bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Qualitative Analysis of IAS 2 Capability for Handling the Financial Information Generated by Cost Techniques
Authors: Morshed Amer , Ramadan Abdulhadi
Published: May 2023

Using a qualitative research design, this study examined the inventory valuation conflict between financial managers and auditors and its implications for the International Accounting Standard 2 (IAS 2). This study found that the conflict arose due to the lack of precise instructions in the IAS 2 regarding cost–unit calculations. It was recommended that the IAS 2 should provide more examples or use the chamber of commerce as a source of information to clarify what should be considered as the product cost of storage expenses. This study supported previous findings that job order costing was used for customized manufacturing, while process costing was used for standardizing manufacturing. It also highlighted the importance of process costing in evaluating equivalent units and normal and abnormal losses in production, which affect inventory value. This study concluded that cost techniques should be viewed as managerial tools for calculating the cost of a unit. Cost managers should use their expertise to develop the cost formula for their specific industry while maintaining confidentiality. This study contributed to the literature by highlighting the importance of process costing in evaluating inventory valuation and resolving conflicts between financial managers and auditors. It also provided practical implications for improving the treatment of inventory in the IAS 2. This included directing the implementation of stable policies and attaching some indices when computing equivalent units, abnormal losses, and product costs. This study’s limitations included the use of a small sample size, and future studies should consider larger sample sizes from different industries and countries.
Risk Factors for Poor Outcome after Palliative Surgery for Metastatic Spinal Tumors
Authors: Suzuki Akinobu , Terai Hidetomi , Takahashi Shinji , Kato Minori , Toyoda Hiromitsu , Tamai Koji , Hori Yusuke , Okamura Yuki , Nakamura Hiroaki
Published: May 2023

Palliative surgery is performed to improve the quality of life of patients with spinal metastases. However, it is sometimes difficult to achieve the expected results because the patient’s condition, and risk factors related to poor outcomes have not been well elucidated. This study aimed to evaluate the functional outcomes and investigate the risk factors for poor outcomes after palliative surgery for spinal metastasis. We retrospectively reviewed the records of 117 consecutive patients who underwent palliative surgery for spinal metastases. Neurological and ambulatory statuses were evaluated pre- and post-operatively. Poor outcomes were defined as no improvement or deterioration in functional status or early mortality, and the related risk factors were analyzed using multivariate logistic regression analysis. The results showed neurological improvement in 48% and ambulatory improvement in 70% of the patients with preoperative impairment, whereas 18% of the patients showed poor outcomes. In the multivariate analysis, low hemoglobin levels and low revised Tokuhashi scores were identified as risk factors for poor outcomes. The present results suggest that anemia and low revised Tokuhashi scores are related not only to life expectancy but also to functional recovery after surgery. Treatment options should be carefully selected for the patients with these factors.
Sex Differences in Opioid Response Linked to OPRM1 and COMT genes DNA Methylation/Genotypes Changes in Patients with Chronic Pain
Authors: Agulló Laura , Muriel Javier , Margarit César , Escorial Mónica , Garcia Diana , Herrero María José , Hervás David , Sandoval Juan , Peiró Ana M.
Published: May 2023

Analgesic-response variability in chronic noncancer pain (CNCP) has been reported due to several biological and environmental factors. This study was undertaken to explore sex differences linked to OPRM1 and COMT DNA methylation changes and genetic variants in analgesic response. A retrospective study with 250 real-world CNCP outpatients was performed in which data from demographic, clinical, and pharmacological variables were collected. DNA methylation levels (CpG island) were evaluated by pyrosequencing, and their interaction with the OPRM1 (A118G) and COMT (G472A) gene polymorphisms was studied. A priori-planned statistical analyses were conducted to compare responses between females and males. Sex-differential OPRM1 DNA methylation was observed to be linked to lower opioid use disorder (OUD) cases for females (p = 0.006). Patients with lower OPRM1 DNA methylation and the presence of the mutant G-allele reduced opioid dose requirements (p = 0.001), equal for both sexes. Moreover, COMT DNA methylation levels were negatively related to pain relief (p = 0.020), quality of life (p = 0.046), and some adverse events (probability > 90%) such as constipation, insomnia, or nervousness. Females were, significantly, 5 years older with high anxiety levels and a different side-effects distribution than males. The analyses demonstrated significant differences between females and males related to OPRM1 signalling efficiency and OUD, with a genetic–epigenetic interaction in opioid requirements. These findings support the importance of sex as a biological variable to be factored into chronic pain-management studies.
Long COVID Syndrome: Lesson Learned and Future Implications
Authors: Mazzaglia Giampiero
Published: May 2023

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the virus responsible for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), has caused severe illness and mortality on a global scale, with an impact not witnessed since the 1918–19 Spanish influenza pandemic [...]
Evaluation of Prosthetic Marginal Fit and Implant Survival Rates for Conventional and Digital Workflows in Full-Arch Immediate Loading Rehabilitations: A Retrospective Clinical Study
Authors: De Angelis Nicola , Pesce Paolo , De Lorenzi Marco , Menini Maria
Published: May 2023

Digital impression provides several advantages in implant prosthodontics; however, its use in full-arch rehabilitations, especially immediately after surgery, has yet to be validated. The aim of this study was to retrospectively analyse the fit of immediate full-arch prostheses, fabricated using conventional or digital impressions. Patients requiring a full-arch immediate loading rehabilitation were divided into three groups: T1 (digital impression taken immediately after surgery), T2 (Preoperative digital impression, guided surgery—prefabricated temporary bridge) and C (conventional impression taken immediately after surgery). Immediate temporary prostheses were delivered within 24 h after surgery. X-rays were obtained at the time of prosthesis delivery and at the 2-year follow-up. Primary outcomes were cumulative survival rate (CSR) and prosthesis fit. Secondary outcomes were marginal bone level (MBL) and patient satisfaction. One hundred and fifty patients were treated from 2018 to 2020, with 50 in each group. Seven implants failed during the observation period. The CSR was 99% for T1, 98% for T2 and 99.5% for C. A statistically significant difference in prosthesis fit was found among T1 and T2 vs. C. A statistically significant difference was found in the MBL between T1 and C. The outcomes of the present study suggest that digital impression is a viable alternative to conventional protocols for the realisation of full-arch immediate loading prostheses.
En Route to Personalised Medicine in Obstructive Sleep Apnoea
Authors: Bikov Andras
Published: May 2023

Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is a common disorder that can cause night- and daytime symptoms and impair driving and work performance [...]
Bempedoic Acid, an Inhibitor of Cholesterol Biosynthesis, Reduces Cardiovascular Events
Authors: Jialal Ishwarlal , Olatunbosun Samuel
Published: May 2023

An elevated low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) is a major risk factor for premature atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases (ASCVD) [...]
Thromboembolic Complications in Adult Patients Following Fontan Procedure—A Multicenter Study
Authors: Skubera Maciej , Gołąb Aleksandra , Sternalski Tomasz , Trojnarska Olga , Plicner Dariusz , Smaś-Suska Monika , Mazurek-Kula Anna , Bartczak-Rutkowska Agnieszka , Pająk Jacek , Podolec Piotr , Tomkiewicz-Pająk Lidia
Published: May 2023

Background: Morbidity and mortality following Fontan (FO) surgery are primarily thromboembolic in nature. However, follow-up data regarding thromboembolic complications (TECs) in adult patients after FO procedure are inconsistent. In this multicenter study, we investigated the incidence of TECs in FO patients. Methods: We studied 91 patients who underwent FO procedure. Clinical data, laboratory, and imaging investigations were collected prospectively during the scheduled medical appointments in 3 Adult Congenital Heart Disease Departments in Poland. TECs were recorded during a median follow-up of 31 months. Results: Four patients (4.4%) were lost to follow-up. The mean age of patients was 25.3 (±6.0) years at enrollment, and the mean time between FO operation and investigation was 22.1 (±5.1) years. A total of 21 out of 91 patients (23.1%) had a history of 24 TECs since an FO procedure, mainly pulmonary embolism (PE; n = 12, 13.2%), including 4 (33.3%) silent PE. The mean time since FO operation to the first TEC was 17.8 (±5.1) years. During follow-up, we documented 9 TECs in 7 (8.0%) patients, mainly PE (n = 5, 5.5%). Most patients with TEC had a left type of systemic ventricle (57.1%). Three patients (42.9%) were treated with aspirin, 3 (3.4%) with Vitamin K antagonists or novel oral anticoagulants, and 1 patient had no antithrombotic treatment at the time of TEC occurrence. Supraventricular tachyarrhythmias were present in 3 patients (42.9%). Conclusions: This prospective study shows that TECs are common in FO patients, and a significant number of these events occur during adolescence and young adulthood. We also indicated how much TECs are underestimated in the growing adult FO population. The complexity of the problem requires more studies, especially to standardize the prevention of TECs in the whole FO population.
Transfusion Burden in Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation over Time: Experience from a Single Institution
Authors: Solves Pilar , Marco-Ayala Javier , Sanz Miguel Ángel , Gómez-Seguí Inés , Balaguer-Roselló Aitana , Facal Ana , Villalba Marta , Montoro Juan , Sanz Guillermo , de la Rubia Javier , Sanz Jaime
Published: May 2023

Introduction: Transfusion plays a main role in supportive treatment for patients who receive an allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). In this study, we compare the transfusion requirements of patients undergoing different modalities of HSCT according to different time periods. The objective is to assess the evolution of HSCT transfusion requirements over time, from a single institution. Methods: The clinical charts and transfusion records of patients who underwent HSCT of different modalities at La Fe University Hospital during a twelve-year period were reviewed (2009–2020). For analysis, we divided the overall time into three periods: 1 from 2009 to 2012, 2 from 2013 to 2016 and 3 from 2017 to 2020. The study included 855 consecutive adult HSCT: 358 HLA-matched related donors (MRD), 134 HLA-matched unrelated donors (MUD), 223 umbilical cord blood transplantation (UCBT) and 140 haploidentical transplants (Haplo-HSCT). Results: There were no significant differences in RBC and PLT requirements or transfusion independence among the three time periods for MUD and Haplo-HSCT. However, the transfusion burden increased significantly for MRD HSCT during the 2017–2020 period. Conclusion: despite HSCT modalities having evolved and changed over time, overall transfusion requirements have not significantly decreased and continue to be a cornerstone of transplantation-supportive care.
The Interplay of Perceived Risks and Benefits in Deciding to Become Vaccinated against COVID-19 While Pregnant or Breastfeeding: A Cross-Sectional Study in Italy
Authors: Gavaruzzi Teresa , Caserotti Marta , Bonaiuti Roberto , Bonanni Paolo , Crescioli Giada , Di Tommaso Mariarosaria , Lombardi Niccolò , Lotto Lorella , Ravaldi Claudia , Rubaltelli Enrico , Tasso Alessandra , Vannacci Alfredo , Girardi Paolo
Published: May 2023

The present study examined the role of the perception of risks and benefits for the mother and her babies in deciding about the COVID-19 vaccination. In this cross-sectional study, five hypotheses were tested using data from a convenience sample of Italian pregnant and/or breastfeeding women (N = 1104, July–September 2021). A logistic regression model estimated the influence of the predictors on the reported behavior, and a beta regression model was used to evaluate which factors influenced the willingness to become vaccinated among unvaccinated women. The COVID-19 vaccination overall risks/benefits tradeoff was highly predictive of both behavior and intention. Ceteris paribus, an increase in the perception of risks for the baby weighed more against vaccination than a similar increase in the perception of risks for the mother. Additionally, pregnant women resulted in being less likely (or willing) to be vaccinated in their status than breastfeeding women, but they were equally accepting of vaccination if they were not pregnant. COVID-19 risk perception predicted intention to become vaccinated, but not behavior. In conclusion, the overall risks/benefits tradeoff is key in predicting vaccination behavior and intention, but the concerns for the baby weigh more than those for the mother in the decision, shedding light on this previously neglected aspect.
Oxygen Uptake and Bilaterally Measured Vastus Lateralis Muscle Oxygen Desaturation Kinetics in Well-Trained Endurance Cyclists
Authors: Reinpõld Karmen , Rannama Indrek
Published: May 2023

The aim of the present study was to compare and analyse the relationships between pulmonary oxygen uptake and vastus lateralis (VL) muscle oxygen desaturation kinetics measured bilaterally with Moxy NIRS sensors in trained endurance athletes. To this end, 18 trained athletes (age: 42.4 ± 7.2 years, height: 1.837 ± 0.053 m, body mass: 82.4 ± 5.7 kg) visited the laboratory on two consecutive days. On the first day, an incremental test was performed to determine the power values for the gas exchange threshold, the ventilatory threshold (VT), and V̇O2max levels from pulmonary ventilation. On the second day, the athletes performed a constant work rate (CWR) test at the power corresponding to the VT. During the CWR test, the pulmonary ventilation characteristics, left and right VL muscle O2 desaturation (DeSmO2), and pedalling power were continuously recorded, and the average signal of both legs’ DeSmO2 was computed. Statistical significance was set at p ≤ 0.05. The relative response amplitudes of the primary and slow components of VL desaturation and pulmonary oxygen uptake kinetics did not differ, and the primary amplitude of muscle desaturation kinetics was strongly associated with the initial response rate of oxygen uptake. Compared with pulmonary O2 kinetics, the primary response time of the muscle desaturation kinetics was shorter, and the slow component started earlier. There was good agreement between the time delays of the slow components describing global and local metabolic processes. Nevertheless, there was a low level of agreement between contralateral desaturation kinetic variables. The averaged DeSmO2 signal of the two sides of the body represented the oxygen kinetics more precisely than the right- or left-leg signals separately.
Assessing the Reliability of a New One-Line Model for Predicting Shoreline Evolution with Impoundment Field Experiment Data
Authors: Francone Antonio , Simmonds David J.
Published: May 2023

The advancement of knowledge in the field of coastal morphodynamics is currently highly relevant, as it provides valuable insights into the complex and dynamic nature of coastal systems and helps coastal engineers and researchers to better understand and manage the risks associated with coastal hazards. Managing and protecting coastal areas requires accurate measurements and the availability of reliable numerical models for predicting shoreline evolution. The present study focuses on verifying the reliability of a recent one-line model: the General Shoreline beach (GSb) model. The numerical simulations were performed using wave data observed by the Acoustic Wave and Current profiler and the Channel Coast Observatory buoy. The numerical results were compared with high-resolution shoreline data collected from an ARGUS monitoring station during the impoundment experiment conducted in Milford-on-Sea, UK. The numerical results demonstrated that the GSb model accurately predicts shoreline evolution, particularly for mixed beaches. The findings of the present study also show the effectiveness of the GSb online numerical model in predicting day-to-day changes in shoreline dynamics caused by wave attack. The high-resolution dataset of the ARGUS observations combined with wave data collected during the field experiment could be valuable resources for coastal researchers to further evaluate and improve numerical models of coastal morphodynamics.
An All-Electric Gate Valve Actuator for Subsea Production Control Systems, Part A: Prototype and Test
Authors: Wang Honghai , Wen Fujun , Liu Guiqian , Jia Peng , Yun Feihong , Wang Liquan , Wang Yongchao , Li Chao
Published: May 2023

To bridge the gap that exists in the key equipment of the new subsea production control system, the all-electric subsea gate valve actuator, and exploit subsea oil and gas resources with high reliability and safety while saving energy, this paper proposes a novel concept prototype of an all-electric subsea gate valve actuator which has the key functions of a redundant drive, failsafe closing, auxiliary override, position indication, and low-power position holding. It satisfied the electrically-driven requirements of the subsea gate valves and achieved Safety Integrity Level 3. The prototype was developed and tested successfully. The all-electric subsea gate valve actuator is suitable for controlling subsea gate valves with various sizes and rated working pressures to minimize the power consumption for the purpose of keeping the valves open and safely closing them in the event of the electrical failure. An override and position-indicating mechanism is equipped for emergency operation and the visual indication of the status of subsea gate valves.
Digital Rehabilitation after Knee Arthroplasty: A Multi-Center Prospective Longitudinal Cohort Study
Authors: Lebleu Julien , Pauwels Andries , Anract Philippe , Parratte Sébastien , Van Overschelde Philippe , Van Onsem Stefaan
Published: May 2023

Rehabilitation for total knee replacement (TKA) often involves in-person therapy sessions, which can be time consuming and costly. Digital rehabilitation has the potential to address these limitations, but most of these systems offer standardized protocols without considering the patient’s pain, participation, and speed of recovery. Furthermore, most digital systems lack human support in case of need. The aim of this study was to investigate the engagement, safety, and clinical effectiveness of a personalized and adaptative app-based human-supported digital monitoring and rehabilitation program. In this prospective multi-center longitudinal cohort study, 127 patients were included. Undesired events were managed through a smart alert system. Doctors were triggered when there was a suspicion of problems. The drop-out rate, complications and readmissions, PROMS, and satisfaction were collected through the app. There was only 2% readmission. Doctor actions through the platform potentially avoided 57 consultations (85% of alerts). The adherence to the program was 77%, and 89% of the patients would recommend the use of the program. Personalized human-backed-up digital solutions can help to improve the rehabilitation journey of patients after TKA, lower healthcare-related costs by lowering the complication and readmission rate, and improve patient reported outcomes.
Impact of in-Hospital Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction Recovery on Long-Term Outcomes in Patients Who Underwent Impella Support for HR PCI or Cardiogenic Shock: A Sub-Analysis from the IMP-IT Registry
Authors: Iannaccone Mario , Franchin Luca , Burzotta Francesco , Botti Giulia , Pazzanese Vittorio , Briguori Carlo , Trani Carlo , Piva Tommaso , De Marco Federico , Masiero Giulia , Di Biasi Maurizio , Pagnotta Paolo , Casu Gavino , Scandroglio Anna Mara , Tarantini Giuseppe , Chieffo Alaide
Published: May 2023

(1) Background: Percutaneous left ventricle assist devices (pLVADs) demonstrated an improvement in mid-term clinical outcomes in selected patients with severely depressed left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) undergoing percutaneous coronary interventions. However, the prognostic impact of in-hospital LVEF recovery is unclear. Accordingly, the present sub-analysis aims to evaluate the impact of LVEF recovery in both cardiogenic shock (CS) and high-risk percutaneous coronary intervention (HR PCI) supported with pLVADs in the IMP-IT registry. (2) Methods: A total of 279 patients (116 patients in CS and 163 patients in HR PCI) treated with Impella 2.5 or CP in the IMP-IT registry were included in this analysis, after excluding those who died while in the hospital or with missing data on LVEF recovery. The primary study objective was a composite of all-cause death, rehospitalisation for heart failure, left ventricle assist device (LVAD) implantation, or heart transplantation (HT), overall referred to as the major adverse cardiac events (MACE) at 1 year. The study aimed to evaluate the impact of in-hospital LVEF recovery on the primary study objective in patients treated with Impella for HR PCI and CS, respectively. (3) Results: The mean in-hospital change in LVEF was 10 ± 1% (p < 0.001) in the CS cohort and 3 ± 7% (p < 0.001) in the HR PCI group, achieved by 44% and 40% of patients, respectively. In the CS group, patients with less than 10% in-hospital LVEF recovery experienced higher rates of MACE at 1 year of follow-up (FU) (51% vs. 21%, HR 3.8, CI 1.7–8.4, p < 0.01). After multivariate analysis, LVEF recovery was the main independent protective factor for MACE at FU (HR 0.23, CI 0.08–0.64, p = 0.02). In the HR PCI group, LVEF recovery (>3%) was not associated with lower MACE at multivariable analysis (HR 0.73, CI 0.31–1.72, p = 0.17). Conversely, the completeness of revascularisation was found to be a protective factor for MACE (HR 0.11, CI 0.02–0.62, p = 0.02) (4) Conclusions: Significant LVEF recovery was associated with improved outcomes in CS patients treated with PCI during mechanical circulatory support with Impella, whereas complete revascularisation showed a significant clinical relevance in HR PCI.
Analysis of Urban Park Accessibility Based on Space Syntax: Take the Urban Area of Changsha City as an Example
Authors: Long Yuehong , Qin Jianxin , Wu Yang , Wang Ke
Published: May 2023

Park green space is an important part of the green infrastructure in a city, and urban park space accessibility is an important indicator for measuring the city’s comprehensive strength, living environment, and resident happiness, which greatly affects the sustainable development and construction of the city. The spatial syntax method can discuss the accessibility of urban parks from the perspective of topology, which inherits the objective stability of the topological relationship. There are few research studies on the accessibility of urban parks. Therefore, with the support of space syntax theory and the spatial statistics method, this paper combined the data of park green space and road network to complete the accessibility evaluation of urban parks in the Changsha City urban area. This paper evaluates the accessibility of urban parks in the study area from four aspects, namely global accessibility, perceptual accessibility, local accessibility, and psychological accessibility, by using five quantitative indexes of space syntax, namely connectivity, depth, integration, selection, and synergy. The conclusions are as follows: The spatial layout area of the park is roughly consistent with the areas that have good global and local accessibility of the road network, and the global accessibility and local accessibility of the park in the study area are relatively high. The global spatial structure can be better perceived by the local space at a radius scale greater than or equal to 3000 m, and the perceptual accessibility of the park is high. Most of the urban parks in the Changsha urban area are located in sections with high space efficiency. The park space penetration is good, and nearly 70% of the parks have high psychological accessibility. Based on the overall spatial layout of urban parks, the space syntax method quantitatively and comprehensively evaluates the accessibility of urban parks from the perspective of topology. The conclusion is reliable and has important application value in the evaluation of park accessibility. It can be used as an important supplement to improve the evaluation model of accessibility.
Standardized Description of Degraded Land Reclamation Actions and Mapping of Actors’ Roles: A Key Step for Action in Combatting Desertification (Niger)
Authors: Sadda Abou-Soufianou , Loireau Maud , Jangorzo Nouhou Salifou , Issoufou Hassane Bil-Assanou , Chotte Jean-Luc
Published: May 2023

Land degradation is a major issue in the Sahel region. Numerous investments have been made in implementing sustainable land management (SLM) actions to reverse land degradation. Our work aims to (i) describe the variety of degraded land reclamation actions (DLRAs) and (ii) map the stakeholders acting in Niger. A time series (2008–2021) of georeferenced public data was collected and organized using a harmonized nomenclature. The results show that about 279,074 ha could be analysed in our study. Dug structures are the most widespread technique, while treated land is mostly devoted to single agricultural or pastoral uses. DLRAs are unevenly distributed in the Niger. More than 100 stakeholders were part of the effort to restore degraded land in the country—some playing a specific role, while others, such as the Government of the Niger, were responsible for mobilizing funds for implementing sustainable land management programs, while also carrying out certain programmes of their own. Our study points out the added value of creating a geolocalized dataset and, in future, a spatialized database management system to (i) deploy targeted sustainable land management actions complementing past and ongoing actions and (ii) create synergy between all the stakeholders.
From Havana to Cádiz in the Imaginary of Women Writers of the Last Decades
Authors: López-Cabrales María del Mar , Rodríguez-Cunill Inmaculada
Published: May 2023

In this essay, we intend to demonstrate how the cities of Havana and Cádiz became mutable literary subjects that accompany the female characters of the narratives of female writers of the past decades from Havana (Anna Lidia Vega Serova, Ena Lucía Portela, and Mylene Fernández Pintado) and Cádiz (Ana Rossetti and Pilar Paz Pasamar). The ironic and delusional visions of a ruined life due to the special period, economic crisis, and political xenophobia in Cádiz will be illustrated by Cuban-Spanish mapping of the analyzed authors’ works. Our hypothesis stems from the idea that there is a clear relation between the representation of the city and political, cultural, and patriarchal transgression that is quoted in these texts (Bataille), which relates to the experience of scarcity/poverty lived on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean. Our bibliographic search has focused on the literary expression of the experience of these cities from the point of view of female writers and protagonists. We concluded with a universal understanding of the experience of the space marked by literature and the gaze of women.
Theoretical and Numerical Investigation of Reduction of Viscous Friction in Circular and Non-Circular Journal Bearings Using Active Lubrication
Authors: Shutin Denis , Kazakov Yuri
Published: May 2023

Reducing friction losses is one of the most common ways to improve fluid film bearings, whose adjustable design provides additional opportunities to improve their dynamic and tribological properties. Previous studies have shown the possibility of reducing viscous friction in actively lubricated bearings by adjusting the rotor position. This work provides a theoretical justification for the mechanism of this effect for the cases of purely laminar lubricant flows in journal bearings. The operating modes connected with the transition to turbulent phenomena and the occurrence of Taylor vortices are beyond the scope of this paper. Conditions that ensure the minimization of friction losses in hydrodynamic and hybrid bearings with hydrostatic parts are determined based on the equations describing viscous friction in a fluid film. In non-adjustable plain hydrodynamic bearings, the minimum of friction is achieved with the centered shaft position that is actually unstable due to the resulting forces configuration. In actively lubricated hybrid bearings, a further reduction in viscous friction is possible by combining film thickness and pressure distributions. Recombining them, along with adjustment of the shaft position, allows the optimization of the distribution of shear stresses in the fluid film. As a result, the shear stresses caused by the rotation of the shaft can be partially compensated by the stresses caused by the pressure gradient, reducing the torque-resisting rotation. In addition, additional benefits can be obtained in the minimum friction state by the reduced lubricant flow and power losses to its pumping. A series of numerical calculations for elliptical, 3-, and 4-lobe bearings show that non-circular bores provide additional variability in film thickness distribution and a premise for optimizing the bearing tribological parameters. Four-lobe bearing demonstrated the best ability for reducing viscous friction among the considered designs. The results obtained can be used as a basis for further optimization of the geometry of fluid film bearings of both active and passive designs by reducing power losses due to viscous friction.
Digital Twin-Driven Thermal Error Prediction for CNC Machine Tool Spindle
Authors: Lu Quanbo , Zhu Dong , Wang Meng , Li Mei
Published: May 2023

Traditional methods for predicting thermal error ignore the correlation between physical world data and virtual world data, leading to the low prediction accuracy of thermal errors and affecting the normal processing of the CNC machine tool (CNCMT) spindle. To solve the above problem, we propose a thermal error prediction approach based on digital twins and long short-term memory (DT-LSTM). DT-LSTM combines the high simulation capabilities of DT and the strong data processing capabilities of LSTM. Firstly, we develop a DT system for the thermal characteristics analysis of a spindle. When the DT system is implemented, we can obtain the theoretical value of thermal error. Then, the experimental data is used to train LSTM. The output of LSTM is the actual value of thermal error. Finally, the particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm fuses the theoretical values of DT with the actual values of LSTM. The case study demonstrates that DT-LSTM has a higher accuracy than the single method by nearly 11%, which improves the prediction performance and robustness of thermal error.
Research on Operation Conflict of Auxiliary Transport Locomotive in Complex Mine Based on Extended Petri Net
Authors: Wang Guorong , Yan Xuanxuan , Kou Ziming , Deng Haishun , Wang Kaisong
Published: May 2023

Aiming at the operation conflict problem of multi-objective, multi-path and multi-vehicle relay during mine locomotive operation under complex geological conditions, a mine operation of locomotive modeling method based on an object-oriented stratified timed Petri net is proposed. In order to load and transport materials as object oriented, which are combined with the mine operation of locomotive rules and time constraints, stratified modeling of an underground roadway route is carried out. In addition, given token time parameters to describe the dynamic behavior of the locomotive, through the model to analyze the operation of a mine transport locomotive, the correlation matrix and accessibility tree analysis are used to study the conflict. Taking the actual operation of a locomotive in a complex mine in Guizhou as an example, the operation of locomotive behavior model was established to detect the interval and time of operation conflicts. The experimental results show that the proposed operation of locomotive modeling and conflict analysis method are effective and feasible, and have important application value to the safe operation of a mine production system.
Assessment of Geomagnetically Induced Currents Impact on Power Grid Modelling
Authors: Gritsutenko Stanislav , Korovkin Nikolay , Sakharov Yaroslav , Sokolova Olga
Published: May 2023

Recent history demonstrates that threat has no borders, though risk does, due to national and regional differences in vulnerabilities and exposure landscapes. The difference between well and poorly managed threat is striking. Inequalities in preparing for threats as a function of their type are still apparent. Compared to more concerning electromagnetic interference threats, the impact of geomagnetic disturbance (GMD) on power grid operation is not well studied. The need for detailed research of GMD negative impacts is expected to broaden awareness. The amplitude of geomagnetically induced currents (GICs) is treated as a uniform measure of danger that can be processed by various stakeholders. Hence, methods for increasing the accuracy of GIC representation are presented in this paper. A low-entropy signal is defined and it is shown that the feature of low signal entropy can be used for increasing the accuracy of the measurement equipment. At the end, a full-system view of GMD impact on power grid operation is given.
Biologically Inspired Self-Organizing Computational Model to Mimic Infant Learning
Authors: Santhanaraj Karthik , Devaraj Dinakaran , MM Ramya , Dhanraj Joshuva , Ramanathan Kuppan
Published: May 2023

Recent technological advancements have fostered human–robot coexistence in work and residential environments. The assistive robot must exhibit humane behavior and consistent care to become an integral part of the human habitat. Furthermore, the robot requires an adaptive unsupervised learning model to explore unfamiliar conditions and collaborate seamlessly. This paper introduces variants of the growing hierarchical self-organizing map (GHSOM)-based computational models for assistive robots, which constructs knowledge from unsupervised exploration-based learning. Traditional self-organizing map (SOM) algorithms have shortcomings, including finite neuron structure, user-defined parameters, and non-hierarchical adaptive architecture. The proposed models overcome these limitations and dynamically grow to form problem-dependent hierarchical feature clusters, thereby allowing associative learning and symbol grounding. Infants can learn from their surroundings through exploration and experience, developing new neuronal connections as they learn. They can also apply their prior knowledge to solve unfamiliar problems. With infant-like emergent behavior, the presented models can operate on different problems without modifications, producing new patterns not present in the input vectors and allowing interactive result visualization. The proposed models are applied to the color, handwritten digits clustering, finger identification, and image classification problems to evaluate their adaptiveness and infant-like knowledge building. The results show that the proposed models are the preferred generalized models for assistive robots.
Nonparametric Threshold Estimation for Drift Function in Jump–Diffusion Model of Interest Rate Using Asymmetric Kernel
Authors: Song Yuping , Li Chen , Wang Hemin , Meng Jiayi , Hao Liang
Published: May 2023

The existing estimators for the drift coefficient in the diffusion model with jumps involve jump components and possess larger boundary error. How to effectively estimate the drift function is an important issue that faces challenges and has theoretical significance. In this paper, the gamma asymmetric kernel for boundary correction and threshold function eliminating jump impacts are combined to estimate the unknown drift coefficient in the jump diffusion process of interest rate. The asymptotic large sample property and the better finite sample property through the Monte Carlo numerical simulation experiment and the empirical analysis of SHIBOR and LIBOR for the corresponding estimator are considered in detail. It is found that the estimator proposed in this paper can correct the estimation error near or far away from the origin point, which provides a more asymptotic unbiased estimator for the drift function in diffusion models with jumps.
EEG-Based Classification of Epileptic Seizure Types Using Deep Network Model
Authors: Alshaya Hend , Hussain Muhammad
Published: May 2023

Accurately identifying the seizure type is vital in the treatment plan and drug prescription for epileptic patients. The most commonly adopted test for identifying epileptic seizures is electroencephalography (EEG). EEG signals include important information about the brain’s electrical activities and are widely used for epilepsy analysis. Among various deep network architectures, convolutional neural networks (CNNs) have been widely used for EEG signal representation learning for epilepsy analysis. However, most of the existing CNN-based methods suffer from the overfitting problem due to a small number of EEG trials and the huge number of learnable parameters. This paper introduces the design of an efficient, lightweight, and expressive deep network model based on ResNet theory and long short-term memory (LSTM) for classifying seizure types from EEG trials. A 1D ResNet module is adopted to train a deeper network without encountering vanishing gradient problems and to avoid the overfitting problem of CNN models. The LSTM module encodes and learns long-term dependencies over time. The synthetic minority oversampling technique (SMOTE) is applied to balance the data by increasing the trials of minority classes. The proposed method was evaluated using the public domain benchmark TUH database. Experimental results revealed the superior performance of the proposed model over other state-of-the-art models with an F1-score of 97.4%. The proposed deep learning model will help neurologists precisely interpret and classify epileptic seizure types and enhance the patient’s life.
On the Joint A-Numerical Radius of Operators and Related Inequalities
Authors: Altwaijry Najla , Dragomir Silvestru Sever , Feki Kais
Published: May 2023

In this paper, we study p-tuples of bounded linear operators on a complex Hilbert space with adjoint operators defined with respect to a non-zero positive operator A. Our main objective is to investigate the joint A-numerical radius of the p-tuple.We established several upper bounds for it, some of which extend and improve upon a previous work of the second author. Additionally, we provide several sharp inequalities involving the classical A-numerical radius and the A-seminorm of semi-Hilbert space operators as applications of our results.
Prevalence of Stress Urinary Incontinence and Risk Factors among Saudi Females
Authors: Gari Abdulrahim M. , Alamer Ethar H. Alhashmi , Almalayo Rania O. , Alshaddadi Wafa A. , Alamri Sadin A. , Aloufi Razan S. , Baradwan Saeed
Published: May 2023

Background and Objectives: Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) is involuntary urine leakage upon effort or physical exertion, sneezing, or coughing, and it is the most prevalent type of urinary incontinence (UI) in women. We aimed to estimate the prevalence of SUI and its risk factors among Saudi females. Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia between March 2022 and July 2022, with a total of 842 respondents. We included Saudi females over the age of 20 years. Data were collected through an online questionnaire distributed to the target group and analyzed using SPSS software. Results: The prevalence of SUI was found to be 3.3% among Saudi women. Moreover, only 41.8% of the participants had at least one pregnancy; the majority had five or more pregnancies (29%). According to our findings, the majority of the participants diagnosed with SUI had the following risk factors: increased age, widowhood, a family history of SUI, and a history of pregnancy. The results revealed that the odds of SUI increased among Saudi females with a family history of SUI by 19.68-fold compared with those who had no family history of SUI, and this was statistically significant (p < 0.001). Conclusion: The prevalence of SUI among Saudi females was found to be relatively low. The above-listed associated factors should be considered in future research and interventions.
The Influence of Fixed Dental Prostheses on the Expression of Inflammatory Markers and Periodontal Status—Narrative Review
Authors: Dragomir Lucian Paul , Nicolae Flavia-Mirela , Gheorghe Dorin Nicolae , Popescu Dora Maria , Dragomir Iuliana Manuela , Boldeanu Lidia , Boldeanu Virgil Mihail , Popescu Mihai Raul
Published: May 2023

A dental prosthesis will only be successful if the restoration lasts for a long period and does not cause any illness. The presence of permanent prosthetic restorations has been linked to an increased risk of periodontal infections, according to a large body of research that has been gathered. When chronic inflammation is brought on by fixed prosthetic constructions, both cellular and noncellular immunity are activated as adaptive immune mechanisms. It has previously been stated that both clinically adequate and inadequate restorations might cause gingival inflammation. Areas surrounding the abutment teeth presented periodontal pockets, attachment loss, congestion, bleeding on probing, and gingival hyperplasia after fixed restorations were removed. The depth of pockets, bleeding on probing, and bone loss are all closely correlated with disease’s severity and IL-1β concentration in gingival crevicular fluid; IL-1β shows higher values in disease sites than in healthy ones. hs-CRP and TNF-α blood levels showed a considerable reduction one day after fixed restorations were applied, in comparison with the pre-treatment values. Collaboration between prosthodontists and periodontists is essential for a good treatment outcome since it will increase the restoration’s lifespan, enhance periodontal health, and improve the quality of life for dental patients.
Differences and Similarities in Epidemiology and Risk Factors for Cutaneous and Uveal Melanoma
Authors: Brănișteanu Daciana Elena , Porumb-Andrese Elena , Stărică Alexandra , Munteanu Anca Catalina , Toader Mihaela Paula , Zemba Mihail , Porumb Vlad , Cozmin Mihai , Moraru Andreea Dana , Nicolescu Alin Codruț , Brănișteanu Daniel Constantin
Published: May 2023

Both cutaneous melanoma (CM) and uveal melanoma (UM) represent important causes of morbidity and mortality. In this review, we evaluate the available knowledge on the differences and similarities between cutaneous melanoma and uveal melanoma, focusing on the epidemiological aspects and risk factors. Uveal melanoma is a rare condition but is the most prevalent primary intra-ocular malignant tumor in adults. Cutaneous melanoma, on the other hand, is significantly more common. While the frequency of cutaneous melanoma has increased in the last decades worldwide, the incidence of uveal melanoma has remained stable. Although both tumors arise from melanocytes, they are very distinct entities biologically, with complex and varied etiologies. Both conditions are encountered more frequently by individuals with a fair phenotype. ultraviolet-radiation is an important, well-documented risk factor for the development of CM, but has shown not to be of specific risk in UM. Although cutaneous and ocular melanomas seem to be inherited independently, there are reported cases of concomitant primary tumors in the same patient.
Synergistic Effects of a Probiotic Culture Extract and Antimicrobial Combinations against Multidrug-Resistant Acinetobacter baumannii
Authors: Lee Ji Hyeon , Kim Joon , Kim Ga-Yeon
Published: May 2023

Background and Objectives: Developing effective treatment outcomes for multidrug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (MRAB) infections, with colistin and tigecycline the current frontline therapies, is challenging, because of the risk of renal toxicity and low blood concentrations of active ingredients when administered intravenously. This study aimed to identify the effect of combination therapy using conventional antimicrobial agents that are used for treating drug-resistant bacteria and the additional synergistic effect of four probiotic culture extracts isolated from the human body and Lactobacillus preparations. Materials and Methods: The antimicrobial combination and synergistic effect of adding Lactobacillus extract against 33 strains of A. baumannii isolated from pus, urine, and other specimens submitted to the Department of Laboratory Medicine of a university hospital, located in Gyeonggi-do, Korea, was investigated over a 3-year period between January 2017 and December 2019. Results: Antimicrobial susceptibility tests on bacteria isolated in clinical practice demonstrated that 26 strains (79%) were MRAB, while multi-locus sequence typing indicated that ST191 was the predominant type (45%; n = 15). Checkerboard test results demonstrated that combination therapy using meropenem and colistin had the highest synergistic effect (fractional inhibitory concentration index = 0.5), while the time–kill assay test using Lactobacillus spp. culture extract exhibited an inhibitory effect within 1 h and complete inhibition of MRAB within 3 h. Lactobacillus paracasei exhibited the fastest antimicrobial reactivity and longest sustained antimicrobial activity. Conclusion: These findings provide useful foundational data for an appropriate combination of colistin with other antimicrobial agents for treating MRAB infection in clinical settings, and the use of various probiotic culture extracts to reduce the required dosage, and therefore toxicity of colistin.
Promoting Dynamic Recrystallization of Al-Zn-Mg-Cu Alloy via Electroshock Treatment
Authors: Song Yanli , Wu Yuhang , Lu Jue , Mei Manlin , Xie Lechun , Hao Chuanchuan
Published: May 2023

The application of high-strength Al-Zn-Mg-Cu alloy is seriously limited because of its poor formability. A novel electroshock treatment (EST) technique with low frequency combined with tensile deformation was proposed to address the issues of low plasticity and poor formability of Al-Zn-Mg-Cu alloy, which could revolutionize conventional plastic forming methods and realize near-room temperature forming of complex components. Al-Zn-Mg-Cu alloy was examined in this work to figure out how EST affects the tensile characteristics and dynamic recrystallization of the alloy during tensile deformation. The findings demonstrate that when electroshock with a current density of 30 A/mm² and a period of 5 s, the elongation of the alloy increased by 21.74%, and the fraction of dynamic recrystallization increased by 77.56% compared to the sample without EST at a temperature far below the recrystallization temperature. The electron back scatter diffraction (ESBD) results show that after appropriate EST, the average grain size decreased from 40 μm to 30 μm, the distribution of grain was more uniform, and the sample’s grain boundary angle generally increased, which is more attractive to facilitate the nucleation and growth of dynamic recrystallization. Additionally, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) results indicate that electroshock energy motivated the migration of dislocations from the grain interior to near the grain boundaries, improving the ability of Al-Zn-Mg-Cu alloy to dynamically recrystallize at near ambient temperature and enhancing elongation.