bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Outer Retinal and Choroidal Changes in Adolescents with Long-Lasting Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Pilotto Elisabetta , Cosmo Eleonora , Torresin Tommaso , Coppola Marco , Gutierrez De Rubalcava Doblas Joaquin , Midena Giulia , Moretti Carlo , Midena Edoardo
Published: December 2023

This study aimed to assess outer retinal layer (ORL), retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), choroid (Ch) and choriocapillaris (CC) modifications in adolescents with long-lasting (>10 years) type 1 diabetes (T1D) without (noDR) or with diabetic retinopathy (DR). ORL and RPE thickness were measured at optical coherence tomography (OCT) macular scans. Vascular parameters of Ch and CC were quantified after elaboration of macular OCT-angiography (OCTA) images. Insulin dose and auxological and metabolic parameters were correlated with OCT and OCTA findings in patients. ORL thickness was higher in DR eyes than in noDR and healthy controls (HC), and RPE thickness was higher in noDR and DR eyes than in HC, with statistical significance for some sectors in noDR versus HC. No OCTA parameters of CC and Ch differed among groups, and no significant correlation was observed with auxological and metabolic parameters. In conclusion, ORL and RPE were both increased in adolescents with long-lasting T1D. Such changes were not associated with insulin dose and glycemia control, nor to any choroid or choriocapillaris flow change clinically detectable at OCTA, and they could be potential imaging biomarkers of disease progression.
Impact of Recurrent Mitral Regurgitation on Left Ventricular Mass Regression and Cardiac Events following Mitral Valve Repair
Authors: Chiang Chih-Yao , Huang Jih-Hsin , Chiu Kuan-Ming , Chen Jer-Shen
Published: December 2023

Background: Mitral valve regurgitation results in volume overload, followed by left ventricular remodeling. Variation of reverse remodeling following mitral repair influences the clinical outcomes. We aimed to evaluate the association between recurrent mitral regurgitation and mass regression following mitral valve repair and the impact on major adverse cardiovascular events. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted on 164 consecutive patients with severe mitral regurgitation who underwent elective mitral valve repair. Subgroups were classified based on the presence of recurrent mitral regurgitation exceeding moderate severity. The hemodynamic parameters were evaluated according to geometry, mass, and function with Doppler echocardiography before and after surgery. Cox regression analysis was performed to evaluate the association between hemodynamics and mass regression and clinical outcomes. Results: The results for MR indicated 110 cases with non-recurrent MR and 54 with recurrent MR, along with 31 major adverse cardiovascular events. The tracked echocardiographic results revealed less reduction in dimension and volume, along with less mass regression in the recurrent MR subgroup. Significant differences were revealed in the relative change of the LV end-diastolic volume index and relative mass regression between subgroups. The relative change in the LVEDVI was proportionally correlated with relative mass regression. Cox regression analysis identified correlations with major adverse cardiovascular events, including suture annuloplasty, recurrent mitral regurgitation, tracked LV mass, relative LV mass regression, and systolic dysfunction. Conclusion: LV mass regression and relative change of the LV end-diastolic volume could be risk predictors of recurrent mitral regurgitation. The extent of LV mass regression is correlated with adverse cardiac events.
Feasibility and Safety of Early Post-COVID-19 High-Intensity Gait Training: A Pilot Study
Authors: Halvorsen Joakim , Henderson Christopher , Romney Wendy , Hågå Magnus , Barkenæs Eggen Tonje , Nordvik Jan Egil , Rosseland Ingvild , Moore Jennifer
Published: December 2023

Background: The feasibility and safety of rehabilitation interventions for individuals recovering from COVID-19 after the acute stage is not well understood. This pilot study aims to provide a preliminary investigation of the feasibility and safety of providing high-intensity gait training (HIT) with a targeted cardiovascular intensity of 70–85% of the age-predicted maximum heart rate (HRmax) for individuals undergoing rehabilitation post-COVID-19. Methods: Consecutive patients who were medically cleared for HIT were invited to participate in the study. Participants practiced walking in varied contexts (treadmill, overground, and stairs), aiming to spend as much time as possible within their target cardiovascular intensity zone during scheduled physical therapy (PT) sessions. Training characteristics and adverse events were collected to determine the feasibility and safety of HIT. The severity of adverse events was graded on a 1–5 scale according to the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events. Results: The participants (n = 20) took a mean of 2093 (±619) steps per PT session. The average peak heart rate during PT sessions was 81.1% (±9.4) of HRmax, and 30.1% (±21.0) of the session time was spent at heart rates ≥ 70% HRmax. Mild adverse events (grade 1) occurred in <5% of the sessions, and no intervention-requiring or life-threatening adverse events (grade 2–5) occurred. Conclusion: This pilot study provides preliminary evidence that HIT may be feasible and safe during inpatient rehabilitation for patients post-COVID-19 following medical clearance.
Sociodemographic and Clinical Determinants on Health-Related Quality of Life in Emerging Andalusian Adults with Type 1 Diabetes: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Núñez-Baila María-Ángeles , Gómez-Aragón Anjhara , González-López José Rafael
Published: December 2023

(1) Background: Having type 1 diabetes during emerging adulthood can impact quality of life due to the challenge of balancing optimal glycemic blood levels with a period of transition and exploration. The purpose of this study was to characterize the quality of life of emerging adults aged 18 to 29 years with type 1 diabetes and to determine the associations between dimensions of Health-Related Quality of Life in type 1 diabetes and sociodemographic and diabetes-related variables. (2) Methods: This cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted in Andalusia, Spain, from October 2021 to July 2022. A total of 362 emerging adults with type 1 diabetes (67.4% women, mean age 22.8 ± 3.4 years) participated. Data were gathered via sociodemographic information form and the ViDa1 scale. Statistical evaluations, encompassing descriptive analyses, t-tests, ANOVA, Pearson correlations, and logistic regression, were conducted using SPSSv26, adhering to STROBE guidelines. (3) Results: Among the participants, 52.1% have a glycosylated hemoglobin level over 7%. Interference with Life is correlated with sex, age, and age at diagnosis, with age being the only predictor. Self-Care is correlated with and predicted by glycosylated hemoglobin levels. Well-being is correlated with and predicted by sex, Body Mass Index, and glycosylated hemoglobin levels. Concern about the Condition is correlated with and predicted by sex and glycosylated hemoglobin levels. (4) Conclusions: Despite concerns about their disease, participants generally maintain optimal levels of Health-Related Quality of Life in type 1 diabetes. Predictive factors for Health-Related Quality of Life in type 1 diabetes in this group include sex, age, Body Mass Index, and glycosylated hemoglobin.
Diabetes Status, c-Reactive Protein, and Insulin Resistance in Community-Acquired Pneumonia—A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Dungu Arnold Matovu , Ryrsø Camilla Koch , Hegelund Maria Hein , Jensen Andreas Vestergaard , Kristensen Peter Lommer , Krogh-Madsen Rikke , Ritz Christian , Faurholt-Jepsen Daniel , Lindegaard Birgitte
Published: December 2023

C-reactive protein (CRP) is commonly used to guide community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) treatment. A positive association between admission glucose and CRP levels has been observed in patients with CAP. The associations between prediabetes, unknown diabetes, acute-on-chronic hyperglycaemia, and CRP levels, and between admission CRP levels and insulin resistance (IR) in CAP, remain unexplored. This study investigated the associations firstly between chronic, acute, and acute-on-chronic hyperglycaemia and CRP levels, and secondly between admission CRP levels and IR in CAP. In a prospective cohort study of adults with CAP, the associations between chronic, acute, and acute-on-chronic hyperglycaemia (admission glucose minus HbA1c-derived average glucose) and CRP levels until admission day 3 were modelled with repeated-measures linear mixed models. IR was estimated with the homeostasis model assessment of IR (HOMA-IR). The association between admission CRP levels and HOMA-IR was modelled with linear regression. In 540 patients, no association between chronic, acute, or acute-on-chronic hyperglycaemia and CRP levels was found. In 266 patients, every 50 mg/L increase in admission CRP was associated with a 7% (95% CI 1–14%) higher HOMA-IR. In conclusion, our findings imply that hyperglycaemia does not influence CRP levels in patients with CAP, although admission CRP levels were positively associated with IR.
The Hidden Pandemic: Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Trauma Cases Due to Domestic Violence Admitted to the Biggest Level-One Trauma Center in Austria
Authors: Babeluk Rita , Maier Bernhard , Bach Timothée , Hajdu Stefan , Jaindl Manuela , Antoni Anna
Published: December 2023

Background: An alarming increase in domestic violence was reported during the COVID-19 pandemic worldwide. The aim of this study is to investigate changes in the frequency and the nature of domestic violence at the largest level-one trauma center in Austria. Methods: All patients admitted to our institution with domestic violence injuries 15 months before and after the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic were included. For our analysis, we investigated the frequency of trauma patients after domestic violence in relation to all other trauma patients. Furthermore, age, sex, citizenship, injury pattern, injured body regions, injury mechanism, offender–victim relationship, and hospitalization rate were also analyzed. Results: Among all trauma patients admitted, the ratio of patients who reported domestic violence injuries increased from 0.465% to 0.548% since the start of the pandemic. In addition, out of the total count of domestic violence victims, the percentage of Austrian citizens increased significantly from 51.2% to 60.6% (p = 0.016). All other parameters showed no significant changes pre and post-pandemic. Conclusion: The COVID-19 pandemic contributed to a relative increase in patients with domestic violence injuries at the largest trauma unit in Austria, along with a significant increase among Austrian citizens. The remaining study parameters did not differ significantly, indicating that the frequency changed during the pandemic but not the underlying pattern of domestic violence.
Exploring the Relationship between Epicardial Fat Thickness and Coronary Revascularization: Implications for Cardiovascular Health
Authors: Romano Antonino Davide , La Marca Antonella , Villani Rosanna , Sangineto Moris , Manuppelli Vincenzo , Brunetti Natale Daniele , Vendemiale Gianluigi , Serviddio Gaetano
Published: December 2023

Background: this study aimed to assess the complex relationship between EAT thickness, as measured with echocardiography, and the severity of coronary artery disease (CAD). We investigated whether individuals with higher EAT thickness underwent coronary revascularization. Subsequently, we conducted a three-year follow-up to explore any potential modifications in EAT depots post-angioplasty. Methods: we conducted a prospective and retrospective cross-sectional observational study involving 150 patients consecutively referred for acute coronary syndrome, including ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), non-ST elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI), and unstable angina. Upon admission (T0), all patients underwent coronary angiography to assess the number of pathologic coronary vessels. Percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA) was performed based on angiogram results if indicated. The sample was categorized into two groups: non-revascularized (no-PTCA) and revascularized (PTCA). Transthoracic echocardiograms to measure epicardial fat thickness were conducted at admission (T0) and after a 3-year follow-up (T1). Results and conclusions: findings revealed a positive correlation between EAT thickness and the severity of coronary artery disease (CAD), with patients undergoing PTCA showing decreased EAT thickness after three years. Echocardiography demonstrated reliability in assessing EAT, offering potential for risk stratification. The study introduces a cut-off value of 0.65 cm as a diagnostic tool for cardiovascular risk. Incorporating EAT measurements into clinical practice may lead to more precise risk stratification and tailored treatment strategies, ultimately reducing the burden of cardiovascular disease.
Investigations of the Mass Transfer and Flow Field Disturbance Regulation of the Gas–Liquid–Solid Flow of Hydropower Stations
Authors: Yan Qing , Fan Xinghua , Li Lin , Zheng Gaoan
Published: December 2023

With the continuous depletion of fossil fuels, all countries attach importance to clean and sustainable development. The real-time state monitoring of multiphase flows is vital for enhancing hydropower station energy conversion. However, the material mass transfer mechanism and flow field disturbance regulation strategy faces significant challenges. To solve these problems, a computational fluid mechanics and discrete element method (CFD-DEM) coupling modeling and solution method based on a particle porosity model was proposed, and the mass transfer mechanism of gas–liquid–solid mixing flows was obtained under dynamic whirl intensity regulations. Combined with the user-defined function (UDF), the interphase forces and void ratios of fluids and particles were calculated to obtain the material mass transfer laws under dynamic disturbance regulations. The evolution characteristics of the particle flow pattern were tracked during the material mixing process. The results show that the mixed flow field had a high material transport efficiency under intensive whirl regulation, especially for the particle aggregation in the center of the reaction vessel. The maximum peak velocity and energy values of the particle transport process were 3.30 m/s and 0.27 × 10−3 m2·s−2. The higher whirl regulation improved the material transport process and conveying efficiency and enhanced the particle mixing effect in the reaction space. Relevant research results can provide theoretical references for material mass transfer mechanisms, dynamic regulation strategies, and particle flow pattern identifications and can also provide technical support for hydropower energy conversion.
The Changes, Aggregation Processes, and Driving Factors for Soil Fungal Communities during Tropical Forest Restoration
Authors: Guo Xiaofei , Wang Shaojun , Wang Chen , Lan Mengjie , Yang Shengqiu , Luo Shuang , Li Rui , Xia Jiahui , Xiao Bo , Xie Lingling , Wang Zhengjun , Guo Zhipeng
Published: December 2023

Soil fungal communities play crucial roles in mediating the functional associations between above- and belowground components during forest restoration. Forest restoration shapes the alterations in plant and soil environments, which exerts a crucial effect on soil fungal assemblages. However, the changes, assembly processes, and driving factors of soil fungi communities during tropical forest restoration are still uncertain. We used Illumina high-throughput sequencing to identify the changes of soil fungal communities across a tropical secondary forest succession chronosequence (i.e., 12-, 42-, and 53-yr stages) in Xishuangbanna. During forest restoration, the dominant taxa of soil fungi communities shifted from r- to K-strategists. The relative abundance of Ascomycota (r-strategists) decreased by 10.0% and that of Basidiomycota (K-strategists) increased by 4.9% at the 53-yr restoration stage compared with the 12-yr stage. From the 12-yr to 53-yr stage, the operational taxonomic unit (OTU), abundance-based coverage estimator (ACE), Chao1, and Shannon index of fungal communities declined by 14.5–57.4%. Although the stochastic processes were relatively important in determining fungal assemblages at the late stage, the fungal community assembly was dominated by deterministic processes rather than stochastic processes. The shifts in soil properties resulting from tropical forest restoration exerted significant effects on fungal composition and diversity. The positive effects of microbial biomass carbon, readily oxidizable carbon, and soil water content explained 11.5%, 9.6%, and 9.1% of the variations in fungal community composition, respectively. In contrast, microbial biomass carbon (40.0%), readily oxidizable carbon (14.0%), and total nitrogen (13.6%) negatively contributed to the variations in fungal community diversity. Our data suggested that the changes in fungal composition and diversity during tropical forest restoration were primarily mediated by the positive or negative impacts of soil carbon and nitrogen pools.
Examining Miliary Disease Etiology in a Coccidioides-Endemic Center: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Scott Ashley M. , Lim James Ray , Randhawa Reubender , Lee Jason , Yaddanapudi Kavitha , Rabe Brooke , Malo Joshua
Published: December 2023

Background: A miliary pattern on chest imaging is often attributed to tuberculosis (TB) infection. However, a myriad of conditions can cause a miliary pattern, many of which are imminently life-threatening. Research Question: The primary aim of our study is to elucidate the potential causes of miliary chest imaging patterns to improve workup and empiric therapy selection. The secondary aims are to discern the predictors of miliary disease etiology and to determine whether appropriate empiric antimicrobial therapies were given. Study Design and Methods: In this retrospective cohort study, we searched a radiology database for patients with chest imaging studies described by the word “miliary”. Subjects were excluded if they were under 18 years of age and if there were insufficient objective data to support a miliary disease etiology. A radiologist independently reviewed all imaging studies, and studies that did not appear to have a true miliary pattern were excluded. The collected data include patient demographics, immunocompromising risk factors, conditions associated with miliary disease, β-D-glucan levels, serum eosinophil count, and empiric therapies received. Results: From our 41-patient cohort, 22 patients (53.7%) were clinically diagnosed with coccidioidomycosis, 8 (19.5%) with TB, 7 (17.1%) with metastatic solid cancer, 1 (2.4%) with lymphoma, 1 (2.4%) with other (Mycobacterium simiae), and 3 (7.3%) with unknown diseases (the sum equals 42 patients because one individual was diagnosed with both coccidioidomycosis and TB). All six patients with greater than 500 eosinophils/μL were diagnosed with coccidioidomycosis. Of the 22 patients diagnosed with coccidioidomycosis, 20 (90.91%) were empirically treated with an antifungal regimen. Of the eight patients with TB, six were empirically treated for TB. Interpretation: Based on our data from a Coccidioides-endemic region with close proximity to tuberculosis-endemic areas, the leading cause of miliary disease is coccidioidomycosis, although TB and cancer are also common etiologies. Serum eosinophilia and elevated β-D-glucan levels were strongly predictive of coccidioidomycosis in our patient cohort with a miliary chest imaging pattern.
Sixteen Novel Mycoviruses Containing Positive Single-Stranded RNA, Double-Stranded RNA, and Negative Single-Stranded RNA Genomes Co-Infect a Single Strain of Rhizoctonia zeae
Authors: Li Siwei , Ma Zhihao , Zhang Xinyi , Cai Yibo , Han Chenggui , Wu Xuehong
Published: December 2023

In the present study, sixteen novel RNA mycoviruses co-infecting a single strain of Rhizoctonia zeae (strain D40) were identified and molecularly characterized using metatranscriptome sequencing combined with a method for rapid amplification of cDNA ends. The fungal strain was isolated from diseased seedlings of sugar beet with damping-off symptoms. Based on genome analysis and phylogenetic analysis of amino acid sequences of RNA-dependent RNA polymerase, the sixteen mycoviruses associated with strain D40 contained three genome types with nine distinct lineages, including positive single-stranded RNA (Hypoviridae, Yadokariviridae, Botourmiaviridae, and Gammaflexiviridae), double-stranded RNA (Phlegiviridae, Megabirnaviridae, Megatotiviridae, and Yadonushiviridae), and negative single-stranded RNA (Tulasviridae), suggesting a complex composition of a mycoviral community in this single strain of R. zeae (strain D40). Full genome sequences of six novel mycoviruses and the nearly full-length sequences of the remaining ten novel mycoviruses were obtained. Furthermore, seven of these sixteen mycoviruses were confirmed to assemble virus particles present in the R. zeae strain D40. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first detailed study of mycoviruses infecting R. zeae.
Clinical and Functional Characteristics of Interstitial Lung Disease in Algeria: A Single-Center Prospective Study
Authors: Ketfi Abdelbassat , Selatni Fayçal , Djouadi Cherifa , Touahri Rama
Published: December 2023

Introduction: There are a limited number of epidemiological studies describing the global burden of chronic diffuse interstitial lung diseases (ILD) and their subtypes’ heterogeneity worldwide. Our main is to characterize new-onset ILDs in Algeria and compare our results with data from other populations. Materials and Methods: Newly diagnosed ILDs were prospectively collected in a single-center observational cohort study including all patients diagnosed as ILDs in the pulmonology, phthisiology, and allergology departments between 2015 and 2019. Detailed anamnestic and clinical data were collected at the time of diagnosis. The results of high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT), serological tests, biology data, and respiratory functional exploration were systematically performed and collected. Results: A total of 455 cases were included. The mean age was 59.4 ± 13.2 years. There was a slight predominance of females (300; 65.9%). The most common disease was ILD secondary to connective tissue disease (CTD) or ILD-CTD (48.1%), followed by idiopathic interstitial pneumonias (IIPs) (23.5%), sarcoidosis (16.9%), interstitial pneumonia with autoimmune features (IPAF) (12.1%), and hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HP) (2.4%). Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) was present in 8.6% and unclassifiable ILD in 4.6% of the total ILD cases. Conclusions: ILD-CTD, IIP, and sarcoidosis were the most frequently observed ILDs in this Algerian population. Similarities and many differences were found compared to previous data from other countries.
Medical Record Survey after Comprehensive Health Checkup Referral and Its Contribution to the Early Detection of Cancer
Authors: Yamanouchi Yoko , Senbonmatsu Takaaki , Yamaguchi Takumi , Inoue Ikuo , Goto Seiichi , Soma Tomoyuki , Maruyama Yoshiaki , Adachi Masaki , Shinozuka Nozomi , Muramatsu Toshihiro
Published: December 2023

Comprehensive health checkups in Japan are a preventive method to detect cancer and metabolic diseases. Unlike group medical examinations, individual examinations in health checkups are possible, with additional tests possible for disease detection. However, it is difficult to accurately ascertain the results from only the report after referral to a medical institution in individuals suspected of having cancer who need to be examined. We aimed to conduct a medical record survey of patients referred to the Hospital after undergoing a comprehensive health checkup and investigate the contribution of comprehensive health checkups to the detection of cancer more accurately. The subjects were 1763 examinees who were referred to various departments of our hospital because of doubtful cancer from 23,128 examinees who underwent comprehensive health checkups in our center from January 2018 to December 2022 for 5 years. The medical record survey demonstrated that cancer was detected in more than twice as many individuals as reported and other sources. Early-stage cancers require a significantly longer time to establish a definitive diagnosis. In conclusion, short-term reports from the referring hospital are insufficient for a final diagnosis, and long-term follow-up is extremely important to increase the diagnosis rates of cancer for comprehensive health checkups.
The Impact of Governance Structures on the Distribution of Land Consolidation Benefits in Urban Areas: Case Studies in Ningbo, China
Authors: Lu Wenzheng , Lv Yu , Zhou Xiaoping , Wu Yuzhe , Gu Xiaokun
Published: December 2023

Against the backdrop of an urban-rural dual structure, governance structure significantly influences the fairness and sharing of land value increment profits from land consolidation in various regions. This paper develops a spatial-institutional analytical framework, reflects on the traditional government-led land quota planning management mechanism and advocates optimizing governance structures in land consolidation to facilitate urban-rural element flows and the sharing of land value increment profits. This paper selects two comprehensive land consolidation cases in the Fenghua District and Cixi City of Ningbo, representing government-led and village collective self-organized governance structures. The research shows that the Fenghua case adopts a government-led state-owned enterprise coordinated governance structure, which state-owned enterprises bear operational risks and the majority of profit sharing, while village collectives, as landowners, are insufficiently protected in benefit sharing. The Cixi case employs a government-embedded village-town governance structure, with the village collectives as the main operating body, allowing collective construction land to enter the market to ensure the sharing of community profits. Both governance structures promote the bidirectional flow of urban-rural land resource elements; the former significantly drives urban development, while the latter ensures better benefit sharing for village collectives. The research proposes that optimizing governance structures and improving land quota allocation mechanisms can further stimulate various entities’ participation in land consolidation and land value activation.
Influence of the Weak Nuclear Force on Metal-Promoted Autocatalytic Strecker Synthesis of Amino Acids: Formation of a Chiral Pool of Precursors for Prebiotic Peptide and Protein Synthesis
Authors: Cowan J. A.
Published: December 2023

Natural chiral amino acids typically adopt an L structural configuration. While a preference for specific molecular chiralities is observed throughout biology and cellular chemistry, the origins of this preference are unclear. In a previous report the origin of enantiomeric selectivity was analyzed in terms of an “RNA World” model, and a pathway to a chiral preference for d-ribose was proposed based on the autocatalytic transformation of glyceraldehyde as a precursor to the formation of sugars. Metal-ion-promoted catalysis allows the parity non-conserving (PNC) weak nuclear interaction to influence the chirality of a nascent chiral carbon center. Since the PNC effect is the only natural property with an inherent handedness, it is an obvious candidate to influence enantiomeric preference from a catalytic reaction performed over geologically relevant time scales. The PNC influence requires and emphasizes the important role of catalytic metal ions in primordial chemistry. In this study, the impact of geologically available divalent calcium and higher Z alkaline earth elements are examined as mediators of chiral preference. Detailed calculations of the magnitude of the effect are presented, including the influence of time, temperature, pH, and metal ion identity. It is concluded that metal ions can direct chiral preference for amino acid synthesis via a metal-promoted autocatalytic Strecker reaction within a relatively short geological timeframe, thereby providing a pool of l-amino acids for catalytic chemistry evolving either from an RNA-world model of molecular evolution or alternative pathways to protein synthesis.
Neurosarcoidosis: The Presentation, Diagnosis and Treatment Review of Two Cases
Authors: Basheer Maamoun , Waked Hamd , Jeries Helana , Azrilin Olga , Paz Dan , Assy Nimer , Naffaa Mohammad E. , Badarny Samih
Published: December 2023

Sarcoidosis is a chronic granulomatous disease of unknown cause characterized by the presence of non-caseating granulomas. The disease can affect any organ including the nervous system. Neurosarcoidosis occurs in about 5% patients with sarcoidosis. The clinical presentation of neurosarcoidosis is varied, and it can involve the brain, spinal cord and peripheral nervous system, separately or in different combinations. The diagnosis of neurosarcoidosis is challenging, as biopsies from the nervous system are not readily available. Anti-TNFα agents are becoming one of the cornerstone treatments for neurosarcoidosis. In this case-based review, we discuss two cases of neurosarcoidosis with different clinical presentations. The first patient presented with confusion, while the second presented with walking difficulty and neurogenic bladder. Both patients were treated with methylprednisolone pulse therapy with rapid, but non-complete, improvement. Therefore, infliximab was initiated in both cases with subsequent improvement in the clinical manifestations and imaging findings, emphasizing the effectiveness and safety of infliximab in cases of severe neurosarcoidosis. In conclusion, the goal of neurosarcoidosis management is to prevent organ system damage and minimize the toxic cumulative adverse effects of glucocorticoid use. In this case-based review we discuss the various presentations, the diagnosis and the treatment of neurosarcoidosis.
Study on Failure Energy per Unit Area of Concrete Specimens Based on Minimum Energy Dissipation Theory
Authors: Liang Xinyu , Wu Zengbiao
Published: December 2023

In order to study the strength change of concrete specimens under different loading conditions, based on the principle of minimum energy dissipation, the damage energy per unit area of concrete was studied. By using finite element numerical simulation software for concrete specimens with different failure modes of tension, pressure, bending and torsion, a double-broken line damage constitutive model is adopted. The failure forms of concrete specimens under different loading conditions, as well as the failure area and failure energy of each specimen during loading, are simulated and analyzed. The failure energy per unit area under different failure modes was quantitively calculated, the relationship between the failure area and failure energy consumption under different failure modes was analyzed. The results show that, under different failure modes, the failure area of concrete specimens is different, the energy consumed during failure is different, and the strength is different. However, no matter how the failure mode changes during the failure process, the failure energy W per unit area remains constant and fluctuates in the range of 2.0~6.0 mJ/cm2, which is related to the physical properties of concrete itself.
Rapid Growth of Metal–Metal Oxide Core–Shell Structures through Joule Resistive Heating: Morphological, Structural, and Luminescence Characterization
Authors: Ramos-Justicia Juan Francisco , Urbieta Ana , Fernández Paloma
Published: December 2023

The aim of this study is to prove that resistive heating enables the synthesis of metal/metal oxide composites in the form of core–shell structures. The thickness and morphology of the oxide layer depends strongly on the nature of the metal, but the influences of parameters such as the time and current profiles and the presence of an external field have also been investigated. The systems chosen for the present study are Zn/ZnO, Ti/TiO2, and Ni/NiO. The characterization of the samples was performed using techniques based on scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The thicknesses of the oxide layers varied from 10 μm (Zn/ZnO) to 50 μm (Ni/NiO). In the case of Zn- and Ti-based composites, the growth of nanostructures on the oxide layer was observed. Micro- and nanoneedles formed on the ZnO layer while prism-like structures appeared on the TiO2. In the case of the NiO layer, micro- and nanocrystals were observed. Applying an external electric field seemed to align the ZnO needles, whereas its effect on TiO2 and NiO was less appreciable, principally affecting the shape of their grain boundaries. The chemical compositions were analysed using X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), which confirmed the existence of an oxide layer. Structural information was obtained by means of X-ray diffraction (XRD) and was later checked using Raman spectroscopy. The oxide layers seemed to be crystalline and, although some non-stoichiometric phases appeared, the stoichiometric phases were predominant; these were wurtzite, rutile, and cubic for Zn, Ti, and Ni oxides, respectively. The photoluminescence technique was used to study the distribution of defects on the shell, and mainly visible bands (2–2.5 eV), attributed to oxygen vacancies, were present. The near-band edges of ZnO and TiO2 were also observed around 3.2–3.3 eV.
Numerical and Experimental Analysis of Stress–Strain Characteristics in DP 600 and TRIP 400/700 Steel Sheets
Authors: Evin Emil , Tomáš Miroslav , Németh Stanislav
Published: December 2023

The body constitutes the largest proportion of the total vehicle weight. Recently, increasing efforts have been made towards reducing its weight and improving its crashworthiness. By reducing its weight, fuel consumption will be reduced, and this will also translate into lower CO2 emissions. In terms of safety, vehicle body components use high strength steel which can absorb a substantial amount of impact energy. The present study pays attention to DP 600 and TRIP 400/700 stress–strain characteristics at quasi-static strain rates. The stress–strain characteristics of absorption capacity, stiffness, and deformation resistance force were investigated experimentally by tensile tests, three-point bending tests, and numerical simulations. The results indicate the potential for increasing the absorption capacity, stiffness, and deformation resistance force of the vehicle body’s deformable steel components. The present study verified the possibility of replacing physical testing with numerical simulation. A reasonably satisfactory agreement between the experimentally determined stress–strain characteristics and the numerical simulation was achieved, which can reduce the development time of deformable vehicle body components, reduce costs and optimize the selection of materials. The results extend the state of knowledge on the deformation characteristics of high-strength materials and contribute to the optimization of body components in terms of passive safety and weight.
A Study on Chloride Corrosion Resistance of Reactive Powder Concrete (RPC) with Copper Slag Replacing Quartz Sand under Freeze–Thaw Conditions
Authors: Li Jun , Liu Xianzhang , Chen Minghao , Tian Lijun , Liu Jiao
Published: December 2023

In order to study the influence of freeze–thaw cycles on chloride ion corrosion resistance of RPC with copper slag (CS) instead of quartz sand (QS), the 28d uniaxial compressive strength (UCS) of CSRPC with a different CS substitution rate was investigated by unconfined compression tests. The electric flux test method was used to study the chloride ion diffusion resistance of CSRPC after freeze–thaw cycles, and the pore size distribution was obtained through the nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) method. Then, a mathematical relationship between the chloride ion diffusion coefficient and the pore fractal characteristic parameter T was established to study the effect of freeze–thaw cycles on chloride ion diffusion. Finally, SEM/EDS, XRD, and DTG methods were combined to study the influence of the distribution of Friedel’s salts generated after freeze–thaw cycles on chloride ion diffusion in CSRPC. The results indicate that CS has a micro aggregate effect and pozzolanic activity, which can effectively improve the chloride ion diffusion resistance of CSRPC after freeze–thaw cycles. In addition, the electric flux of CSRPC decreases with the increase in freeze–thaw cycles, and the chloride diffusion coefficient is closely related to the pore fractal dimension.
Rational Design of Ni-Doped V2O5@3D Ni Core/Shell Composites for High-Voltage and High-Rate Aqueous Zinc-Ion Batteries
Authors: Zheng Songhe , Chen Jianping , Wu Ting , Li Ruimin , Zhao Xiaoli , Pang Yajun , Pan Zhenghui
Published: December 2023

Aqueous zinc-ion batteries (ZIBs) have significant potential for large energy storage systems because of their high energy density, cost-effectiveness and environmental friendliness. However, the limited voltage window, poor reaction kinetics and structural instability of cathode materials are current bottlenecks which contain the further development of ZIBs. In this work, we rationally design a Ni-doped V2O5@3D Ni core/shell composite on a carbon cloth electrode (Ni-V2O5@3D Ni@CC) by growing Ni-V2O5 on free-standing 3D Ni metal nanonets for high-voltage and high-capacity ZIBs. Impressively, embedded Ni doping increases the interlayer spacing of V2O5, extending the working voltage and improving the zinc-ion (Zn302+) reaction kinetics of the cathode materials; at the same time, the 3D structure, with its high specific surface area and superior electronic conductivity, aids in fast Zn302+ transport. Consequently, the as-designed Ni-V2O5@3D Ni@CC cathodes can operate within a wide voltage window from 0.3 to 1.8 V vs. Zn30/Zn302+ and deliver a high capacity of 270 mAh g−1 (~1050 mAh cm−3) at a high current density of 0.8 A g−1. In addition, reversible Zn2+ (de)incorporation reaction mechanisms in the Ni-V2O5@3D Ni@CC cathodes are investigated through multiple characterization methods (SEM, TEM, XRD, XPS, etc.). As a result, we achieved significant progress toward practical applications of ZIBs.
Investigation of Hafnium Thin Films for Design of TES Microcalorimeters
Authors: Safonova Victoria Yu. , Gordeeva Anna V. , Blagodatkin Anton V. , Pimanov Dmitry A. , Yablokov Anton A. , Ermolaeva Olga L. , Pankratov Andrey L.
Published: December 2023

Hafnium is a superconductor with a transition temperature slightly above 100 mK. This makes it attractive for such applications as microcalorimeters with high energy resolution. We report the superconducting properties of Hf films of thicknesses ranging from 60 to 115 nm, deposited on Si and Al2O3 substrates by electron beam evaporation. Besides that, we fabricated and measured combinations of hafnium with thin layers of normal metals, decreasing the critical temperature by the proximity effect. The critical temperature of the studied films varied from 56 to 302 mK. We have observed a significant change in the critical temperature of some films over time, which we propose to prevent by covering hafnium films with a thin layer of titanium.
Effect of V/Mo Atomic Ratio on the Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of MoVCuN Coatings
Authors: Mei Haijuan , Lin Cihong , Li Yuhang , Shen Youqu , Li Qiuguo , Wang Rui , Zeng Wenjun , Mei Wenbao , Gong Weiping
Published: December 2023

To improve the gas ionization ratio, the Mo-V-Cu-N coatings were deposited by pulsed dc magnetron sputtering with assistance from an anode layer ion source, and the influence of the V/Mo atomic ratio was explored with regard to the microstructure and mechanical properties of the coatings. The findings of this study indicated that the MoVCuN coatings exhibited a solid solution phase of FCC B1-MoVN with a prominent (220) preferred orientation, and the deposition rate was found to decrease from 4.7 to 1.8 nm/min when the V/Mo atomic ratio increased. The average surface roughness of the MoVCuN coatings gradually decreased, and the lowest surface roughness of 6.9 nm was achieved at a V/Mo atomic ratio of 0.31. Due to the enhanced ion bombardment effect, the coatings changed from a coarse columnar to a dense columnar crystal structure, and promoted grain refinement at higher V/Mo atomic ratios, contributing to a gradual improvement in the compressive residual stress, hardness and adhesion strength of the coatings.
Bronze Age Raw Material Hoard from Greater Poland: Archaeometallurgical Study Based on Material Research, Thermodynamic Analysis, and Experiments
Authors: Garbacz-Klempka Aldona , Piękoś Marcin , Kozana Janusz , Perek-Nowak Małgorzata , Wardas-Lasoń Marta , Silska Patrycja , Stróżyk Mateusz
Published: December 2023

Hoard finds from the Bronze Age have appeared all over Europe, prompting questions about their functions (either as raw materials for recycling or votive objects). The hoard trove of raw materials from Przybysław in Greater Poland is an interesting example of a discovery that is related to the foundry activities of Late Bronze Age and Early Iron Age communities (c. 600 BC). The deposit consists of fragments of raw materials that were damaged end products intended for smelting. The research included the characterisation of the material in terms of the variety of the raw materials that were used. The individual elements of the hoard were characterised in terms of their chemical compositions, microstructures, and properties. A range of modern instrumental research methods were used: metallographic macroscopic and microscopic observations by optical microscopy (OM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), chemical-composition analysis by X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (ED-XRF), X-ray microanalysis (EDS), and detailed crystallisation analysis by electron microscopy with an emphasis on electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD). As part of this study, model alloys were also prepared for two of the selected chemical compositions, (i.e., CuPbSn and CuPb). These alloys were analysed for their mechanical and technological properties. This research of the hoard from Przybysław (Jarocin district, Greater Poland) has contributed to the recognition and interpretation of the function and nature of the hoard by using modern research and modelling methods as a cultic raw material deposit.
Structural Design with Self-Weight and Inertial Loading Using Simulated Annealing for Non-Gradient Topology Optimization
Authors: Rostami Najafabadi Hossein , Martins Thiago C. , Tsuzuki Marcos S. G. , Barari Ahmad
Published: December 2023

This paper explores implementation of self-weight and inertial loading in topology optimization (TO) employing the Simulated Annealing (SA) algorithm as a non-gradient-based technique. This method can be applied to find optimum design of structures with no need for gradient information. To enhance the convergence of the SA algorithm, a novel approach incorporating the crystallization factor is introduced. The method is applied in a benchmark problem of a cantilever beam. The study systematically examines multiple scenarios, including cases with and without self-weight effects, as well as varying point loads. Compliance values are calculated and compared to those reported in existing literature to validate the accuracy of the optimization results. The findings highlight the versatility and effectiveness of the SA-based TO methodology in addressing complex design challenges with considerable self-weight or inertial effect. This work can contribute to structural design of systems where only the objective value is available with no gradient information to use sensitivity-based algorithms.
Considerations on the Dynamics of Biofidelic Sensors in the Assessment of Human–Robot Impacts
Authors: Samarathunga S. M. B. P. B. , Valori Marcello , Faglia Rodolfo , Fassi Irene , Legnani Giovanni
Published: December 2023

Ensuring the safety of physical human–robot interaction (pHRI) is of utmost importance for industries and organisations seeking to incorporate robots into their workspaces. To address this concern, the ISO/TS 15066:2016 outlines hazard analysis and preventive measures for ensuring safety in Human–Robot Collaboration (HRC). To analyse human–robot contact, it is common practice to separately evaluate the “transient” and “quasi-static” contact phases. Accurately measuring transient forces during close human–robot collaboration requires so-called “biofidelic” sensors that closely mimic human tissue properties, featuring adequate bandwidth and balanced damping. The dynamics of physical human–robot interactions using biofidelic measuring devices are being explored in this research. In this paper, one biofidelic sensor is tested to analyse its dynamic characteristics and identify the main factors influencing its performance and its practical applications for testing. To this aim, sensor parameters, such as natural frequency and damping coefficient, are estimated by utilising a custom physical pendulum setup to impact the sensor. Mathematical models developed to characterise the sensor system and pendulum dynamics are also disclosed.
On Another Type of Convergence for Intuitionistic Fuzzy Observables
Authors: Čunderlíková Katarína
Published: December 2023

The convergence theorems play an important role in the theory of probability and statistics and in its application. In recent times, we studied three types of convergence of intuitionistic fuzzy observables, i.e., convergence in distribution, convergence in measure and almost everywhere convergence. In connection with this, some limit theorems, such as the central limit theorem, the weak law of large numbers, the Fisher–Tippet–Gnedenko theorem, the strong law of large numbers and its modification, have been proved. In 1997, B. Riečan studied an almost uniform convergence on D-posets, and he showed the connection between almost everywhere convergence in the Kolmogorov probability space and almost uniform convergence in D-posets. In 1999, M. Jurečková followed on from his research, and she proved the Egorov’s theorem for observables in MV-algebra using results from D-posets. Later, in 2017, the authors R. Bartková, B. Riečan and A. Tirpáková studied an almost uniform convergence and the Egorov’s theorem for fuzzy observables in the fuzzy quantum space. As the intuitionistic fuzzy sets introduced by K. T. Atanassov are an extension of the fuzzy sets introduced by L. Zadeh, it is interesting to study an almost uniform convergence on the family of the intuitionistic fuzzy sets. The aim of this contribution is to define an almost uniform convergence for intuitionistic fuzzy observables. We show the connection between the almost everywhere convergence and almost uniform convergence of a sequence of intuitionistic fuzzy observables, and we formulate a version of Egorov’s theorem for the case of intuitionistic fuzzy observables. We use the embedding of the intuitionistic fuzzy space into the suitable MV-algebra introduced by B. Riečan. We formulate the connection between the almost uniform convergence of functions of several intuitionistic fuzzy observables and almost uniform convergence of random variables in the Kolmogorov probability space too.
On Some Results of the Nonuniqueness of Solutions Obtained by the Feynman–Kac Formula
Authors: Choi Byoung Seon , Choi Moo Young
Published: December 2023

The Feynman–Kac formula establishes a link between parabolic partial differential equations and stochastic processes in the context of the Schrödinger equation in quantum mechanics. Specifically, the formula provides a solution to the partial differential equation, expressed as an expectation value for Brownian motion. This paper demonstrates that the Feynman–Kac formula does not produce a unique solution but instead carries infinitely many solutions to the corresponding partial differential equation.