bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of UV Radiation on the Carbonation of Cement-Based Materials with Supplementary Cementitious Materials
Authors: Li Haoyuan , Shui Zhonghe , Wang Ziyan , Xiao Xunguang
Published: May 2023

Solar light with high-energy ultraviolet (UV) radiation acting on the surface of cement-based materials easily changes the properties of cement-based materials by affecting their carbonation reaction. In order to elucidate the difference in the carbonation process under UV radiation in cement-based materials with different supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs), the carbonation depth (apparent pH values), chemical composition (XRD, FTIR, and TG analysis), and mechanical properties (compressive strength and microhardness) of cement-based materials were evaluated. The results revealed that UV radiation acting on the surface of cement-based materials accelerated the carbonation reaction, which enhanced the decrease rate of pH and formation of stable calcite, thereby improving the macromechanical and micromechanical properties of cement-based materials. In addition, the carbonation process under UV radiation differs according to the added SCM. In particular, silica fume substantially increased the carbonation of cement-based materials under UV radiation, resulting in a 53.3% increase in calcium carbonate coverage, a 10.0% increase in compressive strength, and a 20.9% increase in mean microhardness, whereas the incorporation of blast furnace slag resulted in a smaller effect on UV irradiation-induced carbonation. In addition, UV radiation facilitates the crystallographic transformation process of cement-based materials containing metakaolin, resulting in more stable crystals of carbonation products. This study provides a theoretical framework and serves as an important reference for the design of cement-based materials under strong UV radiation for practical engineering applications.
Microstructure of NbMoTaTiNi Refractory High-Entropy Alloy Coating Fabricated by Ultrasonic Field-Assisted Laser Cladding Process
Authors: Zhao Song , Taheri Morteza , Shirvani Kourosh , Naserlouei Mehdi , Beirami Khashayar , Paidar Moslem , Sai Wei
Published: May 2023

Refractory high-entropy alloys (RHEAs) contain alloying elements with a high melting point, promising high-temperature applications due to their unique properties. In this work, laser cladding is used to prepare RHEAS based on NbMoTaTiNi. At the same time as laser cladding, the ultrasonic field is used, and then the microstructural characteristics, grain size, residual stress, wear, and hardness of the coating are evaluated. The results show that the coating is biphasic and includes the γ (Ni) and NbMoTaTiNi phase. The NbMoTaTiNi phase had a uniform distribution throughout the coating when the ultrasonic field was applied, so that when the ultrasonic field was not used, the NbMoTaTiNi powder, in addition to spreading uniformly, had the un-melting of large particles. This caused an increase in the residual tension of the coating. The conversion of columnar grains to the equiaxed, and the reduction in structural defects, were other characteristics of using the ultrasonic field. The formation of equiaxed grains with zigzag grain boundaries reduced the friction coefficient, wear volume loss, and the wear rate of the coating applied with ultrasonic.
Non-Invasive Characterisation of the Wall Paintings in the Byzantine Church of Palazzo Simi (Bari, Italy) and Digital Photogrammetric Survey for a Pigment Mapping
Authors: Fioretti Giovanna , Tempesta Gioacchino , Capotorto Salvatore , Eramo Giacomo
Published: May 2023

The paper illustrates the results of a non-invasive characterisation of pigments and their mixtures in the pictorial surfaces of the wall paintings (10th century) found in the Byzantine church of Palazzo Simi in Bari (Italy). The investigation techniques included portable digital polarised microscopy, fibre optic reflectance spectroscopy (FORS) and X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (XRF). Data comparison supported the recognition of red and yellow ochres, green earth, vine black, minium and Egyptian blue. The presence of some pigment mixtures demonstrated the recurrence of specific technical expedient used by local medieval artists in order to simulate more expensive pigments, which enabled contribution to the understanding of the valuable artistic tradition of the Apulian Middle Age. Both for purposes of conservation and fruition of the site, which is not always accessible, and due to the complexity in taking suitable photographs for the representation of results, the latter was performed on orthophotos extracted from a digital photogrammetric 3D model of the whole archaeological site. By means of chromatic overlapped layers, an interactive compositional map of the pictorial surfaces was produced.
Characterizations and Kinetic Modelling of Boride Layers on Bohler K190 Steel
Authors: Orihel Peter , Jurči Peter , Keddam Mourad
Published: May 2023

In this study, the Bohler K190 steel, manufactured by the powder metallurgy (PM) process, was subjected to the boronizing process. This thermochemical treatment was carried out in the range of 1173 to 1323 K, for 1–10 h. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was utilized for examining the morphology of layers’ interfaces with a dual-phase nature and measuring the layers’ thicknesses. The obtained boronized layers had a maximum thickness of 113 ± 4.5 µm. The X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD) confirmed the presence of FeB and Fe2B layers. The energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) mapping and EDS point analysis were used to investigate the redistribution of chemical elements within the boronized layers and the transition zone. The values of Vickers microhardness of Fe2B, FeB, and transition zone were estimated. Finally, the boron activation energies in FeB and Fe2B were found to be 204.54 and 196.67 kJ·mol−1 based on the integral method and compared to the literature results.
Development and Mechanical Characterization of Ni-Cr Alloy Foam Using Ultrasonic-Assisted Electroplating Coating Technique
Authors: Pittala Raj Kumar , Sharma Priyaranjan , Anne Gajanan , Patil Sachinkumar , Varghese Vinay , Das Sudhansu Ranjan , Kumar Ch Sateesh , Fernandes Filipe
Published: May 2023

Metal foams and alloy foams are a novel class of engineering materials and have numerous applications because of their properties such as high energy absorption, light weight and high compressive strength. In the present study, the methodology adopted to develop a Ni-Cr alloy foam is discussed. Polyurethane (PU) foam of 40PPI (parts per inch) pore density was used as the precursor and coating techniques such as electroless nickel plating (ELN), ultrasonic-assisted electroplating of nickel (UAEPN), and pack cementation or chromizing were used to develop the Ni-Cr alloy foam. The surface morphology, strut thickness and minimum weight gain after each coating stage were evaluated. It was observed from the results that the adopted coating techniques did not damage the original ligament cross-section of the PU precursor. The minimum weight gain and the coating thickness after the UAEPN process were observed to be 42 g and 40–60 μm, respectively. The properties such as porosity percentage, permeability and compressive strength were evaluated. Finally, the pressure drop through the developed foam was estimated and verified to determine whether the developed foam can be used for filtering applications.
Microstructural Evaluation of Thermal-Sprayed CoCrFeMnNi0.8V High-Entropy Alloy Coatings
Authors: Sfikas Athanasios K. , Kamnis Spyros , Tse Martin C. H. , Christofidou Katerina A. , Gonzalez Sergio , Karantzalis Alexandros E. , Georgatis Emmanuel
Published: May 2023

The aim of this work is to improve the understanding of the effect of the cooling rate on the microstructure of high-entropy alloys, with a focus on high-entropy alloy coatings, by using a combined computational and experimental validation approach. CoCrFeMnNi0.8V coatings were deposited on a steel substrate with high velocity oxy-air-fuel spray with the employment of three different deposition temperatures. The microstructures of the coatings were studied and compared with the microstructure of the equivalent bulk high-entropy alloy fabricated by suction casting and powder fabricated by gas atomization. According to the results, the powder and the coatings deposited by low and medium temperatures consisted of a BCC microstructure. On the other hand, the microstructure of the coating deposited by high temperature was more complex, consisting of different phases, including BCC, FCC and oxides. The phase constitution of the bulk high-entropy alloy included an FCC phase and sigma. This variation in the microstructural outcome was assessed in terms of solidification rate, and the results were compared with Thermo-Calc modelling. The microstructure can be tuned by the employment of rapid solidification techniques such as gas atomization, as well as subsequent processing such as high velocity oxy-air-fuel spray with the use of different spray parameters, leading to a variety of microstructural outcomes. This approach is of high interest for the field of high-entropy alloy coatings.
Influences of Nonaqueous Slurry Components on Polishing 4H-SiC Substrate with a Fixed Abrasive Pad
Authors: Zhong Jiyuan , Chen Jiapeng , Wang Hanqiang , Chen Haibo , Gu Yunyun , Shen Juanfen , Sun Tao
Published: May 2023

4H-SiC wafers are more likely to sustain a lower material removal rate (MRR) and severe subsurface damage in conventional chemical mechanical polishing (CMP) methods. To overcome the material removal bottleneck imposed by aqueous chemistry, a high-efficiency polishing of 4H-SiC wafers method by applying reactive nonaqueous fluids to self-sharpening fixed abrasive pads has been proposed in our former research works. Furthermore, to improve the material removal rate and reduce the surface roughness Sa value of 4H-SiC substrates of the Si face, the effect of organic acid, H2O2, and Triton X-100 in nonaqueous slurry on 4H-SiC polishing was investigated. The MRR of 12.83 μm/h and the Sa of 1.45 nm can be obtained by the orthogonally optimized slurry consisting of 3 wt% H2O2, 0.5 wt% Triton X-100 at pH = 3. It is also found that the addition of different levels of oxidant H2O2 and surfactant Triton X-100 components not only increased the MRR of the 4H-SiC substrates of the Si face but also achieved a lower Sa value; in that, the polishing efficiency of the Si side of the 4H-SiC wafers and the surface quality of the 4H-SiC wafers could be effectively improved by the optimization of the polishing slurry.
π-Hole Triel Bonds between TrPhX2 (Tr = B, Al, Ga; X = F, Cl, Br, CH3, OH) and (BH)2(NHC)2 (NHC = Nitrogen-Heterocyclic Carbene)
Authors: McDowell Sean A. C. , Niu Zhihao , Li Qingzhong
Published: May 2023

The π-hole triel bond formed by (BH)2(NHC)2 (NHC denotes nitrogen-heterocyclic carbene) and TrPhX2 (Tr = B, Al, and Ga; X = F, Cl, Br, CH3, and OH) was investigated computationally, with the B=B bond in (BH)2(NHC)2 being the electron donor. A large interaction energy ensures that the complex is quite stable. When the substituent X in the electron acceptor is fixed, the magnitude of the interaction energy varies with the identity of the Tr atom. When Tr is Al or Ga, the interaction energy is stronger than when it is B. With an increase in the electron-withdrawing ability of the substituents, the interaction energy shows distinct changes. When Tr is B or Al, the interaction energy varies as TrPhBr2 > TrPhCl2 > TrPhF2, which is different from the order of their positive electrostatic potentials. When Tr = Ga, the interaction energy hardly changes with an increase in the electronegativity of the halogen atoms. For CH3 and OH substitution, larger interaction energies were obtained, with the interaction energy for the OH substituent being the largest. The main interactions in these systems are a triel bond and an X· ·H hydrogen bond. When the substituents are fixed, the interaction energy of the triel bond increases in the order AlPhX2 < GaPhX2 < BPhX2, which is different from the order of the positive electrostatic potentials on the Tr atom in TrPhX2. When X is a halogen atom, the interaction energy of the triel bond decreases in the order Br > Cl > F, which is opposite to the trend for the positive electrostatic potentials on Tr in TrPhX2. In most complexes, the interaction energy for the hydrogen bond is less than that for the triel bond; there is no hydrogen bond in the methyl-substituted complex. In general, the interaction energy of the hydrogen bonds increases with an increase in the electronegativity of the halogen atoms.
Nanostructured Mn–Ni Powders Produced by High-Energy Ball-Milling for Water Decontamination from RB5 Dye
Authors: Mbarek Wael Ben , Al Harbi Mohammed , Hammami Bechir , Khitouni Mohamed , Escoda Luisa , Suñol Joan-Josep
Published: May 2023

In this study, the degradation efficiency of Mn-20at%Ni and Mn-30at%Ni particle powders made by melt-spinning and high-energy ball-milling techniques is investigated in relation to the degradation of the azo dye Reactive Black 5. SEM, EDS, and XRD were used to analyze the powders’ morphology, surface elemental composition, and phase structure. An ultraviolet-visible absorption spectrophotometer was used to measure the ball-milled powder’s capacity to degrade, and the collected powders were examined using the FTIR spectroscopy method to identify the substituents in the extract. The impact of MnNi alloy on the azo dye Reactive Black 5′s degradation and its effectiveness as a decolorizing agent were examined as functions of different parameters such as chemical composition, specific surface, and temperature. In comparison to the Mn-30at%Ni alloy, the powdered Mn-20at%Ni particles show better degrading efficiency and a faster rate of reaction. This remarkable efficiency is explained by the configuration of the valence electrons, which promotes more responding sites in the d-band when the Ni content is reduced. Therefore, increased electron transport and a hastened decolorization process are achieved by reducing the Ni concentration of RB5 solution with Mn80 particle powder. Additionally, this difference in their decolorization efficiency is explained by the fact that Mn-20at%Ni has the highest specific surface area of 0.45 m2 g−1. As the main result, the functional uses of nanostructured metallic powder particles as organic pollution decolorizers in the textile industry are greatly expanded by our study.
Relationships between Processing and Properties of Magnesium-Based Alloys
Authors: Wiese Björn , Celikin Mert , Mendis Chamini L.
Published: May 2023

Magnesium alloys can be used in a wide range of applications, from lightweight structural and transport applications to biomaterials [...]
Reproducible NiO/Ga2O3 Vertical Rectifiers with Breakdown Voltage >8 kV
Authors: Li Jian-Sian , Wan Hsiao-Hsuan , Chiang Chao-Ching , Xia Xinyi , Yoo Timothy , Kim Honggyu , Ren Fan , Pearton Stephen
Published: May 2023

Optimized vertical heterojunction rectifiers with a diameter of 100 µm, consisting of sputter-deposited p-type NiO forming a p–n junction with thick (10 µm) Ga2O3 drift layers grown by halide vapor phase epitaxy (HVPE) on (001) Sn-doped (1019 cm−3) β-Ga2O3 substrates, exhibited breakdown voltages >8 kV over large areas (>1 cm2). The key requirements were low drift layer doping concentrations (<1016 cm3), low power during the NiO deposition to avoid interfacial damage at the heterointerface and formation of a guard ring using extension of the NiO beyond the cathode metal contact. Breakdown still occurred at the contact periphery, suggesting that further optimization of the edge termination could produce even larger breakdown voltages. On-state resistances without substrate thinning were <10 mΩ.cm−2, leading to power figure-of-merits >9 GW.cm−2. The devices showed an almost temperature-independent breakdown to 600 K. These results show the remarkable potential of NiO/Ga2O3 rectifiers for performance beyond the limits of both SiC and GaN. The important points to achieve the excellent performance were: (1) low drift doping concentration, (2) low power during the NiO deposition and (3) formation of a guard ring.
Review of Current Systemic Therapy and Novel Systemic Therapy for Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Sarfraz Humaira , Saha Aditi , Jhaveri Khushali , Kim Dae Won
Published: May 2023

Background: This review aims to describe the systemic treatment options for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma and includes a summary of the current treatments as well as the ongoing clinical trials which may be efficacious in the treatment of this aggressive malignancy. Methods: A literature review was performed using MEDLINE/PubMed between August 1996 and February 2023. The reviewed studies are categorized into these categories: current standard of care treatments, targeted therapies, immunotherapy and clinical trials. The current treatment modality for the treatment of advanced pancreatic cancer is mainly systemic chemotherapy. Results: The introduction of polychemotherapy regimens including gemcitabine/nab-paclitaxel and FOLFIRINOX (oxaliplatin, irinotecan, folinic acid and fluorouracil) has improved the clinical outcome of advanced pancreatic cancer. For further improvement in clinical outcomes, several novel approaches have been extensively studied in pancreatic cancer. The review discusses the current standard chemotherapy regimen and the novel treatment options in the field. Conclusions: While there are novel treatments being explored for metastatic pancreatic, it remains a debilitating and aggressive disease with high mortality that warrants continued efforts to advance therapeutic options.
Afatinib for the Treatment of NSCLC with Uncommon EGFR Mutations: A Narrative Review
Authors: Jiang Yingying , Fang Xiaoxu , Xiang Yan , Fang Tingwen , Liu Jingwen , Lu Kaihua
Published: May 2023

Afatinib, the world’s first irreversible ErbB family (containing four different cancer cell epidermal growth factor receptors, including EGFR, HER2, ErbB3, and ErbB4) inhibitor, is a second-generation oral epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor (EGFR-TKI). It can be used as a first-line treatment for locally advanced or metastatic non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with an EGFR-sensitive mutation or for patients with locally advanced or metastatic squamous lung cancer whose disease progresses during or after platinum-containing chemotherapy. Currently, with the use of third-generation EGFR-TKIs, afatinib is no longer clinically indicated as the first choice for patients with NSCLC who have EGFR-sensitive mutations. However, afatinib showed a considerable inhibitory effect in NSCLC patients with uncommon EGFR mutations (G719X, S768I, and L861Q) according to a combined post hoc analysis of the LUX-Lung2/3/6 trials. With the development of genetic testing technology, the detection rate of uncommon EGFR mutations is increasing. The aim of this paper is to describe in detail the sensitivity of rare EGFR mutations to afatinib and to provide information and a reference for those suffering from advanced NSCLC who have uncommon EGFR mutations.
The Role of Old Relicts in Structuring the Boreal/Tropical Transitional Zone: The Case of East Asian Planktonic Cladocera (Crustacea)
Authors: Krolenko Ivan I. , Garibian Petr G. , Kotov Alexey A.
Published: May 2023

Previous studies provided evidence of the mixing of boreal–tropical cladocerans (Crustacea) in the Far East of Eurasia, as well as the presence of numerous pre-Pleistocene relict endemics. In this study, we hypothesize that the colonization history is reflected in the proportions of endemic/boreal/tropical taxa among different habitat types within this region. We analyzed 442 qualitative samples collected from seven sub-regions of the Far East of Russia and South Korea along a latitudinal transect of approximately 2200 km, where we identified 101 Cladocera species. Our results showed a significantly higher proportion of endemic taxa in the plankton compared to the littoral and benthic zones. The proportions of endemic/boreal/tropical taxa in the permanent and temporary waters were similar. We observed a distinct shift in dominance in benthos and littoral zone across our transect: boreal taxa were prevalent in the northern sub-regions (1–4), while tropical taxa were prevalent in the southern sub-regions (5–7), with a pronounced boreal–tropical transition zone (sub-regions 4–5). Our findings suggest that this pattern arose due to the unhindered dispersion of the two faunas in a latitudinal direction until they met at the boundary during their arrival in the Late Pleistocene. In contrast, the proportions of the boreal and tropical taxa in plankton did not exceed 16% in any of the studied sub-regions, and the proportion of boreal taxa decreased from 16% to 10%, while that of the tropical taxa increased from 0% to 10% from north to south. We propose that the lower proportions and the absence of mixing of fauna in the plankton can be explained by the strong presence (sometimes dominance) of relics that occupy these water bodies before the arrival of colonizers from the north and south. Our findings highlight the significant role of biotic interactions in the formation of biogeographic boundaries, which was previously underestimated.
Minimally Invasive and Fast Diagnosis of Gastric Cancer Based on Maspin Levels in Different Biological Samples
Authors: Bratei Alexandru Adrian , Stefan-van Staden Raluca-Ioana
Published: May 2023

(1) Background: Human SERPINB5, commonly known as maspin, has diverse functions as a tumor suppressor. Maspin has a novel role in cell cycle control, and common variants were discovered to be associated with gastric cancer (GC). Maspin was proven to also affect the EMT and angiogenesis of gastric cancer cells via the ITGB1/FAK pathway. Information about the maspin concentrations correlated with different pathological features of the patients may facilitate the fast diagnosis and personalized treatment of patients. The novelty of this study is given by the correlations established for the maspin levels in different biological features and clinicopathological features. These correlations can be extremely useful for surgeons and oncologists. (2) Patients and methods: Patients with clinical and pathological features, given the small number of samples available for this study, were selected from the database of the project GRAPHSENSGASTROINTES, and used in accordance with the Ethics Committee approval nr. 32,647/2018 awarded by the County Emergency Hospital from Targu-Mures. Stochastic microsensors were used as new screening tools for the determination of the concentration of maspin in four types of samples: tumoral tissues, blood, saliva and urine. (3) Results: The results obtained using the stochastic sensors were correlated with those tabulated in the clinical and pathological database. A series of assumptions regarding the values and practice important features for surgeons and pathologists were made. (4) Conclusions: This study provided a few assumptions regarding the correlations between the values of maspin levels in the analyzed samples and the clinical and pathological features. These results may be useful as preoperative investigations in order to help surgeons localize, approximate and choose the best treatment. These correlations may facilitate minim invasive and fast diagnosis of gastric cancer based on reliable detection of maspin concentration in biological samples (tumoral tissues, blood, saliva and urine).
Prediction of Diabetic Macular Edema Using Knowledge Graph
Authors: Li Zhi-Qing , Fu Zi-Xuan , Li Wen-Jun , Fan Hao , Li Shu-Nan , Wang Xi-Mo , Zhou Peng
Published: May 2023

Diabetic macular edema (DME) is a significant complication of diabetes that impacts the eye and is a primary contributor to vision loss in individuals with diabetes. Early control of the related risk factors is crucial to reduce the incidence of DME. Artificial intelligence (AI) clinical decision-making tools can construct disease prediction models to aid in the clinical screening of the high-risk population for early disease intervention. However, conventional machine learning and data mining techniques have limitations in predicting diseases when dealing with missing feature values. To solve this problem, a knowledge graph displays the connection relationships of multi-source and multi-domain data in the form of a semantic network to enable cross-domain modeling and queries. This approach can facilitate the personalized prediction of diseases using any number of known feature data. In this study, we proposed an improved correlation enhancement algorithm based on knowledge graph reasoning to comprehensively evaluate the factors that influence DME to achieve disease prediction. We constructed a knowledge graph based on Neo4j by preprocessing the collected clinical data and analyzing the statistical rules. Based on reasoning using the statistical rules of the knowledge graph, we used the correlation enhancement coefficient and generalized closeness degree method to enhance the model. Meanwhile, we analyzed and verified these models’ results using link prediction evaluation indicators. The disease prediction model proposed in this study achieved a precision rate of 86.21%, which is more accurate and efficient in predicting DME. Furthermore, the clinical decision support system developed using this model can facilitate personalized disease risk prediction, making it convenient for the clinical screening of a high-risk population and early disease intervention.
Problems in the Development of the Sleep–Wake Rhythm Influence Neurodevelopmental Disorders in Children
Authors: Hoshino Kyoko
Published: May 2023

Development of the sleep–wake rhythm has a significant effect on the physical and mental development of children. The sleep–wake rhythm is controlled by aminergic neurons in the brainstem’s ascending reticular activating system, which is associated with synaptogenesis and the promotion of brain development. The sleep–wake rhythm develops rapidly within the first year after birth. At 3–4 months of age, the framework of the circadian rhythm is established. The objective of the present review is to assess a hypothesis concerning problems in the development of the sleep–wake rhythm and their effect on neurodevelopmental disorders. Autism spectrum disorder is characterised by a delay in the development of sleep rhythms at 3–4 months of age and also insomnia and night-time awakenings, as supported by several reports. Melatonin may shorten the sleep latency in ASD. Rett syndrome sufferers kept awake during the daytime were analysed by the Sleep–wake Rhythm Investigation Support System (SWRISS) (IAC, Inc., (Tokyo, Japan)), and the cause was found to be the dysfunction of aminergic neurons. Children and adolescents with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder show sleep problems such as resistance to bedtime, difficulty falling asleep, sleep apnoea, and restless legs syndrome. Sleep deprivation syndrome in schoolchildren is deeply influenced by Internet use, games, and smartphones, and this syndrome affects emotion, learning, concentration, and executive functioning. Sleep disorders in adults are strongly considered to affect not only the physiological/autonomic nervous system but also neurocognitive/psychiatric symptoms. Even adults cannot avoid serious problems, much less children, and the impact of sleep problems is considerably greater in adults. Paediatricians and nurses should be aware of the significance, from birth, of sleep development and sleep hygiene education for carers and parents. This research was reviewed and approved by the ethical committee of the Segawa Memorial Neurological Clinic for Children (No. SMNCC23-02).
Prospective Evaluation of Fetal Hemoglobin Expression in Maternal Erythrocytes: An Analysis of a Cohort of 345 Parturients
Authors: Blain Laurence , Watier Christian , Weng Xiaoduan , Masse Andre , Bédard Marie-Josée , Bettache Nazila , Weber Florence , Mahone Michele , Forté Stéphanie , Lavallée Vincent-Philippe , Gaudreau Pierre-Olivier , Newmarch Michael J. , Soulières Denis
Published: May 2023

It is believed that fetal hemoglobin (HbF) expression in adults is largely genetically regulated. The increased expression of HbF in pregnancy has been reported in a small number of articles. Different mechanisms have been proposed, but the description of HbF expression during pregnancy remains unclear. The objectives of this study were to document HbF expression during peri and postpartum periods, confirm its maternal origin, and assess clinical and biochemical parameters potentially associated with HbF modulation. In this observational prospective study, 345 pregnant women were followed. At baseline, 169 had HbF expression (≥1% of total hemoglobin) and 176 did not have HbF expression. Women were followed at the obstetric clinic during their pregnancy. Clinical and biochemical parameters were measured at each visit. Analyses were made to determine which parameters had a significant correlation to HbF expression. Results show that HbF expression of ≥1% during peri and postpartum periods in pregnant women without influencing comorbidities is at its highest peak during the first trimester. In all women, it was proven that HbF was of maternal origin. A significant positive correlation between HbF expression, βeta-human chorionic gonadotropin (β-HCG), and glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) was present. A significant negative association between HbF expression and total hemoglobin was found. HbF expression induction during pregnancy is probably associated with an increase in β-HCG and HbA1C, and a decrease in total hemoglobin, which could temporarily reactivate the fetal erythropoietic system.
Site-Specific Differences in Bone Mineral Density of Proximal Femur Correlate with the Type of Hip Fracture
Authors: Li Ning , Yuan Yi , Yin Lu , Yang Minghui , Liu Yandong , Zhang Wenshuang , Ma Kangkang , Zhou Fengyun , Cheng Zitong , Wang Ling , Cheng Xiaoguang
Published: May 2023

The aim of this study was to investigate whether site-specific differences in bone mineral density (BMD) of proximal femur correlate with the type of hip fracture using quantitative computed tomography. Femoral neck (FN) fractures were classified as nondisplaced or displaced subtypes. Intertrochanteric (IT) fractures were classified as A1, A2, or A3. The severe hip fractures were identified as displaced FN fractures or unstable IT fractures (A2 and A3). In total, 404 FN fractures (89 nondisplaced and 317 displaced) and 189 IT fractures (76 A1, 90 A2, and 23 A3) were enrolled. Areal BMD (aBMD) and volumetric BMD (vBMD) were measured in the regions of total hip (TH), trochanter (TR), FN, and IT of the contralateral unfractured femur. IT fractures exhibited lower BMD than FN fractures (all p ≤ 0.01). However, unstable IT fractures had higher BMD compared with stable ones (p < 0.01). After adjusting for covariates, higher BMD in TH and IT were associated with IT A2 (A1 vs. A2: odds ratios (ORs) from 1.47 to 1.69, all p < 0.01). Low bone measurements were risk factors for stable IT fractures (IT A1 vs. FN fracture subtypes: ORs from 0.40 to 0.65, all p < 0.01). There are substantial site-specific differences in BMD between IT fractures A1 and displaced FN fractures. Higher bone density was associated with unstable IT fracture when compared with stable ones. The understanding of biomechanics of various fracture types could help to improve the clinical management of these patients.
Diffuse Reflectance Spectroscopy as a Novel Method of Caries Detection—An In Vitro Comparative Study in Permanent Teeth
Authors: Charvat Jindrich , Prochazka Ales , Kucera Tomas , Tichy Antonin , Yurchenko Maksim , Himmlova Lucie
Published: May 2023

This in vitro study aimed to compare outcomes of dental caries detection using visual inspection classified according to the International Caries Detection and Assessment System (ICDAS) with objective assessments using a well-established laser fluorescence system (Diagnodent pen) and a novel diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS) device. One hundred extracted permanent premolars and molars were utilized, including sound teeth, teeth with non-cavitated caries, or teeth with small cavitated lesions. A total of 300 regions of interest (ROIs) were assessed using each detection method. Visual inspection, being a subjective method, was performed by two independent examiners. The presence and extent of caries were histologically verified according to Downer’s criteria, serving as a reference for other detection methods. Histological results revealed 180 sound ROIs and 120 carious ROIs, categorized into three different extents of caries. Overall, there was no significant difference between the detection methods in sensitivity (0.90–0.93) and false negative rate (0.05–0.07). However, DRS exhibited superior performance in specificity (0.98), accuracy (0.95), and false positive rate (0.04) compared to other detection methods. Although the tested DRS prototype device exhibited limited penetration depth, it shows promise as a method, particularly for the detection of incipient caries.
Clinical and Radiological Characterization of the Long-Term Association between Unaffected/Minimally Affected Implants and History of Severe Periodontitis: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Rusu Darian , Rădulescu Viorelia , Stratul Stefan-Ioan , Luchian Ionut , Calniceanu Horia , Vela Octavia , Boia Simina , Kardaras Giorgios , Chinnici Salvatore , Soanca Andrada
Published: May 2023

Objectives: The objectives of this research were to compare, retrospectively, the clinical and radiographic modifications of periodontal parameters and peri-implant conditions and to analyze the relationship between the changes in periodontal parameters and peri-implant conditions over a mean follow-up period of 7.6 years in a treated population with progressive/uncontrolled periodontitis and at least one unaffected/minimally affected implant. Materials and methods: Nineteen partially edentulous patients having 77 implants inserted, with a mean age of 54.84 ± 7.60 years, were matched for age, gender, compliance, smoking status, general health, and implant characteristics. Periodontal parameters were evaluated in the remaining teeth. Means per teeth and implants were used when making comparisons. Results: Statistically significant differences were observed between baseline and final examination in teeth for tPPD, tCAL and MBL. Furthermore, at 7.6 years, statistically significant differences existed between implants and teeth with regard to iCAL and tCAL (p = 0.03). Multiple regression analyses were performed and revealed a significant association regarding iPPD and CBL with smoking and periodontal diagnosis. In addition, FMBS was significantly associated with CBL. Unaffected/minimally affected implants were found more frequently in the posterior mandible, with longer lengths (>10 mm) and small diameters (<4 mm), including in screwed multi-unit bridges. Conclusions: The study results appear to reflect minimally affected mean crestal bone-level loss around implants in comparison to the marginal bone-level loss around teeth when exposed to uncontrolled severe periodontal disease over a mean period of observation of 7.6 years, while the unaffected/minimally affected implants seemed to benefit from a combination of clinical factors, including posterior mandibular position, smaller diameters, and screwed multi-unit restorations.
Cardioprotective Effects of Resveratrol in the Mediterranean Diet: A Short Narrative Review
Authors: Capurso Cristiano , Bellanti Francesco , Lo Buglio Aurelio , Vendemiale Gianluigi
Published: May 2023

The beneficial effects of a Mediterranean diet are due to the numerous active compounds in the food and, particularly, the high concentration of compounds with synergistically acting antioxidant properties. Resveratrol, a stilbenoid nonflavonoid phenol, is an antioxidant that is naturally produced by numerous plants as a defensive agent in response to attacks from pathogens, such as bacteria and fungi. Resveratrol has several effects on human health, including on the lipid profile, where it primarily downregulates the enzyme 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase, reducing the synthesis of cholesterol. Resveratrol also increases the expression of LDL receptors in the liver, contributing to the reduction in the LDL-cholesterol levels. This short narrative review, based on relevant articles written in English from a PubMed search, using the keywords “resveratrol”, “atherosclerosis”, “cardiovascular disease”, and “Mediterranean Diet“, focuses on the possible effects of this molecule on cardiovascular disease, lipid metabolism, and atherosclerosis.
Trust–Region Nonlinear Optimization Algorithm for Orientation Estimator and Visual Measurement of Inertial–Magnetic Sensor
Authors: Jia Nan , Wei Zongkang , Li Bangyu
Published: May 2023

This paper proposes a novel robust orientation estimator to enhance the accuracy and robustness of orientation estimation for inertial–magnetic sensors of the small consumer–grade drones. The proposed estimator utilizes a trust–region strategy within a nonlinear optimization framework, transforming the orientation fusion problem into a nonlinear optimization problem based on the maximum likelihood principle. The proposed estimator employs a trust–region Dogleg gradient descent strategy to optimize orientation precision and incorporates a Huber robust kernel to minimize interference caused by acceleration during the maneuvering process of the drone. In addition, a novel method for evaluating the performance of orientation estimators is also presented based on visuals. The proposed method consists of two parts: offline calibration of the basic cube using Augmented Reality University of Cordoba (ArUco) markers and online orientation measurement of the sensor carrier using a nonlinear optimization solver. The proposed measurement method’s accuracy and the proposed estimator’s performance are evaluated under low–dynamic (rotation) and high–dynamic (shake) conditions in the experiment. The experimental findings indicate that the proposed measurement method obtains an average re–projection error of less than 0.1 pixels. The proposed estimator has the lowest average orientation error compared to conventional orientation estimation algorithms. Despite the time–consuming nature of the proposed estimator, it exhibits greater robustness and precision, particularly in highly dynamic environments.
Feature Screening for High-Dimensional Variable Selection in Generalized Linear Models
Authors: Jiang Jinzhu , Shang Junfeng
Published: May 2023

The two-stage feature screening method for linear models applies dimension reduction at first stage to screen out nuisance features and dramatically reduce the dimension to a moderate size; at the second stage, penalized methods such as LASSO and SCAD could be applied for feature selection. A majority of subsequent works on the sure independent screening methods have focused mainly on the linear model. This motivates us to extend the independence screening method to generalized linear models, and particularly with binary response by using the point-biserial correlation. We develop a two-stage feature screening method called point-biserial sure independence screening (PB-SIS) for high-dimensional generalized linear models, aiming for high selection accuracy and low computational cost. We demonstrate that PB-SIS is a feature screening method with high efficiency. The PB-SIS method possesses the sure independence property under certain regularity conditions. A set of simulation studies are conducted and confirm the sure independence property and the accuracy and efficiency of PB-SIS. Finally we apply PB-SIS to one real data example to show its effectiveness.
MRNG: Accessing Cosmic Radiation as an Entropy Source for a Non-Deterministic Random Number Generator
Authors: Kutschera Stefan , Slany Wolfgang , Ratschiller Patrick , Gursch Sarina , Dagenborg Håvard
Published: May 2023

Privacy and security require not only strong algorithms but also reliable and readily available sources of randomness. To tackle this problem, one of the causes of single-event upsets is the utilization of a non-deterministic entropy source, specifically ultra-high energy cosmic rays. An adapted prototype based on existing muon detection technology was used as the methodology during the experiment and tested for its statistical strength. Our results show that the random bit sequence extracted from the detections successfully passed established randomness tests. The detections correspond to cosmic rays recorded using a common smartphone during our experiment. Despite the limited sample, our work provides valuable insights into the use of ultra-high energy cosmic rays as an entropy source.
Suppression of Crosstalk in Quantum Circuit Based on Instruction Exchange Rules and Duration
Authors: Guan Zhijin , Liu Renjie , Cheng Xueyun , Feng Shiguang , Zhu Pengcheng
Published: May 2023

Crosstalk is the primary source of noise in quantum computing equipment. The parallel execution of multiple instructions in quantum computation causes crosstalk, which causes coupling between signal lines and mutual inductance and capacitance between signal lines, destroying the quantum state and causing the program to fail to execute correctly. Overcoming crosstalk is a critical prerequisite for quantum error correction and large-scale fault-tolerant quantum computing. This paper provides an approach for suppressing crosstalk in quantum computers based on multiple instruction exchange rules and duration. Firstly, for the majority of the quantum gates that can be executed on quantum computing devices, a multiple instruction exchange rule is proposed. The multiple instruction exchange rule reorders quantum gates in quantum circuits and separates double quantum gates with high crosstalk on quantum circuits. Then, time stakes are inserted based on the duration of different quantum gates, and quantum gates with high crosstalk are carefully separated in the process of quantum circuit execution by quantum computing equipment to reduce the influence of crosstalk on circuit fidelity. Several benchmark experiments verify the proposed method’s effectiveness. In comparison to previous techniques, the proposed method improves fidelity by 15.97% on average.
Anomalous Self-Organization in Active Piles
Authors: Nattagh-Najafi Morteza , Nabil Mohammad , Mridha Rafsun Hossain , Nabavizadeh Seyed Amin
Published: May 2023

Inspired by recent observations on active self-organized critical (SOC) systems, we designed an active pile (or ant pile) model with two ingredients: beyond-threshold toppling and under-threshold active motions. By including the latter component, we were able to replace the typical power-law distribution for geometric observables with a stretched exponential fat-tailed distribution, where the exponent and decay rate are dependent on the activity’s strength (ζ). This observation helped us to uncover a hidden connection between active SOC systems and α-stable Levy systems. We demonstrate that one can partially sweep α-stable Levy distributions by changing ζ. The system undergoes a crossover towards Bak–Tang–Weisenfeld (BTW) sandpiles with a power-law behavior (SOC fixed point) below a crossover point ζ<ζ*≈0.1.
Tweedie Compound Poisson Models with Covariate-Dependent Random Effects for Multilevel Semicontinuous Data
Authors: Ma Renjun , Islam Md. Dedarul , Hasan M. Tariqul , Jørgensen Bent
Published: May 2023

Multilevel semicontinuous data occur frequently in medical, environmental, insurance and financial studies. Such data are often measured with covariates at different levels; however, these data have traditionally been modelled with covariate-independent random effects. Ignoring dependence of cluster-specific random effects and cluster-specific covariates in these traditional approaches may lead to ecological fallacy and result in misleading results. In this paper, we propose Tweedie compound Poisson model with covariate-dependent random effects to analyze multilevel semicontinuous data where covariates at different levels are incorporated at relevant levels. The estimation of our models has been developed based on the orthodox best linear unbiased predictor of random effect. Explicit expressions of random effects predictors facilitate computation and interpretation of our models. Our approach is illustrated through the analysis of the basic symptoms inventory study data where 409 adolescents from 269 families were observed at varying number of times from 1 to 17 times. The performance of the proposed methodology was also examined through the simulation studies.
Seed Source for Restoration: Little Bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium (Michx.) Nash) and the Carolina Sandhills
Authors: Johnson Elizabeth , Hagan Althea Hotaling , Hiesl Patrick
Published: May 2023

Prairie and savanna ecosystems have declined dramatically worldwide. In the Southeastern United States, longleaf pine savannas have been reduced to less than 3% of their pre-European range. Restoring longleaf pine across the area has become a regional goal. Little bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium (Michx.) Nash) is critical to carrying the ecologically important fire through this ecosystem in some longleaf pine savannas. Little bluestem has a range that spans most of north America and is thought to display ecotypic variation. As a part of a longleaf pine restoration project in Camden, SC, we investigated whether the seed source of little bluestem and the site preparation techniques impacted the survival and growth of broadcasted seeds. In the field and greenhouse, we compared locally and commercially sourced seeds and field site preparation techniques including discing, raking, or no treatment. At the end of the growing season, there were significantly more plants grown from seeds collected locally compared to plants from seeds available commercially. Plants grown from locally collected seeds also invested more heavily in roots than plants grown from commercial seeds. Site preparation techniques did not appear to significantly impact plant survival. Collecting seed locally will help to ensure long-term restoration success by establishing populations of plants that are adapted to the local environmental conditions.
Interaction and Main Effects of Finance Support and Other Business Support Services on the Entrepreneurial Ecosystem: A Case Study of the Mpumalanga Province, South Africa
Authors: Ogujiuba Kanayo K. , Eggink Maria , Olamide Ebenezer
Published: May 2023

Finance support and other forms of business support have been recognized as key factors in the entrepreneurial ecosystem in theoretical and empirical investigations. There is currently a knowledge gap regarding the combined impact of these two variables on the entrepreneurial ecosystem, even though much research has shown that both variables have a favorable influence on entrepreneurial ecosystems. The primary goal of this study is to determine whether the interactions between the two variables—finance support and other business support services—have an impact on the entrepreneurial ecosystem in South Africa. A second objective is to determine the main effects of these variables on the entrepreneurial ecosystem. A standardized questionnaire was used to conduct a study of 2000 SMEs in the South African province of Mpumalanga. To investigate the effects of business support services and finance on the ecosystem as measured by the test instruments, a two-way between-groups analysis of variance was carried out. Depending on their finance index, subjects were classified into three groups: low, medium, and high. There was a statistically significant main effect for finance and other business support services with F(2, 1478) = 26.109, p ≤ 0.001 and F(2, 1478) = 149.552, p ≤ 0.001 respectively. However, the effect sizes were small (partial eta squared = 0.034 and 0.168). Post hoc comparisons using the Tukey HSD test indicated that the mean scores differed for all the groups in finance support and other business support services. It was found that financial support and other business support would impact the SME ecosystem in South Africa positively if implemented separately but not if implemented interactively. The targets of financial support should be separated from other business support during policy formulation and implementation by the government.