bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of Motor Scores between OFF and ON States in Tremor-Dominant Parkinson’s Disease after MRgFUS Treatment
Authors: Yin Chunyu , Zong Rui , Song Ge , Zhou Jiayou , Pan Longsheng , Li Xuemei
Published: August 2022

Objective: To compare the motor function improvements in ON and OFF states in tremor-dominant Parkinson’s disease (TDPD) patients within one year of follow-up after ablation of the unilateral ventral intermediate nucleus of the thalamus (Vim) by magnetic resonance imaging-guided focused ultrasound surgery (MRgFUS). Methods: A total of nine consecutive patients confirmed with TDPD who underwent unilateral Vim ablation by MRgFUS between April 2019 and September 2019 were included. The Movement Disorder Society Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale part III (MDS-UPDRSIII) and Clinical Rating Scale for Tremor (CRST) were performed in the ON and OFF stages to distinguish the surgical effects from drug therapy effects. The adverse events and adjustment of drug doses were also recorded. Results: The preoperative MDS-UPDRSIII score in OFF and ON states was 55.0 (48.0, 65.5) and 26.0 (17.0, 27.0), while the CRST score was 46.0 (39.5, 53.5) and 20.0 (13.0, 23.5), respectively; the Levodopa equivalent dose was 600 (456, 600) mg/d. At 1 year after operation, the total MDS-UPDRSIII score and CRST score were 40.0 (30.0, 60.5) and 16.0 (10.0, 29.5) in the OFF state, and 21.0 (17.5, 27.0) and 2.0 (1.5, 7.0) in the ON state, respectively. Compared with the preoperative levels, follow-up at the two-time points (three months and one year after operation) showed the total MDS-UPDRSIII score, as well as MDS-UPDRSIII tremor, bradykinesia, and rigidity scores of contralateral limbs all significantly improved in OFF state. However, in the ON state, only the total MDS-UPDRSIII score and tremor score of contralateral limbs significantly improved. The total CRST score and the CRST (A + B) score of contralateral limbs significantly improved at three months and one year after the operation compared with before the operation in both ON and OFF states. The Levodopa equivalent dose at one and three months were not significantly different from the preoperative dose (p > 0.05). No serious adverse responses were observed. Conclusion: Treating TDPD with unilateral Vim ablation by MRgFUS could improve the symptoms of limb tremor and the other core symptoms, such as bradykinesia and rigidity, as well as some non-motor symptoms and the symptoms of ipsilateral limbs.
Effect of Serum Lipid Profile on the Risk of Breast Cancer: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of 1,628,871 Women
Authors: Nouri Mehran , Mohsenpour Mohammad Ali , Katsiki Niki , Ghobadi Saeed , Jafari Alireza , Faghih Shiva , Banach Maciej , Mazidi Mohsen
Published: August 2022

Dyslipidemia has been linked to breast cancer incidence. The aim of the present meta-analysis was to further investigate the relationship between the serum lipid profile and breast cancer risk. Databases such as PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Sciences were searched up to the end of January 2021 using certain MeSH and non-MeSH keywords and combinations to extract related published articles. Twenty-six prospective studies involving 1,628,871 women, of whom 36,590 were diagnosed with breast cancer during the follow-up period met the inclusion criteria. A negative and significant association was found between the HDL-C level and the risk of breast cancer (relative risk (RR): 0.85, 95% CI: 0.72–0.99, I2: 67.6%, p = 0.04). In contrast, TG (RR: 1.02, 95% CI: 0.91–1.13, I2: 54.2%, p = 0.79), total cholesterol (TC) (RR: 0.98, 95% CI: 0.90–1.06, I2: 67.2%, p = 0.57), apolipoprotein A (ApoA) (RR: 0.96, 95% CI: 0.70–1.30, I2: 83.5%, p = 0.78) and LDL-C (RR: 0.93, 95% CI: 0.79–1.09, I2: 0%, p = 0.386) were not associated with breast cancer development. In studies adjusting for hormone use and physical activity, breast cancer risk was positively correlated with TC (RR: 1.05, 95% CI: 1.01–1.10). Similarly, TG was significantly related to breast cancer development after adjustment for baseline lipids (RR: 0.92, 95% CI: 0.85–0.99) and race (any races mentioned in each study) (RR: 1.80, 95% CI: 1.22–2.65). In the present meta-analysis, HDL-C was inversely related to breast cancer risk. Overall, data on the links between lipids and breast cancer are conflicting. However, there is increasing evidence that low HDL-C is related to an increased risk for this type of malignancy.
Interventional Cardiology: Current Challenges in Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Schäfer Andreas
Published: August 2022

Welcome to the Special Issue “Interventional cardiology: current challenges in acute myocardial infarction” in the Journal of Clinical Medicine [...]
Acute Poisoning Readmissions to an Emergency Department of a Tertiary Hospital: Evaluation through an Active Toxicovigilance Program
Authors: Muñoz Romo Raúl , Borobia Pérez Alberto M. , Mayayo Alvira Rosa , Urroz Mikel , Rodríguez Mariblanca Amelia , Guijarro Eguinoa Francisco J. , Diaz García Lucia , Cobo Mora Julio , Rivera Angelica , Torres Rosario , Carcas Sansuán Antonio J.
Published: August 2022

The aim of this study is to investigate hospital readmissions during 1 year after acute poisoning cases (APC), analyze the temporal behavior of early readmissions (ER) (in the month after the index episode) and predict possible ER. A descriptive analysis of the patients with APC assisted between 2011 and 2016 in the Emergency Department of Hospital La Paz is presented, and various methods of inferential statistics were applied and confirmed by Bayesian analysis in order to evaluate factors associated with total and early readmissions. Out of the 4693 cases of APC included, 968 (20.6%) presented, at least one readmission and 476 (10.1%) of them were ER. The mean age of APC with readmission was 41 years (12.7 SD), 78.9% had previous psychiatric pathology and 44.7% had a clinical history of alcohol addiction. Accidental poisoning has been a protective factor for readmission (OR 0.50; 0.26–0.96). Type of toxin (“drug of abuse” OR 8.88; 1.17–67.25), history of addiction (OR 1.93; 1.18–3.10) and psychiatric history (OR 3.30; 2.53–4.30) are risk factors for readmissions during the first year. Women showed three or more readmissions in a year. The results of the study allow for identification of the predictors for the different numbers of readmissions in the year after the index APC, as well as for ERs.
Special Issue “The State of the Art in Endodontics” Part II
Authors: Iandolo Alfredo , Pantaleo Giuseppe , Abdellatif Dina , Amato Massimo
Published: August 2022

The long-lasting success of root canal treatment can be achieved by applying the many advancements and technologies developed during the treatment [...]
Advances in Clinical and Molecular Research of Biomaterials in Dentistry: The New Era for Dental Applications
Authors: Isola Gaetano , Lombardi Teresa
Published: August 2022

Biomaterials in dentistry play a fundamental role in the quality of regeneration mechanisms and in healing following different rehabilitation techniques [...]
The Relationship between Early Word Reading, Phonological Awareness, Early Music Reading and Musical Aptitude
Authors: Janurik Márta , Surján Noémi , Józsa Krisztián
Published: August 2022

A wide range of evidence has demonstrated the impact of music learning on phonological awareness and the development of reading. Music reading, its relationship with linguistic abilities and reading skills are all highly researched areas. However, limited information is available regarding the relationship between early text reading and early music reading. This study examined the relationship between word reading and music reading, musical aptitude and phonological awareness. The sample consisted of 119 Hungarian grade 1 elementary school students, who were at the beginning of both their text-reading and music-reading studies. They had commenced their studies just nine months before the point of assessment. Phonological awareness, musical aptitude and music reading were the independent variables in the linear-regression model, whilst word reading was the dependent variable. Together, the independent variables explained 50% of the level of development of word reading. The findings suggest a link between early word reading and early music reading. Moreover, further research as well as transfer research may benefit from looking at the possible effects of acquiring and practicing symbol reading, a process most frequently accompanying music learning, on the development of text reading.
Fluid Intelligence Emerges from Representing Relations
Authors: Chuderski Adam
Published: August 2022

Based on recent findings in cognitive neuroscience and psychology as well as computational models of working memory and reasoning, I argue that fluid intelligence (fluid reasoning) can amount to representing in the mind the key relation(s) for the task at hand. Effective representation of relations allows for enormous flexibility of thinking but depends on the validity and robustness of the dynamic patterns of argument–object (role–filler) bindings, which encode relations in the brain. Such a reconceptualization of the fluid intelligence construct allows for the simplification and purification of its models, tests, and potential brain mechanisms.
A Subthreshold Layout Strategy for Faster and Lower Energy Complex Digital Circuits
Authors: Morris Jordan , Prabhat Pranay , Myers James , Yakovlev Alex
Published: August 2022

This work presents complex circuitry from subthreshold standard cell libraries created by geometric STI spacer patterning for bulk planar CMOS technology nodes. Performance/leakage granularity enhancement affords safer multi-Vt synthesis in aggressive voltage scaling schemes. Libraries are evaluated in silicon through implementation of 32-bit datapath 128-bit AES cores. Intra-die nominal temperature (20 °C) analysis reveals improvements of up to 8.65×/24% MEP-to-MEP in frequency and energy-per-cycle respectively, compared to a state-of-the-art subthreshold library. A negative temperature correlation with performance enhancement is demonstrated extending beyond the cell level and into more complex designs. MEP-to-MEP performance enhancement and energy-per-cycle reduction are demonstrated over a temperature range of 0 °C to 85 °C.
Design and Safety Assessment of Recommended Route off the Western Coast of Izu O Shima Island
Authors: Miyake Rina , Itoh Hiroko
Published: August 2022

Ship routeing systems (e.g., traffic separation schemes) have been established worldwide to ensure ship traffic safety. There are no specific measures to establish an effective ship route. We have previously proposed a method to design and assess the route comparison with the present traffic flow in the interest to establish an effective ship routeing system, particularly for recommended routes. The method consists mainly of the following procedures: understanding the existing phenomena and the issues in the target area by analyzing target traffic flow; designing safety measures; assessing the safety measures; and determining the optimal safety measure. This method was used to design and assess the recommended route off the western coast of Izu O Shima Island. This route has been in service since January 2018. The purpose of this study is to validate the proposed method. First, the technical details of the method are described. An automatic identification system (AIS) observation was conducted before and after the implementation to validate the effectiveness of the recommended route for reducing collisions. The results show that the recommended route effectively reduces the risk of collisions. More specifically, the proposed method was found to be useful when establishing an effective recommended route.
Multi-Objective Optimization of Deep-Sea Mining Pump Based on CFD, GABP Neural Network and NSGA-III Algorithm
Authors: Hu Qiong , Zhai Xiaoyu , Li Zhenfu
Published: August 2022

In order to improve the hydraulic performance of a deep-sea mining pump, this research proposed a multi-objective optimization strategy based on the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) numerical simulation, genetic algorithm back propagation (GABP) neural network, and non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm-III (NSGA-III). Significance analysis of the impeller and diffuser parameters was conducted using the Plackett–Burman experiment to filter out the design variables. The optimum Latin hypercube sampling method was used to produce sixty sample cases. The GABP neural network was then utilized to establish an approximate model between the pump’s hydraulic performance and design variables. Finally, the NSGA-III was utilized to solve the approximation model to determine the optimum parameters for the impeller and diffuser. The results demonstrate that the GABP neural network can accurately forecast the deep-sea mining pump’s hydraulic performance, and the NSGA-III global optimization is effective. On the rated clear water conditions, the optimized pump has a 14.65% decrease in shaft power and a 6.04% increase in efficiency while still meeting the design requirements for the head. Under rated solid-liquid two-phase flow conditions, the head still meets the design requirements, the shaft power is decreased by 15.64%, and the efficiency is increased by 6.00%.
A Review of Methods for Removal of Ceftriaxone from Wastewater
Authors: Karungamye Petro , Rugaika Anita , Mtei Kelvin , Machunda Revocatus
Published: August 2022

The presence of pharmaceuticals in surface water and wastewater poses a threat to public health and has significant effects on the ecosystem. Since most wastewater treatment plants are ineffective at removing molecules efficiently, some pharmaceuticals enter aquatic ecosystems, thus creating issues such as antibiotic resistance and toxicity. This review summarizes the methods used for the removal of ceftriaxone antibiotics from aquatic environments. Ceftriaxone is one of the most commonly prescribed antibiotics in many countries, including Tanzania. Ceftriaxone has been reported to be less or not degraded in traditional wastewater treatment of domestic sewage. This has piqued the interest of researchers in the monitoring and removal of ceftriaxone from wastewater. Its removal from aqueous systems has been studied using a variety of methods which include physical, biological, and chemical processes. As a result, information about ceftriaxone has been gathered from many sources with the searched themes being ceftriaxone in wastewater, ceftriaxone analysis, and ceftriaxone removal or degradation. The methods studied have been highlighted and the opportunities for future research have been described.
The Influence of Socio-Demographic Factors on Preference and Park Usage in Guangzhou, China
Authors: Ma Yueshan , Brindley Paul , Lange Eckart
Published: August 2022

Urban green space (UGS) provides a range of services to visitors and is particularly important for recreation and well-being. There are a number of approaches to research visitor accessibility, but implications for demographic differences of users are typically ignored. In order to more precisely model usage of UGS regarding visitor preference, this study used Guangzhou (China) as a case study, concentrating on residents’ visitation to parks and their factors across different groups (for example, by gender, education level, age and visiting frequency). Online questionnaires from 2360 adults were collected on visiting preferences, such as traveling time, visiting frequency, visit duration within parks, visiting reasons and barriers. Results indicate that women were less likely than men to undertake longer walking trips to access parks (over 40 min). Elderly people tended to have longer visit durations, and lower-educated people tended to have shorter visiting times (particularly less than 15 min) in parks. Visit duration in parks had a positive association with walking time and a negative association with visiting frequency. Furthermore, the proportion of people visiting parks to relieve stress declined with increasing age. Infrequent park users (visiting parks less than once a month) rarely visited to gain inspiration or to socialize with strangers. Barriers to use of parks were correlated with socio-demographic factors, highlighting that older people identified poor quality of parks and long walking times as critical barriers. This study provides evidence that there is no one-size-fits-all modeling approach for UGS usage; instead, it demonstrates the importance of considering the socio-demographic characteristics of users.
Towards Sustainable Management of Urban Ecological Space: A Zoning Approach Hybridized by Ecosystem Service Value and Ecological Risk Assessment
Authors: Wu Yuzhe , Gu Chenzhuo , Zhang Yingnan
Published: August 2022

Massive growth is posing threat to the ecological security and sustainability of cities. Ecosystem service value (ESV) and ecological risk index (ERI) assessment can be conducted to enhance urban ecosystem management through the enhanced recognition of these values and risks in decision-making. This paper aimed to measure spatiotemporal ESV and ERI for Shizuishan City located in central China, and, based on this, how to zone urban ecological space using land cover data (for the years 2010, 2015, and 2020). The management options of different zones were suggested to mitigate and manage any potential negative impacts on urban ecological security. Results show that: (1) The spatial distribution characteristic of ESV is “high in the south and low in the north”. The total ESV exhibited an upward tendency from 2010 to 2020. (2) The high-ERI areas were distributed in the peripheral region, while the low-ERI areas were concentrated in the central region. The ERI of water was in decline continuously, whereas the ERI of wetland maintained a high level. (3) The zoning approach integrating ESV and ERI assessment can truly reflect the status of the environment and better clarify the direction of ecological development for different areas. Among four different ecological zones, the high-ESV and low-ERI areas (I) have abundant ecological resources, and they are set as “Priority Development Areas”. The low-ESV and low-ERI areas (II) are set as “Ecological Improvement Areas” because the area of ecological lands are confined. The low-ESV and high-ERI areas (III) have a fragile ecological environment, and they are set as “Exploitation-Prohibited Areas”. The high-ESV and high-ERI areas (IV) are mainly distributed near water and wetland, and they are set as “Research-focused Areas”.
Driving Forces behind Land Use and Land Cover Change: A Systematic and Bibliometric Review
Authors: Allan Andrew , Soltani Ali , Abdi Mohammad Hamed , Zarei Melika
Published: August 2022

This paper is based on reviewing the literature in the past 10 years on the drivers of land use and land cover change (LULCC) in urban areas. It combines quantitative and qualitative keyword analysis of papers drawn out from the Scopus database. The analysis is primarily based on the number of mentions of keywords in the titles and abstracts of the papers, in addition to the number of keywords appearing in the papers. On the basis of content analysis, a three-level structural categorization of the driving factors was developed. These are presented in a schematic diagram, where the contextual factors are shown as influencing economic and financial factors and policy and regulation, which in turn influences transportation investments and availability, and industrial and residential location choices. Transportation availability was seen as the most frequent factor identified in the literature. This research contends that LULCC is mostly determined by interactions among these four themes in a three-level structure, and on this basis, a model is presented that illustrates LULCC drivers based on local circumstances across the globe.
Challenging Authority with Argumentation: The Pragmatics of Arguments from and to Authority
Authors: Lewiński Marcin
Published: August 2022

Authority is both a pragmatic condition of much public discourse and a form of argumentative appeal routinely used in it. The goal of this contribution is to propose a new account of challenging authority in argumentative discourse that benefits from the interplay of the resources of recent speech act theory and argumentation theory. Going beyond standard approaches of the two disciplines, the paper analyzes nuanced forms of establishing and, especially, challenging discourse-related authority. Can Donald Trump advise his own scientific advisors on potential COVID-19 treatments? Addressing questions like this, the paper identifies various paradoxes of authority and the forms of authority discussed in the literature. It then distinguishes between argument from authority (or expert opinion) and argument to authority (or expert opinion) and argues that this rearranged structure mutually benefits the pragmatic account of speech act theory and the schematic account of argumentation theory in the task of better understanding and critiquing discourses such as Trump’s.
The Effects of Soft Contact Lens Wear on The Tear Film and Meibomian Gland Drop-Out and Visibility
Authors: García-Marqués José Vicente , Talens-Estarelles Cristian , García-Lázaro Santiago , Cerviño Alejandro
Published: August 2022

As contact lens (CL) wear affects the ocular surface, this cross-sectional study aims to assess the effects of soft CL wear and its duration on the tear film and meibomian gland (MG) drop-out and visibility. Thirty non-CL wearers (22.5 ± 2.3 years) and twenty-four soft CL wearers (23.8 ± 2.2 years) participated in this study. The Keratograph 5M was used to assess the ocular surface. CL users were surveyed on years of CL wear and hours per week. MG visibility was assessed using a previously developed method based on analysing pixel intensity of meibographies. The CL group showed higher gland drop-out (p < 0.001) and lower gland visibility (p < 0.022). Gland drop-out was independently associated with CL wear (p = 0.006). When gland drop-out was excluded, the relative energy of pixel intensity values showed an independent association with CL wear (p = 0.005). Prolonged hours of CL wear were associated with higher dry eye symptoms and entropy of MGs (p < 0.029). A reduction in non-invasive keratograph break-up time was associated with using CLs for ≥8 years (p = 0.030). Overall, gland drop-out was higher and gland visibility lower in soft CL wearers. New gland visibility metrics might help to assess MGs in soft CL wearers quickly and objectively.
Cognition in Patients with Sleep-Disordered Breathing: Can Obstructive and Central Apneic Pauses Play a Different Role in Cognitive Impairment?
Authors: Karapin Patrik , Šiarnik Pavel , Suchá Bianka , Jurík Matúš , Tedla Miroslav , Poddaný Michal , Klobučníková Katarína , Šutovský Stanislav , Turčáni Peter , Kollár Branislav
Published: August 2022

Background: There are increasing data linking sleep apnea with cognitive impairment. We aimed to clarify the relationship between sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) and cognition. Detailed attention was assigned to the potential role of central versus obstructive apneic pauses in cognitive impairment. Methods: Patients with suspected SDB were prospectively enrolled, and a complex sleep study was performed that included overnight polysomnography. A revised version of Addenbrooke‘s Cognitive Examination (ACE-R) was used to assess cognition, evaluating overall cognition and individual subdomains. Results: A total number of 101 participants were included in the study. In multivariate binary logistic regression analysis, obstructive apnea index ([OAI], 95% CI: 1.009–1.057, p = 0.008) was the only significant contributor to the model predicting attention deficit. The proportion of N1 stage of NREM sleep was the only significant contributor to the model predicting impaired verbal fluency (95% CI: 1.004–1.081, p = 0.029). No significant differences in sleep-related indices were observed in the remaining ACE-R subdomains. Conclusion: Except for verbal fluency and attention, we failed to find any significant association of sleep-related indices with the impairment in different cognitive subdomains. Our data suggest that impairment observed in verbal fluency is associated with a higher proportion of shallow NREM sleep, and attention deficit is associated with higher OAI. Obstructive respiratory episodes seem to play a more important role in cognitive impairment when compared to central ones.
A Comprehensive Review on the Use of Herbal Dietary Supplements in the USA, Reasons for Their Use, and Review of Potential Hepatotoxicity
Authors: Khan Adnan , Chauhan Kashyap , Ross Heather , Parra Natalia Salinas , Magagna John , Wang Makala , Zhu Patrick , Erwin Ryan , Halegoua-DeMarzio Dina
Published: August 2022

Herbal and dietary supplement (HDS) use has grown exponentially in the United States. Unfortunately, the incidence of HDS-related liver injury has proportionally increased. Despite the potential for certain HDSs to cause clinically significant liver injury, they are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration. Recent efforts have been made to regulate HDSs but are far removed from the scrutiny of prescription medications. Scant literature exists on HDSs and their risks of causing liver injury. In this comprehensive review, we examine trends of HDS use in the United States and the pathophysiologic mechanisms of drug-induced liver injury (DILI) of certain HDSs. Finally, we review usage rates; benefits, if any; purported pathophysiology of DILI; and propensity for progression to fulminant hepatic failure of nine HDSs linked to clinically significant DILI.
The Effect of ECAP Processing Conditions on Microstructural Evolution and Mechanical Properties of Pure Magnesium—Experimental, Mathematical Empirical and Response Surface Approach
Authors: Alateyah Abdulrahman I. , El-Garaihy Waleed H. , Alawad Majed O. , Sanabary Samar El , Elkatatny Sally , Dahish Hany A. , Kouta Hanan
Published: August 2022

In this study, a quantitative evaluation approach was used to investigate how certain ECAP processing parameters affect the microstructural evolution, Vicker’s microhardness values and tensile properties of pure Mg. The ECAP processing parameters were number of passes, ECAP die channel angle and processing route type. The response surface methodology (RSM) technique was used to design 16 runs of the experiment using Stat-Ease design expert software. Billets of pure Mg were processed up to four passes of routes Bc, A and C at 225 °C. Two ECAP dies were used with internal channel angles of 90° and 120°. Experimental findings were used to establish empirical models to assess the influence of the ECAP processing parameters on grain size and mechanical properties of ECAPed billets. The established relationships were examined and validated for their adequacy and significance using ANOVA as well as several statistical criteria. Response surface plots and contour graphs were established to offer better understanding of the intended relationships. In addition, the optimum processing parameters for grain size, hardness values and tensile properties were defined. Both experimental results and the theoretical model revealed that route Bc is the most effective route in grain refining. The experimental findings showed that four passes of route Bc through the die channel angle 90° revealed a significant reduction in the grain size by 86% compared to the as-annealed counterparts. Similar to the grain size refining, four-passes processing through the ECAP die with an internal channel angle of 90° leads to improved Vicker’s microhardness values. Additionally, four passes of route Bc using the 90° die angle recorded a significant HV increase at the edge and central areas by 112% and 78%, respectively, compared to the as-annealed counterpart. On the other hand, according to the optimization findings, two passes of route Bc using a die angle of 120° resulted in the best ultimate tensile strength for pure Mg, whereas four passes of route Bc revealed the optimum ductility at fracture.
Effect of Polycarboxylate-Silane Modified Graphene Oxide Composite on the Properties of Cement Pastes
Authors: Liu Shuang , Li Shiyu , Wang Qin , Zhang Ruifeng , Liu Xiao
Published: August 2022

As a nano-carbon material with excellent properties, Graphene oxide (GO) has been widely used in cement-based materials, and the negative effect of paste workability caused by GO agglomeration has also been widely concerning. In this study, a polycarboxylate-silane modified graphene oxide composite (PSG) was prepared by coupling polycarboxylate molecules to the surface of graphene oxide (GO) via a reaction with vinyl triethoxysilane. The effects of GO and PSG on the cement paste and the mechanisms underpinning these effects were investigated using fluidity and rheological parameter measurements, and ion concentration and zeta potential analyses. It was found that, in the aqueous phase of the paste, the polycarboxylate molecular chains on the surface of the PSG complexed with calcium ions (Ca2+), thereby preventing Ca2+ from bridging the GO sheets, and thus stabilizing the surface potential and the electrostatic repulsion. This prevented the PSG from forming an agglomerate structure such as that formed by GO under the same conditions, thereby substantially enhancing workability of paste with nano-carbon material. This study provides some new foundations and ideas for the further application of graphene oxide materials in cement-based materials.
Inorganic Flame-Retardant Coatings Based on Magnesium Potassium Phosphate Hydrate
Authors: Chen Sin-Nan , Lin Ching , Hsu Hao-Lun , Chen Xin-Han , Huang Yu-Chang , Hsieh Tar-Hwa , Ho Ko-Shan , Lin Yu-Jun
Published: August 2022

A magnesium potassium phosphate hydrate-based flame-retardant coating (MKPC) is formulated by dead-burnt magnesium oxide (magnesia) and potassium dihydrogen phosphate (KH2PO4), behaving as a matrix. Constituents of the MKPC include wollastonite, vermiculite, aluminum fluoride, aluminum trihydroxide, and calcium carbonate. Some of the ingredients inter-react to produce mullite whiskers at high temperatures, despite an acid-base hydration induced reaction between magnesia and KH2PO4. The MKPC’s thermal, corrosion-resistant, mechanical, and flame-resistant properties were analyzed using scanning electron microscopy, electrochemical corrosion testing, compression testing, thermogravimetric analysis, and freeze/thaw tests. The results show that with the molar ratio = 4 of magnesia to KH2PO4, MKPC demonstrates lower thermal conductivity (0.19 W/m K), along with better corrosion resistance, stronger compressive strength (10.5 MPa), and higher bonding strength (6.62 kgf/cm2) to the steel substrate. Furthermore, acceptable additives to the formulation could enhance its flame-retardancy and increase its mechanical strength as well. Mullite whisker formed from the interaction of wollastonite, aluminum trihydroxide, and aluminum fluoride acts as an outer ceramic shield that enhances mechanical strength and compactness. In addition, Mg-containing minerals with calcium carbonate treated at high temperatures, transform into magnesium calcium carbonate after releasing CO2. At the optimum composition of MKPC (magnesia/KH2PO4 molar ratio = 4; wollastonite:vermiculite = 20:10 wt.%; aluminum trihydroxide = 10 wt.%; and calcium carbonate = 5 wt.%), coated on a steel substrate, the flame-resistance limit results exhibit below 200 °C on the back surface of the steel substrate after one hour of flaming (ca. 1000 °C) on the other surface, and the flame-resistance rating results demonstrate only 420 °C on the back surface of the steel substrate after three hours of flaming (>1000 °C) on the other surface. Both requirements for the flame-resistance limit and three-hour flame-resistance rating are met with the optimum compositions, indicating that MKPC plays an effective role in establishing flame-retardancy.
Micromachining of Alumina Using a High-Power Ultrashort-Pulsed Laser
Authors: Rung Stefan , Häcker Niklas , Hellmann Ralf
Published: August 2022

We report on a comprehensive study of laser ablation and micromachining of alumina using a high-power 1030 nm ultrashort-pulsed laser. By varying laser power up to 150 W, pulse duration between 900 fs and 10 ps, repetition rates between 200 kHz and 800 kHz), spatial pulse overlap between 70% and 80% and a layer-wise rotation of the scan direction, the ablation efficiency, ablation rate and surface roughness are determined and discussed with respect to an efficient and optimized process strategy. As a result, the combination of a high pulse repetition rate of 800 kHz and the longest evaluated pulse duration of 10 ps leads to the highest ablation efficiency of 0.76 mm3/(W*min). However, the highest ablation rate of up to 57 mm3/min is achieved at a smaller repetition rate of 200 kHz and the shortest evaluated pulse duration of 900 fs. The surface roughness is predominantly affected by the applied laser fluence. The application of a high repetition rate leads to a small surface roughness Ra below 2 μm even for the usage of 150 W laser power. By an interlayer rotation of the scan path, optimization of the ablation characteristics can be achieved, while an interlayer rotation of 90° leads to increasing the ablation rate, the application of a rotation angle of 11° minimizes the surface roughness. The evaluation by scanning electron microscopy shows the formation of thin melt films on the surface but also reveals a minimized heat affected zone for the in-depth modification. Overall, the results of this study pave the way for high-power ultrashort-pulsed lasers to efficient, high-quality micromachining of ceramics.
Analytical Model of Hole Diameter and Self-Guiding Machining Mechanism of BTA Deep Hole Drilling
Authors: Li Xubo , Zheng Jianming , Yu Biao , Du Yongqiang , Zhou Yanan
Published: August 2022

The goal of this study was to explore the self-guided machining mechanism of boring and trepanning association (BTA) deep hole drilling and realize precise control of the machining quality. The motion analysis method was used to analyze the center motion trajectory of the drill during the entrance, and the self-guiding mechanism and hole-forming mechanism of BTA deep hole drilling were revealed. Considering the bending deformation of the drilling tube and the tool structure parameters, according to the elastic-plastic deformation theory and Hertzian contact theory, a novel analytical model of the extrusion contact between the guide pads and the hole wall of the BTA deep hole drilling was established for the theoretical prediction of the extrusion deformation and the machining hole diameter. Combined with the finite element method (FEM) simulation model, the variation law of the contact inclination angle, contact stress, and extrusion deformation of the guide pads and the hole wall with the drilling conditions were studied. The total extrusion deformation between the guide pad and the hole wall was between 10 and 50 μm. The maximum error between the FEM simulation results and the test results was 18.1%, and the maximum error between the analytical model results and the test results was 23.6%. The simulation and experimental results showed that the established extrusion contact model could accurately predict the extrusion deformation of the hole wall and the machining hole diameter.
CLOVER Robot: A Minimally Actuated Jumping Robotic Platform
Authors: Macario-Rojas Alejandro , Parslew Ben , Weightman Andrew , Smith Katharine Lucy
Published: August 2022

Robots have been critical instruments to exploration of extreme environments by providing access to environments beyond human limitations. Jumping robot concepts are attractive solutions to negotiate complex and cluttered terrain. However, among the engineering challenges that need to be addressed to enable sustained operation of jumping robot concepts in extreme environments, the reduction of mechanical failure modes is one of the most fundamental. This study sets out to develop a jumping robot design, with a focus on a minimal actuation to support reduced mechanism maintenance and thus limit the number of mechanical failure modes. We present the synthesis of a Sarrus-style linkage to constrain the system to a single translational degree of freedom thus removing the need for synchronising gears, which exhibit high failure rates in dusty environments. We have restricted the present research to vertical solid jumps to assess the performance of the fundamental main-drive linkage. A laboratory demonstrator assists the transfer of theoretical concepts and approaches to practical implementation. The laboratory demonstrator performs jumps with 63% potential-to-kinetic energy conversion efficiency, with a theoretical maximum of 73%. Satisfactory operation opens up design optimisation and directional jump capability towards the development of a jumping robotic platform for extreme environments exploration.
Study on Asymmetric Rolling Process Applied to Aluminum Alloy Sheets
Authors: Vincze Gabriela , Pereira António B. , Lopes Diogo A. F. , Yánez Jesús M. V. , Butuc Marilena C.
Published: August 2022

Asymmetric rolling (ASR) is a method to manufacture sheet metals with the aim of improving material performance. The objective of the present work is to investigate the effect of asymmetric rolling on an aluminum alloy used in the automotive industry. To this end, three parameters of the process were studied, namely the asymmetry factor (1, symmetric rolling (SR) and 1.36, asymmetric rolling (AR)), the thickness reduction per pass (10%, 15%, and 30%), and the rolling routes (asymmetric continuous (ARC) and asymmetric reverse (ARR)). After rolling, the material was tested by uniaxial tensile tests to measure its strength and formability. The results show similarity between all the rolling conditions, with a considerable increase in strength and a drastic decrease in formability. In addition, a prediction of forming limit diagram using an FLD code based on Marciniak–Kuczynski analysis was used to investigate the FLD evolution with rolling. The code was capable to capture the variation in formability during the rolling process, showing that it is a reliable numerical tool. A reasonable combination of high strength and acceptable formability was achieved by an adequate heat treatment applied after rolling.
Switched Reluctance Motor Design for a Mid-Drive E-Bike Application
Authors: Terzić Mladen V. , Mihić Dragan S.
Published: August 2022

The popularity of electric bicycles (e-bikes) among urban commuters and cyclists is constantly increasing because e-bikes provide an efficient, more powerful, and a low-cost mode of transportation. Since the main issue is to increase the power density of the drive system, a permanent magnet (PM) machine is the preferred choice. In mid-drive systems, higher speed motors are commonly used, which provides the opportunity to use switched reluctance machines (SRM), because they can provide better performance when designed for higher speeds. Moreover, the simple, robust, and low-cost structure of SRM makes it a favorable option for e-bike drive systems. In this paper, an SRM design for an e-bike mid-drive system is investigated. Several 3-phase configurations with higher number of rotor poles than the stator poles are considered: 6/10, 6/14, and 12/16, as well as the conventional 12/8 SRM, for the sake of comparison. Main dimensions and requirements are defined from Shimano Steps mid-drive PM machine, whose characteristics are taken as the design goal. According to the results, the best configuration is selected and further optimized, leading to the final design for which a prototype is built and tested.
Robustness Enhancement of Neural Networks via Architecture Search with Multi-Objective Evolutionary Optimization
Authors: Chen Haojie , Huang Hai , Zuo Xingquan , Zhao Xinchao
Published: August 2022

Along with the wide use of deep learning technology, its security issues have drawn much attention over the years. Adversarial examples expose the inherent vulnerability of deep learning models and make it a challenging task to improve their robustness. Model robustness is related not only to its parameters but also to its architecture. This paper proposes a novel robustness enhanced approach for neural networks based on a neural architecture search. First, we randomly sample multiple neural networks to construct the initial population. Second, we utilize the individual networks in the population to fit and update the surrogate models. Third, the population of neural networks is evolved through a multi-objective evolutionary algorithm, where the surrogate models accelerate the performance evaluation of networks. Finally, the second and third steps are performed alternately until a network architecture with high accuracy and robustness is achieved. Experimental results show that the proposed method outperforms some classical artificially designed neural networks and other architecture search algorithms in terms of robustness.
Commuting Outer Inverse-Based Solutions to the Yang–Baxter-like Matrix Equation
Authors: Kumar Ashim , Mosić Dijana , Stanimirović Predrag S. , Singh Gurjinder , Kazakovtsev Lev A.
Published: August 2022

This paper investigates new solution sets for the Yang–Baxter-like (YB-like) matrix equation involving constant entries or rational functional entries over complex numbers. Towards this aim, first, we introduce and characterize an essential class of generalized outer inverses (termed as {2,5}-inverses) of a matrix, which commute with it. This class of {2,5}-inverses is defined based on resolving appropriate matrix equations and inner inverses. In general, solutions to such matrix equations represent optimization problems and require the minimization of corresponding matrix norms. We decided to analytically extend the obtained results to the derivation of explicit formulae for solving the YB-like matrix equation. Furthermore, algorithms for computing the solutions are developed corresponding to the suggested methods in some computer algebra systems. The main features of the proposed approach are highlighted and illustrated by numerical experiments.
Femto-LASIK after Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty to Correct Residual Astigmatism: A Long-Term Case Series Study
Authors: Alfonso-Bartolozzi Belén , Lisa Carlos , Fernández-Vega-Cueto Luis , Madrid-Costa David , Alfonso José F.
Published: August 2022

Purpose: To evaluate the long-term outcomes of femtosecond laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (Femto-LASIK) to correct residual astigmatism after deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty (DALK). Methods: This retrospective case series study included 10 eyes that underwent Femto-LASIK after a DALK. The refractive error, uncorrected (UDVA) and corrected (CDVA) distance visual acuities, thinnest corneal thickness (TCT), and central corneal thickness (CCT) were registered. The postoperative follow-up ranged between 36 and 60 months. Results: All surgeries were uneventful, with no intra- or postoperative complications. The mean UDVA (Snellen scale) rose from 0.13 ± 0.05 to 0.47 ± 0.15 six months after Femto-LASIK (p < 0.001). All cases experienced a significant improvement in UDVA. None of the eyes lost lines of CDVA, and seven eyes (70%) improved the CDVA compared to preoperative values. The refractive cylinder changed from a preoperative value of −3.88 ± 1.00 D to −0.93 ± 0.39 six months after Femto-LASIK (p < 0.0001). In eight eyes (80%), the UDVA and refractive outcomes remained stable at postoperative follow-up visits. In contrast, one eye experienced a refractive regression over the follow-up. TCT and CCT were stable at the different postoperative follow-up visits. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that Femto-LASIK might safely and effectively corrects residual astigmatism after DALK. Despite these encouraging results, further long-term studies, including a larger number of cases, are required to confirm the safety of the procedure. The refractive stability in eyes with prior RK might be lower than for other DALK indications.
Bacteriocin-Producing Escherichia coli Isolated from the Gastrointestinal Tract of Farm Animals: Prevalence, Molecular Characterization and Potential for Application
Authors: Kuznetsova Marina V. , Mihailovskaya Veronika S. , Remezovskaya Natalia B. , Starčič Erjavec Marjanca
Published: August 2022

Due to the spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, new alternatives to antibiotics and ways to prevent infections are being sought. Bacteriocin-producing bacteria are therefore attracting attention due to their probiotic potential as a safe alternative to antimicrobial drugs. The aim of this work was to determine the prevalence of bacteriocin-encoded genes among Escherichia coli strains from healthy farm animals and to characterize the presence of virulence-associated genes, the possibility of prophage induction, and hemolytic and bacterial antagonistic activity of the bacteriocin-producing E. coli in order to reveal their potential for application. It was found that 17 of 72 E. coli strains (23.6%) produced bacteriocins. Among them, 18 out of 30 bacteriocin genes were detected: the most prevalent genes were those for microcin M (58.8%), colicin E1 (52.9%), and colicin M (35.3%). Colicin Ia (29.4%), colicin E9, colicin Ib, colicin B (23.5%), and colicin E9 (17.7%) genes were also frequent, while the prevalence of genes encoding microcins V, B17, and H47 and colicins E3, K, N, U, Y, 5, and 10 did not exceed 11.8%. At least two different bacteriocin genes were detected in all 17 bacteriocinogenic strains; the highest number of different bacteriocin genes detected in one strain was seven genes. E. coli strains with combinations of colicin E1 and E or microcin M and colicin E1 genes were more prevalent than others (17.7%). Among the 17 bacteriocin-producing E. coli strains, 5.9% were hemolytic, 47.1% contained prophages, and 58.8% carried genes encoding toxins. Cell-free supernatants of bacteriocin-producing strains were shown to inhibit the growth of pathogenic E. coli strains belonging to the APEC, STEC, and ETEC pathotypes. Thus, among the studied bacteriocin-producing E. coli isolated from the gastrointestinal tract of farm animals, three strains with high antagonistic bacterial activity and the absence of pathogenicity genes, prophages, and hemolytic activity were identified and therefore have potential for application.
SARS-CoV-2 Mutations and Variants May Muddle the Sensitivity of COVID-19 Diagnostic Assays
Authors: Alkhatib Mohammad , Carioti Luca , D’Anna Stefano , Ceccherini-Silberstein Francesca , Svicher Valentina , Salpini Romina
Published: August 2022

The performance of diagnostic polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays can be impacted by SARS-CoV-2 variability as this is dependent on the full complementarity between PCR primers/probes and viral target templates. Here, we investigate the genetic variability of SARS-CoV-2 regions recognized by primers/probes utilized by PCR diagnostic assays based on nucleotide mismatching analysis. We evaluated the genetic variation in the binding regions of 73 primers/probes targeting the Nucleocapsid (N, N = 36), Spike (S, N = 22), and RNA-dependent RNA-polymerase/Helicase (RdRp/Hel, N = 15) of the publicly available PCR-based assays. Over 4.9 million high-quality SARS-CoV-2 genome sequences were retrieved from GISAID and were divided into group-A (all except Omicron, >4.2 million) and group-B (only Omicron, >558 thousand). In group-A sequences, a large range of variability in primers/probes binding regions in most PCR assays was observed. Particularly, 87.7% (64/73) of primers/probes displayed ≥1 mismatch with their viral targets, while 8.2% (6/73) contained ≥2 mismatches and 2.7% (2/73) contained ≥3 mismatches. In group-B sequences, 32.9% (24/73) of primers/probes were characterized by ≥1 mismatch, 13.7% (10/73) by ≥2 mismatches, and 5.5% (4/73) by ≥3 mismatches. The high rate of single and multiple mismatches- found in the target regions of molecular assays used worldwide for SARS-CoV-2 diagnosis reinforces the need to optimize and constantly update these assays according to SARS-CoV-2 genetic evolution and the future emergence of novel variants.