bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Do Hernias Contribute to Increased Severity of Aneurysmal Disease among Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Patients?
Authors: Hinterseher Irene , Miszczuk Milena , Corvinus Florian , Zimmermann Carolin , Estrelinha Mariana , Smelser Diane T. , Kuivaniemi Helena
Published: June 2021

Background Connective tissue disorders could contribute to the pathogenesis of both abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) and hernias. We tested the hypothesis that hernias in AAA patients contribute to increased severity of the aneurysmal disease.

Methods A questionnaire was used to collect information from 195 AAA patients divided into four groups: (1) survivors (n = 22) of ruptured AAA, (2) patients (n = 90) after elective open repair, (3) patients (n = 43) after elective endovascular repair (EVAR), and (4) patients (n = 40) under surveillance of AAA. The control group consisted of 100 patients without AAA whose abdominal computed tomography (CT) scans were examined for the presence of hernias. Mann–Whitney U-test, Chi-squared (χ 2) test, or Fisher's exact test (as appropriate) were used for statistical analyses. Multivariate logistic regression was used to control for potential confounding variables such as sex and age.

Results The prevalence of inguinal hernias was significantly higher in the AAA than the control group (25 vs. 9%, p = 0.001) and did not differ between the AAA subgroups (9, 24, 35, and 23% in subgroups 1 through 4, respectively, p = 0.15) based on univariate analysis. The prevalence of inguinal hernias did not differ (p = 0.15) between the two open surgery groups (groups 1 and 2), or when comparing all three operative procedures as a combined group to group 4 (p = 0.73). The prevalences of incisional hernias were 18 and 24% for groups 1 and 2, respectively, with no significant difference (p = 0.39). Inguinal hernia demonstrated a significant association with AAA on multivariate analysis (p = 0.006; odds ratio [OR] = 4.00; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.49–10.66).

Conclusions Our study confirms previous observations that patients with AAA have a high prevalence of hernias. Our results suggest that hernias do not contribute to increased severity of the aneurysmal disease.
Transdural Anastomotic Aneurysm in Association with Moyamoya Disease: A Rare and Troublesome Neurosurgical Entity
Authors: Zhao Yuhao , Yu Jinlu , Hou Kun , Xu Kan
Published: June 2021

Moyamoya disease (MMD) is an idiopathic progressive steno-occlusive disease in the internal carotid artery (ICA) bifurcation. In rare circumstances, transdural anastomotic aneurysm (TAA) could develop during the progression of MMD. We present an illustrative case of TAA in association with MMD. To further explore this rare entity, a comprehensive literature review was also conducted. Our illustrative patient experienced spontaneous remission of the aneurysm during follow-up. By literature review, 12 patients with 13 TAAs, including our case, were identified. The patients aged from 10 to 74 years (46.3 ± 17.4). Eleven (92%) of the patients presented with intracranial hemorrhage, and 1 TAA (8%) was incidentally found. The responsible transdural collaterals were from the middle meningeal artery, occipital artery, internal maxillary artery, and ophthalmic artery in 8 (66.7%), 2 (16.7%), 1 (8%), and 2 (17%) patients, respectively. The anastomosed cerebral arteries were middle cerebral artery, anterior cerebral artery, posterior cerebral artery, and ICA in 5 (42%), 3 (25%), 3 (25%), and 1 (8%) patient, respectively. Eight (67%) patients underwent open surgeries. Two (17%) patients underwent transarterial embolization (TAE) only. Two (17%) patients experienced spontaneous remission of the aneurysm. Seven (58%) patients died or had neurologic deficits. TAAs rarely occur in the progression of MMD, which often presents with intracranial bleeding. Invasive management through open surgery or endovascular treatment is warranted to prevent catastrophic rebleeding. As some individuals might experience spontaneous aneurysm remission, conservative treatment and close imaging follow-up could be considered as an alternative when invasive treatment is risky.
Pineal Apoplexy: A Case Series and Review of the Literature
Authors: Majovsky Martin , Netuka David , Lipina Radim , Mraček Jan , Beneš Vladimír
Published: June 2021

Background Pineal apoplexy is a rare condition, with unknown incidence and clinical significance. To elucidate this clinical condition, we analyzed our own case series and performed a review of the literature.

Methods We enrolled all patients with a hemorrhagic pineal apoplexy who were referred to our department between January 2000 and January 2020. Hemorrhagic pineal apoplexy was defined as the presence of fluid–fluid levels inside the pineal cyst (PC) on an axial or sagittal magnetic resonance scan. In one patient, after PC apoplexy, we performed a circadian melatonin sampling from peripheral blood to determine the function of the pineal gland. The PubMed database was searched for publications using the terms “pineal” and “apoplexy.”

Results Eight patients were enrolled, of which three patients underwent surgical treatment and five patients were managed conservatively. One patient was tested for circadian melatonin secretion. Results confirmed melatonin secretion with preserved physiologic circadian rhythm.

Our search of the literature led us to 31 studies that comprised 30 patients with apoplectic PC, 9 with apoplectic pineal tumor, and 1 with bleeding into the normal pineal gland. Most patients presented with headache, nausea, and vomiting, less frequently with acute hydrocephalus and gaze palsy. Twenty patients with a PC underwent resection or aspiration. Two patients underwent shunt placement as the only procedure and five received both shunt and surgical removal. Six patients with a PC were observed without surgical treatment. All the nine patients with a pineal tumor were operated on. In indicated cases, four patients received radiation therapy and one received chemotherapy.

Conclusion Clinical significance of hemorrhagic pineal apoplexy ranges from an asymptomatic course to rapid deterioration and death. In patients with mild symptoms, observation is indicated, whereas surgical treatment is reserved for severe cases presenting with obstructive hydrocephalus and includes cerebrospinal fluid diversion, resection of apoplectic pineal lesions, or both.
History Page: Leaders in MSK Radiology
Authors: Kainberger Franz , Hahn Daniela
Published: June 2021

Robert Kienböck (1871–1953) may be regarded as one of the first musculoskeletal radiologists who began his clinical and scientific work 2 years after the discovery of X-rays. He lent his name to Kienböck's disease, a traumatic malacia and osteonecrosis of the lunate, and to several other eponyms of diseases, devices, and parameters in radiology and radiation oncology. With his meticulous analysis of radiographic images of the highest quality, he anticipated many theories that were proposed in later decades.
Physical Examination and Ultrasound Evaluation of Patients with Superficial Venous Disease
Authors: Casadaban Leigh C. , Moriarty John M. , Hoffman Cheryl H.
Published: June 2021

Systematic and standardized evaluation of superficial venous disease, guided by knowledge of the various clinical presentations, venous anatomy, and pathophysiology of reflux, is essential for appropriate diagnosis and optimal treatment. Duplex ultrasonography is the standard for delineating venous anatomy, detecting anatomic variants, and identifying the origin of venous insufficiency. This article reviews tools and techniques essential for physical examination and ultrasound assessment of patients with superficial venous disease.
Comparing Simultaneous Electrocochleography and Auditory Brainstem Response Measurements Using Three Different Extratympanic Electrodes
Authors: Lefler Shannon M. , Kaf Wafaa A. , Ferraro John A.
Published: June 2021

Abstract Background Various extratympanic recording electrodes have been used to make electrocochleography (ECochG) and auditory brainstem response (ABR) measurements in clinics, translational research, and basic science laboratories. However, differences may
exist in ECochG and ABR measurements depending on the different types of extratympanic electrodes that are used. Purpose The purpose of this research is to compare simultaneously recorded ECochG and ABR responses using three different extratympanic electrodes. This research
helps clinicians and researchers to understand how electrode types and recording sites influence EcochG and ABR results. In addition, our findings could provide more normative data to the ECochG and ABR literature as well as give perspective on a preferred electrode approach when performing
simultaneous ECochG and ABR testing. Research Design Ours was a repeated-measures study with measurements being made from individual participants on two separate sessions. Study Sample Twenty young adult females with normal hearing. Procedure A
three-channel recording system was used to simultaneously record ECochG and ABR measurements in response to alternating polarity click stimuli. In each session, measurements were simultaneously recorded with a TipTrode electrode and one of the tympanic membrane (TM) electrodes. Data
Collection and Analysis Suprathreshold summating potential (SP) and action potential (AP) of the ECochG and waves I, III, and V of the ABR, and threshold responses (AP and wave V) were identified. Results Compared with the ear canal TipTrode electrode, TM electrodes
yielded suprathreshold amplitudes that were larger than those from the ear canal electrode, smaller SP‐AP ratios, lower AP thresholds, and less variability. These findings can help guide choices made by clinicians, translational investigators, and basic science researchers on which
type of extra-tympanic electrode to use for their intended purpose.
Performance of Cornell Assessment of Pediatric Delirium Scale in Mechanically Ventilated Children
Authors: Gupta Neha , Talathi Saurabh , Woolley Allison , Wilson Stephanie , Franklin Mildred , Robbins Johanna , Colston Candice , Hayes Leslie
Published: June 2021

Accuracy of delirium diagnosis in mechanically ventilated children is often limited by their varying developmental abilities. The purpose of this study was to examine the performance of the Cornell Assessment of Pediatric Delirium (CAPD) scale in these patients. This is a single-center, prospective, observational study of patients requiring sedation and mechanical ventilation for 2 days or more. CAPD scale was implemented in our unit for delirium screening. Each CAPD assessment was accompanied by a physician assessment using Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-V) criteria. Sensitivity analysis was performed to determine the best cut-off score in our target population. We also evaluated ways to improve the accuracy of this scale in patients with and without developmental delay. A total of 837 paired assessments were performed. Prevalence of delirium was 19%. Overall, CAPD score ≥ 9 had sensitivity of 81.8% and specificity of 44.8%. Among typically developed patients, the sensitivity and specificity were 76.7 and 65.4%, respectively, whereas specificity was only 16.5% for developmentally delayed patients. The best cut-off value for CAPD was 9 for typically developed children and 17 for those with developmental delay (sensitivity 74.4%, specificity 63.2%). Some CAPD questions do not apply to patients with sensory and neurocognitive deficits; upon excluding those questions, the best cut-off values were 5 for typically developed and 6 for developmentally delayed children. In mechanically ventilated patients with developmental delay, CAPD ≥ 9 led to a high false-positive rate. This emphasizes the need for either a different cut-off score or development of a delirium scale specific to this patient population.
Influence of Alignment Strategies and Consonant Acoustic Features on Laterality Index in Dichotic Testing in Indian Languages
Authors: Pazhayapisharath Indira Chenthamara , Sathyanarayana Sanjana Singh , Narne Vijaya Kumar
Published: June 2021

Abstract Background The right ear advantage (REA) observed for dichotic CV (DCV) testing in Indian languages is seen to be smaller compared with the observations in several studies in English and other languages. Purpose The present study aims
to explore whether the differences in the temporal alignment of consonant‐vowel (CV) stimuli used for the dichotic task is a contributing factor that can explain the smaller REAs observed in Indian languages. Research Design The study compared the laterality index (LI)
values between DCV test results obtained using CV stimuli that were temporally aligned at the acoustic onset versus the burst onset, with 0 milliseconds lag between the right and left ears. Study Sample A total of 50 right-handed individuals (native speakers of Kannada language)
in the age range of 17 to 30 years with normal hearing sensitivity participated in the study. Data Collection and Analysis The participants' responses to the two sets of DCV stimuli were recorded and compared. LI was calculated for the overall scores as well as for specific
voiced and unvoiced segment combinations. To test the reliability of the findings, 10 of the participants were re-tested using the same stimuli and the data were checked for reliability. Results The overall LI was 15.1% for the stimuli temporally aligned at the burst onset,
whereas it was 5.7% for the stimuli temporally aligned at the acoustic onset. The difference in LI was not significant between the alignment conditions for unvoiced‐unvoiced and voiced‐voiced CV combinations, but this difference was significant for the unvoiced‐voiced
and voiced‐unvoiced CV combinations. Comparing test and re-test scores showed good reliability. Conclusion The results support our hypothesis that smaller REA observed in DCV task in Indian languages was due to the temporal alignment of CV stimuli. In the acoustic-onset-aligned
condition, presenting pairs contrasting in the voicing feature tends to cancel out a relative ear advantage.
Imaging Modalities for Evaluation of Intestinal Obstruction
Authors: Nelms David W. , Kann Brian R.
Published: June 2021

It is essential for the colon and rectal surgeon to understand the evaluation and management of patients with both small and large bowel obstructions. Computed tomography is usually the most appropriate and accurate diagnostic imaging modality for most suspected bowel obstructions. Additional commonly used imaging modalities include plain radiographs and contrast imaging/fluoroscopy, while less commonly utilized imaging modalities include ultrasonography and magnetic resonance imaging. Regardless of the imaging modality used, interpretation of imaging should involve a systematic, methodological approach to ensure diagnostic accuracy.
Primary Dural Repair Using Titanium Microclips Following Lateral Skull Base Surgery
Authors: Milton Camille K. , Bien Alexander G. , Krempl Greg A. , Sanclement Jose A. , Mhawej Rachad , Glenn Chad A.
Published: June 2021

Objective Standard techniques for primary dural repair following lateral skull base surgery are both technically challenging and time consuming without the potential for primary dural repair. Inadequate closure may result in postoperative cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak infectious sequalae. Traditional methods of dural repair rely on secondary obliteration of the CSF fistula. We hypothesized that the use of nonpenetrating titanium microclips may serve as a useful adjunct in primary dural repair or the establishment of an immobile repair layer following lateral skull base surgery.

Methods Here, we report a novel technique for primary dural repair using nonpenetrating titanium microclips as an adjunct to standard techniques in a series of six patients with lateral skull base pathologies.

Results A total of six consecutive lateral skull base tumor patients with titanium microclip dural reconstruction were included in our case series. Lateral skull base pathologies represented in this group included two jugular foramen schwannomas, one vestibular schwannoma, one petroclival meningioma, one glomus jugulare paraganglioma, and one jugular foramen chordoid meningioma.

Conclusion To our knowledge, this is the first report on the use of microclips in repairing dural defects following lateral skull base surgery. Surgical outcomes for this small case series suggest that dural repair of the later skull base with nonpenetrating titanium microclips is a useful adjunct in dural repair following lateral skull base surgery.
Hematological Profile of HIV-Infected Patients on First-Line Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy and Its Correlation With CD4 Count
Authors: Princy John Jospeh Diamond , Singh Kshetrimayum Birendra , Biplab Ningthoujam , Reema Ningthoukhongjam , Boini Rajesh , Gowde Ajay
Published: June 2021

Introduction Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection is a state of profound immunodeficiency. Disorders of hematopoietic system are a common but often overlooked complication of HIV infection. This can manifest at any stage of the disease but more commonly in the advanced stage with low CD4 count. Anemia is the most common hematological abnormality in HIV patients and prevalence ranges from 1.3 to 95%. As HIV disease progresses, the prevalence and severity of anemia also increase. Hence, this study was undertaken to assess the hematological parameters of HIV-infected patients on highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) at different treatment durations with the hope to improve the HAART outcome in HIV patients and its correlation with CD4 count.

Methods This prospective longitudinal study enrolled 134 HIV-infected patients admitted to or attending the OPD in the Department of Medicine or Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) Center (Center of Excellence), Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS), Imphal, Manipur, from 2018 to 2020. Complete hemogram, CD4 count, and other related-blood investigations were studied.

Results The mean age of the study population was 39.9 ± 11.04 years. Of the 134 patients, 75 (56%) were males and 59 (44%) were females. Twelve (9%) patients had a history of injecting drug use (IDU). TLE (tenofovir, lamivudine, efavirenz) regimen was started on 112 (83.6%) patients and the majority of them (69/134 [51.5%]) had a CD4 count of 200 to 499 cells/mm3, which increased significantly 6 months after HAART to 99 to 1,149 cells/mm3, with a mean of 445 ± 217 cells/mm3. There were significant improvements in hemoglobin (Hb) levels, total leukocyte count (TLC), absolute neutrophil count (ANC), and absolute lymphocyte count (ALC) after HAART indicating a positive correlation with CD4 count (p < 0.05). Thrombocytopenia was observed higher after HAART when compared to baseline. There was a positive correlation between platelet count and CD4 count. However, the mean corpuscular volume (MCV) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) had a negative correlation with CD4 count.

Conclusion The study inferred a strong positive correlation between CD4 and Hb levels, TLC, ANC, ALC, and platelet count after HAART with improvement in these values as CD4 count increases. Specific treatment intervention based on the changes in the immunohematological profile trends can help prevent most of the adverse effects on HIV patients in our community.
Direct Clipping of Paraclinoid Aneurysm in Conjunction with Extradural Anterior Clinoidectomy: Technical Nuance and Functional Outcome
Authors: Tsunoda Sho , Inoue Tomohiro , Takeuchi Naoko , Akabane Atsuya , Saito Nobuhito
Published: June 2021

Objective Because of their anatomical features, treatment for paraclinoid aneurysms has remained to be challenging. Thus, the aim of this report is to prove the validity of our surgical method for unruptured paraclinoid aneurysms, together with surgical videos.

Study Design Between August 2017 and November 2019, we were able to perform surgical clipping for 11 patients with unruptured paraclinoid aneurysm using a completely unified method. This study investigated the effect of surgery on multiple measures, including visual impairment, brain contusion, temporalis muscle atrophy, and multiple neurocognitive functions.

Results Of the 67 unruptured aneurysms treated at our hospital, 17 were identified to be paraclinoid aneurysm, and 11 of them were treated by direct clipping using anterior clinoidectomy. Three were ophthalmic artery aneurysms, three were superior hypophyseal artery aneurysms, and five were anterior carotid wall aneurysms without branch projection. Only one patient had asymptomatic mild enlargement of the Marriott blind spots postoperatively. No brain contusion and temporalis muscle atrophy were observed in any cases. Only the Trail Making test (TMT) showed a significant worsening in the acute postoperative period: mean pre- and postoperative TMT scores were 59.1 ± 29.1 and 72.7 ± 37.3 for Part A (p = 0.018) and 80.5 ± 35.5 and 93.8 ± 39.9 for Part B (p = 0.030), respectively. However, it improved in the chronic phase.

Conclusion We can conclude that our surgical method is safe and can be considered an acceptable treatment. Although surgical stress can cause temporary executive dysfunction shortly after surgery, this decline is temporary.
Complications with the Zurich Canine Total Hip Replacement System in an Initial Series of Cases Performed by a Single Surgeon
Authors: Franklin Samuel P. , Miller Nathan A. , Riecks Todd
Published: June 2021

Objective The aim of this study was to quantify the complications using the Zurich total hip replacement system in an initial series of cases performed by a single surgeon who had experience with other total hip replacement systems.

Materials and Methods This was a retrospective study in which complications were classified as major if any treatment was needed or if the outcome was less than near-normal function. Complications that did not warrant treatment and that did not result in function that was inferior to near-normal were considered minor. Outcomes were assessed by radiographic review, physical examination, subjective gait evaluation or, in one case, by objective gait analysis. Bilateral total hip replacements were considered separate procedures.

Results The first 21 procedures in 19 dogs performed by a single surgeon were included. The mean time to follow-up was 48 weeks (range: 8–120 weeks; standard deviation: 36 weeks). Two cases (of 21) experienced major complications including one dog with excess internal femoral rotation during weight bearing and one dog having luxation. One case (of 21) had a minor complication; femoral fracture in the presence of an intact bone plate that maintained alignment and healed without treatment.

Clinical Significance A high rate of successful outcomes with few major complications can be obtained in the initial cases treated using the Zurich total hip replacement system for surgeons with prior experience with other total hip replacement systems.
Strain-tuning of the electronic, optical, and vibrational properties of two-dimensional crystals
Authors: Blundo E. , Cappelluti E. , Felici M. , Pettinari G. , Polimeni A.
Published: June 2021

The variegated family of two-dimensional (2D) crystals has developed rapidly since the isolation of its forerunner: Graphene. Their plane-confined nature is typically associated with exceptional and peculiar electronic, optical, magnetic, and mechanical properties, heightening the interest of fundamental science and showing promise for applications. Methods for tuning their properties on demand have been pursued, among which the application of mechanical stresses, allowed by the incredible mechanical robustness and flexibility of these atomically thin materials. Great experimental and theoretical efforts have been focused on the development of straining protocols and on the evaluation of their impact on the peculiar properties of 2D crystals, revealing a novel, alluring physics. The relevance held by strain for 2D materials is introduced in Sec. I. Sections II and III present the multiplicity of methods developed to induce strain, highlighting the peculiarities, effectiveness, and drawbacks of each technique. Strain has largely widened the 2D material phase space in a quasi-seamless manner, leading to new and rich scenarios, which are discussed in Secs. IV–VI of this work. The effects of strain on the electronic, optical, vibrational, and mechanical properties of 2D crystals are discussed, as well as the possibility to exploit strain gradients for single-photon emission, non-linear optics, or valley/spintronics. Quantitative surveys of the relevant parameters governing these phenomena are provided. This review seeks to provide a comprehensive state-of-the-art overview of the straining methods and strain-induced effects, and to shed light on possible future paths. The aims and developments, the tools and strategies, and the achievements and challenges of this research field are widely presented and discussed.
Spin–charge conversion and current vortex in spin–orbit coupled systems
Authors: Fujimoto Junji , Lange Florian , Ejima Satoshi , Shirakawa Tomonori , Fehske Holger , Yunoki Seiji , Maekawa Sadamichi
Published: June 2021

Using response theory, we calculate the charge current vortex generated by spin pumping at a point-like contact in a system with Rashba spin–orbit coupling (SOC). We discuss the spatial profile of the current density for finite temperature and for the zero-temperature limit. The main observation is that the Rashba spin precession leads to a charge current that oscillates as a function of distance from the spin pumping source, which is confirmed by numerical simulations. In our calculations, we consider a Rashba model on a square lattice, for which we first review the basic properties related to charge and spin transport. In particular, we define the charge current and spin current operators for the tight-binding Hamiltonian as the currents coupled linearly with the U(1) and SU(2) gauge potentials, respectively. By analogy to the continuum model, the SOC Hamiltonian on the lattice is then introduced as the generator of the spin current.
Titin–N2A: More than a signaling node?
Authors: van der Pijl Robbert J. , Ottenheijm Coen A.C.
Published: June 2021

Stronczek et al. investigate the structure of titin–N2A and how it affects the binding of signaling proteins.
Response of HD-V2 radiochromic film to argon ions*
Authors: Cheng Lei , Zhang Zhe , Liang Guiyun , Li Yutong
Published: June 2021

A two-dimensional dose detector for ion beam is required in many high energy density physics experiments. As a solid detector, the GAFChromic film offers a good spatial resolution and dosimetric accuracy. For an absolute dose measurement, the relative effectiveness, which represents the darkening efficiency of the film to a radiation source, needs to be taken into consideration. In this contribution, the dose-response of HD-V2 to argon ions is presented for the first time. The calibration was taken over the dose range of 65 Gy–660 Gy with 8-keV argon ions. The response of net optical density is from 0.01 to 0.05. Triple-color dose-response functions are derived. The relative effectiveness for the argon ion beams is about 5%, much lower than that of protons and carbon ions. To explain this effect, the inactivation probability based on track theory of ion bombardment is proposed. Furthermore, a theoretical prediction of the relative effectiveness for single ion is presented, showing the dependence of the darkening efficiency on the atomic number and the incident energy of ions.
Magnetic polaron-related optical properties in Ni(II)-doped CdS nanobelts: Implication for spin nanophotonic devices
Authors: Ge Fu-Jian , Peng Hui , Tian Ye , Fan Xiao-Yue , Zhang Shuai , Wu Xian-Xin , Liu Xin-Feng , Zou Bing-Suo
Published: June 2021

Emissions by magnetic polarons and spin-coupled d–d transitions in diluted magnetic semiconductors (DMSs) have become a popular research field due to their unusual optical behaviors. In this work, high-quality NiI2(II)-doped CdS nanobelts are synthesized via chemical vapor deposition (CVD), and then characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), x-ray diffraction, x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and Raman scattering. At low temperatures, the photoluminescence (PL) spectra of the Ni-doped nanobelts demonstrate three peaks near the band edge: the free exciton (FX) peak, the exciton magnetic polaron (EMP) peak out of ferromagnetically coupled spins coupled with FXs, and a small higher-energy peak from the interaction of antiferromagnetic coupled Ni pairs and FXs, called antiferromagnetic magnetic polarons (AMPs). With a higher Ni doping concentration, in addition to the d–d transitions of single Ni ions at 620 nm and 760 nm, two other PL peaks appear at 530 nm and 685 nm, attributed to another EMP emission and the d–d transitions of the antiferromagnetic coupled Ni2+–Ni2+ pair, respectively. Furthermore, single-mode lasing at the first EMP is excited by a femtosecond laser pulse, proving a coherent bosonic lasing of the EMP condensate out of complicated states. These results show that the coupled spins play an important role in forming magnetic polaron and implementing related optical responses.
Sand Sampling for Testing
Authors: Salman Ban Fadhil , Al-Rumaithi Ayad , Al-Jelawy Haider M. , Al-Sherrawi Mohannad
Published: June 2021

Fine aggregate (Sand) is a necessary material used in concrete construction purposes, it’s naturally available and it’s widely used around the world for different parts of construction in any building mainly for filling the voids between gravel. Sand gradation is important for different composite materials, and it gives good cohesion when compared with coarse sand that provides strength for the building. Therefore, sand is necessary to be tested before it is used and mixed with other building materials in construction and the specimen must be selected carefully to represent the real material in the field. The specimen weight must be larger than the required weight for test. When the weight of the sand sample increases the approximate precision desired increases. In this study, an approximated multilinear function for Fuller’s curve on the logarithmic scale was used to simulate the fine aggregate (sand) numerically. In order to get the effect of different samples, a stochastic analysis was done by employing 100 realizations of specimens, has been conducted to study the effect of sampling on sieve analysis and the root mean square error (RMSE) for the variation between desired and sampled curves. Then the results were compared with available specifications recommendations.
Seismic performance of Al-wand earth dam: numerical analysis
Authors: Th Al-hadidi M , Abbas I H
Published: June 2021

The seismic can be threatened the stability of the flexible body of the earth dam and can cause completely damaged or deformation on their embankment. Therefore, a geotechnical engineer needs to know the effect of earthquakes on earth structures. The change in the seismic zone that recently Iraq affected is the reason for this research, in general, in 2017, the whole of Iraq, and in particular the region, where the Al-Wand earth dam (the subject of the study) is located, was exposed to several earthquakes. This research project mainly aims to study the behavior of Al-Wand earth dam under seismic load in different conditions by simulating Al-Wand earth dam through numerical modeling and study the influence of water reservoir level, earthquake peak acceleration, and duration. This paper includes an analytical study of the effect of this earthquake on Al-wand earth dam, using the quake/w program, which is a sub-program of geo-studio, also the stability of the dam was studied under the influence of earthquakes of different intensity, and a review of the impact of different water levels on the stability of the body dam. Where the response of the Al-wand dam was analyzed to earthquakes at the normal and the maximum water level, and by using a quake that may have been exposed to Iraq in 2017 and used the time of 100 seconds and using an acceleration of 0.02g, 0.03g, 0.05g measured by units of ground acceleration to identify the behavior of displacements, effective stress and pore water pressure during the earthquake.
Investigation the effect of different types of mineral fillers on mechanical properties of Hot Mix Asphalt
Authors: Al-gurah Esraa R. , Al-Humeidawi Basim H.
Published: June 2021

The use of waste materials in the construction process has become more popular during the last decades since that it reduces the initial cost and reduces the cost of solid waste disposal. Rice Husk Ash (RHA) is a waste material available in a huge quantity of Iraq and used as mineral filler in this study. The current research focuses on the investigation of the effect of three types of mineral filler on mechanical properties of Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA). In addition to RHA, the limestone and Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) were used as mineral fillers (MF). The RHA was prepared by burning it in two stages, the first stage involves burning the RHA in a closed space and the second stage involves burning the RHA in an oven at 800 °C for two hours. Different percentages of these mineral fillers as (25%, 50%, 75% and 100%) RHA and OPC replacement with conventional mineral filler were used in produced HMA. The obtained mixes were tested to determine Marshall Stability, Marshall Flow, indirect tensile strength and tensile strength ratio. The results showed that the RHA can be used as mineral filler in HMA; however, the optimum ratio of mineral filler was 25 % RHA and 75 % limestone.
Selecting the best route location for bus rapid transit using geographic information system (gis): kut city is a case study
Authors: Balket Shaymaa F. , Asmael Noor M.
Published: June 2021

Traffic congestion is one of the major problems that most cities face in Iraq. Traffic congestion leads to increased delays, fatigue, vehicle operating costs, pollution. Congestion increases with every additional vehicle on the road. And the city of Kut is one of the Iraqi cities, which after 2003 witnessed a significant increase in the number of vehicles at the expense of public transport as a result of the improvement in the economic situation and the raising of the standard of living for individuals, which was accompanied by the possibility of buying a private car, which negatively affected the traffic in the city, especially at peak times .This study aims to propose a new means of public transport in the city of Kut, bus rapid transit, and the main purpose is to encourage citizens to leave the private car to alleviate traffic congestion by refining the level of service and performance for the public transport system in the city and the citizen’s comfort as a final outcome by delivering citizens to their place of residence or their place of work as soon as possible and at the lowest cost. In this study, geographic information system was adopted in processing and analyzing data and applying a program AHP to calculate criteria weights. The geospatial analysis approach was used to choose the route and within the basic design of the city of Kut by searching for sites that meet the choice criteria employing the advantages of GIS in the ability to overlay and merge maps and the network analysis.
Simulation of U-turn traffic based on VISSIM and PARAMICS micro simulation
Authors: Al-Kareawi Zainab A T , Al-Obaedi Jalal T S
Published: June 2021

Traffic simulation models are one of the most important tools that are widely used to analyse and manage transport systems. These tools are used to model complex traffic sites and evaluate various traffic alternatives and testing their effect prior to application in real sites. Median U- turn is an example of such complicated sites. There are many microsimulation tools such as VISSIM, ALIMSUN and PARAMICS. The goal of this study is to develop the simulation model of median U-turns and compares between VISSIM and PARAMICS models. The data were collect from two-selected site at Al-Diwaniyah city, Iraq. The data used in verification of the developed model represent the through traffic volumes and turning traffic volumes at both directions as well as the average queue length created at the U-turn site. The calibration and validation process of the developed models show that both VISSIM and PARAMICS models can provides reasonable approximation for real traffic at the selected site. Further research is needed to examine these tools based on additional sites and to apply such tools to examine different scenarios to enhance traffic conditions at U-turn sites.
Surface soil enhancement for MSW lining by silica fume
Authors: Hussain Entessar K. , Al-Ameen Jathwa , janna Hussein
Published: June 2021

The improvement of engineering properties for surface soils is of significance through the resources shortage. Therefore, the present study focused on determined the silica fume influence as industrial waste products on engineering characteristics of surface available soil as a soft soil with poor engineering properties to enhance the hydraulic properties to be used for landfill lining layer and prevent migration leachate for surrounding environment. Silica fume was added to the soil to enhance the permeability with 5%, 10% weight ratio. Then, Atterberg limits and permeability tests were conducted. The results indicated that silica fume increase the flow and plasticity characteristics of the stabilized soils. Addition of 5% and 10% silica fume to surface soil reduce the permeability up to 46% and 57% respectively.. It was concluded that silica fume filled pore space between soil particles and a dense matrix were formed. This textural event caused an improvement in permeability characteristics which represent the major concern in design MSW lining layer.
Modelling hybrid reactive powder concrete T-beams
Authors: Marzoq Zahraa Hadi , Borhan Tumadhir Merawi
Published: June 2021

The purpose of current study is to evolve a nonlinear finite element model to simulate the influence of the type of concrete on reactive powder concrete (RPC) T-beams. Four simply supported T-beams were modelled and the difference is in the type of concrete (full normal strength concrete (NSC), full RPC, RPC in the web only, RPC in flange only). Commercial ABAQUS software package with the damaged plasticity model (CDP) is proposed for modelling the reinforced concrete (RC) structural members. The compressive stress-strain relationship and uniaxial tensile in addition to the damage parameter of the material were proposed to be effectively utilized in ABAQUS. From the analysis of the finite element model for each beam, the predicted ultimate load capacity against the deformation response was gained and validated with the results of the experimental work.
Behavior of corrugated steel compact I-section beams
Authors: Hasan Zinah K. , Hemzah Sadjad A. , Al-kannoon Muslim Abdul- Ameer Khudhair
Published: June 2021

The present study deals with the experimental behavior of steel beams with a corrugated section, which is approximately equivalent to a compact I-shape plate girder section. Each part of the compact section (flanges and web) was transformed to its equivalent corrugated shape, depending on the available steel plate in the local market, by two plates separated by internal steel stiffeners of a zek zak shape. Six specimens were fabricated and tested in which one of them was considered as a control beam with no corrugation while the other five ones were with various schemes of corrugation for the flanges and the web . The experimental results showed that an increment of nearly 22% in the ultimate load was obtained when the section’s height increased by 25% due to the corrugation process. Furthermore, the mid-span deflection reduced by 57% as the section’s height increased by 29%. Besides, the modes of failure changed from flexural to shear in all the tested corrugated specimens.
Load-slip relationship of multi-type shear connectors based on push-out test
Authors: Tahir Ali. K. , Shallal Muhaned A.
Published: June 2021

The push-out test used in this study to present the performance of continuous perfobond connectors. A total of seven specimens that are composed of lightweight concrete-filled steel tubes with two reinforced blocks were tested. The main investigated parameters were the concrete compressive strength of the blocks, specification of perfobond shear connector, and the type of shear connector. Specimens were inspected under a concentrated load applied on the steel tube filled with lightweight concrete while the slip is measured by two LVDTs. The results show that the ultimate shear strength and stiffness are increasing with increment concrete compressive strength. The T-type and mixed-type show increase in the ultimate shear strength compared with perfobond type, while a maximum slip of specimens decreasing with increasing the compressive strength of the concrete.
Experimental study of steel-concrete bridge girder subjected to environmental condition
Authors: Awaad Maryam. S. , Shallal Muhaned A.
Published: June 2021

This paper presents the experimental result for four-season for steel-concrete composite bridge girder in Iraq. The model was put in an open environmental condition to be subjected to variation in thermal loads, these loads are solar radiation, ambient air temperature, and wind speed. The model was equipped with seven thermocouples in concrete and seven thermocouples in steel and one between steel and concrete to measure temperature. This article aims to provide an experimental measurement to understand the behavior of temperature distribution in Iraq. The practical study is the first in Iraq to be conducted on this type of bridge. The result showed the solar intensity, ambient air temperature and wind speed are higher effects for a sunny day, and the temperature distribution inside the girder, for the same thermocouple the temperature shows different behavior concerning the season.
Statistical evaluation of vertical and lateral temperature gradients in concrete box-girders
Authors: Abid Sallal R , Al-Bugharbee Hussein , Mhalhal Jasim M. , Al-Gasham Thaar S. , Tayşi Nildem , Özakça Mustafa
Published: June 2021

Atmospheric thermal loads are considered as one of the effective loads on bridge structures. The thermal actions in bridge superstructures are considered in most of the recent bridge design specifications. In this study, a concrete girder segment was cast in place in an open field to simulate the actual atmospheric exposure case of bridge girders. Inside and close the surfaces of the webs and flanges of the girder 62 thermocouples were distributed to measure the concrete temperatures in different sectional locations. In addition, the experimental field was provided with a compact weather station that records the three main influential atmospheric loads, which are the solar radiation and the temperature and speed of the field’s air. The experimental data from all sensors were recorded for a one-year that considers the variation of loads in the four seasons. The effective maximum temperature gradients, both vertically (along the depth of webs) and horizontally (along the width of flanges), were statistically correlated to the atmospheric loads and their derivatives. Nonlinear correlations were introduced to estimate the maximum gradients with determination coefficients of 0.92 to 0.96. The maximum errors between the experimental and predicted temperatures for the whole investigated period were in general less than 3.0 °C. The obtained correlations for the lateral gradients were more complicated than for the vertical gradient due to the effect of other parameters like the day index, which is related to the striking angle of solar radiations.
Application of machine-learning models to improve the image quality of photon-counting CT images
Authors: Toyoda T. , Sato S. , Kiji H. , Kataoka J. , Kotoku J. , Taki M.
Published: June 2021

X-ray computed tomography (CT) has been widely used in medical diagnostic imaging. However, conventional, energy-integrated CT requires a high radiation dose and can only provide monochromatic images that cannot eliminate various artifacts. In contrast, photon-counting CT (PC-CT) provides low-dose multicolor CT imaging, which enables the identification of multiple contrast agents. However, in the PC-CT system, the lack of photon statistics, which is also caused by image reconstruction in the limited energy band, severely affects the image quality. In this study, we applied three types of machine-learning (ML) techniques to improved the image quality of PC-CT, that is, dictionary learning, U-Net, and Noise2Noise. These ML models were trained using low- and high-dose image pairs created in simple steps. The trained ML models were applied to simulated data, and experimental PC-CT images of contrast agents used in clinical practice. Consequently, in the simulated data, the peak signal-to-noise ratio (PSNR) value improved from 21.3 for the input to 26.6, 33.3, and 30.1 for dictionary learning, U-Net, and Noise2Noise, respectively. Furthermore, in the actual PC-CT images, we successfully reproduced PC-CT images with high PSNR, which enabled simultaneous imaging of multiple contrast agents with improved accuracy of concentration estimation. As a future perspective, we will develop a processing technique that can be applied to in vivo CT images.
An Overview of Musa paradisiacal Flour-meal Nutritional Prospect for Immune System Improvement against Covid-19 Complications in Diabetes Patients
Authors: Akinola Akinyemi A. , Okeniyi Joshua O.
Published: June 2021

Patients with diabetes coexisting with COVID-19 show a high mortality risk and severe complications for the reason that the COVID-19 disease and the diabetes mellitus health condition combine to induce a lower immune system and consequent organ failure fatalities. While a cure has not yet been found for COVID-19, studies have shown that diets that low glycemic index, fiber-rich diet exhibit beneficial effects on improving health conditions in diabetes patients. In this paper, therefore, the nutritional prospects of Musa paradisiacal (M. paradisiacal: plantain) flour-meal for immune system improvement that could be against COVID-19 complications in diabetes patients have been studied. For this, the study elucidates how the essential nutrients in M. paradisiacal could help boost the immune system in diabetes patients that may be living with and without the COVID-19 virus infection. The detailed prospects of nutritional benefits that could be accrued from Musa paradisiacal, therefore, and the attendant health condition improvements, that could essentially reduce risks of COVID-19 complications support the use of the flour-meal for patients living with diabetes.
Measurements of the optical and thermal properties of the 2D black phosphorus coating
Authors: Listewnik Paulina , Szczerska Małgorzata , Jakóbczyk Paweł
Published: June 2021

Black phosphorus is a 2D material, which properties are still being discovered. In this paper, the sensitivity to the temperature of a few-layer black phosphorus coating deposited, on the surface of a microsphere-based fiber-optic sensor, by a dip-coating method is presented. The coating was investigated after 2, 3, and 5 deposition cycles and during temperature growth from 50 °C to 300 °C in an interferometric setup. The intensity of the reflected signal increases with each applied layer. During the investigation of the thermal properties, in the range of 50 °C–200 °C, the polynomial growth rate of the reflected signal can be observed, whereas, for the temperatures over 200 °C, the measured peak intensity of the reflected signal stabilizes at a nearly constant level.
Optical properties of Dy:YCa4O(BO3)3 crystal grown by the Czochralski technique
Authors: Shi Zhangli , Song Qingsong , Liu Jian , Tang Huili , Wang Qingguo , Xue Yanyan , Xu Xiaodong , Xu Jun
Published: June 2021

Dy3+-doped YCa4O(BO3)3 (Dy:YCOB) crystal was successfully grown by the Czochralski technique. The absorption cross section at 453 nm was 0.28 × 10–21 cm2, that is related to the 6H15/2 → 4I15/2 transition. The Judd-Ofelt parameters Ωt (t = 2, 4, 6) were 1.62 × 10–20, 0.10 × 10–20, 0.41 × 10–20 cm2, respectively. The emission cross section assigned to the transition 4F9/2 → 6H13/2 was 1.02 × 10–21 cm2. The 4F9/2 energy level’s fluorescence lifetime was 900 μs.