bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Independent Risk Factors of Postoperative Coronal Imbalance after Adult Spinal Deformity Surgery
Authors: Ruffilli Alberto , Barile Francesca , Paolucci Azzurra , Manzetti Marco , Viroli Giovanni , Ialuna Marco , Vita Fabio , Cerasoli Tosca , Faldini Cesare
Published: May 2023

The aim of the present study is to elucidate preoperative risk factors for inadequate correction of coronal imbalance and/or creation of new postoperative coronal imbalance (iatrogenic CIB) in patients who undergo surgery for Adult Spinal Deformity (ASD). A retrospective review of adults who underwent posterior spinal fusion (>5 levels) for ASD was performed. Patients were divided into groups according to the Nanjing classification: type A (CSVL < 3 cm), type B (CSVL > 3 cm and C7 plumb line shifted to major curve concavity), and type C (CSVL > 3 cm and C7 plumb line shifted to major curve convexity). They were also divided according to postoperative coronal balance in balanced (CB) vs. imbalanced (CIB) and according to iatrogenic coronal imbalance (iCIB). Preoperative, postoperative, and last follow-up radiographical parameters and intraoperative data were recorded. A multivariate analysis was performed to identify independent risk factors for CIB. A total of 127 patients were included (85 type A, 30 type B, 12 type C). They all underwent long (average levels fused 13.3 ± 2.7) all-posterior fusion. Type C patients were more at risk of developing postoperative CIB (p = 0.04). Multivariate regression analysis indicated L5 tilt angle as a preoperative risk factor for CIB (p = 0.007) and indicated L5 tilt angle and age as a preoperative independent risk factors for iatrogenic CIB (p = 0.01 and p = 0.008). Patients with a preoperative trunk shift towards the convexity of the main curve (type C) are more prone to postoperative CIB and leveling the L4 and L5 vertebrae is the key to achieve coronal alignment preventing the “takeoff phenomenon”.
Clinical Indicators for Primary Cranial CT Imaging after Mild Traumatic Brain Injury—A Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Sakkas Andreas , Weiß Christel , Ebeling Marcel , Wilde Frank , Pietzka Sebastian , Mohammad Qasim , Thiele Oliver Christian , Mischkowski Robert Andreas
Published: May 2023

The primary aim was to determine the clinical indicators for primary cranial CT imaging in patients after mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI). The secondary aim was to evaluate the need for post-traumatic short-term hospitalization based on primary clinical and CT findings. This was an observational retrospective single-centre study of all the patients who were admitted with mTBI over a five-year period. Demographic and anamnesis data, the clinical and radiological findings, and the outcome were analyzed. An initial cranial CT (CT0) was performed at admission. Repeat CT scans (CT1) were performed after positive CT0 findings and in cases with in-hospital secondary neurological deterioration. Intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) and the patient’s outcome were evaluated using descriptive statistical analysis. A multivariable analysis was performed to find associations between the clinical variables and the pathologic CT findings. A total of 1837 patients (mean age: 70.7 years) with mTBI were included. Acute ICH was detected in 102 patients (5.5%), with a total of 123 intracerebral lesions. In total, 707 (38.4%) patients were admitted for 48 h for in-hospital observation and six patients underwent an immediate neurosurgical intervention. The prevalence of delayed ICH was 0.05%. A Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) of <15, loss of consciousness, amnesia, seizures, cephalgia, somnolence, dizziness, nausea, and clinical signs of fracture were identified as clinical factors with significantly higher risk of acute ICH. None of the 110 CT1 presented clinical relevance. A GCS of <15, loss of consciousness, amnesia, seizures, cephalgia, somnolence, dizziness, nausea, and clinical signs of cranial fractures should be considered absolute indicators for primary cranial CT imaging. The reported incidence of immediate and delayed traumatic ICH was very low and hospitalization should be decided individually considering both the clinical and CT findings.
Migraine, Allergy, and Histamine: Is There a Link?
Authors: Ferretti Alessandro , Gatto Mattia , Velardi Margherita , Di Nardo Giovanni , Foiadelli Thomas , Terrin Gianluca , Cecili Manuela , Raucci Umberto , Valeriani Massimiliano , Parisi Pasquale
Published: May 2023

The relationship between migraines and allergies is controversial. Though they are epidemiologically linked, the underlying pathophysiological connection between them remains unclear. Migraines and allergic disorders have various underlying genetic and biological causes. As per the literature, these conditions are epidemiologically linked, and some common pathophysiological pathways have been hypothesized. The histaminergic system may be the clue to understanding the correlation among these diseases. As a neurotransmitter in the central nervous system with a vasodilatory effect, histamine has a well-documented influence on the allergic response and could be involved in the pathophysiology of migraines. Histamine may influence hypothalamic activity, which may play a major role in migraines or may simply influence their severity. In both cases, antihistamine drugs could prove useful. This review examines whether the histaminergic system, particularly H3 and H4 receptors, may provide a mechanistic link between the pathophysiology of migraines and allergic disorders, two common and debilitating conditions. Identifying their connection could help identify novel therapeutic strategies.
Diagnostic Workup and Outcome in Patients with Profound Hyponatremia
Authors: Isaak Johann , Boesing Maria , Potasso Laura , Lenherr Christoph , Luethi-Corridori Giorgia , Leuppi Joerg D. , Leuppi-Taegtmeyer Anne B.
Published: May 2023

Hyponatremia is the most common electrolyte disorder. A proper diagnosis is important for its successful management, especially in profound hyponatremia. The European hyponatremia guidelines point at sodium and osmolality measurement in plasma and urine, and the clinical evaluation of volume status as the minimum diagnostic workup for the diagnosis of hyponatremia. We aimed to determine compliance with guidelines and to investigate possible associations with patient outcomes. In this retrospective study, we analysed the management of 263 patients hospitalised with profound hyponatremia at a Swiss teaching hospital between October 2019 and March 2021. We compared patients with a complete minimum diagnostic workup (D-Group) to patients without (N-Group). A minimum diagnostic workup was performed in 65.5% of patients and 13.7% did not receive any treatment for hyponatremia or an underlying cause. The twelve-month survival did not show statistically significant differences between the groups (HR 1.1, 95%-CI: 0.58–2.12, p-value 0.680). The chance of receiving treatment for hyponatremia was higher in the D-group vs. N-Group (91.9% vs. 75.8%, p-value < 0.001). A multivariate analysis showed significantly better survival for treated patients compared to not treated (HR 0.37, 95%-CI: 0.17–0.78, p-value 0.009). More efforts should be made to ensure treatment of profound hyponatremia in hospitalised patients.
Differences between Novice and Expert Raters Assessing Trunk Control Using the Trunk Control Measurement Scale Spanish Version (TCMS-S) in Children with Cerebral Palsy
Authors: López-Ruiz Javier , Estrada-Barranco Cecilia , Giménez-Mestre Maria José , Villarroya-Mateos Isabel , Martín-Casas Patricia , López-de-Uralde-Villanueva Ibai
Published: May 2023

The Trunk Control Measurement Scale (TCMS) is a valid and reliable tool to assess static and dynamic trunk control in cerebral palsy. However, there is no evidence informing about differences between novice and expert raters. A cross-sectional study was conducted with participants between the ages of 6 and 18 years with a CP diagnosis. The TCMS Spanish version (TCMS-S) was administered in-person by an expert rater, and video recordings were taken for later scoring by the expert and three other raters with varying levels of clinical experience. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was used to evaluate reliability between raters for the total and subscales of the TCMS-S scores. Standard Error of Measurement (SEM) and Minimal Detectable Change (MDC) were also calculated. There was a high level of agreement between expert raters (ICC ≥ 0.93), while novice raters demonstrated good agreement (ICC > 0.72). Additionally, it was observed that novice raters had a slightly higher SEM and MDC than expert raters. The Selective Movement Control subscale exhibited slightly higher SEM and MDC values compared to the TCMS-S total and other subscales, irrespective of the rater’s level of expertise. Overall, the study showed that the TCMS-S is a reliable tool for evaluating trunk control in the Spanish pediatric population with cerebral palsy, regardless of the rater’s experience level.
Unusual Micro Carbon Rods Formed from PET Plastic via Pyrolysis and Annealing in CO2/He Co-Gas
Authors: Zhou Yi’en , Hong Liang
Published: May 2023

This study investigates the transformation of activated carbon (AC) powder, derived from polyethylene terephthalate (PET) through pyrolysis, into a specific type of short cylindrical carbon. This carbon-to-carbon (C-C) transformation was completed by annealing the AC powder in a co-gas atmosphere of He and CO2. This produces low-porous, amorphous, and micro carbon rods (MCR) in micron size. It is suggested that a so-far unknown growth mechanism originates from the oxidation role of CO2, initiating the curving of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) sheets. This annealing step was followed by layer-by-layer sheet stacking steps to render the thick rods. This thickness is also created by the simultaneous occurrence of rare carbon nanotubes, supposedly formed initially from curling a small sheet of PAH surrounding carbon nanoparticles to create a tube template for subsequent cylindrical growth. This is the first example of CNT growth through C-C transformation rather than the other vapor deposition routes. As the main product, MCR is amorphous and fairly porous, with an average aspect ratio greater than 10, which possesses potential applications as a mechanical reinforcing or energy-attenuation filler for different composites.
Determination of the Cutting-Edge Microgeometry Based on Process Forces during Peripheral Milling of Ti-6Al-4V Using Machine Learning
Authors: Wimmer Matthias , Hartl Roman , Zaeh Michael F.
Published: May 2023

The residual stress state of the machined sub-surface influences the service quality indicators of a component, such as fatigue life, tribological properties, and distortion. During machining, the radius of the cutting edge changes due to tool wear. The cutting-edge rounding significantly affects the residual stress state in the part and the occurring process forces. This paper presents a tool wear prediction model based on in-process measured cutting forces. The effects of the cutting-edge geometry on the force behavior and the machining-induced residual stresses were examined experimentally. The resulting database was used to realize a Machine Learning algorithm to calculate the hidden value of tool wear. The predictions were validated by milling experiments using rounded cutting edges for different process parameters. The microgeometry of the cutting edge could be determined with a Root Mean Square Error of 8.94 μm.
An Anatomy of Fungal Eye: Fungal Photoreceptors and Signalling Mechanisms
Authors: Bayram Özlem Sarikaya , Bayram Özgür
Published: May 2023

Organisms have developed different features to capture or sense sunlight. Vertebrates have evolved specialized organs (eyes) which contain a variety of photosensor cells that help them to see the light to aid orientation. Opsins are major photoreceptors found in the vertebrate eye. Fungi, with more than five million estimated members, represent an important clade of living organisms which have important functions for the sustainability of life on our planet. Light signalling regulates a range of developmental and metabolic processes including asexual sporulation, sexual fruit body formation, pigment and carotenoid production and even production of secondary metabolites. Fungi have adopted three groups of photoreceptors: (I) blue light receptors, White Collars, vivid, cryptochromes, blue F proteins and DNA photolyases, (II) red light sensors, phytochromes and (III) green light sensors and microbial rhodopsins. Most mechanistic data were elucidated on the roles of the White Collar Complex (WCC) and the phytochromes in the fungal kingdom. The WCC acts as both photoreceptor and transcription factor by binding to target genes, whereas the phytochrome initiates a cascade of signalling by using mitogen-activated protein kinases to elicit its cellular responses. Although the mechanism of photoreception has been studied in great detail, fungal photoreception has not been compared with vertebrate vision. Therefore, this review will mainly focus on mechanistic findings derived from two model organisms, namely Aspergillus nidulans and Neurospora crassa and comparison of some mechanisms with vertebrate vision. Our focus will be on the way light signalling is translated into changes in gene expression, which influences morphogenesis and metabolism in fungi.
Ligand-Gated Ion Channels: Prognostic and Therapeutic Implications for Gliomas
Authors: Hey Grace , Rao Rohan , Carter Ashley , Reddy Akshay , Valle Daisy , Patel Anjali , Patel Drashti , Lucke-Wold Brandon , Pomeranz Krummel Daniel , Sengupta Soma
Published: May 2023

Gliomas are common primary brain malignancies that remain difficult to treat due to their overall aggressiveness and heterogeneity. Although a variety of therapeutic strategies have been employed for the treatment of gliomas, there is increasing evidence that suggests ligand-gated ion channels (LGICs) can serve as a valuable biomarker and diagnostic tool in the pathogenesis of gliomas. Various LGICs, including P2X, SYT16, and PANX2, have the potential to become altered in the pathogenesis of glioma, which can disrupt the homeostatic activity of neurons, microglia, and astrocytes, further exacerbating the symptoms and progression of glioma. Consequently, LGICs, including purinoceptors, glutamate-gated receptors, and Cys-loop receptors, have been targeted in clinical trials for their potential therapeutic benefit in the diagnosis and treatment of gliomas. In this review, we discuss the role of LGICs in the pathogenesis of glioma, including genetic factors and the effect of altered LGIC activity on the biological functioning of neuronal cells. Additionally, we discuss current and emerging investigations regarding the use of LGICs as a clinical target and potential therapeutic for gliomas.
Morphological Variation of the Mandible in the Orthognathic Population—A Morphological Study Using Statistical Shape Modelling
Authors: van der Wel Hylke , Qiu Bingjiang , Spijkervet Fred K. L. , Jansma Johan , Schepers Rutger H. , Kraeima Joep
Published: May 2023

The aim of this study was to investigate the value of 3D Statistical Shape Modelling for orthognathic surgery planning. The goal was to objectify shape variations in the orthognathic population and differences between male and female patients by means of a statistical shape modelling method. Pre-operative CBCT scans of patients for whom 3D Virtual Surgical Plans (3D VSP) were developed at the University Medical Center Groningen between 2019 and 2020 were included. Automatic segmentation algorithms were used to create 3D models of the mandibles, and the statistical shape model was built through principal component analysis. Unpaired t-tests were performed to compare the principal components of the male and female models. A total of 194 patients (130 females and 64 males) were included. The mandibular shape could be visually described by the first five principal components: (1) The height of the mandibular ramus and condyles, (2) the variation in the gonial angle of the mandible, (3) the width of the ramus and the anterior/posterior projection of the chin, (4) the lateral projection of the mandible’s angle, and (5) the lateral slope of the ramus and the inter-condylar distance. The statistical test showed significant differences between male and female mandibular shapes in 10 principal components. This study demonstrates the feasibility of using statistical shape modelling to inform physicians about mandible shape variations and relevant differences between male and female mandibles. The information obtained from this study could be used to quantify masculine and feminine mandibular shape aspects and to improve surgical planning for mandibular shape manipulations.
ICT Implications for a Pilot Water Treatment Plant Using Simulation Modeling
Authors: Afridi Waqas Ahmed Khan , Mukhopadhyay Subhas Chandra
Published: May 2023

The current work is an illustration of an empirical investigation conducted on a pharmaceutical water treatment plant that subsequently proposes potential ICT implications for optimizing the plant’s conventional operating procedures and improving production efficiency. Typically, the pilot plant incorporates a standard infrastructure for maintaining quality and production goals. In the study, a schematic of the reverse osmosis section of the pilot treatment plant was developed. A mathematical modeling and process simulation approach was adopted to carry out the linear process investigation and validation of key performance parameters. The study’s findings reveal that the performance and lifecycle of the RO treatment unit are primarily determined via the structured pre-treatment filtering procedures, including critical parameters such as volumetric flowrate, solute concentrations, and differential pressure across the membrane. These operational parameters were also found to be instrumental in increasing plant production and improving equipment efficiency. Based on our results, the study proposes cost-effective ICT implications for plant managers through which pilot organization can substantially save on their annual water and energy consumption.
Predictions of Land Use/Land Cover Change and Landscape Pattern Analysis in the Lower Reaches of the Tarim River, China
Authors: Wang Shanshan , Zuo Qiting , Zhou Kefa , Wang Jinlin , Wang Wei
Published: May 2023

Natural vegetation on both sides of the Tarim River Basin (TRB) is the only barrier—a critical ecological niche—between the economic belt in the artificial oasis and the Taklimakan Desert. To understand the impact of human activities on the TRB, we explored the spatial and temporal variations in land use/land cover change (LUCC) and landscape pattern evolution from 2000 to 2020. These variations were simulated for 2030 with the 20 years of data using the cellular automata–Markov model and geographical information system analyses. The results predicted substantial LUCCs in the lower reaches of the Tarim River (TRlr), with 3400 km2 (20.29%) of the total area (16,760.94 km2) undergoing changes. Wetland, artificial land, grassland, farmland, and forestland areas increased by 578.59, 43.90, 339.90, 201.62, and 536.11 km2, respectively, during the period from 2020 to 2030. The only decreases were in the Gobi/other deserts and bare soils (1700.13 km2). We also determined current and future changes in TRlr landscape pattern indices at the class and landscape levels. Combined with a field survey and hydrological data, theoretical support for effective land use management strategies is provided. The findings offer a scientific basis for future ecological civilization construction and sustainable development in the TRB.
Investigating Near-Surface Hydrologic Connectivity in a Grass-Covered Inter-Row Area of a Hillslope Vineyard Using Field Monitoring and Numerical Simulations
Authors: Krevh Vedran , Filipović Lana , Defterdarović Jasmina , Bogunović Igor , Zhang Yonggen , Kovač Zoran , Barton Andrew , Filipović Vilim
Published: May 2023

The interplay of surface and shallow subsurface fluxes plays a critical role in controlling water movement in hillslope agroecosystems and impacting soil and plant health during prolonged dry periods, demonstrating a need for in-field monitoring. This study was conducted for two years (2021–2022) by combining field monitoring of the grass-covered inter-row area (passive wick lysimeter, surface runoff, and meteorological data), laboratory determination of soil hydraulic properties (SHPs), and numerical modeling with the aim to explore near-surface fluxes at the SUPREHILL Critical Zone Observatory (CZO) located on a hillslope vineyard. Additionally, sensitivity analysis for basic root water uptake (RWU) parameters was conducted. The model was evaluated (R2, RMSE, and NSE) with lysimeter (hillslope) and runoff (footslope) data, producing good agreement, but only after the inverse optimization of laboratory estimated hydraulic conductivity was conducted, demonstrating that adequate parameterization is required to capture the hydropedological response of erosion-affected soil systems. Results exhibit the dependence of runoff generation on hydraulic conductivity, rainfall, and soil moisture conditions. The data suggest different soil-rewetting scenarios based on temporal rainfall variability. Sensitivity analysis demonstrated that Leaf Area Index (LAI) was the most responsive parameter determining the RWU. The study offers an approach for the investigation of fluxes in the topsoil for similar sites and/or crops (and covers), presenting the methodology of self-constructed soil–water collection instruments.
Aboriginal Community Views about a Native Plant-Based Enterprise Development in Northern Australia
Authors: Gorman Julian , Ennis Gretchen , Wurm Penelope , Bentivoglio Melissa , Brady Chris
Published: May 2023

As global populations rapidly increase, there is a need to maintain sustainable landscapes through innovative agricultural systems and practices that continue to work towards addressing Sustainable Development Goal 2, Zero Hunger. Indigenous people around the world seek culturally appropriate and sustainable livelihood opportunities to improve their socioeconomic status, and there is a rich diversity of existing globally important agricultural heritage systems that have been developed by Indigenous cultures over millennia. Wild harvest of plant products is an innovative agricultural practice which has been conducted by Aboriginal Australians for thousands of years and is a more acceptable form of agriculture on Aboriginal land than more intensive forms, such as horticulture. Wild harvest is typically more culturally appropriate, less intensive, and involves less impact. However, enterprise development programs in Aboriginal communities across Northern Australia have historically had very limited economic success. Such communities often experience high welfare dependency and few economic development opportunities. This research takes a case study approach to explore community views about the development of an Aboriginal plant-based enterprise in the Northern Territory, Australia. We used qualitative methods to engage with community members about their experiences, current attitudes, and future aspirations towards the Enterprise. We found that there was broad support from across all sectors of the community for the Enterprise and clear understanding of its monetary and non-monetary benefits. However, there was limited knowledge of, and involvement in, the business beyond the role of provider and producer, and of the governance aspects of the Enterprise. Using this case study as our focus, we advocate for deeper understanding and stronger inclusion of community aspirations, realities, and perspectives on Aboriginal economic development. Cultural values and knowledge need to inform business development. Additionally, there is a need to invest in basic infrastructure to account for the low base of private asset ownership in this context. A holistic, multifunctional landscape approach is required to support sustainable agricultural practices on Aboriginal lands across Northern Australia.
The Role of Acute Rehabilitation during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Retrospective Study in the Czech Republic
Authors: Guřan Zdeněk , Pastucha Dalibor , Sněhotová Zuzana , Honzíková Lucie , Maďar Rastislav , Tomášková Hana
Published: May 2023

In this retrospective study, we used data from the hospital information system (HIS) to evaluate the influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on rehabilitation care at the University Hospital of Ostrava (UHO). From March 2020 to December 2021, 5173 COVID-19 cases were hospitalized at UHO. Cases within individual groups and categories are shown in a flowchart. The average patient age was 64.9 ± 16.9 years. The mean BMI value was 30.6 ± 6.8 in the rehabilitated group, which was significantly higher compared to that among the non-rehabilitated cases 29.1 ± 6.9 (p < 0.001). Among the admitted patients, 16.6% required artificial pulmonary ventilation (APV), 1.8% extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), and 11.9% high-flow oxygenation (HF). The days of rehabilitation ranged from 1–102 days. Among all rehabilitated patients, 92.0% (n = 1302) had a hospitalization duration ranging from 1–15 days and 8.0% (n = 114) longer than 15 days. Overall, rehabilitation care plays an important role in providing exercise, mobilization, and rehabilitation interventions to survivors of critical illness associated with COVID-19, enabling the early and functional return to home, and it must, therefore, be integrated into the clinical care of patients with COVID-19.
Galactic Cosmic Irradiation Alters Acute and Delayed Species-Typical Behavior in Male and Female Mice
Authors: Puukila Stephanie , Siu Olivia , Rubinstein Linda , Tahimic Candice G. T. , Lowe Moniece , Tabares Ruiz Steffy , Korostenskij Ivan , Semel Maya , Iyer Janani , Mhatre Siddhita D. , Shirazi-Fard Yasaman , Alwood Joshua S. , Paul Amber M. , Ronca April E.
Published: May 2023

Exposure to space galactic cosmic radiation is a principal consideration for deep space missions. While the effects of space irradiation on the nervous system are not fully known, studies in animal models have shown that exposure to ionizing radiation can cause neuronal damage and lead to downstream cognitive and behavioral deficits. Cognitive health implications put humans and missions at risk, and with the upcoming Artemis missions in which female crew will play a major role, advance critical analysis of the neurological and performance responses of male and female rodents to space radiation is vital. Here, we tested the hypothesis that simulated Galactic Cosmic Radiation (GCRSim) exposure disrupts species-typical behavior in mice, including burrowing, rearing, grooming, and nest-building that depend upon hippocampal and medial prefrontal cortex circuitry. Behavior comprises a remarkably well-integrated representation of the biology of the whole animal that informs overall neural and physiological status, revealing functional impairment. We conducted a systematic dose-response analysis of mature (6-month-old) male and female mice exposed to either 5, 15, or 50 cGy 5-ion GCRSim (H, Si, He, O, Fe) at the NASA Space Radiation Laboratory (NSRL). Behavioral performance was evaluated at 72 h (acute) and 91-days (delayed) postradiation exposure. Specifically, species-typical behavior patterns comprising burrowing, rearing, and grooming as well as nest building were analyzed. A Neuroscore test battery (spontaneous activity, proprioception, vibrissae touch, limb symmetry, lateral turning, forelimb outstretching, and climbing) was performed at the acute timepoint to investigate early sensorimotor deficits postirradiation exposure. Nest construction, a measure of neurological and organizational function in rodents, was evaluated using a five-stage Likert scale ‘Deacon’ score that ranged from 1 (a low score where the Nestlet is untouched) to 5 (a high score where the Nestlet is completely shredded and shaped into a nest). Differential acute responses were observed in females relative to males with respect to species-typical behavior following 15 cGy exposure while delayed responses were observed in female grooming following 50 cGy exposure. Significant sex differences were observed at both timepoints in nest building. No deficits in sensorimotor behavior were observed via the Neuroscore. This study revealed subtle, sexually dimorphic GCRSim exposure effects on mouse behavior. Our analysis provides a clearer understanding of GCR dose effects on species typical, sensorimotor and organizational behaviors at acute and delayed timeframes postirradiation, thereby setting the stage for the identification of underlying cellular and molecular events.
Association of Low Arousal Threshold Obstructive Sleep Apnea Manifestations with Body Fat and Water Distribution
Authors: Hsu Wen-Hua , Yang Cheng-Chang , Tsai Cheng-Yu , Majumdar Arnab , Lee Kang-Yun , Feng Po-Hao , Tseng Chien-Hua , Chen Kuan-Yuan , Kang Jiunn-Horng , Lee Hsin-Chien , Wu Cheng-Jung , Kuan Yi-Chun , Liu Wen-Te
Published: May 2023

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) with a low arousal threshold (low-ArTH) phenotype can cause minor respiratory events that exacerbate sleep fragmentation. Although anthropometric features may affect the risk of low-ArTH OSA, the associations and underlying mechanisms require further investigation. This study investigated the relationships of body fat and water distribution with polysomnography parameters by using data from a sleep center database. The derived data were classified as those for low-ArTH in accordance with criteria that considered oximetry and the frequency and type fraction of respiratory events and analyzed using mean comparison and regression approaches. The low-ArTH group members (n = 1850) were significantly older and had a higher visceral fat level, body fat percentage, trunk-to-limb fat ratio, and extracellular-to-intracellular (E–I) water ratio compared with the non-OSA group members (n = 368). Significant associations of body fat percentage (odds ratio [OR]: 1.58, 95% confident interval [CI]: 1.08 to 2.3, p < 0.05), trunk-to-limb fat ratio (OR: 1.22, 95% CI: 1.04 to 1.43, p < 0.05), and E–I water ratio (OR: 1.32, 95% CI: 1.08 to 1.62, p < 0.01) with the risk of low-ArTH OSA were noted after adjustments for sex, age, and body mass index. These observations suggest that increased truncal adiposity and extracellular water are associated with a higher risk of low-ArTH OSA.
Biologic Therapies Decrease Disease Severity and Improve Depression and Anxiety Symptoms in Psoriasis Patients
Authors: Timis Teodora-Larisa , Beni Lehel , Mocan Teodora , Florian Ioan-Alexandru , Orasan Remus-Ioan
Published: May 2023

Background: Psoriasis is an immune-mediated chronic skin disease that is associated with a significant psychological burden. A newer line of therapy is represented by biologic agents. Our study aimed to evaluate the effect of biologic therapies in the treatment of psoriasis concerning both disease severity and psychological comorbidity. Material and Methods: We performed a prospective case-control comparison to evaluate the prevalence of depression and anxiety in psoriasis patients and unaffected individuals. All patients were recruited between October 2017 and February 2021. Baseline depression (PHQ-9), anxiety (GAD-7), PASI, and DLQI scores were noted. Then, we evaluated the efficacy of biologic treatment in reducing these scores at 6 months of therapy. Patients were treated with either ixekizumab, secukinumab, guselkumab, certolizumab, ustekinumab, risankizumab, or adalimumab. Results: 106 bio-naïve patients with psoriasis and 106 controls without the disease were included in this study. Depression and anxiety were significantly more common among psoriasis patients than in unaffected individuals (p < 0.0001). Female patients presented both depression and anxiety more frequently than men in both case and control groups. Disease severity was significantly associated with worsened depression and anxiety symptoms. Biologic therapy resulted in a significant decrease in all four scores at the 6-month mark for each patient (p < 0.0001). Only an improved PASI correlated significantly with lower depression and anxiety scores (p < 0.005), whereas a decreased DLQI did not (p > 0.955). None of the seven biologic agents used was discovered to be superior. Conclusion: biologic therapies are effective in decreasing both disease severity and alleviating depression and anxiety symptoms in psoriasis.
Interfacial Enhancement by CNTs Grafting towards High-Performance Mechanical Properties of Carbon Fiber-Reinforced Epoxy Composites
Authors: Zhang Wei , Dai Mingfeng , Liang Xin , Wang Xi , Wei Wei , Zhou Zuowan
Published: May 2023

The problem of interfacial interaction between carbon fiber (CF) and the matrix is the key to the failure of CF-reinforced plastic (CFRP). A general strategy to enhance interfacial connections is to create covalent bonds between the components, but this usually reduces the toughness of the composite material, which in turn limits the range of applications of the composite. In this study, carbon nanotubes (CNTs) were grafted onto the CF surface using the molecular layer bridging effect of the dual coupling agent to prepare multi-scale reinforcements, which significantly improved the roughness and chemical activity of the CF surface. By introducing a transition layer structure between the carbon fibers and the epoxy resin matrix to moderate the large modulus and scale differences between them, the interfacial interaction was improved while enhancing the strength and toughness of CFRP. We used amine-cured bisphenol A-based epoxy resin (E44) as the matrix resin and prepared the composites by the hand-paste method and performed tensile tests on the prepared composites, which showed that, compared with the original CF-reinforced composites, the modified composites showed an increase in tensile strength, Young’s modulus and elongation at break by 40.5%, 66.3% and 41.9%, respectively.
Preparation and Application of pH-Sensitive Film Containing Anthocyanins Extracted from Lycium ruthenicum Murr.
Authors: Zhao Yucong , Gao Le , Wang Jing , Xue Ziyan , Zhang Mengyao , Ma Xueli , Wang Guohua , Lv Shenghua
Published: May 2023

A new pH-sensitive film was developed using Artemisia sphaerocephala Krasch. gum (ASKG), soybean protein isolate (SPI), and natural anthocyanin extracted from Lycium ruthenicum Murr. The film was prepared by adsorbing anthocyanins dissolved in an acidified alcohol solution on a solid matrix. ASKG and SPI were used as the solid matrix for the immobilization of the Lycium ruthenicum Murr. anthocyanin extract, which was absorbed into the film as a natural dye using the facile-dip method. Regarding the mechanical properties of the pH-sensitive film, the tensile strength (TS) values increased approximately 2–5-fold, but the elongation at break (EB) values decreased significantly by about 60% to 95%. With the increase in anthocyanin concentration, the oxygen permeability (OP) values first decreased by about 85%, and then increased by about 364%. The water vapor permeability (WVP) values increased by about 63%, and then decreased by about 20%. Colorimetric analysis of the films revealed variations in color at different pH values (pH 2.0–10.0). Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectra and XRD patterns indicated compatibility among ASKG, SPI, and anthocyanin extracts. In addition, an application test was conducted to establish a correlation between film color change and carp meat spoilage. At storage temperatures of 25 °C and 4 °C, when the meat was totally spoiled, the TVB-N values reached 99.80 ± 2.53 mg/100 g and 58.75 ± 1.49 mg/100 g, and the film’s color changed from red to light brown and from red to yellowish green, respectively. Therefore, this pH-sensitive film could be used as an indicator to monitor the freshness of meat during storage.
Bond-Slip Performances of Ultra-High Performance Concrete Steel Tube Columns Made of a Large-Diameter Steel Tube with Internally Welded Steel Bars
Authors: Deng Nianchun , Zhao He , Yao Dunrong , Tang Zhiyu
Published: May 2023

Large-diameter concrete-filled steel tube (CFST) members are being increasingly utilised owing to their ability to carry larger loads and resist bending. Upon incorporating ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) into steel tubes, the resulting composite structures are lighter in weight and much stronger than conventional CFSTs. The interfacial bond between the steel tube and UHPC is crucial for the two materials to effectively work together. This study aimed to investigate the bond-slip performance of large-diameter UHPC steel tube columns and the effect of internally welded steel bars in steel tubes on the interfacial bond-slip performance between the steel tubes and UHPC. Five large-diameter UHPC-filled steel tube columns (UHPC-FSTCs) were fabricated. The interiors of the steel tubes were welded to steel rings, spiral bars, and other structures and filled with UHPC. The effects of different construction measures on the interfacial bond-slip performance of UHPC-FSTCs were analysed through push-out tests, and a method for calculating the ultimate shear bearing capacities of the interfaces between steel tubes containing welded steel bars and UHPC was proposed. The force damage to UHPC-FSTCs was simulated by establishing a finite element model using ABAQUS. The results indicate that the use of welded steel bars in steel tubes can considerably improve the bond strength and energy dissipation capacity of the UHPC–FSTC interface. R2 exhibited the most effective constructional measures, resulting in a significant increase in ultimate shear bearing capacity by a factor of approximately 50 and energy dissipation capacity by a factor of approximately 30 compared to R0 without any constructional measures. The load-slip curve and ultimate bond strength obtained from finite element analysis and the interface ultimate shear bearing capacities of the UHPC-FSTCs obtained using the calculation method agreed well with the test results. Our results provide a reference for future research on the mechanical properties of UHPC-FSTCs and their engineering applications.
Fabricated High-Strength, Low-Elastic Modulus Biomedical Ti-24Nb-4Zr-8Sn Alloy via Powder Metallurgy
Authors: Guo Amy X. Y. , Cao Bin , Wang Zihan , Ma Xiao , Cao Shan Cecilia
Published: May 2023

With the huge demands of an aging society, it is urgent to develop a new generation of non-toxic titanium alloy to match the modulus of human bone. Here, we prepared bulk Ti2448 alloys by powder metallurgy technology, and focused on the influence of the sintering process on the porosity, phase composition, and mechanical properties of the initial sintered samples. Furthermore, we performed solution treatment on the samples under different sintering parameters to further adjust the microstructure and phase composition, so as to achieve strength enhancement and reduction of Young’s modulus. Solution treatment can effectively inhibit the continuous α phase precipitated along the grain boundaries of the β matrix, which is beneficial to the fracture resistance. Therefore, the water-quenched sample exhibits good mechanical properties due to the absence of acicular α-phase. Samples sintered at 1400 °C and subsequently water quenched have excellent comprehensive mechanical properties, which benefit from high porosity and the smaller feature size of microstructure. To be specific, the compressive yield stress is 1100 MPa, the strain at fracture is 17.5%, and the Young’s modulus is 44 GPa, which are more applicable to orthopedic implants. Finally, the relatively mature sintering and solution treatment process parameters were screened out for reference in actual production.
Study of Forming Performance and Characterization of DLP 3D Printed Parts
Authors: Jiang Ting , Yan Bo , Jiang Minzheng , Xu Buguang , Gao Sheng , Xu Yi , Yu Yueqiang , Ma Tingang , Qin Tao
Published: May 2023

In order to explore the effect of printing parameter configurations on the forming performance of Digital Light Processing (DLP) 3D printed samples, printing experiments were carried out on the enhanced adhesion and efficient demolding of DLP 3D printing devices. The molding accuracy and mechanical properties of the printed samples with different thickness configurations were tested. The test results show that when the layer thickness increases from 0.02 mm to 0.22 mm, the dimensional accuracy in the X and Y directions increases first and then decreases, while the dimensional accuracy in the Z direction decreases, and the dimensional accuracy is the highest when the layer thickness is 0.1 mm. The mechanical properties of the samples decline with an increasing layer thickness of the samples. The mechanical properties of the 0.08 mm layer thickness are the best, and the tensile, bending, and impact properties are 22.86 Mpa, 48.4 Mpa, and 35.467 KJ/m2, respectively. Under the condition of ensuring molding accuracy, the optimal layer thickness of the printing device is determined to be 0.1 mm. The analysis of the section morphology of samples with different thicknesses illustrates that the fracture of the sample is a river-like brittle fracture, and there are no defects such as pores in the section of samples.
Structural Aspects of the Formation of Multilayer Composites from Dissimilar Materials upon High-Pressure Torsion
Authors: Sundeev Roman , Shalimova Anna , Rogachev Stanislav , Chernogorova Olga , Glezer Alexander , Ovcharov Alexey , Karateev Igor , Tabachkova Natalia
Published: May 2023

A multi-metal composite was consolidated from the Ti50Ni25Cu25 and Fe50Ni33B17 alloys by room-temperature high-pressure torsion (HPT). The structural research methods used in this study were X-ray diffractometry, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy with an electron microprobe analyzer in the mode of backscattered electrons, and the measurement of indentation hardness and modulus of the composite constituents. The structural aspects of the bonding process have been examined. The method of joining materials using their coupled severe plastic deformation has been established to play a leading role in the consolidation of the dissimilar layers upon HPT.
Enhanced Mechanical and Hydrophobic Antireflective Nanocoatings Fabricated on Polycarbonate Substrates by Combined Treatment of Water and HMDS Vapor
Authors: Yan Yao , Liu Jia , Zhang Bing , Xia Ruohan , Zhang Yuqi , Guan Zisheng
Published: May 2023

Polycarbonate (PC) with high transmittance, stable mechanical performance and environmental resistance is crucial for practical applications. In this work, we report a method for the preparation of a robust antireflective (AR) coating by a simple dip-coating process of a mixed ethanol suspension consisting of tetraethoxysilane (TEOS) base-catalyzed silica nanoparticles (SNs) and acid-catalyzed silica sol (ACSS). ACSS greatly improved the adhesion and durability of the coating, and the AR coating exhibited high transmittance and mechanical stability. Water and hexamethyldisilazane (HMDS) vapor treatment were further employed to improve the hydrophobicity of the AR coating. The as-prepared coating exhibited excellent antireflective properties, with an average transmittance of 96.06% in the wavelength range of 400 to 1000 nm, which is 7.55% higher than the bare PC substrate. After sand and water droplet impact tests, the AR coating still maintained enhanced transmittance and hydrophobicity. Our method shows a potential application for the preparation of hydrophobic AR coatings on a PC substrate.
Leading-Edge Erosion and Floating Particles: Stagnation Point Simulation in Particle-Laden Turbulent Flow via Lagrangian Particle Tracking
Authors: Hassanian Reza , Riedel Morris
Published: May 2023

Since the stagnation point is subject to straining motion, this 3D experiment is an effort to simulate the stagnation plane, which applies to studying the particle erosion in rotary machine blades, such as wind turbines, gas turbines, and compressors. Wind turbine blade erosion, caused by particles such as sand, ice, insects, raindrops, and snowflakes, can significantly impact turbine efficiency, as with other rotary machines. Previous research has indicated that flow geometry and gravity can influence particle dynamics statistics. The current study’s laboratory experiment simulates the airfoil’s stagnation plane to investigate how floating particles cause erosion. The experiment involves seeding tracers and inertial particles in a strained turbulent flow with specific turbulent intensity, strain rate, and the presence of gravity. It is conducted on initially homogeneous turbulence undergoing a sudden axisymmetric expansion. The flow was generated in 100<Reλ<160. The Lagrangian particle tracking technique based on the 4-frame best estimate method was employed to measure the velocity field. The obtained results are with two different mean strain rates and Reynolds–Taylor microscales in the presence of gravity, which has not been considered in most numerical studies in a particle-laden turbulent flow. It provides a transparent window to investigate how particles of different sizes with distinct strain rates flow and their relationship to the turbulence intensity affects the erosion. Two most important issues are observed in the presence of gravity: Increasing the turbulence intensity from Reλ=100 to 160 led to a 10–23% increase in the erosion ratio, depending on the particle type and the flow strain rate. Likewise, a doubled mean strain rate of the flow (caused by deformation/shear flow) resulted in a 3–10% increase in erosion, depending on the particle type and Reynolds number. Moreover, the influence of gravity could potentially play a significant role in this observation.
A Distributed Algorithm for the Assignment of the Laplacian Spectrum for Path Graphs
Authors: Parlangeli Gianfranco
Published: May 2023

In this paper, we bring forward a distributed algorithm for the assignment of a prescribed Laplacian spectrum for path graphs by means of asymmetric weight assignment. We first describe the meaningfulness and the relevance of this mathematical setting in modern technological applications, and some examples are reported, revealing its practical usefulness in a variety of applications. Then, the solution is derived both theoretically and through an algorithm. Special attention is devoted to a distributed implementation of the main algorithm, which is a valuable feature for several modern applications. Finally, the positivity is discussed, which is revealed to be a consequence of the strict interlacing property.
Some Conformal Transformations on Finsler Warped Product Manifolds
Authors: Ren Yuze , Zhang Xiaoling , Zhao Lili
Published: May 2023

The conformal transformation, which preserves Einstein metrics on Finsler warped product manifolds, is studied in this paper. We obtain sufficient and necessary conditions of a conformal transformation preserving Einstein metrics. In addition, we provide nontrivial examples of conformal transformations. Furthermore, we completely classify Einstein Riemannian warped product metrics and obtain the existence of a nontrivial conformal transformation that preserves Einstein metrics.