bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Survey Exploring Reasons behind Immunization Refusal among the Parents and Caregivers of Children under Two Years Living in Urban Slums of Karachi, Pakistan
Authors: Khaliq Asif , Elahi Alfaraz Ashraf , Zahid Asima , Lassi Zohra S.
Published: September 2022

This study assesses the experiences of parents/caregivers regarding the refusal to childhood immunization. A cross-sectional study was conducted among the parents/caregivers of children under two years old from January 2019 to June 2019 who were residents of either Pathan Colony or Orangi Town, Karachi. In this study, the data collectors targeted parents/caregivers of 440 households who showed a refusal mark “R” in the Expanded Program of Immunization (EPI) H-chalking system. These households were approached using a 30 × 7 multistage-stratified-cluster random sampling technique and were interviewed using a structured questionnaire. The study sample produced two different types of refusals: true refusal (absence) and potential refusal (presence), based on the absence and presence of a vaccination card at the time of the survey. Multivariate logistic regression was used to analyze the data using Jamovi (V-1.6.13). A total of 230 households consented to participate in this study, of which 141 (61.3%) represented true refusals, while 89 (38.7%) represented potential refusals. More than half of the participants from both groups complained about fever and pain at the injection site following immunization. The use of alternative medicines and a history of adverse events following immunization (AEFI) were associated with increasing the odds of immunization refusals by four-to-five fold. However, advanced paternal age, a long distance to the clinic, a lack of trust in government, and the influence of community/religious leaders were associated with lower immunization refusal odds. Thus, an unawareness about self-limiting vaccine-related adverse events, the use of alternative medicines, and an increased concern about the safety and efficacy of vaccines were found to be barriers to immunization, which can be improved by increasing public awareness through media campaigns and policy reform.
Predictive Values of Nocturia and Its Voiding Frequency on the Aging Males’ Symptoms
Authors: Yuen John Wai-Man , Wong Ivy Yuen-Ping , Chiu Peter Ka-Fung , Teoh Jeremy Yuen-Chun , Chan Chi-Kwok , Yee Chi-Hang , Ng Chi-Fai
Published: September 2022

Background: The link between nocturia and aging male symptoms (AMS) has not been scientifically established. This study aimed to measure the degree of severity of AMS that impacts health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in adult males living with nocturia and to determine the predictive values of nocturnal factors on AMS. Methods: This is an extended analysis of new data collected by using the Hong Kong Traditional AMS (HK-AMS) scale and the Cantonese version of the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) in a recently published cross-sectional population-based survey. Results: Of the 781 respondents that completed the set of questionnaires, 68% and 61% of men living with nocturia reported clinically significant (at moderate-to-severe levels) somato-vegetative and sexual AMS; the prevalence and severity were increased with advancing nighttime voiding frequency. Age, the Global PSQI score, certain metabolic diseases, the nocturia-specific QoL (NQoL) score and bedtime voiding frequency were found to be significant predictive factors for composite somato-vegetative and sexual AMS. Conclusions: The current findings suggested the inclusion of nocturia when measuring male-specific HRQoL related to aging.
The Effects of Foam Rolling Training on Performance Parameters: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis including Controlled and Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Konrad Andreas , Nakamura Masatoshi , Behm David George
Published: September 2022

Foam rolling (FR) is a new and popular technique for increasing range of motion. While there are a few studies that demonstrate increased performance measures after an acute bout of FR, the overall evidence indicates trivial performance benefits. As there have been no meta-analyses on the effects of chronic FR on performance, the objective of this systematic meta-analytical review was to quantify the effects of FR training on performance. We searched PubMed, Scopus, the Cochrane library, and Web of Science for FR training studies with a duration greater than two weeks, and found eight relevant studies. We used a random effect meta-analysis that employed a mixed-effect model to identify subgroup analyses. GRADE analysis was used to gauge the quality of the evidence obtained from this meta-analysis. Egger’s regression intercept test (intercept 1.79; p = 0.62) and an average PEDro score of 6.25 (±0.89) indicated no or low risk of reporting bias, respectively. GRADE analysis indicated that we can be moderately confident in the effect estimates. The meta-analysis found no significant difference between FR and control conditions (ES = −0.294; p = 0.281; I2 = 73.68). Analyses of the moderating variables showed no significant differences between randomized control vs. controlled trials (Q = 0.183; p = 0.67) and no relationship between ages (R2 = 0.10; p = 0.37), weeks of intervention (R2 = 0.17; p = 0.35), and total load of FR (R2 = 0.24; p = 0.11). In conclusion, there were no significant performance changes with FR training and no specific circumstances leading to performance changes following FR training exceeding two weeks.
Radical Hysterectomy for Early Stage Cervical Cancer
Authors: Bogani Giorgio , Di Donato Violante , Scambia Giovanni , Raspagliesi Francesco , Chiantera Vito , Sozzi Giulio , Golia D’Augè Tullio , Muzii Ludovico , Benedetti Panici Pierluigi , D’Oria Ottavia , Vizza Enrico , Giannini Andrea ,   on behalf of The Investigators of the Italian Gynecological Cancer Study Group
Published: September 2022

Radical hysterectomy and plus pelvic node dissection are the primary methods of treatment for patients with early stage cervical cancer. During the last decade, growing evidence has supported the adoption of a minimally invasive approach. Retrospective data suggested that minimally invasive surgery improves perioperative outcomes, without neglecting long-term oncologic outcomes. In 2018, the guidelines from the European Society of Gynaecological Oncology stated that a “minimally invasive approach is favored” in comparison with open surgery. However, the phase III, randomized Laparoscopic Approach to Cervical Cancer (LACC) trial questioned the safety of the minimally invasive approach. The LACC trial highlighted that the execution of minimally invasive radical hysterectomy correlates with an increased risk of recurrence and death. After its publication, other retrospective studies investigated this issue, with differing results. Recent evidence suggested that robotic-assisted surgery is not associated with an increased risk of worse oncologic outcomes. The phase III randomized Robotic-assisted Approach to Cervical Cancer (RACC) and the Robotic Versus Open Hysterectomy Surgery in Cervix Cancer (ROCC) trials will clarify the pros and cons of performing a robotic-assisted radical hysterectomy (with tumor containment before colpotomy) in early stage cervical cancer.
Roma Religion: 1775 and 2018 Compared over Time
Authors: Kozubik Michal , Bobakova Daniela Filakovska , Mojtova Martina , Tokovska Miroslava , van Dijk Jitse P.
Published: September 2022

The objective of the present study was to compare the religiosity of the Roma in the 18th century with the present. In 1775 and 1776, Samuel Augustini ab Hortis detailed the way of life of the Roma community in the Austro-Hungarian monarchy in his work “Von dem Heutigen Zustände, Sonderbaren Sitten und Lebensart, Wie Auch von Denen Übrigen Eigenschaften und Umständen der Zigeuner in Ungarn” (On the Contemporary Situation, Distinctive Manners and Way of Life, as Well as the Other Characteristics and Circumstances of Gypsies in Greater Hungary). A detailed content analysis of the part of his work dealing with religion was performed. Subsequently, in 2018, field research was conducted in the environment in which Samuel Augustini lived and worked. It involved six key informants, each representing a different municipality. Data collection was carried out over two periods: in the summer months of 2012–2013 and the winter period of 2018–2019. After the interviews with the key informants, more than 70 participants were included in semi-structured interviews through snowball sampling, and another 40 participants were included in two focus groups. The data was evaluated and content analysis was used to process the data. The findings confirm that both in the past and the present, the Roma community adopted the dominant religion of the host country. In the studied environments, the activities of the majority, present then and now in the Catholic Church, failed, and various other missionary movements, such as the Maranatha Mission, came to the fore. Membership in new religious movements resulted in social changes in marginalized Roma communities. However, they may not have only had positive effects. Various effects of their activities may be studied in the future.
Sixteen Years since the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities: What Have We Learned since Then?
Authors: Martínez-Medina Andrés , Morales-Calvo Sonia , Rodríguez-Martín Vicenta , Meseguer-Sánchez Víctor , Molina-Moreno Valentín
Published: September 2022

Persons with disabilities have historically been subjected to discrimination and exclusion, placing them in dangerous situations of social vulnerability. The Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, passed on the 13th of December 2006, was an important legislative landmark for valuing the rights of this population group. This study involved a bibliometric analysis of 1024 research articles published in Scopus on the social, workplace, educational, and financial inclusion of persons with disabilities since the Convention. The results show an increase in scientific production, and there is also a great deal of multi-disciplinarity, which has led to important breakthroughs for the all-encompassing inclusion of this section of the population. The most productive journals, authors, institutions, and countries, as well as the international cooperation networks, are presented here. The review concludes by setting out the main themes and trends in the research.
The Influence of Land Attachment on Land Abandonment from the Perspective of Generational Difference: Evidence from Sichuan Province, China
Authors: Zhang Yue , Liu Guihua , Ma Zhixing , Deng Xin , Song Jiahao , Xu Dingde
Published: September 2022

The deepening of rural population aging and the lack of labor transfer cause the phenomenon of land abandonment to become more serious, which threatens regional and even national food security. Based on the survey data of 540 farmers in Sichuan Province, the theoretical analysis framework of land attachment, intergenerational difference and land abandonment was constructed, and Probit and Tobit models were constructed to empirically analyze the influence of land attachment and intergenerational difference on land abandonment. Research results show that: (1) 10.9% of the farmers abandoned their arable land, with an average area of 0.17 mu; the interviewed farmers are mainly of the middle-aged generation; the scores of the three dimensions of farmers’ land attachment were all at the above average level. (2) Land dependence has no significant effect on land abandonment, while satisfaction and embeddedness have significant negative effects on land abandonment. (3) There are generational differences in the influence of land attachment on land abandonment. Among them, the land attachment of the middle-aged generation had no significant effect on land abandonment; the satisfaction and embeddedness of the older generation of farmers have negative effects on land abandonment; the satisfaction of the new-generation farmers has a significant negative effect on farmland abandonment. Based on this research, countermeasures and suggestions are put forward: (1) Pay attention to the emotional appeals of farmers and improve their well-being. (2) Cultivate new types of agricultural business entities and stimulate the potential of new human resources.
DAA Treatment Failure in a HIV/HBV/HCV Co-Infected Patient Carrying a Chimeric HCV Genotype 4/1b
Authors: De Francesco Maria Antonia , Gargiulo Franco , Zaltron Serena , Spinetti Angiola , Castelli Francesco , Caruso Arnaldo
Published: September 2022

Approved direct antiviral agent (DAA) combinations are associated with high rates of sustained virological response (SVR) and the absence of a detectable hepatitis C viral load 12–24 weeks after treatment discontinuation. However, a low percentage of individuals fail DAA therapy. Here, we report the case of a HIV/HBV/HCV co-infected patient who failed to respond to DAA pangenotypic combination therapy. The sequencing of NS5a, NS5b, NS3 and core regions evidenced a recombinant intergenotypic strain 4/1b with a recombination crossover point located inside the NS3 region. The identification of this natural recombinant virus underlines the concept that HCV recombination, even if it occurs rarely, may play a key role in the virus fitness and evolution.
Compliance with Preventive Measures and COVID-19 Vaccination Intention among Medical and Other Healthcare Students
Authors: Gabrovec Branko , Selak Špela , Crnkovič Nuša , Šorgo Andrej , Cesar Katarina , Fafangel Mario , Vrdelja Mitja , Trop Skaza Alenka
Published: September 2022

Introduction: The purpose of this study is to evaluate compliance with preventive measures and COVID-19 vaccination acceptance among Slovenian students of healthcare and medicine, identify the predictive socio-demographic factors, establish the possible causes, and propose vaccination strategies and programs in response to the findings. Methods: Data were collected using an online survey as part of a large cross-sectional study of full-time students engaged in higher-level study. The survey took place between 9 February and 8 March 2021. Results: A total of 56.3% of medical and other healthcare students surveyed expressed their intention to receive the vaccine at the earliest opportunity, 22.4% said that they would do so at a later date and 21.3% said that they did not intend to get vaccinated. The medical students surveyed showed a greater readiness to get vaccinated at the earliest opportunity than those studying other healthcare disciplines, men more than women, and single persons more than those in a relationship. Students attending a vocational college, professional higher education or university study program (Bologna first cycle) showed less readiness than other students to get vaccinated as soon as they were able. Conclusion: Our research found that 56.3% of those studying health-related subjects intended to get vaccinated at the earliest opportunity. There were significant differences between medical and other healthcare students, as well as differences resulting from the level of higher education study being undertaken. In addition, the conclusions show that there needs to be a strengthening of communication with students regarding COVID-19 and the importance of vaccination. Lessons that we learned in this pandemic should prepare us for the future. Clearer and more effective communication and education in the future regarding the importance of vaccination is the most effective way of preventing communicable diseases.
Effect of Treatment Adherence Improvement Program in Hemodialysis Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Kim Hana , Jeong I. Seul , Cho Mi-Kyoung
Published: September 2022

Herein, we performed a meta-analysis evaluating the effects of treatment adherence enhancement programs on treatment adherence and secondary outcomes for hemodialysis patients. Twenty-five Korean and international articles published prior to 31 March 2022 were selected following the PRISMA and Cochrane Systematic Review guidelines. We calculated summary effect sizes, conducted homogeneity and heterogeneity testing, constructed a funnel plot, and performed Egger’s regression test, Begg’s test, trim-and-fill method, subgroup analyses, and univariate meta-regression. The overall effect of treatment adherence enhancement programs for hemodialysis patients was statistically significant (Hedges’ g = 1.10, 95% CI: 0.77, 1.43). On performing subgroup analysis to determine the cause of effect size heterogeneity, statistically significant moderating effects were found for a range of input variables (Asian countries, study centers, sample size, study design, intervention types, number of sessions, quality assessment scores, funding, and evidence-based interventions). On univariate meta-regression, larger synthesized effect sizes were found for a range of study characteristics (Asian populations, single-center studies, studies with <70 participants, quasi-experimental studies, educational interventions, studies with >12 sessions, studies with quality assessment scores above the mean, unfunded studies, and non-theory-based interventions). Our results provide evidence-based information for enhancing program efficacy when designing treatment adherence enhancement programs for hemodialysis patients.
Explainable Stacking-Based Model for Predicting Hospital Readmission for Diabetic Patients
Authors: Lu Haohui , Uddin Shahadat
Published: September 2022

Artificial intelligence is changing the practice of healthcare. While it is essential to employ such solutions, making them transparent to medical experts is more critical. Most of the previous work presented disease prediction models, but did not explain them. Many healthcare stakeholders do not have a solid foundation in these models. Treating these models as ‘black box’ diminishes confidence in their predictions. The development of explainable artificial intelligence (XAI) methods has enabled us to change the models into a ‘white box’. XAI allows human users to comprehend the results from machine learning algorithms by making them easy to interpret. For instance, the expenditures of healthcare services associated with unplanned readmissions are enormous. This study proposed a stacking-based model to predict 30-day hospital readmission for diabetic patients. We employed Random Under-Sampling to solve the imbalanced class issue, then utilised SelectFromModel for feature selection and constructed a stacking model with base and meta learners. Compared with the different machine learning models, performance analysis showed that our model can better predict readmission than other existing models. This proposed model is also explainable and interpretable. Based on permutation feature importance, the strong predictors were the number of inpatients, the primary diagnosis, discharge to home with home service, and the number of emergencies. The local interpretable model-agnostic explanations method was also employed to demonstrate explainability at the individual level. The findings for the readmission of diabetic patients could be helpful in medical practice and provide valuable recommendations to stakeholders for minimising readmission and reducing public healthcare costs.
Comparative Analysis of Volatiles Emitted from Tomato and Pepper Plants in Response to Infection by Two Whitefly-Transmitted Persistent Viruses
Authors: Ghosh Saptarshi , Didi-Cohen Shoshana , Cna’ani Alon , Kontsedalov Svetlana , Lebedev Galina , Tzin Vered , Ghanim Murad
Published: September 2022

The whitefly Bemisia tabaci is one of the most important agricultural pests due to its extreme invasiveness, insecticide resistance, and ability to transmit hundreds of plant viruses. Among these, Begomoviruses and recombinant whitefly-borne Poleroviruses are transmitted persistently. Several studies have shown that upon infection, plant viruses manipulate plant-emitted volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which have important roles in communication with insects. In this study, we profiled and compared the VOCs emitted by tomato and pepper plant leaves after infection with the Tomato yellow leaf curl virus (TYLCV) (Bogomoviruses) and the newly discovered Pepper whitefly-borne vein yellows virus (PeWBVYV) (Poleroviruses), respectively. The results identified shared emitted VOCs but also uncovered unique VOC signatures for each virus and for whitefly infestation (i.e., without virus infection) independently. The results suggest that plants have general defense responses; however, they are also able to respond individually to infection with specific viruses or infestation with an insect pest. The results are important to enhance our understanding of virus- and insect vector-induced alteration in the emission of plant VOCs. These volatiles can eventually be used for the management of virus diseases/insect vectors by either monitoring or disrupting insect–plant interactions.
The Poincaré Index on Singular Varieties
Authors: Aleksandrov Alexander G.
Published: September 2022

In this paper, we discuss a few simple methods for computing the local topological index and its various analogs for vector fields and differential forms given on complex varieties with singularities of different types. They are based on properties of regular meromorphic and logarithmic differential forms, of the dualizing (canonical) module and related constructions. In particular, we show how to compute the index on Cohen–Macaulay, Gorenstein and monomial curves, on normal and non-normal surfaces and some others. In contrast with known traditional approaches, we use neither computers, nor integration, perturbations, deformations, resolution of singularities, spectral sequences or other related standard tools of pure mathematics.
Molecular Dynamics Simulation of Fe-Based Metal Powder Oxidation during Laser Powder Bed Fusion
Authors: Wang Yu , Zhou Xianglin
Published: September 2022

Because the laser powder bed fusion process is generally completed in a confined space and in a very short time, it is difficult to study material oxidation during this process using traditional methods. To address this knowledge gap, in this work, we used molecular dynamics (MDs) based on a reaction force field (ReaxFF) to clarify the atomic-level interaction mechanism between metal atoms and oxygen molecules during laser powder bed fusion. The ReaxFF potential energy model has variable charges that can dynamically handle charge changes between atoms and the breaking and formation of chemical bonds that occur during oxidation reactions. We investigated the effects of laser power, scanning speed, region position, and oxygen concentration on powder oxidation. The results show that the laser power and scanning speed affected the oxidation degree by changing the energy input density, and the oxidation degree increased with the energy input density. Different forms of oxidation occurred near the melt channel due to the existence of a temperature gradient, and the degree of oxidation increased with the temperature. Atoms in the metal powder model underwent selective oxidation, which was related to the potential energy of their atomic position. A larger potential energy made it easier for iron atoms to overcome the energy barrier during the initial stage of oxidation, making them easier to oxidize.
Enhancement of Magneto-Induced Modulus by the Combination of Filler and Plasticizer Additives-Based Magnetorheological Elastomer
Authors: Khairi Muntaz Hana Ahmad , Noor Ervina Efzan Mhd , Ubaidillah Ubaidillah , Aziz Siti Aishah Abdul , Mazlan Saiful Amri , Tarmizi Siti Maisarah Ahmad , Nordin Nur Azmah
Published: September 2022

Filler additive is used to provide superior bonding in rubber matrix to enhance the storage modulus of magnetorheological elastomer (MRE). However, the magneto-induced modulus is reduced as the initial storage modulus increases. Therefore, this paper aims to increase the magneto-induced modulus and maintain the initial storage modulus by combining filler and plasticizer additives. Both types of additives have different functions, where cobalt ferrite (CoFe2O4) is capable of enhancing the maximum storage modulus and silicone oil (SO) reduces the initial storage modulus. Thus, four MRE samples have been fabricated using (a) no additive, (b) CoFe2O4, (c) SO, and (d) a combination of CoFe2O4 and SO. The sample’s hardness and magnetic properties were investigated via Durometer Shore A and Vibrating Sample Magnetometer (VSM), respectively. Furthermore, the rheological properties of MRE samples in terms of storage modulus were investigated upon the frequency and magnetic field sweep using a rheometer. The results demonstrated that the storage modulus of the MRE samples has increased with increasing the oscillation frequency from 0.1 to 50 Hz. Interestingly, the combination of additives has produced the largest value of magneto-induced modulus of 0.90 MPa as compared to other samples. Furthermore, their initial storage modulus was in between samples with SO (lowest) and without additive (highest). Therefore, fundamental knowledge in adding the combination of additives can offer solutions for a wide range of stiffness in MR device applications such as vibration and noise control devices, sensing devices, and actuators.
A Comparative Study on Microstructure and Properties of Ultra-High-Speed Laser Cladding and Traditional Laser Cladding of Inconel625 Coatings
Authors: Ding Yuhang , Bi Wenya , Zhong Cheng , Wu Tao , Gui Wanyuan
Published: September 2022

In this study, ultra-high-speed laser cladding (UHSLC) and traditional low-speed laser cladding (LSLC) were employed to prepare high-quality Inconel625 coatings on 27SiMn substrates. UHSLC has cladding speeds of 30 m/min, which are 15 times faster than those of LSLC, and it produces a much greater cladding efficiency, which is 13.9 times greater than LSLC. The microstructure of the Inconel625 coatings was investigated in detail utilizing field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and electron probe microanalyzer (EPMA). According to the FESEM results, UHSLC Inconel625 coatings have more refined crystals than LSLC Inconel625 coatings. Nevertheless, the EPMA results indicate that the UHSLC Inconel625 coatings exhibit much more severe elemental segregation. Moreover, the hardness, wear and corrosion resistance of Inconel625 coatings are significantly enhanced by increasing the laser cladding speed. Furthermore, the reasons for the differences in microstructure and properties of Inconel625 coatings prepared by UHSLC and LSLC were clarified by finite element simulation. UHSLC technique is, therefore, more suitable for preparing Inconel625 coatings on 27SiMn steel surfaces than LSLC.
Corrosion Resistance of Aluminum Alloy AA2024 with Hard Anodizing in Sulfuric Acid-Free Solution
Authors: Miramontes José Cabral , Gaona Tiburcio Citlalli , García Mata Estefanía , Esneider Alcála Miguel Ángel , Maldonado-Bandala Erick , Lara-Banda Maria , Nieves-Mendoza Demetrio , Olguín-Coca Javier , Zambrano-Robledo Patricia , López-León Luis Daimir , Almeraya Calderón Facundo
Published: September 2022

In the aeronautical industry, Al-Cu alloys are used as a structural material in the manufacturing of commercial aircraft due to their high mechanical properties and low density. One of the main issues with these Al-Cu alloy systems is their low corrosion resistance in aggressive substances; as a result, Al-Cu alloys are electrochemically treated by anodizing processes to increase their corrosion resistance. Hard anodizing realized on AA2024 was performed in citric and sulfuric acid solutions for 60 min with constant stirring using current densities 3 and 4.5 A/dm2. After anodizing, a 60 min sealing procedure in water at 95 °C was performed. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Vickers microhardness (HV) measurements were used to characterize the microstructure and mechanical properties of the hard anodizing material. Electrochemical corrosion was carried out using cyclic potentiodynamic polarization curves (CPP) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) in a 3.5 wt. % NaCl solution. The results indicate that the corrosion resistance of Al-Cu alloys in citric acid solutions with a current density 4.5 A/dm2 was the best, with corrosion current densities of 2 × 10−8 and 2 × 10−9 A/cm2. Citric acid-anodized samples had a higher corrosion resistance than un-anodized materials, making citric acid a viable alternative for fabricating hard-anodized Al-Cu alloys.
Physicochemical Evaluation of L-Ascorbic Acid and Aloe vera-Containing Polymer Materials Designed as Dressings for Diabetic Foot Ulcers
Authors: Kędzierska Magdalena , Jamroży Mateusz , Kudłacik-Kramarczyk Sonia , Drabczyk Anna , Bańkosz Magdalena , Potemski Piotr , Tyliszczak Bożena
Published: September 2022

Hydrogels belong to the group of polymers that are more and more often considered as innovative dressing materials. It is important to develop materials showing the most advantageous properties from the application viewpoint wherein in the case of hydrogels, the type and the amount of the crosslinking agent strongly affect their properties. In this work, PVP-based hydrogels containing Aloe vera juice and L-ascorbic acid were obtained via UV-induced polymerization. Next, their surface morphology (via both optical, digital and scanning electron microscope), sorption capacity, tensile strength, and elongation were characterized. Their structure was analyzed via FT-IR spectroscopy wherein their impact on the simulated body liquids was verified via regular pH and temperature measurements of these liquids during hydrogels’ incubation. It was demonstrated that as the amount of the crosslinker increased, the polymer structure was more wrinkled. Next, hydrogels showed relatively smooth and only slightly rough surface, which was probably due to the fact that the modifiers filled also the outer pores of the materials. Hydrogels demonstrated buffering properties in all incubation media, wherein during the incubation the release of Aloe vera juice probably took place as evidenced by the decrease in the pH of the incubation media and the disappearance of the absorption band deriving from the polysaccharides included in the composition of this additive. Next, it was proved that as the amount of the crosslinker increased, hydrogels’ crosslinking density increased and thus their swelling ratio decreased. Hydrogels obtained using a crosslinking agent with higher average molecular weight showed higher swelling ability than the materials synthesized using crosslinker with lower average molecular weight. Moreover, as the amount of the crosslinking agent increased, the tensile strength of hydrogels as well as their percentage elongation also increased.
Distortion of an LTCC Bilayer during Constrained Sintering: Comparison between Ombroscopic Imaging and Modeling
Authors: Chrétien Lucie , Heux Adrien , Antou Guy , Pradeilles Nicolas , Delhote Nicolas , Maître Alexandre
Published: September 2022

A complete methodology combining experiments and modeling has been developed to investigate the constrained sintering of low-temperature cofired ceramic (LTCC) systems. The thermomechanical and sintering behavior laws, previously identified for the selected commercial LTCC material, were implemented in a finite element model. The reliability and validity range of the built model has been investigated thanks to the development of a specific distortion experience. The distortion generated during the constrained sintering of a porous LTCC layer deposited on a dense one has been monitored in situ by ombroscopy. The measured camber evolution was compared with numerical results. The camber phenomena predicted numerically and observed experimentally are very similar, characterized by the onset of distortion around 918 K and a similar evolution during heating. However, at high temperatures (around 1100 K), the simulated camber slightly differs from the experimental one. It seems to be related to the damage to the dense LTCC layer by microcracking.
Technology of Manufacturing of ZC Cylindrical Worm
Authors: Boral Piotr , Gołębski Rafał
Published: September 2022

Cylindrical worms are generally machined by the hobbing method using rotary tools, and they are formed in the finishing pass at the full profile height. In this case, the profile of the tool-action surface determines the profile of the machined surface, and for technological reasons, a rectilinear (less frequently circular) axial profile of the tool-action surface is generally assumed. In the currently known technology, machining takes place on special machine tools, and on tools that are specially prepared for a specific outline. The research objective of the article is to present the possibility of creating a helical surface with a circular concave profile on a CNC lathe with a universal tool: a ball-end mill cutter. In the case of the proposed processing method, the surface of the worm is shaped with a spherical-end mill cutter in many passes, and its shape depends on the setting of the tool. This machining method must be performed on CNC machines, and the tool is not geometrically related to the shape of the machined profile. The paper presents the mathematical apparatus for generating a concave helical surface. Based on the calculations, the worm was processed with a spherical-end mill on a CLX350 V4 DMG MORI turning machining center. The surface-quality analysis was carried out on a contact profilographometer, while the dimensional accuracy was verified on a coordinate-measuring machine, and the maximum tolerance field of the measurement was 13 μm. On the basis of the measurements made, the accuracy of the worm outline is consistent with the theoretical assumptions. Using the presented method of machining, we can shape helical surfaces with an assumed profile in the axial section on a CNC machine tool with the use of universal tools.
On Molecular Dynamics and Charge Transport in a Flexible Epoxy Resin Network
Authors: Vryonis Orestis , Vaughan Alun S. , Andritsch Thomas , Morshuis Peter H. F. , Claverie Aurore
Published: September 2022

An epoxy based on diglycidyl ether of bisphenol A was reacted with a long-chain poly(oxypropylene diamine) hardener in the presence of an accelerator, resulting in a flexible epoxy network. Tensile properties were tested as a function of accelerator concentration. All systems exhibited high levels of extensibility, with strain at failure values in excess of 65%. Molecular dynamics in a formulation containing 10 phr of accelerator were then examined using dielectric spectroscopy over the temperature range of 103–433 K. At low temperatures, a molecular relaxation process (γ relaxation) was observed and shown to conform well to both the Arrhenius equation and activated tunnelling. A stronger relaxation appeared (203–303 K) just before the onset of charge transport, which dominated the behaviour at higher temperatures. The former takes an unusual bimodal form, which we consider a result of overlapping β and α relaxations, consequently termed αβ mode. Analysis of this mechanism revealed a Vogel–Fulcher–Tammann (VFT) behaviour. The temperature-dependent DC conductivity, σDC (deduced from the low-frequency charge transport contribution to εr″), also revealed VFT behaviour with an onset statistically equivalent to that of the αβ mode, therefore suggesting that charge transport, at this temperature regime, is strongly affiliated with cooperative molecular motion.
Calculation of Radiative Properties for [82%Ar-18%CO2]-Fe Plasmas in MAG Welding Arc
Authors: Wang Fei , Liu Hongbing , Liu Xiaoli , Zhang Lingfeng , Yang Po , Zhang Tianli , Yu Zhishui , Li Huan , Cressault Yann
Published: September 2022

This paper is dedicated to the calculation of the radiative properties of 82%argon-18%CO2 thermal plasmas with the addition of metallic vapors (iron, in the present case, due to workpiece and wire erosion), this mixture being representative of metal active gas (MAG) arc welding processes. These radiative properties are obtained in the frame of the net emission coefficient (NEC) theory, using the recent and accurate “line by line” method. All significant radiative contribution mechanisms are taken into account in the calculation: atomic lines, atomic continuum (radiative attachment, radiative recombination, and bremsstrahlung), molecular bands for diatomic and polyatomic molecules, and molecular continuum. Broadening phenomena (Doppler and pressure effects) are also carefully treated for bound-bound transitions (atomic lines and molecular bands). Regarding 82%Ar-18%CO2 plasma, the results obtained demonstrate the key role of molecular bands at low temperatures (T < 4 kK), whereas the atomic line and continuum prevailed at intermediate and high temperatures. With the addition of a few percentages of iron vapor, it was shown that the total NEC is significantly increased (especially at low temperatures) and that the atomic and ionic lines become dominant in all the studied temperature ranges (3–30 kK). This theoretical study will constitute a groundwork to build a diagnostic method (based on the calculation of partial NECs for accurately chosen spectral intervals) for the determination of plasma temperature and iron vapor concentration in welding arcs.
Micromachined Tools Using Acoustic Wave Triggering for the Interaction with the Growth of Plant Biological Systems
Authors: Grasso Simone , Di Marcello Francesca , Sabatini Anna , Zompanti Alessandro , Di Loreto Maria Vittoria , Cenerini Costanza , Lodato Francesco , De Gara Laura , Cherubini Christian , Pennazza Giorgio , Santonico Marco
Published: September 2022

A plant biological system is exposed to external influences. In general, each plant has its characteristics and needs with specific interaction mechanisms adapted to its survival. Interactions between systems can be examined and modeled as energy exchanges of mechanical, chemical or electrical variables. Thus, each specific interaction can be examined by triggering the system via a specific stimulus. The objective of this work was to study a specific stimulus (mechanical stimulation) as a driver of plants and their interaction with the environment. In particular, the experimental design concerns the setting up and testing of an automatic source of mechanical stimuli at different wavelengths, generated by an electromechanical transducer, to induce a micro-interaction in plants (or in parts of them) that produces a specific behavior (hypothesis) of plants. Four different experimental setups were developed for this work, each pursuing the same objective: the analysis of the germination process induced by stimulation by sound waves in the audible range. It can be said that the introduction of sound waves as a stimulant or a brake for the growth of plants can offer significant advantages when used on a large scale in the primary sector, since these effects can be used instead of polluting chemical solutions.
The TGF-β Receptor Gene Saxophone Influences Larval-Pupal-Adult Development in Tribolium castaneum
Authors: Li Jingjing , Yin Letong , Bi Jingxiu , Stanley David , Feng Qili , Song Qisheng
Published: September 2022

The transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) superfamily encodes a large group of proteins, including TGF-β isoforms, bone morphogenetic proteins and activins that act through conserved cell-surface receptors and signaling co-receptors. TGF-β signaling in insects controls physiological events, including growth, development, diapause, caste determination and metamorphosis. In this study, we used the red flour beetle, Tribolium castaneum, as a model species to investigate the role of the type I TGF-β receptor, saxophone (Sax), in mediating development. Developmental and tissue-specific expression profiles indicated Sax is constitutively expressed during development with lower expression in 19- and 20-day (6th instar) larvae. RNAi knockdown of Sax in 19-day larvae prolonged developmental duration from larvae to pupae and significantly decreased pupation and adult eclosion in a dose-dependent manner. At 50 ng dsSax/larva, Sax knockdown led to an 84.4% pupation rate and 46.3% adult emergence rate. At 100 ng and 200 ng dsSax/larva, pupation was down to 75.6% and 50%, respectively, with 0% adult emergence following treatments with both doses. These phenotypes were similar to those following knockdowns of 20-hydroxyecdysone (20E) receptor genes, ecdysone receptor (EcR) or ultraspiracle  protein (USP). Expression of 20E biosynthesis genes disembodied and spookier, 20E receptor genes EcR and USP, and 20E downstream genes BrC and E75, were suppressed after the Sax knockdown. Topical application of 20E on larvae treated with dsSax partially rescued the dsSax-driven defects. We can infer that the TGF-β receptor gene Sax influences larval-pupal-adult development via 20E signaling in T. castaneum.
Alanyl-Glutamine Protects Mice against Methionine- and Choline-Deficient-Diet-Induced Steatohepatitis and Fibrosis by Modulating Oxidative Stress and Inflammation
Authors: Hu Jiaji , Zheng Yigang , Ying Hanglu , Ma Huabin , Li Long , Zhao Yufen
Published: September 2022

Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is a common chronic liver disease with increasing prevalence rates over years and is associated with hepatic lipid accumulation, liver injury, oxidative stress, hepatic inflammation, and liver fibrosis and lack of approved pharmacological therapy. Alanyl-glutamine (Ala-Gln) is a recognized gut-trophic nutrient that has multiple pharmacological effects in the prevention of inflammation- and oxidative-stress-associated diseases. Nevertheless, whether Ala-Gln has a protective effect on NASH still lacks evidence. The aim of this study is to explore the influence of Ala-Gln on NASH and its underlying mechanisms. Here, C57BL/6 mice were fed a methionine- and choline-deficient (MCD) diet to establish the model of NASH, and Ala-Gln at doses of 500 and 1500 mg/kg were intraperitoneally administered to mice along with a MCD diet. The results showed that Ala-Gln treatment significantly attenuated MCD-induced hepatic pathological changes, lowered NAFLD activity score, and reduced plasma alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels. Ala-Gln dramatically alleviated lipid accumulation in liver through modulating the expression levels of fatty acid translocase (FAT/CD36) and farnesoid X receptor (FXR). In addition, Ala-Gln exerted an anti-oxidant effect by elevating the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPX). Moreover, Ala-Gln exhibited an anti-inflammatory effect via decreasing the accumulation of activated macrophages and suppressing the production of proinflammatory mediators. Notably, Ala-Gln suppressed the development of liver fibrosis in MCD-diet-fed mice, which may be due to the inhibition of hepatic stellate cells activation. In conclusion, these findings revealed that Ala-Gln prevents the progression of NASH through the modulation of oxidative stress and inflammation and provided the proof that Ala-Gln might be an effective pharmacological agent to treat NASH.
Enzobiotics—A Novel Therapy for the Elimination of Uremic Toxins in Patients with CKD (EETOX Study): A Multicenter Double-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Saxena Anita , Srinivasa Sanjay , Veerappan Ilangovan , Jacob Chakko , Mahaldar Amol , Gupta Amit , Rajagopal Ananthasubramaniam
Published: September 2022

Design, participants, setting, and measurements: Predialysis adult participants with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and mean estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) <45 mL/min per 1.73 m2) were recruited in 2019 to a multicentric double-blinded randomized controlled trial of enzobiotic therapy (synbiotics and proteolytic enzymes) conducted over 12 weeks. The primary objective was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of enzobiotics in reducing the generation of p-cresol sulfate (PCS) and indoxyl sulfate (IS), stabilizing renal function, and improving quality of life (QoL), while the secondary objective was to evaluate the feasibility of the diagnostic prediction of IS and PCS from CKD parameters. Results: Of the 85 patients randomized (age 48.76 years, mean eGFR 23.24 mL/min per 1.73 m2 in the placebo group; age 54.03 years, eGFR 28.93 mL/min per 1.73 m2 in the enzobiotic group), 50 completed the study. The absolute mean value of PCS increased by 12% from 19 µg/mL (Day 0) to 21 µg/mL (Day90) for the placebo group, whereas it decreased by 31% from 23 µg/mL (Day 0) to 16 µg/mL (Day 90) for the enzobiotic group. For IS, the enzobiotic group showed a decrease (6.7%) from 11,668 to 10,888 ng/mL, whereas the placebo group showed an increase (8.8%) from 11,462 to 12,466 ng/mL (Day 90). Each patient improvement ratio for Day 90/Day 0 analysis showed that enzobiotics reduced PCS by 23% (0.77, p = 0.01). IS levels remained unchanged. In the placebo group, PCS increased by 27% (1.27, p = 0.14) and IS increased by 20% (1.20, p = 0.14). The proportion of individuals beyond the risk threshold for PCS (>20 µg/mL) was 53% for the placebo group and 32% for the enzobiotic group. The corresponding levels for IS risk (threshold >20,000 ng/mL) were 35% and 24% for the placebo and enzobiotic groups, respectively. In the placebo group, eGFR decreased by 7% (Day 90) but remained stable (1.00) in the enzobiotic group. QoL as assessed by the adversity ratio decreased significantly (p = 0.00), highlighting an improvement in the enzobiotic group compared to the placebo group. The predictive equations were as follows: PCS (Day 0 = −5.97 + 0.0453 PC + 2.987 UA − 1.310 Creat; IS (Day 0) = 756 + 1143 Creat + 436.0 Creat2. Conclusion: Enzobiotics significantly reduced the PCS and IS, as well as improved the QoL.
Biomarker Changes in Oxygen Metabolism, Acid-Base Status, and Performance after the Off-Season in Well-Trained Cyclists
Authors: Martínez Noguera Francisco Javier , Marín-Pagán Cristian , Chung Linda H. , Alcaraz Pedro E.
Published: September 2022

During the off-season, cyclists reduce their volume and intensity of training in order to recover the body from the high workload during the competitive season. Some studies have examined the effects of the off-season on cardiovascular, metabolic, and performance levels but have not evaluated oxygen metabolism, acid-base status, and electrolytes in cyclists. Therefore, our main objective was to analyze these markers in the off-season period (8 weeks) via finger capillary blood gasometry in well-trained cyclists. We found an increase in oxygen saturation (sO2) and oxyhemoglobin (O2Hb) (p ≤ 0.05) and a decrease in fat oxidation at maximum fat oxidation (FatMax) (p ≤ 0.05). In addition, we observed a decreasing trend of VO2 in the ventilatory threshold 2 (VT2) and maximum oxygen consumption (VO2MAX) (p ≤ 0.06) after the off-season in well-trained cyclists. Negative correlations were found between the pre–post off-season differences in the VO2 at ΔFatMax and ΔHCO3− (bicarbonate ion) and between power generated at the ΔeFTP (functional power threshold) and the ΔVO2MAX with the pH (r ≥ −0.446; p ≤ 0.05). After the off-season period, well-trained cyclists had increased markers of oxygen metabolism, decreased fat oxidation at low exercise intensities, and decreased VO2 at the VT2 and VO2MAX. Relationships were found between changes in the ΔeFTP and VO2MAX with changes in the pH and between the pH and HCO3− with changes in La−.