone during orthodontic tooth movement. In complex orthodontic cases, it is necessary to move teeth into an augmented bony defect, for example, in patients with cleft lip, alveolus, and palate. The important role of the PDL during tooth movement is well accepted but not fully understood. Therefore, the present study investigated the PDL after 23 weeks of tooth movement into an augmented critical-sized defect. Methods: The second molars of four beagle dogs were moved into a critical-sized defect, which was filled with bovine xenograft or nanocrystalline hydroxyapatite. Autogenous bone served as control. After 23 weeks, histological samples were microscopically analyzed, and the dimension of the PDL was measured. For statistical calculations, a Wilcoxon–Mann–Whitney test was used. Results: The PDL was significantly wider on the tension side compared with the compression side for all replacement materials analyzed (p ≤ 0.05). These results apply to both the mesial and distal roots. Conclusions: The remodeling processes reached equilibrium within 23 weeks, resulting in a wider gap on the tension side, which contrasts with the situation a few days after the initial force application.
Adaptive Sliding Mode Control of Quadrotor System with Elastic Load Connection of Unknown Mass
Authors: Ru Longchao , Liu Jiale , Chen Binqi , Chen Dengnuo , Fan Zeyin
Published: November 2024

During quadrotor load transport, the cable’s elasticity exacerbates load fluctuations, which may result in platform instability or a potential crash. This paper introduced a model of the connecting cable as a spring-damper system and established the dynamic model of the suspension system based on Newton’s law. Nonsingular fast terminal sliding mode control (NFTSMC) was employed for attitude, position, and anti-swing controller design. Adaptive controllers were integrated into altitude control to address uncertainties related to load mass and cable length. The inclusion of an anti-swing controller into the position control loop effectively dampens load oscillations while ensuring accurate position tracking. Numerical simulations demonstrated that the proposed controller outperforms both the energy-based controller and the conventional linear sliding mode controller.
Forgiveness Education in Conflicted Societies: The Lived Experiences of Arab and Jewish Fifth-Grade Children in Israel
Authors: Saban Laiki , Gal Tali , Xu Jiahe Wang , Song Jacqueline Y. , Rapp Hannah , Evans Moon , Lee Danielle , Enright Robert
Published: November 2024

This research examines the subjective experiences of 10–11-year-old students participating in a social-emotional Education Program on Forgiveness and Agape Love (EPFAL) in Israel. The EPFAL is designed to help students acquire a social-emotional tool to help them deal with the wrongs, vulnerabilities, and injustices they will likely experience later in life. The EPFAL took place as part of a larger international research project evaluating the program’s effectiveness in enhancing students’ well-being and improving the class environment in Northern Ireland, Taiwan, and Israel. The present article presents findings from qualitative, semi-structured interviews of forty students and thirteen teachers who participated in the study in Israel and field notes of class observations conducted during data collection for the larger study. A thematic analysis of the findings suggests that students found the EPFAL interesting, enjoyable, and valuable. The participants experienced cognitive, emotional, and behavioral changes, including changes in the perception of forgiveness. They experienced a sense of empowerment and openness, reduced anger and empathy, and learned to talk about their feelings. This study demonstrates how emotional, behavioral, and cognitive transformations promoted by the EPFAL affect children’s relationships with friends and family and improve the classroom atmosphere.
Statistical Analysis of Positioning Errors in Long-Endurance Dual-Axis Rotary Modulation Inertial Navigation System
Authors: Hu Yaojin , Bian Hongwei , Wang Rongying , Wen Zhe , Hu Sha
Published: November 2024

To address the uncertainty in the statistical distribution model of positioning error for the accuracy test of long-endurance inertial navigation systems, a probability distribution model adheres to the statistical rule of the radial positioning error of inertial navigation systems. The probability distribution density function (PDF), cumulative density function (CDF), and characteristic numbers (mean, standard deviation, root-mean-square) of the radial positioning error are derived based on the static-base positioning error of the long-range inertial navigation systems. Methods are provided for estimating the parameters of the probability distribution of the radial positioning errors. The theoretical derivation results demonstrate that the radial positioning error follows the Hoyt distribution. The distribution parameters and the number of features grow linearly with time, while the mean and standard deviation converge to 60% and 80% of the root-mean-square, respectively. Through a large-sample Monte Carlo simulation, the experimental results were consistent with the theoretical derivation results. These results indicate that the theoretical derivation results can be used to optimize the design of the long-endurance rotary modulation inertial navigation system’s accuracy test.
Optimizing Transmit Power for User-Cooperative Backscatter-Assisted NOMA-MEC: A Green IoT Perspective
Authors: He Huaiwen , Zhou Chenghao , Huang Feng , Shen Hong , Yang Yihong
Published: November 2024

Non-orthogonal multiple access (NOMA) enables the parallel offloading of multiuser tasks, effectively enhancing throughput and reducing latency. Backscatter communication, which passively reflects radio frequency (RF) signals, improves energy efficiency and extends the operational lifespan of terminal devices. Both technologies are pivotal for the next generation of wireless networks. However, there is little research focusing on optimizing the transmit power in backscatter-assisted NOMA-MEC systems from a green IoT perspective. In this paper, we aim to minimize the transmit energy consumption of a Hybrid Access Point (HAP) while ensuring task deadlines are met. We consider the integration of Backscatter Communication (BackCom) and Active Transmission (AT), and leverage NOMA technology and user cooperation to mitigate the double near–far effect. Specifically, we formulate a transmit energy consumption minimization problem, accounting for task deadline constraints, task offloading decisions, transmit power allocation, and energy constraints. To tackle the non-convex optimization problem, we employ variable substitution and convex optimization theory to transform the original non-convex problem into a convex one, which is then efficiently solved. We deduce the semi-closed form expression of the optimal solution and propose an energy-efficient algorithm to minimize the transmit power of the entire wireless powered MEC. The extensive simulation results demonstrate that our proposed scheme significantly reduces the HAP transmit power by around 8% compared to existing schemes, validating the effectiveness of our approach. This study provides valuable insights for the design of green IoT systems by optimizing the transmit power in NOMA-MEC networks.
Single Trace Analysis of Visible vs. Invisible Leakage for Comparison-Operation-Based CDT Sampling
Authors: Choi Keon-Hee , Han Jaeseung , Han Dong-Guk
Published: November 2024

The emergence of quantum computers poses a significant threat to the security of conventional public-key cryptosystems, driving the demand for quantum-resistant cryptographic solutions. In response, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) conducted a multi-year competition, ultimately selecting four ciphers. Among these, Falcon employs cumulative distribution table (CDT) sampling, which produces arrays of random values derived from a discrete Gaussian distribution during the signature generation phase. This array is then used with secret key information, forming the core of Falcon. Enhanced variants of Falcon, such as Mitaka, SOLMAE, and Antrag, implemented CDT sampling using comparison operations. Previous research by Choi et al. proposed a single trace analysis and countermeasure for CDT sampling, which exploited a non-constant-time vulnerability in 8-bit AVR microcontrollers. However, this vulnerability is specific to certain environments, and a potential vulnerability in comparison-operation-based constant-time CDT sampling remains unstudied. This paper is an extension of that study. This paper investigates the constant-time operation of comparison-operation-based CDT sampling on Arm Cortex-M4-based chips and proposes a deep learning-based side-channel analysis to recover the sampling values using a novel vulnerability. The proposed model achieves an F1 score of 1.0 and a recovery success rate of 99.97%.
MRT-YOLO: A Fine-Grained Feature-Based Method for Object Detection
Authors: Yan Haoran , Gao Feng , Zhao Jiajia , Zhang Xing
Published: November 2024

Object detection is an essential component of autonomous driving, unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) reconnaissance, and other domains. It equips drones and vehicles with the capability to perceive and comprehend their surrounding environment, making it a crucial technology for achieving safe and reliable autonomous driving as well as UAV spot reconnaissance. This paper proposes an end-to-end, high-precision, multi-scale real-time detection algorithm called MRT-YOLO based on YOLOv8. Firstly, in the feature downsampling process of the backbone network, we extend the channel depth to enhance the model’s learning capability for fine-grained features and thereby improve its performance in retaining feature information. Secondly, we enhance the cross-stage partial layer version 2 (C2f) module in YOLOv8 by incorporating a channel self-attention mechanism within it, which optimizes performance through effective feature interaction and integration. Simultaneously, we also employ an improved bidirectional feature pyramid network (BiFPN) and introduce the proposed multi-scale feature learning (MFL) module to further enhance the model’s feature extraction ability. In this study, we fuse the feature maps (C2, C3, C4, and C5) from the backbone network to generate a new feature map C6, thus increasing cross-connections between low-level and high-level features. Lastly, a multi-scale small object detection structure is designed to enhance recognition sensitivity toward densely distributed small objects. The proposed algorithm’s effectiveness and superiority are demonstrated through experiments conducted on two datasets: VisDrone (UAV vision dataset) and BDD100K (automatic driving dataset).
Advanced Performance Prediction of Triple-Junction Solar Cell Structures Using MATLAB/Simulink Under Variable Conditions
Authors: Kechiche Olfa Bel Hadj Brahim , Sammouda Habib
Published: November 2024

Raising the efficiency of triple-junction cells such as (GaInP/GaInAs/Ge) is an important goal for designing high-concentration photovoltaic systems. This purpose can be achieved by facing cell obstacles and acting on their configurations to sustain under highly concentrated sunlight and high operating temperatures. In this paper, a prediction performance study of triple-junction solar cells with four types of structures is proposed under variable conditions. The results show that the series structure is well-validated with experimental data under standard test conditions and is presented against those under variable conditions. Then, the triple-junction cells are compared and discussed in terms of photovoltaic cell open circuit voltage, photovoltaic cell electrical efficiency, fill factor, and temperature coefficients. Consequently, the results show that the cells can be separated into two categories that are useful for Low Concentration Systems and High Concentration Systems. The Low Concentration Systems present high efficiency at 20 suns. For the High Concentration Systems, the Hybrid 2 type demonstrates an optimal efficiency of 38.48% at 118 suns with a high FF (0.873) and shows a lower temperature coefficient than the series type. So, Hybrid 2 presents a good candidate for high-concentration systems with a performance better than the conventional triple-junction cells.
Thicker or Shorter Bark Fragments of Eucalypt Tree Species Make More Densely Packed Fuel Beds, Which Slow Down Fire Spread
Authors: Zhao Weiwei , Molleman Jasper , Grootemaat Saskia , Dong Ming , Cornelissen Johannes H. C.
Published: November 2024

Many eucalypt trees shed their bark annually. This bark becomes a component of the litter layer, which acts as fuel, especially during surface fires. The amount and quality of shed bark vary greatly among species, which might have important effects on forest surface fire behavior. In this study, we aimed to compare the bark fuel bed flammability of eight eucalypt tree species and tried to link their bark litter traits via the surface fuel bed structure to bark flammability. In controlled laboratory burns, three flammability parameters, the fire spread rate, total burning time, and maximum temperature, were measured. The bark litter traits included length, curliness, thickness, dry matter content, tissue density, carbon content, nitrogen content, and terpene content, while the litter bed packing ratio and packing density were also measured. We found significant differences in bark traits and flammability among species. Thicker bark fragments of the eucalypt tree species had higher packing densities in fuel beds, a slower fire spread, and a longer burning time. This relationship was strongly driven by the thick bark fragments of Eucalyptus punctata DC. Still, also within the other seven species, bark thickness was the strongest predictor of bark fuel bed flammability, with some additional explanatory power for bark length. For the first time, our study demonstrates that bark traits, particularly litter fragment thickness and length, drive bark litter flammability of eucalypt tree species through their effects on bark fuel bed structure. These findings contribute to our understanding and predictive power of wildfire behavior in forest stands dominated by different eucalypt species.