bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multi-phase features interaction transformer network for liver tumor segmentation and microvascular invasion assessment in contrast-enhanced CT
Authors: Zhang Wencong , Tao Yuxi , Huang Zhanyao , Li Yue , Chen Yingjia , Song Tengfei , Ma Xiangyuan , Zhang Yaqin
Published: April 2024

Precise segmentation of liver tumors from computed tomography (CT) scans is a prerequisite step in various clinical applications. Multi-phase CT imaging enhances tumor characterization, thereby assisting radiologists in accurate identification. However, existing automatic liver tumor segmentation models did not fully exploit multi-phase information and lacked the capability to capture global information. In this study, we developed a pioneering multi-phase feature interaction Transformer network (MI-TransSeg) for accurate liver tumor segmentation and a subsequent microvascular invasion (MVI) assessment in contrast-enhanced CT images. In the proposed network, an efficient multi-phase features interaction module was introduced to enable bi-directional feature interaction among multiple phases, thus maximally exploiting the available multi-phase information. To enhance the model's capability to extract global information, a hierarchical transformer-based encoder and decoder architecture was designed. Importantly, we devised a multi-resolution scales feature aggregation strategy (MSFA) to optimize the parameters and performance of the proposed model. Subsequent to segmentation, the liver tumor masks generated by MI-TransSeg were applied to extract radiomic features for the clinical applications of the MVI assessment. With Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval, a clinical multi-phase contrast-enhanced CT abdominal dataset was collected that included 164 patients with liver tumors. The experimental results demonstrated that the proposed MI-TransSeg was superior to various state-of-the-art methods. Additionally, we found that the tumor mask predicted by our method showed promising potential in the assessment of microvascular invasion. In conclusion, MI-TransSeg presents an innovative paradigm for the segmentation of complex liver tumors, thus underscoring the significance of multi-phase CT data exploitation. The proposed MI-TransSeg network has the potential to assist radiologists in diagnosing liver tumors and assessing microvascular invasion.
Evaluating the Usability of a Gamified Virtual Course Designed to Teach Cultural Heritage
Authors: Vargas-Arteaga Jacob , Gravini-Donado Marbel Lucía
Published: April 2024

Virtual courses represent a major innovation in online teaching and learning, offering diverse training options tailored to individual needs and interests. Proposals have been developed in the field of didactics to provide heritage-related instruction using methodologies and strategies supported by digital sources and offered online. However, there is no comprehensive data compilation available on the evaluation of the usability of digital resources developed for imparting learning about cultural heritage. Hence, this study aims primarily to present the instructional design and usability evaluation of an expert-validated gamified virtual course titled “Cultural Heritage Guardians.” The study results show high usability scores for the designed course, as measured by the system usability scale. This study significantly contributes to aspects related to user evaluations of the usability experiences of virtual courses focused on pedagogy related to cultural heritage.
Development of a Database of Educational Games Applicable to Production Engineering
Authors: Machado Bruna Andrade , Souza Fernando Bernardi de , Rodrigues José de Souza
Published: April 2024

Discussion over the years regarding the quality of newly graduated engineers in Brazil has concluded that there are gaps between learning and market expectations. Analyzing the current scenario, the Ministry of Education (MEC) has approved new national curriculum guidelines that emphasize skills development and the adoption of active methodologies. The aim is to develop students as protagonists of their own learning. One of these methodologies is game-based learning (GBL), which utilizes games for educational purposes to integrate theory and practice. GBL simulates reality and presents concepts in a playful way, resulting in greater student engagement and interest. However, research shows that a lack of knowledge and difficulty accessing such games are barriers to implementing this methodology. Previous research has focused on the development of serious game metadata (SGM), the establishment of controlled vocabularies, and the identification of educational games targeting production engineering (PE). The authors of the present paper developed a database focused on the disciplines and content covered in production engineering courses. The paper describes the database and its aims to: (a) increase the use of games in the teaching-learning process; (b) make the process more effective; and (c) prepare better professionals.
Star Words Re-Generated: Gamification and GenAI for Effective Training
Authors: Zolezzi Daniele , Iacono Saverio , Vercelli Gianni Viardo
Published: April 2024

Star Words was a gamification project developed in 2015 with the goal of facilitating the acquisition of skills related to the Microsoft Office suite on Moodle. The utilization of game mechanics and rules was enhanced by situating the entire course within the Star WarsTM universe, a widely popular saga at the time due to the release of its seventh cinematic episode. The results obtained from the experiment demonstrated the effectiveness of this approach. However, the significant amount of time invested in adapting the storyline and materials led to the decision not to replicate the experience with different themes. The article illustrates how the use of generative artificial intelligence (genAI) can help overcome this issue by assisting educators in creating high-quality educational and narrative content in a shorter timeframe. This enables educators to select the most up-to-date and captivating theme for their students every year.
Lymphomas with massive splenomegaly – a case series
Authors: Andradi W. M. C. M. , Godevithanage G. D. A. , Mohotala V. S. , Senevirathne S. B. , Ranasinghe N. , Samaraweera Y. R. , Fernando H.
Published: April 2024

Hairy cell leukaemia (HCL) is an uncommon chronic B-cell lymphoma. Classical HCL and its variant are separate entities. Splenic marginal zone lymphoma (SMZL) is rare accounting for <2%of lymphoid neoplasms2. A 62-year-old woman presented with constitutional symptoms and mild splenomegaly was having pancytopenia, monocytopenia and hairy cells in the peripheral blood. Bone marrow aspiration was a dry tap while trephine biopsy revealed diffuse lymphoid cell infiltration with characteristic fried egg appearance and fibrosis. Morphological and immunophenotypic diagnosis was HCL. She was successfully treated with IV-cladribine and G-CSF for chemotherapy induced severe neutropenia. She achieved complete remission in 6 months. A 56-year-old woman presented with abdominal distension and lower limb swelling was having marked splenomegaly, absolute lymphocytosis, mild neutropenia and anaemia. Blood film revealed lymphocytes showing moderate cytoplasm and cytoplasmic projections. With bone marrow biopsy and flow cytometry, splenic B-cell lymphoma/leukaemia with prominent nucleoli was diagnosed and was treated with rituximab monotherapy. A 76-year-old woman presented with progressive abdominal fullness, unintentional weight loss and early satiety was having splenomegaly, bicytopenia and absolute lymphocytosis consisting predominantly of small mature lymphocytes and occasional lymphocytes with polar villi. Morphological and immunopheno-typical results confirmed SMZL. She was treated with rituximab monotherapy.
Biomechanical changes after keratorefractive lenticule extraction with CLEAR and after femtosecond LASIK, correlated with optical coherence tomography findings
Authors: Leccisotti Antonio , Fields Stefania V. , De Bartolo Giuseppe , Crudale Christian , Posarelli Matteo , Malandrini Alex
Published: April 2024

The aim of this retrospective, comparative, single-eye study was to assess the biomechanical changes after laser correction of myopia by keratorefractive lenticule extraction (KLEx) and by femtosecond LASIK (FS-LASIK), correlating them with the stromal changes on anterior segment optical coherence tomography. Corneal biomechanical parameters, provided by the high-speed Scheimpflug camera CorVis-ST (Oculus Optikgeräte GmbH) and measured pre-operatively and 1 week post-operatively, were: stiffness parameter at first applanation (SP-A1), stress-strain index (SSI), inverse integrated radius (IIR), deformation amplitude ratio at 2 mm (DA ratio-2mm).
A total of 79 eyes undergone KLEx (CLEAR, Ziemer Group) and 93 eyes undergone FS-LASIK were included. The mean residual stromal bed (RSB) was 271.36±17.22 µm after KLEx and 304.21±21.82 µm after FS-LASIK (p=0.00). All parameters in both groups showed statistically significant post-operative changes (p=0.00), except for SSI after FS-LASIK (p=0.39). The percent changes in all parameters were significantly higher in the KLEx group. Even in the eyes with equal RSB (300±5 µm; 19 eyes post-KLEx, 26 eyes post-FS-LASIK), changes were significantly higher after KLEx (SP-A1: -35.9%; SSI: -6.7%) than after FS-LASIK (SP-A1: -29.6%; SSI: -3.8%) (respectively, p=0.02, and p=0.00). In KLEx, reduction in stromal thickness had a weak correlation with reduction in SP-A1 (r=0.39), and poor correlation with reduction in SSI (r=0.26).
In conclusion, stiffness parameters were significantly worse after KLEx than after FS-LASIK, even in eyes ending with similar RSB. These findings should be valued cautiously, as the CorVis-ST might not capture all the clinically significant alterations, especially in the post-KLEx bi-layered cornea.
Etiologies and Seizure Outcome of Neonatal Seizures: A Tertiary University Hospital Experience
Authors: Muthaffar Osama Y. , Aldail Abdullah A. , Khojah Imad M. , Alyazidi Anas S. , Alotibi Taif K. , Makki Lama T.
Published: April 2024

Context:

Despite the vast developments in medical sciences in recent decades, seizures remain a common occurrence among neonates, associated with high rates of morbidity and mortality.

Aims:

The aim of this study was to assess and analyze the presentation and outcome of neonates who were previously exposed to seizures.

Subjects and Methods:

Following a retrospective research design, this study included 50 cases of neonatal seizures (29 males and 21 females), who were admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit at King Abdulaziz University Hospital, Jeddah City, Saudi Arabia. Data were collected from the hospital records and included all visits between January 2022 and December 2022.

Results:

The most common types of neonatal seizures were clonic and myoclonic seizures (44% and 28%, respectively). Apgar score at 5 min was <7 in 30% of cases. The main diagnosis was hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) in 28 children (56%), and central nervous system (CNS) infection in 18 children (36%). Children with neonatal seizures mainly received phenobarbital, benzodiazepines, or levetiracetam (48%, 46%, and 36%, respectively). Mechanical ventilation was applied to 20 children (40%). A total of 15 children (30%) had developmental delays, being global delay in 7 children (14%), or motor in 8 children (16%), while 6 children died (12%). Seizures could be controlled in 37 children (74%). Children who presented early (during the 1st week of life) and those who had Apgar scores <7 at 5 min had significantly worse outcomes, with higher case fatality and less seizure control than those who had Apgar scores of 7–10 (P < 0.001).

Conclusions:

Seizures are a common occurrence among neonates, especially males during the 1st week of their lives. HIE and CNS infections are the main diagnoses. The most administered medications are phenobarbital, benzodiazepines, and levetiracetam. Children who present during their 1st week of life and those who have 5-min Apgar scores <7 have significantly higher case fatality and less seizure control.
The role of ultra-widefield imaging with navigated central and peripheral cross-sectional and three-dimensional swept source optical coherence tomography in ophthalmology: Clinical applications
Authors: Stanga Paulo E. , Valentín-Bravo Francisco J. , Reinstein Ursula I. , Saladino Andrea , Arrigo Alessandro , Stanga Sebastian E. F.
Published: April 2024

PURPOSE:

To assess central and peripheral retinal and choroidal diseases using ultra-widefield (UWF) fundus imaging in combination with navigated central and peripheral cross-sectional and three-dimensional (3D) swept source optical coherence tomography (SS-OCT) scans.

METHODS:

Retrospective study involving 332 consecutive patients, with a nearly equal distribution of males and females. The mean age of patients was 52 years (range 18–92 years). Average refractive error was −3.80 D (range +7.75 to −20.75 D).

RESULTS:

The observations in this study demonstrate the efficacy of peripheral navigated SS-OCT in assessing various ocular conditions. The technology provides high-quality images of the peripheral vitreous, vitreoretinal interface, retina, and choroid, enabling visualization of vitreous floaters and opacities, retinal holes and tears, pigmented lesions, and peripheral retinal degenerations. 3D OCT scans enhance the visualization of these abnormalities and improve diagnostic and therapeutic decisions.

CONCLUSION:

Navigated central and peripheral cross-sectional and 3D SS-OCT scans offer significant complementary benefits in the assessment and management of retinal diseases. Their addition to UWF imaging provides a comprehensive view of central and peripheral ocular structures, aiding in early detection, precise anatomical measurements, and objective monitoring of disease progression. In addition, this technology serves as a valuable tool for patient education, a teaching tool for trainees, and documentation for medico-legal purposes.
Presumed macular toxicity of high-dose intravitreal ganciclovir
Authors: Sweta Shubhra , Prabhakaran Parvathy , Kakunje Chaithra , Sagar Pradeep , Biswal Suchitra , Ravishankar H. N.
Published: April 2024

A 56-year-old male with bilateral cytomegalovirus retinitis was initiated on oral valganciclovir and intravitreal ganciclovir injection twice a week in first 2 weeks and once a week in subsequent weeks. An intravitreal dose of 2 mg/0.08 mL was administered in the 1st week. Considering the suboptimal response, the dose of intravitreal ganciclovir was increased to 4 mg/0.08 mL. After 4 weeks of therapy (four doses of 4-mg ganciclovir), the patient complained of worsening of vision. Fundus examination showed resolving retinitis, but the optical coherence tomography (OCT) showed neurosensory detachment (NSD) at the fovea in both eyes with inner retinal hyperreflectivity in the right eye. Considering the possibility of retinitis involving fovea, a higher dose of intravitreal ganciclovir (6 mg/0.08 mL) was administered. The patient reported further worsening of vision immediately after removing the eye patch 2 hr following the injection. OCT showed a full-thickness hyperreflective vertical band with ellipsoid zone disruption at the fovea and inner retinal hyperreflectivity in the right eye. Hyperreflective vertical band with NSD was seen in the left eye. A possibility of macular toxicity due to intravitreal ganciclovir was considered. Intravitreal therapy was stopped and oral valganciclovir was continued. At 1-month follow-up, the patient reported improvement in vision. The hyperreflectivity and NSD were resolved at month follow-up. Although higher doses of ganciclovir up to 6 mg have been used in the past, it would be better to avoid higher doses considering the development of presumed drug toxicity in our case following the use of 4 mg and 6 mg.
Legal Framework of Land Engineering: Compliance with Environmental Regulations to Reduce Pollution
Authors: Xuewen Du
Published: April 2024

Research in relation to land technology should be conducted guided by concerns for environmental sustainability. There must be a robust framework that regulates land use and development, taking into account changes in the environment due to biological, human-made substances and other factors. The research has shown how important it is to have all stakeholders involved in regulation process through Integrated Stakeholder Engagement Approach (ISEA) which is unique. Proposed ISEA approach can bring together different stakeholders including government agencies, corporate experts, environmental advocates as well as community groups to come up with appropriate regulatory frameworks. One model of reducing the impacts of a building is to build it on a strong foundation. It is necessary today for such studies to include simulation assessment so as to evaluate the effectiveness of the regulatory system. This review examines possible outcomes and environmental implications associated with specific regulations based on certain zoning policies are useful for decision-making and policy choices. By minimizing pollution while using simulation analysis techniques among different stakeholders, this initiative wants to facilitate resilient sustainable land improvement.
Adipose-derived regenerative therapies for the treatment of knee osteoarthritis
Authors: Epanomeritakis Ilias E , Khan Wasim S
Published: April 2024

Knee osteoarthritis is a degenerative condition with a significant disease burden and no disease-modifying therapy. Definitive treatment ultimately requires joint replacement. Therapies capable of regenerating cartilage could significantly reduce financial and clinical costs. The regenerative potential of mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) has been extensively studied in the context of knee osteoarthritis. This has yielded promising results in human studies, and is likely a product of immunomodulatory and chondroprotective biomolecules produced by MSCs in response to inflammation. Adipose-derived MSCs (ASCs) are becoming increasingly popular owing to their relative ease of isolation and high proliferative capacity. Stromal vascular fraction (SVF) and micro-fragmented adipose tissue (MFAT) are produced by the enzymatic and mechanical disruption of adipose tissue, respectively. This avoids expansion of isolated ASCs ex vivo and their composition of heterogeneous cell populations, including immune cells, may potentiate the reparative function of ASCs. In this editorial, we comment on a multicenter randomized trial regarding the efficacy of MFAT in treating knee osteoarthritis. We discuss the study’s findings in the context of emerging evidence regarding adipose-derived regenerative therapies. An underlying mechanism of action of ASCs is proposed while drawing important distinctions between the properties of isolated ASCs, SVF, and MFAT.
Expansion of human umbilical cord derived mesenchymal stem cells in regenerative medicine
Authors: Rajput Shafiqa Naeem , Naeem Bushra Kiran , Ali Anwar , Salim Asmat , Khan Irfan
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND

Stem cells are undifferentiated cells that possess the potential for self-renewal with the capacity to differentiate into multiple lineages. In humans, their limited numbers pose a challenge in fulfilling the necessary demands for the regeneration and repair of damaged tissues or organs. Studies suggested that mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), necessary for repair and regeneration via transplantation, require doses ranging from 10 to 400 million cells. Furthermore, the limited expansion of MSCs restricts their therapeutic application.

AIM

To optimize a novel protocol to achieve qualitative and quantitative expansion of MSCs to reach the targeted number of cells for cellular transplantation and minimize the limitations in stem cell therapy protocols.

METHODS

Human umbilical cord (hUC) tissue derived MSCs were obtained and re-cultured. These cultured cells were subjected to the following evaluation procedures: Immunophenotyping, immunocytochemical staining, trilineage differentiation, population doubling time and number, gene expression markers for proliferation, cell cycle progression, senescence-associated β-galactosidase assay, human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) expression, mycoplasma, cytomegalovirus and endotoxin detection.

RESULTS

Analysis of pluripotent gene markers Oct4 , Sox2 , and Nanog in recultured hUC-MSC revealed no significant differences. The immunophenotypic markers CD90, CD73, CD105, CD44, vimentin, CD29, Stro-1, and Lin28 were positively expressed by these recultured expanded MSCs, and were found negative for CD34, CD11b, CD19, CD45, and HLA-DR. The recultured hUC-MSC population continued to expand through passage 15. Proliferative gene expression of Pax6 , BMP2 , and TGFb1 showed no significant variation between recultured hUC-MSC groups. Nevertheless, a significant increase (P < 0.001) in the mitotic phase of the cell cycle was observed in recultured hUC-MSCs. Cellular senescence markers (hTERT expression and β-galactosidase activity) did not show any negative effect on recultured hUC-MSCs. Additionally, quality control assessments consistently confirmed the absence of mycoplasma, cytomegalovirus, and endotoxin contamination.

CONCLUSION

This study proposes the development of a novel protocol for efficiently expanding stem cell population. This would address the growing demand for larger stem cell doses needed for cellular transplantation and will significantly improve the feasibility of stem cell based therapies.
Effects of high glucose and severe hypoxia on the biological behavior of mesenchymal stem cells at various passages
Authors: Almahasneh Fatimah , Abu-El-Rub Ejlal , Khasawneh Ramada R , Almazari Rawan
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been extensively studied for therapeutic potential, due to their regenerative and immunomodulatory properties. Serial passage and stress factors may affect the biological characteristics of MSCs, but the details of these effects have not been recognized yet.

AIM

To investigate the effects of stress factors (high glucose and severe hypoxia) on the biological characteristics of MSCs at different passages, in order to optimize the therapeutic applications of MSCs.

METHODS

In this study, we investigated the impact of two stress conditions; severe hypoxia and high glucose on human adipose-tissue derived MSCs (hAD-MSCs) at passages 6 (P6), P8, and P10. Proliferation, senescence and apoptosis were evaluated measuring WST-1, senescence-associated beta-galactosidase, and annexin V, respectively.

RESULTS

Cells at P6 showed decreased proliferation and increased apoptosis under conditions of high glucose and hypoxia compared to control, while the extent of senescence did not change significantly under stress conditions. At P8 hAD-MSCs cultured in stress conditions had a significant decrease in proliferation and apoptosis and a significant increase in senescence compared to counterpart cells at P6. Cells cultured in high glucose at P10 had lower proliferation and higher senescence than their counterparts in the previous passage, while no change in apoptosis was observed. On the other hand, MSCs cultured under hypoxia showed decreased senescence, increased apoptosis and no significant change in proliferation when compared to the same conditions at P8.

CONCLUSION

These results indicate that stress factors had distinct effects on the biological processes of MSCs at different passages, and suggest that senescence may be a protective mechanism for MSCs to survive under stress conditions at higher passage numbers.
Reveal more mechanisms of precondition mesenchymal stem cells inhibiting inflammation
Authors: Li Yi , Chen Qian-Qian , Linghu En-Qiang
Published: April 2024

Hypoxia can get more ability to inhibit inflammation. But how it impact on survival time of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) is confusing and how preconditioned MSCs inhibiting inflammation are partially known. Those issues decided the value of preconditioned MSCs by hypoxia.
Progress of mitochondrial and endoplasmic reticulum-associated signaling and its regulation of chronic liver disease by Chinese medicine
Authors: Zheng Yang , Zheng Yi-Hui , Wang Jia-Hui , Zhao Tie-Jian , Wang Lei , Liang Tian-Jian
Published: April 2024

The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is connected to mitochondria through mitochondria-associated ER membranes (MAMs). MAMs provide a framework for crosstalk between the ER and mitochondria, playing a crucial role in regulating cellular calcium balance, lipid metabolism, and cell death. Dysregulation of MAMs is involved in the development of chronic liver disease (CLD). In CLD, changes in MAMs structure and function occur due to factors such as cellular stress, inflammation, and oxidative stress, leading to abnormal interactions between mitochondria and the ER, resulting in liver cell injury, fibrosis, and impaired liver function. Traditional Chinese medicine has shown some research progress in regulating MAMs signaling and treating CLD. This paper reviews the literature on the association between mitochondria and the ER, as well as the intervention of traditional Chinese medicine in regulating CLD.
Quantitative hepatitis B core antibody and quantitative hepatitis B surface antigen: Novel viral biomarkers for chronic hepatitis B management
Authors: Leowattana Wattana , Leowattana Pathomthep , Leowattana Tawithep
Published: April 2024

The management of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection now involves regular and appropriate monitoring of viral activity, disease progression, and treatment response. Traditional HBV infection biomarkers are limited in their ability to predict clinical outcomes or therapeutic effectiveness. Quantitation of HBV core antibodies (qAnti-HBc) is a novel non-invasive biomarker that may help with a variety of diagnostic issues. It was shown to correlate strongly with infection stages, hepatic inflammation and fibrosis, chronic infection exacerbations, and the presence of occult infection. Furthermore, qAnti-HBc levels were shown to be predictive of spontaneous or treatment-induced HBeAg and HBsAg seroclearance, relapse after medication termination, re-infection following liver transplantation, and viral reactivation in the presence of immunosuppression. qAnti-HBc, on the other hand, cannot be relied on as a single diagnostic test to address all problems, and its diagnostic and prognostic potential may be greatly increased when paired with qHBsAg. Commercial qAnti-HBc diagnostic kits are currently not widely available. Because many methodologies are only semi-quantitative, comparing data from various studies and defining universal cut-off values remains difficult. This review focuses on the clinical utility of qAnti-HBc and qHBsAg in chronic hepatitis B management.
Proposed Test Method for Brake Pad Lining Robustness in Cold
Conditions
Authors: Passador Stephen Daniel Austin , Boudreau Douglas Barret , Capacchione Christopher James
Published: April 2024

With globalization, vehicles are sold across the world throughout different
markets and their automotive brake systems must function across a range of
environmental conditions. Currently, there is no current standardized test that
analyzes brake pads’ robustness against severe cold and humid environmental
conditions. The purpose of this proposed test method is to validate brake system
performance under severe cold conditions, comparing the results with ambient
conditions to evaluate varying lining materials’ functional robustness. The goal
of this paper is to aid in setting a standardized process and procedure for the
testing of automotive brakes’ environmental robustness.

Seven candidate friction materials were selected for analysis. The friction
materials are kept confidential. Design of experiment (DOE) techniques were used
to create a full-factorial test plan that covered all combinations of
parameters. The test script involves brake applications at 5, 10, 15, and 20
bar, at both ambient/non-humid and cold/humid conditions. Each brake application
collects the stop time and coefficient of friction (COF) values throughout the
stop. Failure modes are subjectively long braking times and failed brakes.

The test results verify that brake pad effectiveness is dependent on friction
lining, braking pressure, and environmental conditions. Other than at the lowest
tested braking pressure, the COFs appear to be consistent across the tested
braking pressures. Each material was evaluated for robustness against cold
conditions by calculating their signal-to-noise (S/N) ratio, a common method
used during design for six sigma (DFSS) robust optimization analysis. The
braking time S/N is calculated using smaller the better (STB) analysis, whereas
the COF S/N is calculated using the larger the better (LTB) analysis. Using the
S/N ratio, it can easily be determined which brake pad friction lining material
is the most robust against environmental conditions.

Friction designation A was consistently calculated to be the most robust friction
material against the cold environmental conditions. All friction linings had
extended stopping times in cold conditions when compared to ambient conditions.
In some cases, the lining materials reached critical failure in severe cold
environments. Additionally, the collected friction values gave insight into
potential extreme pad wear rates.
Flareless Hydraulic Tube Fittings
Authors:   Hydraulic Tube Fittings Committee
Published: April 2024

This SAE Standard covers complete general and dimensional specifications for flareless type of hydraulic tube fittings. These fittings are intended for general application in hydraulic systems on industrial equipment and commercial products.

These fittings are capable of providing leakproof, full flow connections in hydraulic systems operating at working pressures as specified in Table 1.

For any application, it is recommended that sufficient testing be conducted and reviewed by both the user and fitting manufacturer to assure that performance levels will be safe and satisfactory.

Formerly, SAE J514 was organized as a single document with ten clauses, which included six sections. This revision of SAE J514 has been organized into three sections as follows:

Part 1: 37-degree flared fittings

Part 2: Flareless (bite type) fittings

Part 3: NPTF pipe fittings and pipe unions

It is important to note that this and all SAE J-documents are intended for ground vehicle use only and not intended for aerospace applications.
Treatment endpoints in ulcerative colitis: Does one size fit all?
Authors: Mitrev Nikola , Kariyawasam Viraj
Published: April 2024

A treat-to-target strategy in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) involves treatment intensification in order to achieve a pre-determined endpoint. Such uniform and tight disease control has been demonstrated to improve clinical outcomes compared to treatment driven by a clinician’s subjective assessment of symptoms. However, choice of treatment endpoints remains a challenge in management of IBD via a treat-to-target strategy. The treatment endpoints for ulcerative colitis (UC), recommended by the Selecting Therapeutic Targets in Inflammatory Bowel Disease (STRIDE) consensus have changed somewhat over time. The latest STRIDE-II consensus advises immediate (clinical response), intermediate (clinical remission and biochemical normalisation) and long-term treatment (endoscopic healing, absence of disability and normalisation of health-related quality of life, as well as normal growth in children) endpoints in UC. However, achieving deeper levels of remission, such as histologic normalisation or healing of the gut barrier function, may further improve outcomes among UC patients. Generally, all medical therapy should seek to improve short- and long-term mortality and morbidity. Hence treatment endpoints should be chosen based on their ability to predict for improvement in short- and long-term mortality and morbidity. Potential benefits of treatment intensification need to be weighed against the potential harms within an individual patient. In addition, changing therapy that has achieved partial response may lead to worse outcomes, with failure to recapture response on treatment reversion. Patients may also place different emphasis on certain potential benefits and harms of various treatments than clinicians, or may have strong opinions re certain therapies. Potential benefits and harms of therapies, incremental benefits of achieving deeper levels of remission, as well as uncertainties of the same, need to be discussed with individual patients, and a treatment endpoint agreed upon with the clinician. Future research should focus on quantifying the incremental benefits and risks of achieving deeper levels of remission, such that clinicians and patients can make an informed decision about appropriate treatment end-point on an individual basis.
The Knowledge, Skills, and Attitudes Requirements for Peacekeepers: A Case Study of the UN Observer Group Lebanon.
Authors:   , Wettstein Marc
Published: April 2024

Research in the UN peacekeeping context highlights the challenges of peacekeeping missions and indicates that participants need specific knowledge, skills, and attitudes (KSAs) to be effective. The extant research covers aspects of the interoperability between the actors in the field, as well as diversity among peacekeepers and how it affects the performance of daily activities by contingents from different countries. Furthermore, the importance of having military personnel capable of performing efficiently in a complex, diverse and cross-cultural working environment is apparent from studies conducted by armed forces on specific cross-cultural KSAs. Yet, no KSA-specific research has been conducted in the context of UN Military Observers (UNMOs). Thus, it is of great importance to develop a UNMO-specific KSA model to close this gap. In May 2017, over 95,000 uniformed peacekeepers from 128 countries were deployed across 16 missions; 1,569 of these individuals were UNMOs (UN, 2019a). UN Military Observers usually operate unarmed in remote areas with fragile security conditions (UN, 2019b); the difficulty of accessing this specific environment could be a reason for the lack of research. This thesis presents a case study performed in the context of the Observer Group Lebanon (OGL) while I was deployed as a UNMO. The data collection is based on 30 semi-structured interviews. A focus group with subject-matter experts is used to review the preliminary findings. The objective of this research is to develop a KSA model for UNMOs in the context of the OGL. The KSAs in the UNMO context can be defined as ‘knowledge, skills and attitudes that officers need to enable them to operate in partnership with all the actors in the mission and to contribute to the success of the mission’. The thesis presents a conceptual competency model for UNMOs with clear description of the model’s components, practical recommendations for UN pre-deployment training centres (TCs) and UNMOs, and with that contribute to the overall knowledge in the peace and security studies.
From Muller to Parity and Rabin Automata: Optimal Transformations Preserving (History) Determinism
Authors: Casares Antonio , Colcombet Thomas , Fijalkow Nathanaël , Lehtinen Karoliina
Published: April 2024

We study transformations of automata and games using Muller conditions into
equivalent ones using parity or Rabin conditions. We present two
transformations, one that turns a deterministic Muller automaton into an
equivalent deterministic parity automaton, and another that provides an
equivalent history-deterministic Rabin automaton. We show a strong optimality
result: the obtained automata are minimal amongst those that can be derived
from the original automaton by duplication of states. We introduce the notions
of locally bijective morphisms and history-deterministic mappings to formalise
the correctness and optimality of these transformations.
The proposed transformations are based on a novel structure, called the
alternating cycle decomposition, inspired by and extending Zielonka trees. In
addition to providing optimal transformations of automata, the alternating
cycle decomposition offers fundamental information on their structure. We use
this information to give crisp characterisations on the possibility of
relabelling automata with different acceptance conditions and to perform a
systematic study of a normal form for parity automata.
GRACE MARKS E TÂNTALO:
Authors: Dreher Heuser Ester Maria , Meneghatti Douglas
Published: April 2024

Este artigo ocupa-se da noção de ‘juízo de Deus’ desde a perspectiva da filosofia de Deleuze e Guattari, articulada com a noção nietzscheana de dívida infinita. A analisa sob a ótica de duas personagens, Grace Marks e Tântalo, ambas com suas vidas seladas pela marca do juízo que as impele a um destino forjado em meio à culpa e a castigos. Em Grace Marks se visualiza a restituição do equilíbrio de uma justiça que insiste em encontrar culpados para justificar e manter o status quo, já em Tântalo é possível encontrar a tragicidade causada pela hamartía humana frente aos deuses. Por meio destas personagens, mostra que o juízo se faz presente tanto na mitologia como na literatura, mas também dá a ver que ele se se movimenta nas diversas formas de organizações humanas. Nesse interim, que envolve estas personagens, o artigo circunscreve a força do juízo de Deus em seu contundente poder de afetar e reger os corpos.
RECADO DO MORRO
Authors: Almeida de Souza Lima Tulíola , Nogueira de Almeida Juliano
Published: April 2024

O ensaio estabelece um diálogo entre os conceitos filosóficos dos autores Gilles Deleuze e Félix Guattari e as imagens e personagens conceituais traçadas pelo escritor Guimarães Rosa. No lugar da busca insólita de uma chave interpretativa, produzimos diálogos filosóficos com a produção literária de Rosa. O ensaio será delineado tendo em vista a contaminação entre as composições poéticas dos campos-gerais na novela O recado do morro, de Rosa, e o rizomático arsenal de conceitos de Deleuze e Guattari. Para tanto, a paisagem, seja ela geodésica, humana, animal ou molecular, ocupa um lugar de destaque. Em O recado do morro o sertão e a palavra são ocupados por intensidades e devires loucos, apreensíveis para os seres que palpitam junto à terra.
PRESENÇA DE HEIDEGGER NOS ESTUDOS LITERÁRIOS PORTUGUESES
Authors: Silva Rui Guilherme
Published: April 2024

Este artigo reúne um conjunto de anotações de natureza ensaística e propedêutica sobre a presença do pensamento de Martin Heidegger nos estudos literários portugueses. O corpus principal compreende o comentário fundador de Delfim Santos, “Heidegger e Hölderlin” (1938), um capítulo do livro Introdução à hermenêutica (2002), de Rui Magalhães, e dois ensaios de Fernando Guimarães incluídos no livro Conhecimento e poesia (1992). Os comentários a estes textos procuram enfatizar os aspetos do pensamento de Heidegger que mais interessam aos estudos literários (teóricos e críticos), incluindo as perspetivas deste filósofo sobre a verdade da obra de arte ou a natureza da linguagem poética.
PSICÓLOGA OU PROFESSORA?
Authors: QUEIROZ FERRAZ ANA RITA , VASCONCELOS WILMA LUNA
Published: April 2024

Professora ou psicóloga? Diante da dualidade excludente da questão e dos paradoxos vividos em margens duras que distinguem, por força de lei, as funções de professora e de psicóloga, foi escolhido o conto “A terceira margem do rio”, de João Guimarães Rosa, como dispositivo para movimentar um conjunto de múltiplas e heterogêneas forças/linhas/intensidades para produzir problematizações, quando nos referimos a psicólogas/os que ensinam psicologia, ou outras disciplinas. No diálogo com Deleuze e Guattari, conclui-se que não há uma resposta única para a questão, porquanto uma professora-psicóloga, ou uma psicóloga-professora, é atravessada por uma multiplicidade de linhas e de conexões, estando o seu fazer, por conseguinte, no campo da invenção e dos processos grupais. Por tal modo de pensar, a conjunção alternativa “ou”, que regeria a atuação profissional, é substituída por agenciamentos e composições que incluem o acontecimento produzido no grupo, em grupo, na sala de aula.
An Investigative Study on Fault-Tolerant Design Principles for Future Internet
Authors: Mahesh G. Uma , Kalyan Ch Manikanta , Kumar Yogi Manas
Published: April 2024

Fault tolerance is crucial for ensuring uninterrupted service delivery in future internet architectures. This paper presents an investigative study on fault-tolerant design principles tailored to the evolving needs of future internet systems. Beginning with a comprehensive review of existing fault tolerance techniques in current internet architectures, the study identifies the limitations and challenges traditional approaches face in meeting the requirements of future internet environments. Fundamental concepts of fault tolerance are discussed, including fault types, detection mechanisms, and recovery strategies. Essential requirements and challenges for future internet architectures are identified, encompassing scalability, heterogeneity, dynamicity, security, and resource constraints. Building upon this foundation, the paper presents a set of comprehensive fault-tolerant design principles customized for future internet systems. These principles address architectural considerations, fault detection and isolation mechanisms, and recovery strategies. Case studies and real-world examples illustrate the application of these design principles in large-scale internet platforms and distributed systems. The paper outlines future research directions and opportunities for further innovation in fault-tolerant design for future internet architectures.
Detecting Credit Card Fraud through Data Mining
Authors: Bhaskar T. , Wagh Ketki , Wakchaure Vaishnavi , Mohadkar Vaishnavi , Jagtap Pranjal , Jawale Savari
Published: April 2024

The credit card industry grapples with a significant challenge in the form of credit card fraud, necessitating a comprehensive understanding of the various types of fraudulent activities and the evaluation of techniques deployed to detect such activities. Diverse strategies are employed by credit card firms and financial institutions, including banks, to prevent fraud, tailored to address the range of illicit behaviours encountered. The overarching goal of these efforts is to reduce instances of credit card fraud. However, persistent issues with current methodologies can lead to the erroneous classification of legitimate credit card users as fraudulent. Detecting credit card fraud through data mining entails analysing extensive datasets to identify patterns, anomalies, and trends indicative of fraudulent activities. Consequently, when employing data mining in credit card fraud detection systems, the outcome typically involves the recognition and flagging of transactions as potentially fraudulent or valid, contributing to enhanced fraud prevention measures.
Pemberdayaan Masyarakat Dalam Keikutsertaan Pasangan Usia Subur Menjadi Aseptor KB di Kelurahan Ladang Bambu Kecamatan Medan Tuntungan
Authors: Karsana Karsana , Tanjung Widia Astuti
Published: April 2024

The use of family planning (KB) methods by couples of childbearing age is an important step in regulating pregnancy and maintaining reproductive health. However, the successful use of family planning relies heavily on the knowledge of PUS about contraceptive methods as well as their participation in using contraceptives consistently. Lack of knowledge and proper participation can lead to unwanted pregnancies and even trigger abortions.To improve the understanding of PUS about family planning, a health education program was implemented in Kelurahan Ladang Bambu, Medan Tuntungan sub-district in 2023. This education provided information on various contraceptive methods and how to use them correctly, so that PUS can make the right decision in family planning.The results of the education activities showed an increase in PUS knowledge about contraceptives. Comparison of test results before and after the intervention showed a significant increase in knowledge by 0.37 (p<0.05). That is, there was a difference in the average pretest and posttest scores after the health education was conducted, indicating the effectiveness of the program in improving the understanding of PUS related to contraceptive methods. In conclusion, this health education program succeeded in increasing the knowledge of PUS about contraceptive methods. With better understanding, PUS can use family planning more effectively and consistently, reducing the risk of unwanted pregnancy and its implications such as abortion. This program contributes positively to family welfare and reproductive health in the community.
Pemberdayaan Masyarakat Dalam Pengalaman Ibu Bersalin Terhadap Asuhan Kebidanan di Kelurahan Ladang Bambu Kecamatan Medan Tuntungan
Authors: Sopiah Sopiah , Violent Violent
Published: April 2024

Indonesia is ranked 101 out of 149 countries that still have low quality health services, this can also be seen from the maternal and infant mortality rate which is still quite high, 50% of the contributor to maternal mortality is during labor. The importance of improving the health status of mothers and babies is that the government provides health workers as trained birth attendants in this case both midwives and doctors. So that if the helper is trained, it can provide quality service in accordance with health service standards and patient needs. Midwifery care service standards are a reference for midwives to carry out their duties, functions and roles in accordance with their competence and authority. This study aims to analyze the quality of midwifery care for pregnant women at the Medan Tuntungan Sub-district Health Center. This community service uses a qualitative approach with an in-depth interview method (Indepth Interview), primary data obtained from interview guidelines to 10 informants of postpartum mothers and triangulated to midwives and persons in charge using interview guidelines and observation sheets. The results of this community service show that the Puskesmas of Medan Tuntungan Subdistrict is very concerned about patient safety, this can be seen from the provision of care that is quite effective and timely, the services provided are patient-centeredness, and always fair to all patients, so it can be concluded that the Puskesmas of Medan Tuntungan Subdistrict has provided quality care in accordance with the dimensions of health service quality.