bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long-Term Outcomes of a Kahook Dual Blade Procedure Combined with Phacoemulsification in Japanese Patients with Open-Angle Glaucoma
Authors: Iwasaki Kentaro , Kakimoto Hiroshi , Orii Yusuke , Arimura Shogo , Takamura Yoshihiro , Inatani Masaru
Published: March 2022

We retrospectively evaluated the long-term surgical outcomes of phacoemulsification combined with a Kahook dual blade (KDB) procedure in Japanese patients with open-angle glaucoma. The primary outcome was surgical success or failure. Surgical failure was indicated by a <20% reduction in preoperative intraocular pressure (IOP) or IOP > 18 mmHg (criterion A), IOP > 14 mmHg (criterion B), or requirement for reoperation. Glaucoma medications after surgery and postoperative complications were recorded. Surgical outcomes were compared between primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) and exfoliation glaucoma (ExG) groups. The probability of success at 36 months postoperation was 52.5% using criterion A and 36.9% using criterion B. Mean IOP decreased significantly from 19.5 ± 6.9 mmHg preoperatively to 11.9 ± 2.7 mmHg at 36 months, and the mean number of glaucoma medications from 2.4 ± 1.4 to 1.6 ± 1.4 (both p < 0.01). IOP spikes were significantly more common in the ExG group (23.7% vs. 9.1%; p = 0.045), as was the need for additional glaucoma surgery (10.5% vs. 1.8%; p = 0.038). A KDB procedure combined with cataract surgery resulted in significant long-term decreases in IOP and the number of glaucoma medications. The complication rate was higher in eyes with ExG. Therefore, these eyes require more careful management after a KDB procedure.
Systemic Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis/Pediatric Still’s Disease, a Syndrome but Several Clinical Forms: Recent Therapeutic Approaches
Authors: Quartier Pierre
Published: March 2022

Background: Systemic Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (SJIA)/Pediatric Still’s disease is associated with different phenotypes and outcomes from currently available treatments. Methods: A review of opinion, based on personal experience in a reference pediatric rheumatology center and key publications, to explore the most important questions regarding disease heterogeneity and treatment approaches. Results: A few situations deserve particular attention: 1/patients with recent-onset SJIA who may benefit from a treat-to-target approach with a key place for interleukin (IL)-1 inhibition; 2/SJIA patients refractory to Il-1 and IL-6 antagonists in whom several options may be discussed, including thalidomide or allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation; 3/SJIA patients with macrophage activation syndrome who may benefit from both well-used classical treatment and innovative approaches, such as anti-interferon gamma therapy or Janus Kinase (JAK) inhibitors; 4/SJIA with severe lung involvement, 5/SJIA patients who achieve complete remission on treatment, with some recent evidence that treatment may be reduced in intensity but not so easily withdrawn. Conclusions: a case-by-case discussion with expert teams is recommended in this heterogeneous, often difficult-to-treat population of patients.
Adverse Clinical Outcomes among Inflammatory Bowel Disease Patients Treated for Urinary Tract Infection
Authors: Ukashi Offir , Barash Yiftach , Klang Eyal , Zilberman Tal , Ungar Bella , Kopylov Uri , Ben-Horin Shomron , Veisman Ido
Published: March 2022

Background: Urinary tract infection (UTI) is the most common urologic complication among patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). However, data regarding UTI outcomes in this population are scarce. We aimed to evaluate adverse outcomes of UTI among patients with IBD. Methods: This was a retrospective cohort study of consecutive adult patients who visited the emergency room (ER) at Sheba Medical Center due to a UTI between 2012 and 2018. Data included demographic and clinical variables. UTI cases were extracted using ICD-10 coding. Results: Of 21,808 (ER) visits with a UTI, 122 were IBD patients (Crohn’s disease—52, ulcerative colitis—70). Contrary to non-IBD subjects, patients with IBD had higher rates of hospitalization, acute kidney injury (AKI) and 30 day-recurrent hospitalization (59.3% vs. 68.9%, p = 0.032; 4.6% vs. 13.9%, p < 0.001; 7.3% vs. 15.6%, p = 0.001, respectively). Among patients with IBD, advanced age (p = 0.005) and recent hospitalization (p = 0.037) were associated with increased risk for hospitalization, while hydronephrosis (p = 0.005), recent hospitalization (p = 0.011) and AKI (p = 0.017) were associated with increased 30-day recurrent hospitalization. Neither immunosuppressants nor biologics were associated with UTI outcomes among patients with IBD. Conclusions: Patients with IBD treated for a UTI had higher rates of hospitalization, AKI and 30-day recurrent hospitalization than non-IBD patients. No association was observed between immunosuppressants or biologics and UTI outcomes.
Hierarchical Fusion Using Subsets of Multi-Features for Historical Arabic Manuscript Dating
Authors: Adam Kalthoum , Al-Maadeed Somaya , Akbari Younes
Published: March 2022

Automatic dating tools for historical documents can greatly assist paleographers and save them time and effort. This paper describes a novel method for estimating the date of historical Arabic documents that employs hierarchical fusions of multiple features. A set of traditional features and features extracted by a residual network (ResNet) are fused in a hierarchical approach using joint sparse representation. To address noise during the fusion process, a new approach based on subsets of multiple features is being considered. Following that, supervised and unsupervised classifiers are used for classification. We show that using hierarchical fusion based on subsets of multiple features in the KERTAS dataset can produce promising results and significantly improve the results.
A Model for the Evaluation of Monostable Molecule Signal Energy in Molecular Field-Coupled Nanocomputing
Authors: Ardesi Yuri , Graziano Mariagrazia , Piccinini Gianluca
Published: March 2022

Molecular Field-Coupled Nanocomputing (FCN) is a computational paradigm promising high-frequency information elaboration at ambient temperature. This work proposes a model to evaluate the signal energy involved in propagating and elaborating the information. It splits the evaluation into several energy contributions calculated with closed-form expressions without computationally expensive calculation. The essential features of the 1,4-diallylbutane cation are evaluated with Density Functional Theory (DFT) and used in the model to evaluate circuit energy. This model enables understanding the information propagation mechanism in the FCN paradigm based on monostable molecules. We use the model to verify the bistable factor theory, describing the information propagation in molecular FCN based on monostable molecules, analyzed so far only from an electrostatic standpoint. Finally, the model is integrated into the SCERPA tool and used to quantify the information encoding stability and possible memory effects. The obtained results are consistent with state-of-the-art considerations and comparable with DFT calculation.
Pathways between Climate, Fish, Fisheries, and Management: A Conceptual Integrated Ecosystem Management Approach
Authors: Wiese Francis K. , Nelson R. John
Published: March 2022

The abundance and distribution of marine fishes is influenced by environmental conditions, predator–prey relationships, multispecies interactions, and direct human impacts, such as fishing. The adaptive response of the system depends on its structure and the pathways that link environmental factors to the taxon in question. The “Star Diagram” is a socio-ecological model of marine ecosystems that depicts the general pathways between climate, fish, and fisheries, and their intersection with climate policy and resource management. We illustrate its use by identifying the key factors, pathways and drivers that influence walleye pollock, crab, and sockeye salmon, under a warming scenario on the eastern Bering Sea shelf. This approach predicts that all three species will see reduced populations under a long-term warming scenario. Going forward, the challenge to managers is to balance the magnitude of the effect of harvest and the adaptability of their management system, with the scale and degree of resilience and the behavioral, physiological, or evolutionary adaptation of the ecosystem and its constituents. The Star Diagram provides a novel conceptual construct that managers can use to visualize and integrate the various aspects of the system into a holistic, socio-ecological management framework.
A New Scheme for Capturing Global Conditional Nonlinear Optimal Perturbation
Authors: Liu Siyuan , Shao Qi , Li Wei , Han Guijun , Liang Kangzhuang , Gong Yantian , Wang Ru , Liu Hanyu , Hu Song
Published: March 2022

Conditional nonlinear optimal perturbation (CNOP) represents the initial perturbation that satisfies a certain physical constraint condition, and leads to a maximum prediction error at the moment of prediction. The CNOP method is a useful tool in studying atmosphere and ocean predictability problems. Generally, the optimization algorithm based on the gradient of the cost function to compute CNOP requires an initial guess. The traditional scheme randomly chooses the initial guess of CNOP within the constraint range and therefore this scheme is called RIG-CNOP. However, the RIG-CNOP scheme reduces the probability of capturing the global CNOP in many cases, such as the prediction model is strongly nonlinear or long-term prediction is performed, or multiple extreme values existed in the cost function. Considering the limitations of the RIG-CNOP scheme, we propose a new initial guess selection scheme. In this scheme, we first pre-analyze a series of random initial guesses, and then, an optimal initial guess is selected. The above process replaces the initial guess selection scheme in the traditional scheme, which is called PAIG-CNOP. Numerical experiments are conducted utilizing the Lorenz-63 model. Also, to compare the performance of the PAIG-CNOP method with the RIG-CNOP method in capturing global CNOP, the CNOP and the maximum cost function value (MCFV) obtained by the filtering method (FM) are used as benchmarks (this value is called FMMCFV in brief). The experimental results show that even the prediction model is strongly nonlinear or the prediction time is long, or the cost function has multiple extreme values, the PAIG-CNOP method can capture the global CNOP with a high probability. The results show that the PAIG-CNOP method has a higher probability of capturing the global CNOP than the RIG-CNOP method. In addition, we use an ensemble-based technique in the computation of gradients, thus avoiding the use of adjoint techniques in the maximization process. Due to the attractive features of the new method, the PAIG-CNOP method is an efficient and useful method for solving CNOP, it can be more easily applied to obtain the global CNOP of operational prediction models.
Review and Future Perspective of Geophysical Methods Applied in Nearshore Site Characterization
Authors: Tsai Chia-Cheng , Lin Chun-Hung
Published: March 2022

Seabed surveying is the basis of engineering development in shallow waters. At present, geophysical survey methods mainly utilize sonars for qualitative surveying, which requires the calibration of the results found through in situ drilling and sampling. Among them, the parameters required for engineering designs are obtained from either in situ tests or laboratory experiments of soil samples retrieved from drilling. However, the experience from onshore applications shows that the physical quantities obtained through quantitative geophysical survey methods for shallow waters can be indirectly used to estimate engineering parameters or directly as parameters for engineering evaluation, which has high application potential. This review analyzes various geophysical survey methods for nearshore site characterization (i.e., side-scan sonar, single/multi- beam sonar, sub-bottom profiler, seismic reflection method, and underwater magnetometer) and challenges in their application, and introduces quantitative geophysical survey methods (including the underwater seismic refraction method, seismic surface wave method and underwater electrical resistivity tomography) that are worth focusing on for future development. Three application difficulties have been identified, namely, the lack of operational efficiency, appropriate operational equipment and systems, and sufficient guidance for experimental shallow sea applications. It is hoped that comprehensive discussion of these challenges will increase awareness leading to engineering improvements in the surveying and measuring capabilities in shallow waters, further reducing the risk of geotechnical hazards.
Bottlenose Dolphins and Seabirds Distribution Analysis for the Identification of a Marine Biodiversity Hotspot in Agrigento Waters
Authors: Ranù Marco , Vanacore Alessandra , Mandich Alberta , Alessi Jessica
Published: March 2022

The aim of this study is to evaluate the presence of biodiversity hotspots in Agrigento waters (Mediterranean Sea) to define the conservation area for bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) and seabirds (Calonectris diomedea, Puffinus yelkouan, and Hydrobates pelagicus), according to European directives. With this purpose, the maximum entropy algorithm (MaxEnt) was applied to the sighting points of the focal species. They co-occur in the study area and have been documented to forage behind trawlers. In this study, a fishing rate was designed and used as an explanatory variable of the species distribution, together with physiographic variables. Data were collected during 68 surveys in the waters off Agrigento province. MaxEnt models showed a strong predictive power, with distance from the coast being the greatest predicting variable, followed by slope, depth, and fishing rate. For all the species considered, the probability of presence increased as the fishing rate grew. Cartographic analysis revealed one area shared by the species, which occupies 529 km2, from the shoreline to 100 m depth. This study increases knowledge on the distribution and habitat preferences of the target species in the Sicilian waters. Evaluating the influence of fisheries is a promising method that needs further testing to apply effective management measures.
Evolutionary Game Model of Strategic Maritime Transport Passages: A Case of the Strait of Hormuz
Authors: Huang Daozheng , Wang Shun , Loughney Sean , Wang Jin
Published: March 2022

Given the in-depth advancement of the “Belt and Road” initiative, cooperation among countries along the initiative is increasing. The strategic maritime transport passage is closely related to the interests of relevant countries. The games between countries along important transport passages in terms of the pursuit of geopolitical rights and interests occur frequently. This paper establishes an evolutionary game model of the strategic maritime transport passages taking the Strait of Hormuz as an example and explores the game of the countries on both sides of the strait. By analysing their behaviour and possible strategies, the evolutionary stable strategy for each country is obtained. Recommendations are made to aid with the relevant rights and interests of related countries.
Probabilistic Damage Stability for Passenger Ships—The p-Factor Illusion and Reality
Authors: Vassalos Dracos , Mujeeb-Ahmed M. P. , Paterson Donald , Mauro Francesco , Conti Fabien
Published: March 2022

The paper complements an earlier publication by the authors addressing the probability of survival in the IMO framework for damage stability assessment, the s-factor. The focus here is on the probability of occurrence of a certain damage scenario (breach), conditional on its dimensions and location (centre and port or starboard side), the p-factor. Pertinent assumptions and limitations are explained, following its evolution for specific application to passenger ships. Attempts to provide analytical descriptions of the damage breach distributions as tetrahedra shapes positioned along the ship length whilst accounting for changes in ship geometry, structural arrangements, and subdivision for consumption by the wider profession has led to misconceptions and misunderstandings of what exactly the p-factor is in the context of probabilistic damage stability calculations. This is evidenced by the fact that the same original damage breach distributions, derived in Project HARDER, based on largely cargo ships with the age spread over the last three decades of the previous century, are still being used today for all ship types, including modern passenger ships. Filling this gap, a new database for passenger ships developed in the EC-funded Project FLARE, is briefly presented, leading to new damage breach distributions specifically for passenger ships. It is believed that this paper will throw considerable light in enhancing understanding on the p-factor, which has been cluttered with unnecessary complexity from the outset.
Composition and Diversity of the Culturable Endophytic Community of Six Stress-Tolerant Dessert Plants Grown in Stressful Soil in a Hot Dry Desert Region
Authors: AlSharari Salam S. , Galal Fatma H. , Seufi AlaaEddeen M.
Published: March 2022

Saudi Arabia is part of a hot dry desert region and is characterized by stressful conditions. The main goal of this research was to identify endophytic fungal (EF) community composition, diversity and abundance in relation to their plant hosts and soil stress. The above-ground parts of six wild plants (Haloxylon salicornicum, Salsola kali, Heliotropium bacciferum, Erica verticillata, Salsola imbricata and Bienertia sinuspersici) were sampled, surface-sterilized and cut into small pieces, which were cultured and incubated for 4–6 weeks. Isolates were grouped and identified by using both morphological and ITS rDNA molecular data. The diversity and community structure of plant-endophyte associations were studied. A total of 455 EF isolates were grouped into 25 different taxa; 21 of which were identified at the species level, 2 at genus level and 2 were unclassified fungi. Here, 95.65% of the identified genera were Ascomycota; of which 36.36, 31.81 and 31.81% were members of the classes Dothideomycetes, Eurotiomycetes and Sordariomycetes, respectively. S. imbricata showed the highest isolation rate and colonization frequency (CF%) of EF when compared to other plant species. Additionally, S. imbricata demonstrated the highest species richness and species diversity of the EF community predominated by the genus Fusarium. Conclusively, the core culturable EF genera of six wild plants were identified (unculturable taxa were not identified in this study). The composition of the EF community was revealed to have a strong correlation to both the electrical conductivity and pH of the soil and a moderate correlation to both the host species and the host family. The abundance and diversity of EF communities of the six plants were environment-dependent.
Evaluating the Mode of Antifungal Action of Heat-Stable Antifungal Factor (HSAF) in Neurospora crassa
Authors: Liu Xiaodong , Jiang Xianzhang , Sun Haowen , Du Jiawen , Luo Yuhang , Huang Jianzhong , Qin Lina
Published: March 2022

Heat-stable antifungal factor (HSAF) isolated from Lysobacter enzymogenes has shown a broad-spectrum of antifungal activities. However, little is known about its mode of action. In this study, we used the model filamentous fungus Neurospora crassa to investigate the antifungal mechanism of HSAF. We first used HSAF to treat the N. crassa strain at different time points. Spore germination, growth phenotype and differential gene expression analysis were conducted by utilizing global transcriptional profiling combined with genetic and physiological analyses. Our data showed that HSAF could significantly inhibit the germination and aerial hyphae growth of N. crassa. RNA-seq analysis showed that a group of genes, associated with cell wall formation and remodeling, were highly activated. Screening of N. crassa gene deletion mutants combined with scanning electron microscopic observation revealed that three fungal cell wall integrity-related genes played an important role in the interaction between N. crassa and L. enzymogens. In addition, Weighted Gene Co-Expression Network Analysis (WGCNA), accompanied by confocal microscopy observation revealed that HSAF could trigger autophagy-mediated degradation and eventually result in cell death in N. crassa. The findings of this work provided new insights into the interactions between the predatory Lysobacter and its fungal prey.
An Exploratory Study on a Reinforcement Learning Prototype for Multimodal Image Retrieval Using a Conversational Search Interface
Authors: Kaushik Abhishek , Jacob Billy , Velavan Pankaj
Published: March 2022

In the realm of information, conversational search is a relatively new trend. In this study, we have developed, implemented, and evaluated a multiview conversational image search system to investigate user search behaviour. We have also explored the potential for reinforcement learning to learn from user search behaviour and support the user in the complex information seeking process. A conversational image search system may mimic a natural language discussion with a user via text or speech, and then assist the user in locating the required picture via a dialogue-based search. We modified and improved a dual-view search interface that displays discussions on one side and photos on the other. Based on the states, incentives, and dialogues in the initial run, we developed a reinforcement learning model and a customized search algorithm in the back end that predicts which reply and images would be provided to the user among a restricted set of fixed responses. Usability of the system was validated using methodologies such as Chatbot Usability Questionnaire, System Usability Scale, and User Experience Questionnaire, and the values were tabulated. The result of this usability experiment proved that most of the users found the system to be very usable and helpful for their image search.
High Temperature In Situ Optical Observation and Structural Optimization Numerical Simulation of High Nitrogen Steel (Cr18Mn18N)
Authors: Zhu Shilong , Kong Yi , Yue Wen , Tang Yunlong
Published: March 2022

As a steel with high strength, good plasticity and fracture toughness, high temperature resistance, and corrosion resistance, Cr18Mn18N is widely used in industrial engineering and military fields. However, in a high temperature environment, Cr18Mn18N needs to be subjected to higher temperature, resulting in excessive expansion deformation and larger stress, which will greatly damage the stability and service life of the material structure. In this paper, the high temperature arc wind tunnel is used to heat the high nitrogen steel material with prefabricated round structure, and the surface images of the material are collected at the temperature of 1500 K. After comparison, it is found that the material is well preserved in a high temperature environment, indicating that the circular structure has better thermal protection ability. Based on the experiment, the thermal-fluid-solid coupling model is established, and the surface temperature field, deformation field, and stress field are analyzed. Different surface structures are designed, and numerical models of horizontal and vertical splicing components are established. Through numerical simulation, the surface structure is optimized, the surface temperature of the material is reduced, and the gap change trend of the splicing component is displayed. This work has theoretical significance for the application of materials in a high temperature environment and the optimization and improvement of material surface structure.
Inverse Design of Materials by Machine Learning
Authors: Wang Jia , Wang Yingxue , Chen Yanan
Published: March 2022

It is safe to say that every invention that has changed the world has depended on materials. At present, the demand for the development of materials and the invention or design of new materials is becoming more and more urgent since peoples’ current production and lifestyle needs must be changed to help mitigate the climate. Structure-property relationships are a vital paradigm in materials science. However, these relationships are often nonlinear, and the pattern is likely to change with length scales and time scales, posing a huge challenge. With the development of physics, statistics, computer science, etc., machine learning offers the opportunity to systematically find new materials. Especially by inverse design based on machine learning, one can make use of the existing knowledge without attempting mathematical inversion of the relevant integrated differential equation of the electronic structure but by using backpropagation to overcome local minimax traps and perform a fast calculation of the gradient information for a target function concerning the design variable to find the optimizations. The methodologies have been applied to various materials including polymers, photonics, inorganic materials, porous materials, 2-D materials, etc. Different types of design problems require different approaches, for which many algorithms and optimization approaches have been demonstrated in different scenarios. In this mini-review, we will not specifically sum up machine learning methodologies, but will provide a more material perspective and summarize some cut-edging studies.
Microstructure and Thermal Deformation Behavior of Hot-Pressing Sintered Zr-6Al-0.1B Alloy
Authors: Yan Huajun , Wang Wei , Zhang Shuangjie , Ma Shibo , Li Jianhui , Wang Bo
Published: March 2022

Zr-6Al-0.1B alloy rich in Zr3Al phase is prepared by hot-pressing sintering. The thermal deformation behavior of sintered Zr-6Al-0.1B is analyzed by isothermal compression tests at deformation temperatures of 950, 1050, and 1150 °C with strain rates of 0.01, 0.1, and 1 s−1. The results indicate that at the early stage of thermal deformation, the stress increases rapidly with the increase of strain and then reaches the peak value. Subsequently, the stress decreases with the increase of strain under the softening effect. On the whole, the true stress-strain curve shifts to the high stress area with the increase of strain rate or the decrease of deformation temperature, so the sintered Zr-6Al-0.1B alloy belongs to the temperature and strain rate sensitive material. For the microstructure evolution of sintered Zr-6Al-0.1B during the isothermal compression, the high strain rate can improve the grain refinement. However, because sintered Zr-6Al-0.1B is a low plastic material, too high strain rate will exceed the deformation capacity of the material, resulting in an increase in defects. The increase of deformation temperature also contributes to grain refinement, but when the temperature is too high, due to the decomposition of Zr3Al phase, the deformation coordination of the material decreases, leading to the increase of the probability of the occurrence of defects. This study verified the feasibility of hot-pressing sintering to prepare Zr-6Al-0.1B alloy rich in Zr3Al phase and laid the foundation of “hot-pressing sintering + canning hot-extrusion” process of Zr-6Al-0.1B alloy components.
Impact of Recycled Aggregate on the Mechanical and Environmental Properties of Concrete: A Review
Authors: Piccinali Andrea , Diotti Alessandra , Plizzari Giovanni , Sorlini Sabrina
Published: March 2022

This review aims to present and discuss the mechanical and environmental properties of two different type of recycled aggregates obtain from construction and demolition waste (CDW): (1) Recycled Concrete Aggregates (RCA) and (2) Mixed Recycled Aggregates (MRA). In addition, the properties of the concrete in the fresh (workability, water/cement ratio) and hardened state (mechanical and durability properties), as well as the environmental impact of the concrete produced with the two types of recycled aggregates, are presented and discussed. Due to the heterogeneous composition of recycled aggregates, the concrete properties can be significantly variable. The systematic review concerns scientific papers published from 2010 to 2020 and it shows the importance of the selection process in order to obtain high quality CDW as well as of the type of recycled aggregates on concrete properties. In particular, recycled concrete aggregates show a better quality and homogeneity than mixed recycled aggregates that make them more suitable for concrete. This work presents an overview on the influence of recycled aggregate quality on the physical, mechanical and environmental properties of concrete.
Additively Manufactured Composite Lug with Continuous Carbon Fibre Steering Based on Finite Element Analysis
Authors: Savandaiah Chethan , Sieberer Stefan , Steinbichler Georg
Published: March 2022

In this study, the influence of curvilinear fibre reinforcement on the load-carrying capacity of additively manufactured continuous carbon fibre reinforced necked double shear lugs was investigated. A curvilinear fibre placement is descriptive of layers in extrusion-based continuous-fibre-reinforced additive manufacturing with carbon fibres aligned in the directions of principal stress. The alternating layered fibre trajectories follow the maximum and minimum principal stress directions due to axial tension loading derived from two-dimensional finite element analysis (FEA). The digital image correlation was utilised to monitor the strain distribution during the application of tensile load. The 2D FEA data and the tensile test results obtained were comparable, the part strength and the linear approximation of stiffness data variability were minimal and well within the acceptable range. Nondestructive fractography was performed by utilising computed tomography (CT) to analyse the fractured regions of the tensile-tested lug. The CT scanned images aided in deducing the failure phenomenon in layered lugs; process-induced voids and fibre layup undulation were identified as the cause for lug failure.
Effect of Deformation Parameters on Recrystallization Behavior and Long-Period Stacking-Ordered Phase of Mg-9Gd-4Y-2Zn-0.5Zr Alloy
Authors: Han Rui , Zheng Jie , Yan Zhaoming , Jia Leichen , Jia Jingjing , Liu Liang , Zhang Zhimin , Xue Yong
Published: March 2022

In this study, a Mg-9Gd-4Y-2Zn-0.5Zr (wt.%) alloy was subjected, after solution treatment, to hot compression deformation at different temperatures (350 °C, 400 °C and 450 °C) and different strain rates (0.001 s−1, 0.01 s−1, 0.1 s−1 and 0.5 s−1) on a Gleeble-3800 thermal simulator. The evolution of the stress–strain curves under different conditions was compared. The changes in microstructure caused by the different deformation parameters and the change law of the long-period stacking-ordered (LPSO) phase during compression were observed and analyzed by optical microscope (OM) and scanning electron microscope (SEM). The results show that with the increase in the deformation temperature and the decrease in the strain rate, the degree of dynamic recrystallization (DRX) gradually increased, and the morphology of the phase also changed through, for example, twist fracture. The continuous dynamic recrystallization (CDRX) and discontinuous dynamic recrystallization (DDRX) mechanisms activated during the thermal deformation process can effectively refine the grains and weaken the texture in the alloy.
Evaluation of Two Beta-Tricalcium Phosphates with Different Particle Dimensions in Human Maxillary Sinus Floor Elevation: A Prospective, Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Mendes Bruno Coelho , Pereira Rodrigo dos Santos , Mourão Carlos Fernando de Almeida Barros , Montemezzi Pietro , Santos Anderson Maikon de Souza , Moreno Jéssica Monique Lopes , Okamoto Roberta , Hochuli-Vieira Eduardo
Published: March 2022

This study aimed to compare two beta-tricalcium phosphates with different particle sizes in human maxillary sinuses lifting. The immunolabeling of cells for RUNX2 and VEGF were performed to evaluate the osteoblast precursor cells and the vascular formation after 6 months of bone repair. Ten maxillary sinuses were grafted with autogenous bone graft (Group 1), 10 were grafted with ChronOs® (Group 2), and 10 were grafted with BETA-TCP® (Group 3). After 6 months of bone healing, biopsies were obtained to assess the new bone formed by histomorphometric and immunohistochemical evaluation for RUNX2 and VEGF. The mean bone formation for Group 1 was 51.4 ± 17.4%. Group 2 presented 45.5 ± 9.9%, and Group 3 conferred 35.4 ± 8.0% of new bone formation. The RUNX2 offered low for Groups 1 and 2 with high cellular activity for osteoblast in Group 3. The VEGF immunolabeling was moderate for Groups 1 and 2 and intense for Group 3. In conclusion, it was possible to show that the bone substitutes evaluated in the present study presented suitable outcomes for bone regeneration, being an alternative for the autogenous bone graft in maxillary sinus bone height reconstruction.
Development and Vibration Control of Frequency Adjustable Tuned Mass Damper Based on Magnetorheological Elastomer
Authors: Zhang Jiarui , Zhu Yaoyang , Tu Jianwei , Li Zhao , Wang Qiankun
Published: March 2022

Tuned mass dampers (TMD) have been widely used in passive vibration control, but their main disadvantage is that the vibration reduction effect may be greatly affected by the natural frequency of the main structure. In order to solve this limitation, we designed a frequency adjustable tuned mass damper (FATMD) based on a magneto rheological elastomer (MRE), which is a new type of magneto rheological smart material, with adjustable stiffness, obtained by changing the magnetic induction. We used MRE to change the stiffness of FATMD to track the natural frequency of the main structure. However, adding TMD will change the natural frequency of the system. Therefore, we combined Hilbert–Huang transform (HHT) and a natural excitation technique (NExT), with Simulink/dSPACE, to identify the natural frequency of the system in real time, and then calculated the natural frequency of the main structure through the TMD optimal design theory. This can help adjust FATMD to its optimum tuning state. To verify the applicability and effectiveness of FATMD, this paper compares the FATMD and traditional TMD experimental results. The natural frequency of steel beams can be changed by adding mass blocks. The experimental results indicate that FATMD, using the frequency tracking method, can effectively track the natural frequency of the main structure to ensure that the system is always in the optimum tuning state. In addition, FATMD can still achieve a good vibration reduction effect when the natural frequency of the main structure changes.
A Novel Integrated Control Method for an Aero-Derivative Gas Turbine of Power Generation
Authors: Guo Senchuang , He Ai , Xiao Bo , Liu Peijun , Wang Zinan
Published: March 2022

On account of the complexity of aero-derivative gas turbines and the much higher control requirements, it is significant and meaningful to design advanced controllers for obtaining the ideal control effect. In this paper, to improve the performance of the original controller of an aero-derivative gas turbine, a novel integrated control method is proposed by combining the original controller with a new neural network controller. It realizes the speed control by switching the two controllers during the operation process of the aero-derivative gas turbine. A tracking test and robustness test are conducted to assess the superiority of the novel integrated control method. The results show that in comparison with the original controller and the new neural network controller, the novel integrated control method has a much better speed tracking performance during the four tracking tests. When the model of the aero-derivative gas turbine changes with the ambient temperature and compressor performance degradation, the robustness of the novel integrated control method is also better than the other two controllers. Hence, the superiority of the novel integrated control method is validated.
Existence and Uniqueness Results for Fractional (p, q)-Difference Equations with Separated Boundary Conditions
Authors: Neang Pheak , Nonlaopon Kamsing , Tariboon Jessada , Ntouyas Sotiris , Ahmad Bashir
Published: March 2022

In this paper, we study the existence of solutions to a fractional (p, q)-difference equation equipped with separate local boundary value conditions. The uniqueness of solutions is established by means of Banach’s contraction mapping principle, while the existence results of solutions are obtained by applying Krasnoselskii’s fixed-point theorem and the Leary–Schauder alternative. Some examples illustrating the main results are also presented.
A Simple Affine-Invariant Spline Interpolation over Triangular Meshes
Authors: Stachó László L.
Published: March 2022

Given a triangular mesh, we obtain an orthogonality-free analogue of the classical local Zlámal–Ženišek spline procedure with simple explicit affine-invariant formulas in terms of the normalized barycentric coordinates of the mesh triangles. Our input involves first-order data at mesh points, and instead of adjusting normal derivatives at the side middle points, we constructed the elementary splines by adjusting the Fréchet derivatives at three given directions along the edges with the result of bivariate polynomials of degree five. By replacing the real line R with a generic field K, our results admit a natural interpretation with possible independent interest, and the proofs are short enough for graduate courses.
Modified Mann Subgradient-like Extragradient Rules for Variational Inequalities and Common Fixed Points Involving Asymptotically Nonexpansive Mappings
Authors: Ceng Lu-Chuan , Shehu Yekini , Yao Jen-Chih
Published: March 2022

In a real Hilbert space, we aim to investigate two modified Mann subgradient-like methods to find a solution to pseudo-monotone variational inequalities, which is also a common fixed point of a finite family of nonexpansive mappings and an asymptotically nonexpansive mapping. We obtain strong convergence results for the sequences constructed by these proposed rules. We give some examples to illustrate our analysis.
Successful Urgent TAVI for Critical Aortic Valve Stenosis after ECMO Implantation
Authors: Niu Ya-Lei , Mayr Nicola Patrick , Chen Yin-Hwa , Chang Hsiao-Hwang , Wang Shi-Pu , Lin Hung-Yu , Pai Ching-Chou
Published: March 2022

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) has evolved to be the treatment of choice for patients with severe aortic stenosis and high perioperative risk. Cardiogenic shock is one of the most severe complications during the TAVI procedure, especially as the prognosis of cardiogenic shock secondary to aortic stenosis is very poor. This situation can be challenging, while extracorporeal membranous oxygenation (ECMO) can be a treatment option. Here, we reported on an 88-year-old female patient who had been diagnosed as non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) and critical aortic valve stenosis (AS) with a logistic Euroscore of 25%. Percutaneous coronary angioplasty (PCI) was performed smoothly and developed tachy-brady arrhythmia of atrial fibrillation then cardiac arrest at the beginning of the TAVI procedure. A v-a ECMO was installed at her left femoral side. Afterward, the TAVI procedure was completed accordingly; her consciousness recovered and Levosimendan therapy enhanced her left-ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) from 22% to 40%. Five days after TAVI, ECMO was replaced by intra-aortic balloon pumping (IABP) and it was removed 3 days later. A minor complication of this therapy, e.g., muscular weakness in her left leg, was noted. The patient underwent rehabilitation for about 2 months, and was discharged from hospital with a wheel chair and clear consciousness. At the 24 month follow-up she was in good recovery and was able to walk upstairs to the second floor again. Our experience suggests that one indication of prophylactic use of ECMO is for patients with an unstable hemodynamic condition.
High-Temperature Deformation Behavior of the AZ31 Alloy Processed by Double-Sided FSW Technology
Authors: Cha Suna , Hou Hongliang , Zhang Yanling
Published: March 2022

Generally, AZ31 magnesium alloys have poor formation ability near room temperature. This material, with ultrafine grains, usually exhibits excellent superplasticity at high temperature. Therefore, the preparation of materials with suitable microstructures to obtain the superplasticity is an important goal. In this study, the double-side FSW (Friction Stir Processing) process was applied on the AZ31Mg alloy to obtain the microstructure with ultra-fine grains. The effect of the FSW on the microstructure and the mechanism of microstructure evolution was elaborated. Meanwhile, the effects of deformation parameters, temperature, and strain rate on flow behavior and superplasticity of the joint were systematically and comparatively studied. It was found that the microstructure at the joint center with double-side FSW could obtain much finer grains with an average grain size of 9.6 μm compared with the rolled materials (25.9 μm). The high temperature deformation results showed that the optimum elongation (446%) was achieved with the deformation temperature of 450 °C and strain rate of 0.0003 s−1, which was far greater than the elongation of the room temperature (20.8%). The mechanism of parameters on deformation behavior of the joint samples was elaborated.
Limosilactobacillus reuteri in Health and Disease
Authors: Abuqwider Jumana , Altamimi Mohammad , Mauriello Gianluigi
Published: March 2022

Limosilactobacillus reuteri is a microorganism with valuable probiotic qualities that has been widely employed in humans to promote health. It is a well-studied probiotic bacterium that exerts beneficial health effects due to several metabolic mechanisms that enhance the production of anti-inflammatory cytochines and modulate the gut microbiota by the production of antimicrobial molecules, including reuterin. This review provides an overview of the data that support the role of probiotic properties, and the antimicrobial and immunomodulatory effects of some L. reuteri strains in relation to their metabolite production profile on the amelioration of many diseases and disorders. Although the results discussed in this paper are strain dependent, they show that L. reuteri, by different mechanisms and various metabolites, may control body weight and obesity, improve insulin sensitivity and glucose homeostasis, increase gut integrity and immunomodulation, and attenuate hepatic disorders. Gut microbiota modulation by ingesting probiotic L. reuteri strains could be a promising preventative and therapeutic approach against many diseases and disorders.
Antimicrobial Resistance in Escherichia coli Isolates from Healthy Food Animals in South Korea, 2010–2020
Authors: Song Hyun-Ju , Kim Su-Jeong , Moon Dong Chan , Mechesso Abraham Fikru , Choi Ji-Hyun , Kang Hee Young , Boby Naila , Yoon Soon-Seek , Lim Suk-Kyung
Published: March 2022

Antimicrobial-resistant bacteria in food animals pose a major public health threat worldwide. In this study, we aimed to assess the antimicrobial resistance profiles and resistance trends of commensal Escherichia coli isolated from the feces of healthy cattle, pigs, and chickens in South Korea during 2010 and 2020. A total of 7237 E. coli isolates (2733 cattle, 2542 pig, and 1962 chicken isolates) were tested for susceptibility towards 12 antimicrobials. About 48%, 90%, and 97% of cattle, pig, and chicken isolates, respectively, were resistant to one or more antimicrobial agents. Cattle isolates presented low resistance (<15%) to most of the tested antimicrobials. In contrast, chicken and pig isolates demonstrated a relatively high (>45%) resistance rate to ampicillin, chloramphenicol, streptomycin, and tetracycline. We observed high ciprofloxacin and nalidixic acid resistance rates in chicken (76.1% and 88.6%, respectively), isolates in pig (12.7% and 26.7%, respectively) and cattle (2.7% and 8.2%, respectively) isolates. Notably, a very small proportion of isolates (<5%) from cattle, chickens, and pigs demonstrated resistance to amoxicillin/clavulanic acid, cefoxitin, and colistin. We identified ceftiofur resistance in a small proportion of chicken (8.8%), pig (3.7%), and cattle (0.7%) isolates. We noted an increasing but fluctuating trend of ampicillin, amoxicillin/clavulanic acid, ceftiofur, cefoxitin, chloramphenicol, ciprofloxacin, and streptomycin resistance in pig isolates. Similarly, the ampicillin, ceftiofur, and chloramphenicol resistance rates were increased but fluctuated through time in chicken isolates. Overall, 56% of the isolates showed multidrug-resistant (MDR). The proportion of MDR isolates was low in cattle (17.1%); however, this proportion was high in chickens (87.1%) and pigs (73.7%). Most of the resistance patterns included streptomycin and tetracycline in pigs and cattle, and ciprofloxacin and nalidixic acid in chickens. In conclusion, this study showed high resistance of commensal E. coli isolated from major food animals in Korea to commonly used antimicrobials including critically important antimicrobials. These bacteria could not only be a resistance reservoir but also could have potential to spread this resistance through gene transfer to pathogenic bacteria. Thus, the high prevalence of antimicrobial resistance in food animals highlights the urgent need for measures to restrict and ensure the prudent use of antimicrobials in Korea.
Characterization of Bacterial Cellulose Produced by Komagataeibacter maltaceti P285 Isolated from Contaminated Honey Wine
Authors: Thongwai Narumol , Futui Wirapong , Ladpala Nanthiwa , Sirichai Benjamat , Weechan Anuwat , Kanklai Jirapat , Rungsirivanich Patthanasak
Published: March 2022

Bacterial cellulose (BC), a biopolymer, is synthesized by BC-producing bacteria. Almost all producing strains are classified in the family Acetobacteraceae. In this study, bacterial strain P285 was isolated from contaminated honey wine in a honey factory in northern Thailand. Based on 16S rRNA gene sequence identification, the strain P285 revealed 99.8% identity with Komagataeibacter maltaceti LMG 1529 T. K. maltaceti P285 produced the maximum BC production at 20–30 °C and an initial media pH of 9.0. The highest BC production in modified mineral salt medium (MSM) was exhibited when glucose (16%, w/v) and yeast extract (3.2%, w/v) were applied as carbon and nitrogen sources, respectively. When sugarcane (8–16%, w/v) or honey (ratio of honey to water = 1: 4) supplemented with yeast extract was used, the BC production was greater. The characterization of BC synthesized by K. maltaceti P285 was undertaken using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrometry. Meanwhile, X-ray diffraction results confirmed the presence of crystalline cellulose (2θ = 18.330, 21.390 and 22.640°). The maximum temperature of BC degradation was observed at 314 °C. Tensile properties analysis of hydrated and dried BC showed breaking strength of 1.49 and 0.66 MPa, respectively. These results demonstrated that K. maltaceti P285 has a high potential for BC production especially when grown in high initial media pH. Therefore, the strain would be suitable as an agent to make BC, the value-added product in the related factories.