bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Presence, Location, and Degree of Late Gadolinium Enhancement in Relation to Myocardial Dysfunction and Poor Prognosis in Patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Feng Xiaojin , Liu Peijun , Liu Xiaohang , Guo Tianchen , Li Xinhao , Yang Huaxia , Chen Wei , Wang Yining , Zhang Shuyang
Published: October 2023

Patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) typically develop myocardial fibrosis. No studies have investigated the clinical significance of the presence, location, and degree of fibrosis in SLE patients. Seventy-four SLE patients were included. Thirty-seven non-autoimmune disease patients and thirty-seven healthy individuals were included as controls. Myocardial fibrosis was evaluated at cardiac magnetic resonance via a qualitative and quantitative assessment of late gadolinium enhancement (LGE). Myocardial function was measured via speckle-tracking echocardiography. All patients were followed up for the occurrence of major adverse cardiac events (MACE). The presence, locations, and degrees of LGE disturbed regional and global myocardial function. The presence of LGE, left ventricular free-wall LGE (LVFW LGE), and severe LGE were all independent predictors of MACE in SLE patients [LGE presence HR: 3.746 (1.434–9.79), p = 0.007; LVFW LGE HR: 2.395 (1.023–5.606), p = 0.044; severe LGE HR: 3.739 (1.241–11.266), p = 0.019]. LGE combined with SLE-related organ damage identified patients at high risk of MACE (p < 0.001). In conclusion, the presence, degree, and location of LGE were associated with myocardial dysfunction. The presence, location, and degree of LGE had the potential to independently predict poor prognosis and improve risk stratification in SLE patients.
Trimethoxy Silyl End-Capped Hyperbranched Polyglycidol/Polycaprolactone Particle Gels for Cell Delivery and Tissue Repair: Mechanical Properties, Biocompatibility, and Biodegradability Studies
Authors: González-Chomón Clara , Garamus Vasil M. , Hoyland Judith , Halacheva Silvia S.
Published: October 2023

This study focuses on the development of new biocompatible and biodegradable particle gel scaffolds based on PCL-HBPG/1SiHBPG triblock copolymers composed of a polycaprolactone (PCL) core and two outer blocks of trimethoxysilyl end-capped hyperbranched polyglycidol (HBPG/1SiHBPG) that have the potential to be used in soft tissue regeneration. The relationship between the gel’s composition, structure, mechanical properties, and performance has been investigated for the first time and the copolymer design parameters have been optimized. The particle gel scaffolds were formed from the concentrated dispersions of the most hydrophobic PCL-45HBPG/1SiHBPG at low temperatures, and were the result of the numerous hydrogen bonds formed from the HBPG/1SiHBPG moieties as well as the formation of siloxane crosslinks (i.e., Si–O–Si bonds). These gels were formed in the physiological temperature range. Gels with a mechanical strength that gradually increases were formed from the physically crosslinked PCL-45HBPG/1SiHBPG particles effectively and safely, in the absence of UV radiation. They feature high elasticity and undergo enzyme-triggered disassembly. The gels are biocompatible and have the potential to invoke cell attachment and differentiation in the absence of exogenous biological stimuli. A successful outcome of this study will be the prospect of a new approach for tissue regeneration that is currently not available.
Technical Validation of a Fully Integrated NGS Platform in the Real-World Practice of Italian Referral Institutions
Authors: De Luca Caterina , Pepe Francesco , Russo Gianluca , Nacchio Mariantonia , Pisapia Pasquale , Russo Maria , Conticelli Floriana , Palumbo Lucia , Scimone Claudia , Cozzolino Domenico , Gragnano Gianluca , Iaccarino Antonino , Troncone Giancarlo , Malapelle Umberto
Published: October 2023

Aims: To date, precision medicine has played a pivotal role in the clinical administration of solid-tumor patients. In this scenario, a rapidly increasing number of predictive biomarkers have been approved in diagnostic practice or are currently being investigated in clinical trials. A pitfall in molecular testing is the diagnostic routine sample available to analyze predictive biomarkers; a scant tissue sample often represents the only diagnostical source of nucleic acids with which to conduct molecular analysis. At the sight of these critical issues, next-generation sequencing (NGS) platforms emerged as referral testing strategies for the molecular analysis of predictive biomarkers in routine practice, but the need for highly skilled personnel and extensive working time drastically impacts the widespread diffusion of this technology in diagnostic settings. Here, we technically validate a fully integrated NGS platform on diagnostic routine tissue samples previously tested with an NGS-based diagnostic workflow by a referral institution. Methods: A retrospective series of n = 64 samples (n = 32 DNA, n = 32 RNA samples), previously tested using a customized NGS assay (SiRe™ and SiRe fusion), was retrieved from the internal archive of the University of Naples Federico II. Each sample was tested by adopting an Oncomine Precision Assay (OPA), which is able to detect 2769 molecular actionable alterations [hotspot mutations, copy number variations (CNV) and gene fusions] on fully integrated NGS platforms (Genexus, Thermo Fisher Scientific (Waltham, MA, USA). The concordance rate between these technical approaches was determined. Results: The Genexus system successfully carried out molecular analysis in all instances. A concordance rate of 96.9% (31 out of 32) was observed between the OPA and SiRe™ panels both for DNA- and RNA-based analysis. A negative predictive value of 100% and a positive predictive value of 96.9% (62 out of 64) were assessed. Conclusions: A fully automatized Genexus system combined with OPA (Thermo Fisher Scientific) may be considered a technically valuable, time-saving sequencing platform to test predictive biomarkers in diagnostic routine practice.
Role of Bank Credit and External Commercial Borrowings in Working Capital Financing: Evidence from Indian Manufacturing Firms
Authors: Tiwary Daitri , Paul Samit
Published: October 2023

Determinants and levels of working capital financing (WCF) in the manufacturing sector have been empirically proven to impact firm profitability across emerging as well as developed nations. With time, firms adjust toward financing their working capital requirement (WCR), although the speed of adjustment, financing constraints, and bargaining power are subject to variations. In this study, we estimate the effect of bank credit and firm foreign currency borrowing on working capital financing with three distinct models for manufacturing firms in India. We examine the relationship between short-term foreign currency borrowings and WCF. Further, we investigate if the internal capital market affects WCF in the form of business group affiliation; lastly, we assess the impact of bank dependency and financial distress on WCF. We conclude that the debt–equity ratio becomes relevant, whereas firm characteristics such as age, size, and asset tangibility become irrelevant. Our original contribution to the literature is the finding that even smaller emerging market firms with well-managed, low debt exposure have improved access to WCF. Our results support that financial distress negatively impacts WCF but deviates from macroeconomic fundamentals, such as the GDP growth rate. This indicates deterioration in the health of Indian manufacturing, as a capital-intensive sector. Bank dependency remains significant, wherein smaller firms and those without a dividend pay-out continue to have longer cash conversion cycles and less efficient WCR. As a unique finding, we note foreign currency borrowings significantly contribute to WCF in the case of less developed credit markets in emerging economies such as India.
A Comprehensive Mechanical Characterization of Subject-Specific 3D Printed Scaffolds Mimicking Trabecular Bone Architecture Biomechanics
Authors: Rojas-Rojas Laura , Tozzi Gianluca , Guillén-Girón Teodolito
Published: October 2023

This study presents a polymeric scaffold designed and manufactured to mimic the structure and mechanical compressive characteristics of trabecular bone. The morphological parameters and mechanical behavior of the scaffold were studied and compared with trabecular bone from bovine iliac crest. Its mechanical properties, such as modulus of elasticity and yield strength, were studied under a three-step monotonic compressive test. Results showed that the elastic modulus of the scaffold was 329 MPa, and the one for trabecular bone reached 336 MPa. A stepwise dynamic compressive test was used to assess the behavior of samples under various loading regimes. With microcomputed tomography (µCT), a three-dimensional reconstruction of the samples was obtained, and their porosity was estimated as 80% for the polymeric scaffold and 88% for trabecular bone. The full-field strain distribution of the samples was measured using in situ µCT mechanics and digital volume correlation (DVC). This provided information on the local microdeformation mechanism of the scaffolds when compared to that of the tissue. The comprehensive results illustrate the potential of the fabricated scaffolds as biomechanical templates for in vitro studies. Furthermore, there is potential for extending this structure and fabrication methodology to incorporate suitable biocompatible materials for both in vitro and in vivo clinical applications.
Characterization of a Type II L-Asparaginase from the Halotolerant Bacillus subtilis CH11
Authors: Arredondo-Nuñez Annsy , Monteiro Gisele , Flores-Fernández Carol N. , Antenucci Lina , Permi Perttu , Zavaleta Amparo Iris
Published: October 2023

L-asparaginases from bacterial sources have been used in antineoplastic treatments and the food industry. A type II L-asparaginase encoded by the N-truncated gene ansZP21 of halotolerant Bacillus subtilis CH11 isolated from Chilca salterns in Peru was expressed using a heterologous system in Escherichia coli BL21 (DE3)pLysS. The recombinant protein was purified using one-step nickel affinity chromatography and exhibited an activity of 234.38 U mg−1 and a maximum catalytic activity at pH 9.0 and 60 °C. The enzyme showed a homotetrameric form with an estimated molecular weight of 155 kDa through gel filtration chromatography. The enzyme half-life at 60 °C was 3 h 48 min, and L-asparaginase retained 50% of its initial activity for 24 h at 37 °C. The activity was considerably enhanced by KCl, CaCl2, MgCl2, mercaptoethanol, and DL-dithiothreitol (p-value < 0.01). Moreover, the Vmax and Km were 145.2 µmol mL−1 min−1 and 4.75 mM, respectively. These findings evidence a promising novel type II L-asparaginase for future industrial applications.
Frictional Wear and Thermal Fatigue Properties of Die Steel after Ultrasound-Assisted Alloying
Authors: Hu Chunhua , Wei Yihao , Ji Xinghao , Liu Yu
Published: October 2023

The surface layer of 8407 die steel was strengthened using the combination of ultrasonic surface rolling and high-energy ion implanting in the present work. The strengthened layer was then characterized via microstructure observation, composition analysis, and hardness test. After that, the frictional wear and thermal fatigue properties of high-energy ion implanting specimens and composite-reinforced specimens were compared. Results show that the pretreatment of specimens with ultrasonic surface rolling causes grain refinement in the material surface, which promotes the strengthening effect of high-energy ion implanting. The wear volume of composite-reinforced specimens at medium and high frequencies is reduced by about 20%, and the wear resistance of these specimens is significantly improved with a lower friction coefficient and wear volume at moderate and high frequencies in alternating load friction experiments. Meanwhile, the thermal fatigue crack depth of composite-reinforced specimens is reduced by about 47.5%, which effectively prevents the growth of thermal cracks in the surface, thus improving the curing ability of the implanted elements. Therefore, composite strengthening of the mold steel surface is conducive to improving the cycle life, ensuring accuracy, effectively hindering the expansion of thermal cracks, and saving the cost of production.
High-Energy Radiation Effects on Silicon NPN Bipolar Transistor Electrical Performance: A Study with 1 MeV Proton Irradiation
Authors: EL Ghazi Haddou , En-nadir Redouane , Jorio Anouar , Basyooni-M. Kabatas Mohamed A.
Published: October 2023

This study investigates the degradation of the silicon NPN transistor’s emitter-base junction, specifically the 2N2219A model, under both forward and reverse polarization. We examine the current–voltage characteristics under the influence of 1 MeV proton irradiation at various fluencies, which are 5.3×108,5.3×1010,5×1011,5×1012, and 5×1013 protons/cm², all conducted at 307 K. The experimental findings elucidate a pronounced dependency of diode parameters, including the reverse saturation current, series resistance, and the non-idealist factor, on the incident proton flow. This observation underscores that proton-induced degradation is primarily driven by displacement damage, while recorded degradation is predominantly attributed to the generation of defects and interfacial traps within the transistor resulting from exposure to high-energy radiation. Our findings indicate that the effects of irradiation align more closely with the compensation phenomenon in doping rather than its reinforcement.
Study on the Microstructure of Mg-4Zn-4Sn-1Mn-xAl As-Cast Alloys
Authors: Liu Junlin , Du Zhiwei , Peng Yonggang , Jia Rongguang , Han Xiaolei , Ma Minglong , Li Ting
Published: October 2023

In this study, the microstructure of the Mg-4Zn-4Sn-1Mn-xAl (x = 0, 0.3 wt.%, denoted as ZTM441 and ZTM441-0.3Al) as-cast alloys was investigated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), focused-ion/electron-beam (FIB) micromachining, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and high-angle annular dark-field scanning transmission electron microscopy (HAADF-STEM). The analysis results revealed that the microstructure of the ZTM441 and ZTM441-0.3Al as-cast alloys both mainly consist of the α-Mg matrix, skeleton-shaped MgZn2 eutectic texture, block-shaped Mg2Sn, and Zn/Sn-rich nanoscale precipitate bands along the grain boundary and the interdendrite. Nanoscale α-Mn dispersoids formed in the grain in the ZTM441 alloy, while no α-Mn formed in the ZTM441-0.3Al alloy instead of nanoscale Al3Mn2 particles. In the ZTM441 as-cast alloy, part of the Zn element is dissolved into the α-Mn phase, and part of the Mn element is dissolved into the MgZn2 phase, but in the ZTM441-0.3Al alloy, there are no such characteristics of mutual solubility. Zn and Mn elements are easy to combine in ZTM441 as-cast alloy, while Al and Mn are easy to combine in ZTM441-0.3Al as-cast alloy. The Mg-Zn phases have not only MgZn2-type crystal structure but also Mg4Zn7- and Mg149Zn-type crystal structure in the ZTM441-0.3Al as-cast alloy. The addition of Al changes the combination of Mn and Zn, promotes the formation of Al3Mn2, and the growth of the grain.
Process Development of a Generative Method for Partial and Controlled Integration of Active Substances into Open-Porous Matrix Structures
Authors: Burger Lena , Conzelmann Achim , Ulrich Sven , Mozaffari-Jovein Hadi
Published: October 2023

A special generative manufacturing (AM) process was developed for the partial integration of active ingredients into open-porous matrix structures. A mixture of a silver-containing solution as an antibacterial material with an alginate hydrogel as a carrier system was produced as the active ingredient. The AM process developed was used to introduce the active ingredient solution into an open-porous niobium containing a β-titanium matrix structure, thus creating a reproducible active ingredient delivery system. The matrix structure had already been produced in a separate AM process by means of selective laser melting (SLM). The main advantage of this process is the ability to control porosity with high precision. To determine optimal surface conditions for the integration of active ingredients into the matrix structure, different surface conditions of the titanium substrate were tested for their impact on wetting behaviour of a silver-containing hydrogel solution. The solution-substrate contact angle was measured and evaluated to determine the most favourable surface condition. To develop the generative manufacturing process, an FDM printer underwent modifications that permitted partial application of the drug solution to the structure in accordance with the bioprinting principle. The modified process enabled flexible control and programming of both the position and volume of the applied drug. Furthermore, the process was able to fill up to 95% of the titanium matrix body pore volume used. The customised application of drug carriers onto implants as a drug delivery system can be achieved via the developed process, providing an alternative to established methods like dip coating that lack this capability.
Functionality and Mechanical Performance of Miniaturized Non-Assembly Pin-Joints Fabricated in Ti6Al4V by Laser Powder Bed Fusion
Authors: Gutmann Florian , Hoschke Klaus , Ganzenmüller Georg , Hiermaier Stefan
Published: October 2023

In this work, additively manufactured pin-joint specimens are analyzed for their mechanical performance and functionality. The functionality of a pin-joint is its ability to freely rotate. The specimens were produced using laser powder bed fusion technology with the titanium alloy Ti6Al4V. The pin-joints were manufactured using previously optimized process parameters to successfully print miniaturized joints with an angle to the build plate. The focus of this work lies in the influence of joint clearance, and therefore all specimens were manufactured with a variety of clearance values, from 0 µm up to 150 µm, in 10 µm steps. The functionality and performance were analyzed using torsion testing and tensile testing. Furthermore, a metallographic section was conducted to visually inspect the clearances of the additively manufactured pin-joints with different joint clearance values. The results of the torsion and tensile tests complement each other and emphasize a correlation between the joint clearance and the maximal particle size of the powder utilized for manufacturing and the mechanical behavior and functionality of the pin-joints. Non-assembly multibody pin-joints with good functionality were obtained reliably using a joint clearance of 90 µm or higher. Our findings show how and with which properties miniaturized pin-joints that can be integrated into lattice structures can be successfully manufactured on standard laser powder bed fusion machines. The results also indicate the potential and limitations of further miniaturization.
Origin of Li+ Solvation Ability of Electrolyte Solvent: Ring Strain
Authors: Choi Jihoon , Shin Kyoung-Hee , Han Young-Kyu
Published: October 2023

Developing new organic solvents to support the use of Li metal anodes in secondary batteries is an area of great interest. In particular, research is actively underway to improve battery performance by introducing fluorine to ether solvents, as these are highly compatible with Li metal anodes because fluorine imparts high oxidative stability and relatively low Li-ion solvation ability. However, theoretical analysis of the solvation ability of organic solvents mostly focuses on the electron-withdrawing capability of fluorine. Herein, we analyze the effect of the structural characteristics of solvents on their Li+ ion solvation ability from a computational chemistry perspective. We reveal that the structural constraints imposed on the oxygen binding sites in solvent molecules vary depending on the structural characteristics of the N-membered ring formed by the interaction between the organic solvent and Li+ ions and the internal ring containing the oxygen binding sites. We demonstrate that the structural strain of the organic solvents has a comparable effect on Li+ solvation ability seen for the electrical properties of fluorine elements. This work emphasizes the importance of understanding the structural characteristics and strain when attempting to understand the interactions between solvents and metal cations and effectively control the solvation ability of solvents.
The Correlation between Mandibular Arch Shape and Vertical Skeletal Pattern
Authors: Ciavarella Domenico , Lorusso Mauro , Fanelli Carlotta , Cazzolla Angela Pia , Maci Marta , Ferrara Donatella , Lo Muzio Lorenzo , Tepedino Michele
Published: October 2023

Background and Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the correlation between the mandibular arch shape and the vertical skeletal pattern in growing patients. Materials and Methods: A total of 73 Caucasian patients (33 males and 40 females; mean age 9.4) were retrospectively enrolled from a pool of patients treated in chronological order at the Department of Orthodontics, University of Foggia, Italy, from April 2018 to December 2021. Each patient received a laterolateral radiograph and a digital scan of the dental arch. Eight cephalometric parameters (lower gonial angle, intermaxillary angle, divergence angle, Wits index, Jarabak ratio, OP-MP angle, PP-OP angle, and ANB) and five dental measurements (posterior mandibular arch width, anterior mandibular arch width, mandibular occlusal angle, posterior width on distobuccal molar cusps, and molar angle) were analyzed and then compared. A Spearman’s rho correlation test between the cephalometric measurements and the dental measurements was performed. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Results: A negative statistically significant correlation was found between the Jarabak ratio and the intermolar angle; a statistically significant correlation was also observed between the Wits index, the posterior mandibular width, and the occlusal mandibular angle; the ANB angle and the occlusal mandibular angle; the intermaxillary angle (PP-PM) and the mandibular occlusal angle, posterior mandibular width on the disto-vestibular cusp, and the intermolar angle; and the OP-MP angle and mandibular occlusal angle and the posterior mandibular width on the disto-vestibular cusp. Conclusions: The mandibular arch form may be related to certain predisposing features in craniofacial morphology, such as jaw divergence, the Jarabak ratio, and the intermaxillary angle.
The Mechanisms of Polysaccharides from Tonic Chinese Herbal Medicine on the Enhancement Immune Function: A Review
Authors: Xie Zhiyi , Jiang Ninghua , Lin Minqiu , He Xinglishang , Li Bo , Dong Yingjie , Chen Suhong , Lv Guiyuan
Published: October 2023

Tonic Chinese herbal medicine is a type of traditional Chinese medicine, and its primary function is to restore the body’s lost nutrients, improve activity levels, increase disease resistance, and alleviate physical exhaustion. The body’s immunity can be strengthened by its polysaccharide components, which also have a potent immune-system-protecting effect. Several studies have demonstrated that tonic Chinese herbal medicine polysaccharides can improve the body’s immune response to tumor cells, viruses, bacteria, and other harmful substances. However, the regulatory mechanisms by which various polysaccharides used in tonic Chinese herbal medicine enhance immune function vary. This study examines the regulatory effects of different tonic Chinese herbal medicine polysaccharides on immune organs, immune cells, and immune-related cytokines. It explores the immune response mechanism to understand the similarities and differences in the effects of tonic Chinese herbal medicine polysaccharides on immune function and to lay the foundation for the future development of tonic Chinese herbal medicine polysaccharide products.
Creation of a Periodic Domain Structure in MgOLN by Femtosecond Laser Irradiation
Authors: Lisjikh Boris , Kosobokov Mikhail , Turygin Anton , Efimov Artem , Shur Vladimir
Published: October 2023

The systematic imaging of the damaged tracks and domain patterns created in the MgOLN plates by one-step fs-laser irradiation at different depths was carried out. It is shown that the domains in the bulk have a spindle-like shape and start to grow in the Z− direction from the track ends. The domain shape changes from a spindle-like one with charged walls to a hexagonal prism with neutral walls after the domain reaches the polar surface. The length of the domains located in the bulk increases linearly with the pulse energy. The hexagonal domain shape at the surface is typical for the crystals of the lithium niobate family. The obtained effects have been considered in terms of the kinetic approach. After irradiation, the domains appear in the vicinity of the track ends with maximum electric field strength and grow under the action of a spatially nonuniform pyroelectric field. The key role of the pyroelectric field is confirmed by the creation of new domains at the surface without correlation with the position of the focusing point located at the vicinity of the surface. The 3D domain pattern was produced, which represented four layers of the regular matrices consisting of elongated domains about 100 μm in length.
Topological Edge States on Different Domain Walls of Two Opposed Helical Waveguide Arrays
Authors: Wang Junying , Shi Zhiwei , Ji Xifeng , Zhang Yajing , Li Huagang , Deng Yaohua , Xie Kang
Published: October 2023

Floquet topological insulators (FTIs) have richer topological properties than static systems. In this work, we designed different domain wall (DW) structures consisting of a Floquet photonic lattice with opposite helical directions. We investigated the existence and types of edge states in three shared coupling structures and the impact of these shared coupling structures on edge states. When two opposite helical lattices share a straight waveguide array coupling, the edge states are localized on the straight waveguide. When two opposite helical lattices share a clockwise (or anticlockwise) helical waveguide array coupling, the DWs consist of zigzag and bearded edges, but the positions of the zigzag and bearded edges of the shared clockwise waveguide array are different from those of the shared anticlockwise waveguide array. The slope and transmission rate of the edge states both vary with the degree of coupling between the shared waveguides. The characteristics of these edge states, such as transmission speed and band gap width, are also affected by the incidence angle, modulation phase factor, and helical radii, and the methods for controlling the edge states in different shared coupling structures are provided. This will help deepen our understanding of how topological structures influence the electronic and photonic properties of materials. This could also lead to combining topology with metasurface-based structured light, which would highlight many novel properties with great application potential for various fields, such as imaging, metrology, communication, quantum information processing, and light–matter interaction.
Measurement of Mechanical Behavior of 11B-Enriched MgB2 Wire Using a Pulsed Neutron Source
Authors: Machiya Shutaro , Osamura Kozo , Hishinuma Yoshimitsu , Taniguchi Hiroyasu , Harjo Stefanus , Kawasaki Takuro
Published: October 2023

MgB2 represents a hexagonal superconductive material renowned for its straightforward composition, which has facilitated the development of cost-effective practical wires. Its capacity to function at temperatures as low as liquid hydrogen (LH2) has made it a prominent candidate as wire material for the coils of next-generation fusion reactors. Much like other superconducting wires, a prevalent issue arises when these wires are employed in coils, wherein electromagnetic forces induce tensile stress and strain within the wire. This, in turn, diminishes the critical current, which is the maximum current capable of flowing within the generated magnetic field and strain. The techniques and methods for accurately measuring the actual strain on the filaments are of paramount importance. While strain measurements have been conducted with synchrotron radiation and neutrons for other practical wires in the past, no such measurements have been undertaken for MgB2. Presumably, this lack of measurement is attributed to its relatively greater thickness, making it less suitable for synchrotron radiation measurements. Additionally, the high absorption cross-section of the included boron-10 poses challenges in obtaining elastic scattering data for neutron measurements. In response, we fabricated a wire enriched with boron-11, an isotope with a smaller neutron absorption cross-section. We then embarked on the endeavor to measure its strain under tensile loading using pulsed neutrons. Consequently, we succeeded in obtaining changes in the lattice constant under tensile loading through Rietveld analysis. This marks the inaugural instance of strain measurement on an MgB2 filament, signifying a significant milestone in superconductivity research.
A Phase Retrieval Method for 3D Shape Measurement of High-Reflectivity Surface Based on π Phase-Shifting Fringes
Authors: Zhang Yanjun , Sun Junhua
Published: October 2023

Fringe projection profilometry (FPP) has been widely used for 3D reconstruction, surface measurement, and reverse engineering. However, if the surface of an object has a high reflectivity, overexposure can easily occur. Image saturation caused by overexposure can lead to an incorrect intensity of the captured pattern images, resulting in phase and measurement errors of FPP. To address this issue, we propose a phase retrieval method for the 3D shape measurement of high-reflectivity surfaces based on π phase-shifting fringes. Our method only requires eight images to be projected, including three single-frequency three-step phase-shifting patterns and one pattern used to provide phase unwrapping constraints, called conventional patterns, as well as the π phase-shifting patterns corresponding to the four conventional patterns, called supplemental patterns. Saturated pixels of conventional fringes are replaced by unsaturated pixels in supplemental fringes to suppress phase retrieval errors. We analyzed all 16 replacement cases of fringe patterns and provided calculation methods for unwrapped phases. The main advantages of our method are as follows: (1) By combining the advantages of the stereo phase unwrapping (SPU) algorithm, the number of projected fringes is reduced. (2) By utilizing the phase unwrapping constraint provided by the fourth fringe pattern, the accuracy of SPU is improved. For highly reflective surfaces, the experimental results demonstrate the performance of the proposed method.
Multi-Cat Monitoring System Based on Concept Drift Adaptive Machine Learning Architecture
Authors: Cho Yonggi , Song Eungyeol , Ji Yeongju , Yang Saetbyeol , Kim Taehyun , Park Susang , Baek Doosan , Yu Sunjin
Published: October 2023

In multi-cat households, monitoring individual cats’ various behaviors is essential for diagnosing their health and ensuring their well-being. This study focuses on the defecation and urination activities of cats, and introduces an adaptive cat identification architecture based on deep learning (DL) and machine learning (ML) methods. The architecture comprises an object detector and a classification module, with the primary focus on the design of the classification component. The DL object detection algorithm, YOLOv4, is used for the cat object detector, with the convolutional neural network, EfficientNetV2, serving as the backbone for our feature extractor in identity classification with several ML classifiers. Additionally, to address changes in cat composition and individual cat appearances in multi-cat households, we propose an adaptive concept drift approach involving retraining the classification module. To support our research, we compile a comprehensive cat body dataset comprising 8934 images of 36 cats. After a rigorous evaluation of different combinations of DL models and classifiers, we find that the support vector machine (SVM) classifier yields the best performance, achieving an impressive identification accuracy of 94.53%. This outstanding result underscores the effectiveness of the system in accurately identifying cats.
Impaired Lumbar Extensor Force Control Is Associated with Increased Lifting Knee Velocity in People with Chronic Low-Back Pain
Authors: Pranata Adrian , Farragher Joshua , Perraton Luke , El-Ansary Doa , Clark Ross , Meyer Denny , Han Jia , Mentiplay Benjamin , Bryant Adam L.
Published: October 2023

The ability of the lumbar extensor muscles to accurately control static and dynamic forces is important during daily activities such as lifting. Lumbar extensor force control is impaired in low-back pain patients and may therefore explain the variances in lifting kinematics. Thirty-three chronic low-back pain participants were instructed to lift weight using a self-selected technique. Participants also performed an isometric lumbar extension task where they increased and decreased their lumbar extensor force output to match a variable target force within 20–50% lumbar extensor maximal voluntary contraction. Lifting trunk and lower limb range of motion and angular velocity variables derived from phase plane analysis in all planes were calculated. Lumbar extensor force control was analyzed by calculating the Root-Mean-Square Error (RMSE) between the participants’ force and the target force during the increasing (RMSEA), decreasing (RMSED) force portions and for the overall force error (RMSET) of the test. The relationship between lifting kinematics and RMSE variables was analyzed using multiple linear regression. Knee angular velocity in the sagittal and coronal planes were positively associated with RMSEA (R2 = 0.10, β = 0.35, p = 0.046 and R2 = 0.21, β = 0.48, p = 0.004, respectively). Impaired lumbar extensor force control is associated with increased multiplanar knee movement velocity during lifting. The study findings suggest a potential relationship between lumbar and lower limb neuromuscular function in people with chronic low-back pain.
Purification, Characterization, and Ferrous Oxidation Kinetics of Iron Oxidase from Acidithiobacillus ferridurans
Authors: Liu Yuandong , He Jiayu , Shangguan Xiangdong , Liu Run , Zeng Xiaofeng , Belqadi Wissal , Wang Kan , Tong Yan , Yu Runlan , Zeng Weimin , Wu Xueling , Shen Li , Qiu Guanzhou
Published: October 2023

Iron oxidase was proposed to be the initial electron acceptor from the ferrous ion in the iron oxidation of the Acidithiobacillus genus for metal bioextraction; however, its most fundamental property of direct ferrous oxidation kinetics remains undetermined due to the confusion of reaction monitor method. Here, a recombinant iron oxidase from Acidithiobacillus ferridurans Riv11 was constructed, expressed, purified, characterized, and further used to investigate the kinetics and mechanism of ferrous oxidation. This protein is more stable in an acid solution than in a neutral solution. An infrared characteristic peak around 1050 cm−1 of the [Fe4S4] cluster was identified. The [Fe4S4] cluster does not affect the secondary structure of protein, but plays an important role in the stability of protein and strongly absorbs the intrinsic fluorescence of protein, resulting in a great loss of the fluorescence emission. The protein has far more absorbance than those of the iron ions in solution in the visible region; therefore, the maximum difference absorbance around 500 nm between the oxidized and reduced states of protein can be used to monitor the reaction of ferrous oxidation. Accordingly, the kinetic rate constant of the reaction was determined. Bioinformatics analysis and molecular simulation further revealed the underlying molecular mechanism that ferrous ions approach the protein at the edge of a large hydrophobic surface patch nearest to the [Fe4S4] cluster from a direction far from all positively charged residues, which enough enables an efficient electron transfer.
Unimodular Theory of Gravity in Light of the Latest Cosmological Data
Authors: Singh Naveen K. , Kashyap Gopal
Published: October 2023

The unimodular theory of gravity is an alternative perspective to the traditional general relativity of Einstein and opens new possibilities for exploring its implications in cosmology. In this paper, we investigated Unimodular Gravity (UG) with the cosmological data from the Pantheon sample of Type Ia Supernovae (SNs) (2018), Baryon Acoustic Oscillations (BAOs), and the observational H(z) data from the Differential Age method (DA). We also used the Cosmic Microwave Background (CMB) distance priors from the Planck 2018 results. We considered a model consisting of a generalized cosmological constant, radiation, and a dark matter component along with normal matter. The considered theory respects only unimodular coordinate transformations. We first fit our model with low-redshift data from SNs and DA and determined the value of the model parameters (ξ,H0). We found the best-fit value of parameter ξ=6.03±0.40, which deviates slightly from 6, for which the theory becomes the standard general theory of relativity. We observed a small deviation in the value of the Hubble constant (H0=72.6±3.5 km s−1 Mpc−1) in the UG model compared with the standard ΛCDM model (H0=72.2±1.2 km s−1 Mpc−1). Using the BAO + CMB constraint in the UG model, we obtained H0=68.45±0.66kms−1Mpc−1, and ξ is ∼6.029. For the combined datasets (SN + DA + BAO + CMB), the estimated H0=69.01±0.60kms−1Mpc−1 with ξ∼6.037, and in standard gravity, H0=68.25±0.40kms−1Mpc−1.
Pilgrimage in world religions as a cultural phenomenon
Authors:   Russian State Social University, Moscow, Bochkovar A.S.
Published: October 2023

The article analyzes the modern aspects of the development of pilgrimage in Islam, Christianity, Judaism. It is proposed to evaluate different stages in the history of pilgrimage development based on the study of current research on this topic. The legal aspects of maintaining and protecting pilgrimage are highlighted both at the national level of different countries and within the framework of international law, since such a phenomenon of world culture is not an ordinary familiarization trip, but is associated with the age-old traditions of different religions that allow millions of believers of different nations to manifest faith through a collective religious ritual.
Analysis of wedge-shaped defects’ prevalence and treatment effectiveness
Authors: Basharova O. V.
Published: October 2023

Relevance. The prevalence of wedge-shaped defects remains high. The increased risk of the fi falling out, the development of a secondary defect around the filling, and the progression of the wedge-shaped defect development are characteristic of the operative treatment of this type of hard dental tissue non-carious lesions. Therefore, the search for new methods of diagnosis, treatment and prevention of wedge-shaped defects remains relevant in modern dentistry. Purpose. The study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of wedge-shaped dental defects and assess the effectiveness of a complex combined effect on dental tissues in non-carious lesions of hard dental tissues.

Material and methods. We examined 942 patients aged 35 to 44 years. All underwent a dental examination, according to the WHO recommendations, questionnaire and instrumental diagnosis.

Results. The dental examination detected wedge-shaped defects in 324 examined patients (34.4%). Upon presentation, patients with revealed stage I and II wedge-shaped defects complained of aesthetic dissatisfaction (11%), pain when eating (47%), and pain on brushing teeth (54%). According to the examination results before treatment, the volumetric blood flow velocity was 1.9 times lower in the group with a high degree of anxiety than in the group with a low degree of anxiety. The amplitude of the masticatory and temporal muscles at rest was 1.8 times higher in patients with a high anxiety degree than in patients with a low degree of anxiety.

Conclusion. After a one-month course of treatment with the combined method proposed by us, the indicators of systolic volumetric blood flow velocity and the average amplitude of the masticatory and temporal muscles at rest in patients with high anxiety became comparable to those of the control group.
Increasing functional enamel resistance in children and adolescents during orthodontic treatment with removable appliances
Authors: Fedorova A. V. , Soldatov V. S. , Soldatova L. N. , Iordanishvili A. K.
Published: October 2023

Relevance. The average time of orthodontic treatment in children is often several years. However, the final mineralization of erupted permanent teeth occurs during this period. The skills developed at this age rarely guarantee a high level of individual oral hygiene. Thus, modern removable appliances (aligners) in children with mixed dentition have several advantages. Remineralization therapy performed simultaneously with orthodontic treatment is one of the essential advantages of using aligners.

Purpose. The study aimed to conduct a comparative clinical assessment of changes in the enamel acid resistance and remineralization effectiveness in patients undergoing orthodontic treatment with removable appliances (aligners). Material and methods. Orthodontic follow-up observation involved 59 patients aged 8 to 14 years for six months. They made up three observation groups. The first (control) group included 17 people who visited the orthodontist for a check-up. The second (21 people) and third (21 people) groups comprised patients undergoing orthodontic treatment with aligners. Patients of the second group added ASEPTA TEENS paste to their daily oral care complex. Patients of the third group used ASEPTA remineralizing gel for children besides ASEPTA TEENS paste. The TER test assessed enamel acid resistance, and remineralization effectiveness was determined throughout the study.

Results. The comparative analysis revealed that the enamel acid resistance increased in patients of the third group who had followed our recommended scheme of oral care product use with a complex of ASEPTA TEENS paste and ASEPTA remineralizing gel for children. The group showed a remineralization effectiveness of 39.5% after six months. Patients of the second group who used ASEPTA TEENS paste without gel applications for six months also showed an increase in remineralization effectiveness of 19.5% compared to the baseline.

Conclusion. The results obtained during the study allow us to recommend ASEPTA remineralizing gel for children for oral care during orthodontic treatment with removable appliances (aligners) in patients with mixed dentition. Removable aligners allow you to combine orthodontic treatment and the preventive use of mineralizing agents for forming strong enamel and protecting it from demineralization.
HUBUNGAN MOTIVASI BELAJAR DENGAN INDEKS PRESTASI KOMULATIF (IPK) MAHASISWA S1 KEPERAWATAN UNIVERSITAS ISLAM AS-SYAFI’IYAH JAKARTA
Authors: Partinah Tien , Harahap Syawal Basri
Published: October 2023

ABSTRAK

Pendahuluan Mahasiswa adalah harapan bangsa, majunya bangsa ditentukan oleh generasi muda, oleh karena itu perlunya lulusan S1 keperawatan yang profesional. Perubahan ilmu pengetahuan dalam era globalisasi berdanpak langsung terhadap pelayan kesehatan, mutu pendidikan tidak akan lepas dari kegiatan belajar. Hasil kegiatan belajar adalah prestasi akademik. Tujuan penelitian untuk mengetahui hubungan motivasi belajar dengan indeks prestasi komulatif  (IPK) mahasiswa S1 keperawatan Universitas Islam As-Syafi’iyah Jakarta. Metode penelitian ini adalah metode deskriptif korelatif  dengan pendekatan cross-sectional. Teknik pengambilan sampel menggunakan Stratified Random Sampling dengan jumlah populasi 96 mahasiswa, didapat jumlah sampel 80 mahasiswa. Instrumen penelitian menggunakan kuesioner dan dokumentasi. Analisa data memakai univariat dengan menggunakan µ dan %, bivariat menggunakan product moment dengan α 5%. Hasil Penelitian menunjukkan 55% motivasi belajar mahasiswa dalam kategori baik dan 83,8% prestasi akademik mahasiswa kategori baik. Uji korelasi product moment diperoleh nilai pearson correlation = 0,292 nilai ini lebih besar dari nilai r tabel (yaitu α = 5% atau r tabel = 0,220), maka hipotesis nol ditolak, terdapat hubungan yang sedang antara motivasi belajar dengan prestasi akademik (IPK). Kesimpulan terdapat hubungan yang signifikan antara motivasi instrinsik dengan (IPK) dengan kategori cukup erat dan motivasi belajar dengan (IPK) dengan kategori sedang pada Mahasiswa S1 Keperawatan Universitas Islam As-Syafi’iyah Jakarta. Saran agar mahasiswa lebih meningkatkan semangat belajar dan berdoa sebelum perkuliahan dimulai.
MANAJEMEN ANALISIS SITUASI PENYAKIT MENULAR DI KOTA BOGOR TAHUN 2016
Authors: Avisena Ajie Mulia , Bantas Krisnawati
Published: October 2023

Penyakit menular masih menjadi penyebab masalah kesehatan di masyarakat.Pertumbuhan penduduk yang amat cepat, tingginya tingkat kepadatan hunian, terbatasnya penyediakaninfrastruktur pelayanan bagi penduduk seperti air, sanitasi, fasilitas kesehatan dan pengelolaan sampahmerupakan masalah umum di perkotaan. Analisis situasi merupakan sebuah tahap awal dalam prosesperencanaan program kesehatan dalam menentukan keberhasilan program. Penelitian ini bertujuanuntuk mengidentifikasi masalah, menentukan prioritas masalah dan memberikan rekomendasi untukmengatasi masalah kesehatan terkait penyakit menular di Kota Bogor. Metode penelitian bersifatdeskriptif eksploratif dengan memakai data sekunder yang diperoleh dari laporan puskesmas danrumah sakit (SP2TP, SPRS, dll) yang berkaitan dengan penyakit menular. Selanjutnya data akandibandingkan antara tingkat capaian yang diperoleh dengan target SPM, Renstra pusat/daerah,kemudian kesenjangan diidentifkasi untuk ditentukan sebagai prioritas masalah didasarkan penilaiandengan metode PAHO oleh pejabat yang kompeten. Hasil penelitian didapat demam berdarah sebagaiprioritas utama penyakit menular di Kota Bogor. Beberapa faktor yang berhubungan dengan demamberdarah adalah kepadatan penduduk, tata ruang, iklim dan resistensi vektor. Kesimpulanmenunjukkan bahwa program pengendalian demam berdarah yang telah dilakukan belum memberikanhasil yang diinginkan. Kepadatan penduduk, perubahan tata ruang, iklim dan resistensi vektor terhadapinsektisida di perkirakan menjadi faktor yang mempengaruhi peningkatan kasus. Saran Rekomendasimeningkatkan Germas melalui pola hidup bersih sehat, menggalakkan perilaku 3M Plus(menguras,menutup, mengubur)
EFEKTIFITAS TERAPI BERMAIN (MEWARNAI) TERHADAP PENURUNAN KECEMASAN AKIBAT HOSPITALISASI PADA ANAK USIA PRASEKOLAH (3-6 TAHUN) DI RUANG MELATI RSUD KOTA BEKASI
Authors: Reza Mathilda , Idris Muhamad
Published: October 2023

Perasaan cemas merupakan dampak dari hospitalisasi yang dialami oleh anak pra sekolah.Dampak ini berisiko dapat mengganggu tumbuh kembang anak dan proses penyembuhan pada anak,untuk mengurangi kecemasan anak dapat diberikan terapi bermain. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untukmengetahui efektifitas terapi bermain (mewarnai) terhadap penurunan kecemasan akibat hospitalisasi padaanak usia pra sekolah (3-6 tahun) di ruang melati RSUD dr. Chasbullah Abdulmadjid Kota Bekasi.Metode penelitian adalah eksperimen memilih desain penelitian yaitu Pre-eksperimental design onegroup pretest – posttest. Subjek penelitian adalah anak usia pra sekolah (3-6 tahun) di Ruang MelatiRSUD dr. Chasbullah Abdulmadjid Kota Bekasi. Jumlah responden 15 anak. Hasil penelitian ujihipotesis didapatkan dengan menggunakan uji Paired T-test dengan nilai p value = 0.009 < α = 0.05 (5%)denga thitung sebesar 3.006 yang berarti tolak Ho dan Terima H1. Kesimpulan terapi bermain (mewarnai)efektif terhadap penurunan kecemasan akibat hospitalisasi pada anak usia pra sekolah (3-6 tahun) di ruangmelati RSUD dr. Chasbullah Abdulmadjid Kota Bekasi. Setelah diketahui adanya efektifitas terapibermain mewarnai terhadap penurunan tingkat kecemasan akibat hospitalisasi pada anak usia pra sekolah(3-6 tahun). Saran perawat lebih banyak memperhatikan pelaksanan terapi bermain sebagai salah satuintervensi penting yang tidak boleh diabaikan dalam pemberian asuhan keperawatan.