bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Accuracy of Vibration Test, Temperature, Ankle Reflex and Pinprick Sensation Examination against Biothesiometer Test for the Identification of Peripheral Neuropathy: A Cross-sectional study
Authors: Huan Li , Ching Siew Mooi , Lee Kai Wei , Khan Abdul Hanif Khan Yusof , Devaraj Navin Kumar , Cheong Ai Theng , Veettil Sajesh , Hui Teh Xian , Jian Leong Yong , Hoo Fan Kee , Sulaiman Wan Wan Aliaa Wan , Loh Wei Chao , Patil Mansi , Ramachandran Vasudevan
Published: August 2024

Introduction: Detection of peripheral neuropathy is important for early intervention to prevent the complication. This cross-sectional study aimed to evaluate the accuracy of vibration test, temperature, ankle reflex, and pinprick sensation examination compared to the biothesiometer test for the identification of peripheral neuropathy in a community setting.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among adults aged 18 years and above who visited retail pharmacies in Malaysia, utilizing a convenience sampling method from March 2021 to May 2022. Peripheral neuropathy was assessed using the biothesiometer test, vibration test, temperature, ankle reflex, and pinprick sensation examination. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) were calculated for each screening tool. SPSS version 26 was used to perform the analysis.
Results: A total of 1,283 participants were recruited. The prevalence of peripheral neuropathy was 22.7%. Among the screening tools, ankle reflex had the highest sensitivity (34.12%), followed by vibration (31.76%), pinprick sensation (24.41%), and temperature (6.76%). All tests demonstrated high specificity (95.02%-97.78%). Vibration testing had the highest PPV (83.72%).
Conclusion: Vibration testing had the highest PPV among the screening tools evaluated, suggesting its potential usefulness for the early detection of peripheral neuropathy in a non-clinical setting. However, further research is needed to validate these findings and assess the cost-effectiveness of implementing these screening tools in community-based settings.
Specific heat analyses on optical-phonon-derived uniaxial negative thermal expansion system TrZr2 (Tr = Fe and Co1-xNix)
Authors: Watanabe Yuto , Tayran Ceren , Kasem Md. Riad , Yamashita Aichi , Çakmak Mehmet , Katase Takayoshi , Mizuguchi Yoshikazu
Published: August 2024

Recently, huge uniaxial negative thermal expansion (NTE) along a c-axis has been observed in transition-metal (Tr) zirconides TrZr2 with a tetragonal CuAl2-type structure. In a recent study on FeZr2 [M. Xu et al., Nat. Commun. 14, 4439 (2023)], the importance of optical phonons to the emergence of the c-axis NTE in FeZr2 has been proposed. In this study, the physical properties of TrZr2 (Tr = Fe and Co1 − xNix) have been studied by specific heat, sound velocity measurements, and theoretical phonon calculations to discuss the importance of optical phonons to the emergence of the c-axis NTE in CoZr2 and FeZr2. From analyses of lattice specific heat, we found that Ni substitution results in a systematic decrease in oscillator strength for the Einstein modes with 8.74 meV (CoZr2). From phonon calculations, the low-energy optical phonon branches at the Γ point were observed for CoZr2 and FeZr2 with c-axis NTE, but not in NiZr2 with positive thermal expansion. The enhancement of phonon density of states near the above-mentioned optical phonon energy in CoZr2 and FeZr2 is consistent with the specific heat analyses. We propose the importance of the low-energy optical phonons to the emergence of the c-axis NTE in TrZr2.
Genetic polymorphism of merozoite surface protein 1 and merozoite surface protein 2 in the Vietnam Plasmodium falciparum population
Authors: Võ Tuấn Cường , Lê Hương Giang , Kang Jung-Mi , Trinh Nguyen Thi Minh , Quang Huynh Hong , Na Byoung-Kuk
Published: August 2024

Background
Plasmodium falciparum merozoite surface proteins 1 (PfMSP1) and 2 (PfMSP2) are potential candidates for malaria vaccine development. However, the genetic diversity of these genes in the global P. falciparum population presents a significant challenge in developing an effective vaccine. Hence, understanding the genetic diversity and evolutionary trends in the global P. falciparum population is crucial.
Methods
This study analyzed the genetic variations and evolutionary changes of pfmsp1 and pfmsp2 in P. falciparum isolates from the Central Highland and South-Central regions of Vietnam. DNASTAR and MEGA7 programs were utilized for analyses. The polymorphic nature of global pfmsp1 and pfmsp2 was also investigated.
Results
A total of 337 sequences of pfmsp1 and 289 sequences of pfmsp2 were obtained. The pfmsp1 and pfmsp2 from Vietnam revealed a higher degree of genetic homogeneity compared to those from other malaria-endemic countries. Remarkably, the allele diversity patterns of Vietnam pfmsp1 and pfmsp2 differed significantly from those of neighboring countries in the Greater Mekong Subregion. Declines in allele diversity and polymorphic patterns of Vietnam pfmsp1 and pfmsp2 were observed.
Conclusions
The Vietnam P. falciparum population might be genetically isolated from the parasite populations in other neighboring GMS countries, likely due to geographical barriers and distinct evolutionary pressures. Furthermore, bottleneck effects or selective sweeps may have contributed to the genetic homogeneity of Vietnam pfmsp1 and pfmsp2.
Neural Architecture Search for Adaptive Neural Network Structures: Comparative Analysis of Layer and Neuron Adjustments
Authors: Hosseinzadeh Hamed
Published: August 2024

The network's architecture significantly influences neural network (NN) training efficiency, which necessitates substantial computational resources and time. This paper explores the efficacy of adaptive mechanisms that dynamically modify the neural network's structure during training, focusing on both layer and neuron adjustments through Neural Architecture Search (NAS). Eight adaptive methods are investigated and compared to enhance training efficiency and performance: four for adaptive layer adjustments—Adapt Network Structure Threshold, Adapt Network Structure Moving Average, Gradual Adaptation Based on Slope of Loss Change, and Adaptive Learning Rate Adjustment; and four for adaptive neuron adjustments—Adaptive Neuron Adjustment, Adapt Network Structure Neuron Growth, Adapt Network Structure Neuron Decay, and Adapt Network Structure Balanced. Experimental tests were conducted using a neural network with five inputs and two outputs, beginning with three inner layers, each containing ten neurons. The results demonstrate that adaptive methods significantly improve training efficiency, providing valuable insights for optimizing neural network structures. This study highlights the potential of combining adaptive strategies through NAS to achieve optimal performance, paving the way for future research and practical applications in neural network training.
Understanding Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and Mental Health Disparities in Bangladeshi Women: A Mixed Method Approach
Authors: Khan Maharaj , Jaman Abdullah , Ahmed MD. Faisal , Das Namrata
Published: August 2024

Background PCOS is a common hormonal disorder affecting women's well-being. It is a chronic ailment without a cure, posing a significant threat to women's health, with many going untreated. Aims Many women in Bangladesh lack knowledge about PCOS, leading to delays in diagnosis and treatment. This gap hinders understanding of coping strategies, treatment options, and lifestyle improvements related to the condition. Methods In total, 426 participants were included in this mixed method study, and data were collected from them in a mixed-method way. A standard approach was used for the assessment of knowledge level among Bangladeshi people about PCOS signs & symptoms, causes, diagnosis & treatment options, and impacts on health. The prevalence of diagnostic tests among people and the extent to which women are underdiagnosed were also determined. Results Women with positive PCOS status had a significantly negative impact on mental health conditions. The knowledge level about PCOS among participants is low (63.7%), moderate (21.6%), and high (14.7%). We have found a significant association between knowledge level and age, education, occupation, living place, screening practice, and PCOS status (p-value < 0.05). It is remarkable that 63.4% of women in Bangladesh remain undiagnosed with a symptomatic appearance. Conclusion It is evident that a significant number of women have limited knowledge about PCOS. They also failed to assess their PCOS status, even though the prevalence of PCOS is over thirty percent. Hence, it is important to arrange a health education initiative aimed at educating and encouraging women to actively engage in the diagnostic process to prevent PCOS complications.
Imaging mass cytometry reveals novel cellular neighbourhoods predicting prognosis of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease-associated hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Wen Wen , Wang Xianming , Xu Bowen , Geng Xin , Bi Wendi , Jia Qinyi , Hu Ji , Chen Shu-Zhen , Sun Xiaojuan , Ge Yang , Zhang Guangyong
Published: August 2024

Objective Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is increasingly implicated in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) pathogenesis. We aimed to examine panoramic cellular composition and spatial structure of NAFLD-HCC clinical samples, assess the role of tumor micro-environment (TME) in the process of liver fibrosis and oncogenesis, and find potential clinical intervention measures.
Methods Imaging mass cytometry (IMC) technology was used to reveal the expression and spatial distribution of biomarkers in samples from 56 patients with NAFLD-HCC and 6 patients with focal nodular hyperplasia as control. 37 different metal coupling biomarkers were designed to label the tumor, border and adjacent regions of the tissues to generate 367 highly multiplexed histology images at single-cell resolution. By integrating the expression levels of biomarkers with the relative positional relationships between cells, we defined functional units as tightly interacting cellular neighborhoods (CNs). The relationship between CNs and patients’ prognosis was then accessed to identify potential clinical targets of NAFLD-HCC.
Results Cells were dimensionally reduced to access the cellular phenotype and 18 clusters of cells and 9 CNs were defined. Heterogeneity in TME and CN composition was observed not only across various regions within the same individual but also among comparable regions in different patients. The combined analysis of the overall survival data revealed that patients with a high enrichment of T & NK cell associated CN exhibited a more favorable clinical prognosis. In contrast, those with a high enrichment of myofibroblast associated CN and a YAP+ cancer cell associated CN exhibited a poor clinical prognosis.
Conclusion Our study provided a landscape of NAFLD-HCC and its TME characteristics from the topological perspective. The findings indicated that changing the low immune cell infiltration status of NAFLD-HCC through the augmentation of active T and NK cells and hepatic antifibrotic therapy may benefit the long-term prognosis of patients with NAFLD-HCC. Key words: imaging mass cytometry, NAFLD-HCC, cellular neighborhoods, prognosis, tumor micro-environment
Clade 2.3.4.4b but not historical clade 1 HA replicating RNA vaccine protects against bovine H5N1 challenge
Authors: Hawman David , Tipih Thomas , Hodge Eddie , Meade-White Kimberly , Leventhal Shanna , Hatzakis Kiara , Park Stephanie , Gaffney Karen , Stone E. Taylor , Warner Nikole , Rosenke Kyle , Erasmus Jesse , Feldmann Heinz
Published: August 2024

The ongoing circulation of influenza A H5N1 in the United States has raised concerns of a pandemic caused by highly pathogenic avian influenza. Although the United States has stockpiled and is prepared to produce millions of vaccine doses to address an H5N1 pandemic, the currently circulating influenza A H5N1 contains multiple mutations within the immunodominant head domain of HA compared to the antigens used in stockpiled vaccines. It is unclear if these stockpiled vaccines will need to be updated to match the contemporary H5N1 strains. Here we show that a replicating RNA vaccine expressing the hemagglutinin (HA) of an H5N1 isolated from a US dairy cow confers complete protection against homologous lethal challenge in mice. Strikingly, a repRNA encoding the HA of a pre-pandemic H5 subtype from 2004 (A/Vietnam/1203/2004), only conferred partial protection. Our data highlight the utility of nucleic acid vaccines to be rapidly updated to match emergent viruses of concern while demonstrating that contemporary bovine H5N1 viruses can evade immunity elicited by historical HA antigens.
Boundary condition and reflection anomaly in $2+1$ dimensions
Authors: Chen Jiunn-Wei , Hsieh Chang-Tse , Matsudo Ryutaro
Published: August 2024

It is known that the 2+12+1d single Majorana fermion theory has an anomaly of the reflection, which is canceled out when 16 copies of the theory are combined. Therefore, it is expected that the reflection symmetric boundary condition is impossible for one Majorana fermion, but possible for 16 Majorana fermions. In this paper, we consider a reflection symmetric boundary condition that varies at a single point, and find that there is a problem with one Majorana fermion. The problem is the absence of a corresponding outgoing wave to a specific incoming wave into the boundary, which leads to the non-conservation of the energy. For 16 Majorana fermions, it is possible to connect every incoming wave to an outgoing wave without breaking the reflection symmetry. In addition, we discuss the connection with the fermion-monopole scattering in 3+13+1 dimensions.
ELEMENTOS DA COMPLEXIDADE NA PRÁTICA DOCENTE DE LÍNGUA PORTUGUESA DO INTERIOR CEARENSE A PARTIR DA PANDEMIA DO COVID-19
Authors: Alves Gonçalves Joice Élida , Luiz Rafael Edmilson
Published: August 2024

O paradigma da complexidade ou paradigma emergente, representa, contemporaneamente, uma tendência mundial, sobretudo na história das ciências, a tomar todo e qualquer conhecimento humano em seu caráter sistêmico e múltiplo, já que, a fragmentação do conhecimento nem sempre consegue contemplar aspectos importantes na análise de um fenômeno. Durante a pandemia do COVID-19, o mundo passou por um período de caos, sendo o ensino, em suas várias modalidades, um dos principais impactados por esse momento histórico. A partir da vivência docente no interior do Estado do Ceará, o presente artigo tem como objetivo investigar a presença de elementos do Paradigma Complexo no ensino de língua portuguesa, partindo do período emergencial remoto de 2020/2021, ponderando as perspectivas de professores de Português do Ensino Médio da 17ª Coordenadoria Regional de Desenvolvimento da Educação do Estado do Ceará (CREDE 17), interior Cearense, sobre sua prática docente. Para isso, dialoga-se com estudos do Paradigma da Complexidade (Morin, 2015), da Educação (Morin, 2011; 2021) e do Pensamento Sistêmico (Vasconcellos, 2002). O procedimento metodológico adotado é o estudo de caso. O corpus é formado por entrevistas com seis professores de municípios que compõem a CREDE 17. Como resultado, aponta-se, principalmente a partir do período pandêmico, que os professores colaboradores lançaram mão de diversos elementos da Complexidade em sua prática docente, a qual é encarada como um sistema de natureza múltipla, envolvendo a subjetividade dos sujeitos, além da assumpção de uma postura aberta, com ações recursivas, autônomas, estratégicas, contextualizadas, presumindo imprevisibilidades e desordens.
Proline-based Organocatalyst for the Synthesis of Arylidene Benzofuranone Intermediates Enabling the Construction of Aurone-derived Azadienes
Authors: Alsaggaf Azhaar T. , Sayed Mostafa , Soliman Ahmed I.A. , Ahmed Mostafa
Published: August 2024

:

Organocatalysis has been recognized as a part of chemical research for a long
time, and it gained significant attention in catalysis in recent decades. Amine catalyst is a
substantial type of organocatalysis, and it is successively employed for the activation of
carbonyl compounds. This manuscript delves into the exploration of a proline-based organocatalyst
for the synthesis of arylidene benzofuranone intermediates, a critical step that
facilitates the subsequent construction of aurone-derived azadienes. In this work, we successfully
reported the synthesis of arylidene benzofuranone intermediates through Aldol
condensation of benzofuranone with different aldehydes enabled by proline-derived organic
catalysts. To achieve this strategy, six examples of amine organocatalysts (A1-A6) were
evaluated to showcase the optimal catalyst for this transformation. Moreover, the arylidene
benzofuranone intermediates were further employed for the synthesis of interesting aurone-derived azadiene
substrates through its reaction with TsNH2. Notably, the using of organocatalyst A6 resulted in the delivery of
the product with the best yield (94% isolated yield). Under the optimized conditions, different aromatic and
heterocyclic containing aldehydes were effectively tolerated to generate the corresponding arylidene benzofuranone
intermediates, which further converted to the azadiene products in high to excellent yield. The
claimed structures were confirmed by the spectral analysis.
Tackling Neuroinflammation in Cognitive Disorders with Single-targeted and Multi-targeted Histamine H3 Receptor Modulators
Authors: Lopes Flávia Barrio , Fernandes João Paulo S. , Uliassi Elisa
Published: August 2024

:

Neuroinflammation is a process involved in a variety of central nervous system (CNS)
diseases and is being increasingly recognized as a key mediator of cognitive impairments. Neuroinflammatory
responses including glial activation, increased production of proinflammatory cytokines,
and aberrant neuronal signaling, contribute to cognitive dysfunctions. Histamine is a key
peripheral inflammatory mediator, but plays an important role in neuroinflammatory processes as
well. The unique localization of histamine H3 receptor (H3R) in the CNS along with the modulation
of the release of other neurotransmitters via its action on heteroreceptors on non-histaminergic
neurons have led to the development of several H3R ligands for various brain diseases. H3R antagonists/
inverse agonists have revealed potential to treat diverse neuroinflammatory CNS disorders,
including neurodegenerative diseases, attention-deficit hyperactivity syndrome and schizophrenia.
In this mini review, we provide a brief overview on the crucial involvement of the histaminergic
transmission in the neuroinflammatory processes underlying these cognitive disorders,
with a special focus on H3R involvement. The anti-neuroinflammatory potential of single-targeted
and multi-targeted H3R antagonists/inverse agonists for the treatment of these conditions is discussed
here.
Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles Using Haplophyllum robustum Bge. Extract: Antibacterial, Antifungal, and Scolicidal Activity against Echinococcus granulosus Protoscolices
Authors: Movahedi Razih , Razmjoue Damoun , Movahedpour Ahmad , Varma Rajender S. , Bahmani Mahmoud
Published: August 2024

Background:

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) biosynthesized via the deployment of
plant extractives have garnered much attention, especially due to their antimicrobial properties.
Herein, the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles has been accomplished using the aqueous
extract of Haplophyllum robustum, which includes a study of its antibacterial, antifungal, and
scolicidal activity.

Methods:

The preparative process was followed by characterization using UV-Vis spectroscopy,
and the ensuing spherical AgNPs of average size 7-25 nm were identified by Dynamic Light
Scattering (DLS), X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR),
Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM). The
antibacterial, antifungal, and scolicidal activities of AgNPs were assessed by deploying disc
diffusion and microdilution methods against four standard bacteria and four typical Candida
species and liver hydatid cyst protoscoleces, where they exhibited good biological activity.

Results:

The results showed that the greener synthesis of silver nanoparticles using the aqueous
extract of renewable and abundant H. robustum plant is a simple, inexpensive, and safer alternative
that does not use any toxic or harmful substances.

Conclusion:

Thus, with minimal or no side effects, this approach to AgNPs bodes well for their
appliances as antibacterial, antifungal, and scolicidal agents.
Enhancing Work Zone Safety: Evaluating Static Merge Strategies Through Microscopic Traffic Simulation
Authors: Qawasmeh Baraah
Published: August 2024

Background

The utilization of merging control has been proposed as a strategy to maximize the capacity of roads in work zone areas. The static Early Merge (EM) and static Late Merge (LM) controls are extensively implemented among these strategies. Although many studies have investigated the efficacy of these controls through the analysis of field data or microscopic traffic simulations, such comparisons are frequently conducted under different work zone conditions, which can result in inconsistent, contradictory conclusions.

Materials and Methods

A simulation study was carried out using the VISSIM microscopic traffic simulator within a self-developed work zone featuring a 2-to-1 lane closure setup to comprehensively assess and contrast the traffic efficiency of the EM and LM controls. Furthermore, through a comprehensive analysis and comparison of network performance within the designed work zone across various scenarios, including queue length, vehicle delays, and travel time, the significant VISSIM parameters influencing the system's performance were identified.

Results

The analysis revealed that the parameters CC1 (headway time) and CC2 (longitudinal following threshold) from the car-following model exert more significant influence in the simulated work zone throughput than the Safety Distance Reduction Factor (SDRF) parameter from the lane-changing model.

Discussion

According to the simulation findings, implementing the EM control is preferable when drivers display aggressive behavior and maintain relatively short safety distances (i.e., low CC1 values). Conversely, opting for the LM control is more advisable in work zone areas where drivers demonstrate cautious driving tendencies and maintain longer safety distances (i.e., high CC1 values).

Conclusion

The efficacy of static EM and LM was analyzed in a 2-to-1 lane closure work zone on a freeway using the microscopic traffic simulator VISSIM. Simulation results were compared to identify the most relevant VISSIM parameters that influence work zone throughput. Our results indicate that the parameters CC1 and CC2 from the car-following model have a more substantial impact than the SDRF parameter from the lane-changing model. In particular, our comparison results suggest that the work zone throughput decreases in both the EM and LM scenarios as the values of CC1 and CC2 increase. Additionally, SDRF has a relatively negligible effect on the network performance of both merge strategies.
Genomic Medicine: Perspective of the Challenges for the Implementation of Preventive, Predictive, and Personalized Medicine in Latin America
Authors: Perenguez Marcela , Ramírez-Montaño Diana , Candelo Estephania , Echavarria Hector , De La Torre Alejandro
Published: August 2024

:

Genomic information plays an essential role in personalized medicine, with the
main objective of determining risk and predisposition to disease, as well as guiding diagnosis,
selection, and prioritization of therapeutic options, and even predicting prognosis.
Research in the second half of the 20th century allowed genomics to move from the laboratory
to clinical practice. The Human Genome Project showed the structure of the genome,
the genes, and several of their regulatory pathways, which allowed obtaining exact
knowledge about the molecular origin of a growing number of diseases and the development
of next-generation sequencing technologies. In the second decade of the 21st century,
the decrease in testing costs has allowed genomic medicine to begin to be applied in
hospital institutions and outpatient services with a positive impact on public health. However,
it has been evidenced that these potential benefits have not been experienced equitably
throughout the world. This commentary explores the main challenges and obstacles to
the implementation of genomic medicine services in order to expand their use as part of
clinical practice in the Latin American context. Finally, six main barriers have been identified:
i) high costs and poor access, ii) lack of trained personnel in the genomic field, iii)
negative personal and social beliefs, iv) lack of representation of Latin American populations
in genomic databases, v) scarce evidence of impact on clinical practice, and vi) lack
of understanding of genomic test results by patients and clinicians.
The Impact of Enhanced Recovery Protocols Regarding Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting Following Sleeve Gastrectomy under Triple Prophylaxis: A Controlled Randomized Study
Authors: Mansour Haidy Salah , Megalla Sohair Adeeb , Abdelzaher Tarek Abdelmonem , Abdelwahab Ali Taha , Sewefy Alaa Mostafa , Hetta Hassan Mokhtar Elshorbagy
Published: August 2024

Background

Following a sleeve gastrectomy, post-operative nausea and vomiting (PONV) is a typical issue. Furthermore, several prophylactic techniques have been developed, such as preventive antiemetic and accelerated recovery after surgery (ERAS). However, PONV has not entirely disappeared, and clinicians are still working to lower PONV incidence.

Aim

Our goal was to evaluate how adopting Enhanced Recovery Protocols (ERAS) affects postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) in comparison to standard care protocol after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) while receiving triple antiemetic prophylaxis.

Objective

The objective of this study was to verify that the ERAS procedure is crucial for lowering PONV despite the use of an efficient and effective antiemetic.

Methods

This is a computer-generated randomized clinical trial. Haloperidol, dexamethasone, and ondansetron were administered to all patients undergoing elective LSG, 29 patients within an ERAS protocol, and 29 within a standard care protocol. The primary finding was the incidence of PONV within 36 hours following LSG. The time to initially administer rescue antiemetic medication, number of rescue antiemetic medication administrations, postoperative opioid consumption, oral fluid tolerance, complications, and QoR-15 questionnaire for quality of recovery were the secondary outcomes.

Results

Within the first 36 hours following LSG, the incidence of PONV in the ERAS group was 17.20%, while in the non-ERAS group, it was 51.7%, with P<0.012 and higher PONV severity (P<0.021) in the non-ERAS group. The ERAS group took a longer time (6 hours) for the first rescue antiemetic medicine than the Non-ERAS group (2 hours), with P<0.001 and significantly less number of patients (20.7%) needing rescue antiemetic, compared to the Non-ERAS group (65.5%), with P<0.001. The dosage of nalbuphine needed by the ERAS group was lower (2.7±2.8) than the non-ERAS group (19.9±6.0). Regarding the QoR-15 scores, there was a significant difference in the two groups' overall performance (P <0.001). Between the two groups, there were no significant complications following surgery.

Conclusion

This study reveals that even though triple antiemetic prophylaxis was used, the ERAS protocol had a beneficial effect on PONV when compared to the standard care approach.
Effect of ribs on torque in bending of rebars
Authors: HIGAKI Satoshi
Published: August 2024

Abstract. Deformed steel bars (Rebar) are bent into various shapes as construction materials and used with concrete. Bending machines are used for processing, and torque is required to bend rebars. Understanding the torque required for rebars with variable cross-sectional shape is crucial. The purpose of this study is to clarify the relationship between torque and material deformation. Rebars and round steel bars were bent using a simple bending machine. A high-speed camera was used to observe the material deformation during the bending process. Elastic-plastic finite element analysis was also conducted to evaluate the relationship between the material deformation and torque of the rebars during bending. The following conclusions were obtained. When the circular roller contacts the round steel bar and starts bending the bar, the torque increases rapidly. Subsequently, the torque does not change easily and remains constant. On the other hand, the torque of the rebar also increases rapidly when the circular roller comes into contact. Thereafter, the torque repeats increasing and decreasing. It was confirmed that the torque required to bend a rebar exceeds that required to bend a round steel bar with an outside diameter similar to the minimum outside diameter of the rebar. The fluctuation in torque during rebar bending occurs due to the bending of the smaller outside diameter section of the rebar, which is further away from the fulcrum roller toward the circular roller. This contrasts with the bending process of round steel bars, where bending primarily occurs in the area in contact with the fulcrum roller. As the bending of a rebar progress, part of the rebar may move away from the fulcrum roller. When a section located on the rebar receiver side from the fulcrum roller moves away from the fulcrum roller, the torque required to progress the rotation angle of the circular roller was reduced. The torque required for bending rebars is found to be between the torque required for bending round steel bars of the smallest and largest diameters of rebars.
Magnetic pulse-assisted semi-solid brazing of Cu/Al tube joints and oxide film removal mechanism
Authors: RUI Zhenglei
Published: August 2024

Abstract. In this paper, the advantages of magnetic pulse welding, brazing and semi-solid forming are combined to propose magnetic pulse-assisted semi-solid brazing (MPASSB) to join copper and aluminum tubes. Based on 3D electromagnetic-structural-fluid finite element simulations, the high-speed impact of the aluminum tube on the filler metal will drive the high-speed shear rheology of the semi-solid filler metal. Based on 2D FEM-SPH finite element analysis, the aluminum tube will have a strong interaction with the filler metal during the high-speed impact on the filler metal, which is conducive to the removal of the oxide film on the surface of the copper-aluminum tube and the promotion of element diffusion. Microscopic characterization of the joints revealed that the interfacial oxide film had been completely removed, achieving interfacial metallurgical bonding, and no brittle copper-aluminum intermetallic compounds were found at the interface, with a shear strength of 40 MPa.
Forming of magnesium alloy cup using friction heated punch
Authors: HARADA Yasunori
Published: August 2024

Abstract. In deep drawing of aluminum and magnesium alloys, it is known that many alloys are difficult to form at room temperature. In particular, many commonly used magnesium alloys are very difficult to form at room temperature. To improve formability, warm processing is used. However, the problem is that the mold requires heating and cooling equipment and its control equipment.　In the present study, we attempted warm deep drawing using frictional heat generation. To heat the punch itself, a frictional heat generation structure was incorporated inside the punch. The materials of the friction heater jig were several kinds of stainless steel and alloy steel tools. The relationship between the heat generation temperature of the frictionally heated punch and the working time was investigated. In addition, the amount of wear due to friction of each jig was investigated. It was found that sufficient working temperatures were obtained in the friction-heated combination of austenitic stainless steel and alloy tool steel. It was also found that good formability of the deep-drawn cup was obtained in warm deep drawing using the prototype friction heated punch.
Knowledge-guided particle swarm optimization of multi-link systems for cold and warm forging presses
Authors: ZHANG Han
Published: August 2024

Abstract. The performance of the multi-link system for mechanical press directly affects the performance of the press and the quality of the forgings. In order to improve the quality of forgings and enhance the design efficiency, a knowledge-guided particle swarm optimization design framework for multi-link systems is proposed, taking the cold and warm forging press as the research object. A knowledge database consisting of historical cases, rule knowledge and other knowledge was created. A reasoning machine consisting of retrieval and adoption was then built to determine the configuration of the multi-link system through case similarity calculations. A multi-link system optimization model was established for the selected configuration. To solve the optimization model, a knowledge-guided improved particle swarm optimization algorithm is developed, from which we obtain the optimized dimensions of the multi-link system. Comparing the results before and after optimization, we found that all the performance indexes have been improved to a certain extent, which proves the effectiveness of the knowledge-guided particle swarm optimization design framework for multi-link systems. Moreover, the framework facilitates the storage and reuse of design knowledge, which improves design efficiency and promotes design automation.
Influence of hardening model on draw-bending springback prediction of DP980 dual-phase steel
Authors: ZHENG Xuebin
Published: August 2024

Abstract. Springback is a key factor affecting the dimensional and shape accuracy of cold-formed high-strength steel parts, and the accuracy of high-strength steel springback prediction depends on the accurate material constitutive model. Therefore, it is important to study the influence of the constitutive model on springback prediction accuracy. In this paper, the parameters of the Yoshida-Uemori (Y-U) dynamic hardening model of DP980 dual-phase steel were determined through tension-compression tests with two different strain levels and multicycle tension-compression tests. Based on the draw-bending test platform, the influence of roll radius and normalized back force on the springback of DP980 was investigated. Additionally, the effect of different hardening models (Swift model, Y-U model) on the prediction of draw-bending springback was studied by using Abaqus finite element analysis software. The results show that increasing the bending radius and normalized back force can reduce the springback angle and side wall crimp. The tension-compression testing strategy shows little effect on the calibrated Y-U model parameters of DP980 dual-phase steel. The Y-U model can achieve better prediction accuracy for draw-bending springback angle and curvature compared to the Swift isotropic hardening model.
Research on material deformation in double-sided shearing with preventing enlargement of sheet material on the die using digital image correlation
Authors: UEDA Kouki
Published: August 2024

Abstract. In shearing, the effect of preventing the enlargement of sheet material on increasing burnished surface was reported. In this study, double-sided shearing with a suppression plate for preventing the enlargement of sheet material was carried out to investigate the effect of preventing the enlargement of sheet material on the material deformation and crack initiation. During shearing, the material deformation was observed using high speed camera and the distribution of displacement and strain of material were determined from moving images using digital image correlation. The following results were obtained from the observation of the cut surface obtained by shearing and the material deformation during shearing. When the suppression plate prevented the enlargement of the sheet material, the occurrence of cracks in the sheet material around the punch and die cutting edge was delayed. The length of burnished surface increased. For the same reason, the length of burnished surface increased as the trimming allowance of the sheet material was decreased when the enlargement of sheet material was prevented. It was confirmed that preventing the enlargement of sheet material affects the material flow. It is clarified that the equivalent strain around the punch and die cutting edge until crack initiation was increased when the enlargement of sheet material was prevented.
Integration of automated roll pass design and simulation for the development of shape rolling technology
Authors: BIBA N.
Published: August 2024

Abstract. The shape rolling technology is a productive manufacturing process. Meanwhile, its efficiency is highly dependent on a proper roll pass design and accurate adjusting of a rolling mill, which is especially critical for new products and complicated profile shapes. Traditionally, the roll pass design methods have been developed relying on extensive experience and knowledge accumulation, resulting in empirical rules expressed by analytical formulae. Nowadays, some design methods are converted into computer programs to speed up calculations. Nonetheless, the approach based on empirical rules has limitations, especially when implemented to develop the rolling technology for new materials and complex shape profiles. The effectiveness of the roll pass design can be significantly enhanced with the help of finite element (FE) simulation of the material deformation that happens in the stands of the rolling mill. The material flow prediction provided by FE simulation is more accurate than empiric formulae, leading to more accurate load, torque, and energy estimations. The presented paper is focused on the integration of the FE simulation of the rolling process with the roll pass design to make it effective and automated for a wide variety of profile shapes.
STRATEGIES FOR NET ZERO CARBON IN SUSTAINABLE CONSERVATION PRACTICES FOR HISTORICAL BUILDINGS IN MALAYSIA
Authors: Mari TamilSalvi , Chiat Chai Phey , Ng Veronica , Gunasagaran Sujatavani , Kuppusamy Sivaraman
Published: August 2024

Heritage buildings have always been essential in improving the quality of the city’s life, especially for the communities living in historical settings. They play a vital part in representing historical, architectural, cultural, political, spiritual, and symbolic values that are passed down to generations. Historical buildings are often considered dilapidated, and due to society's neglect of these, the historical buildings positioned within the oldest parts of the city have deteriorated. Heritage buildings in Malaysia are defined as historical buildings that are protected under the National Heritage Act 2005 (Act 645) to preserve tangible cultural heritage. This study intends to identify the Strategies contributing to Net Zero Carbon in Sustainable Conservation Practices for Historical Buildings in Malaysia. The research primarily focused on Conservation Architects and Heritage Professionals, with data being collected through semi-structured interviews and subsequently subjected to Thematic Analysis Matrix. The objective was to propose a set of recommendations for sustainable practices in the conservation of heritage buildings in Malaysia, aimed at achieving net zero carbon emissions. This endeavour was aimed at advancing the discourse on Net Zero Carbon in Historical Buildings and fostering public awareness regarding the significance of these architectural treasures.
REMOVAL OF VARIOUS METAL IONS IN WATER BY DIFFERENT PRE-TREATMENTS OF FLY ASH
Authors: Low Wen-Pei , Chun Wong Wai , Chang Fung-Lung , Lee Hoong Pin , Abdullah Noorul Hudai , Krishnan Santhana , Tiew Kian-Ghee
Published: August 2024

Rapid urbanisation in Malaysia has accelerated water pollution in rivers and other water sources, causing irreversible harm to the ecosystem. In view of that, this study aimed to work on using fly ash to address certain heavy metal components (chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), nickel (Ni), and zinc (Zn)) present in polluted water. The experiment employed three batches of fly ash. Two batches were treated with sodium hydroxide (NaOH-FA) and hydrochloric acid (HCl-FA), whereas one batch was left untreated (UFA). The three batches of adsorbents were examined by using a jar test after solutions containing 100 mg/L of Cr, Cu, Ni, and Zn ions were made. The results of various contact periods demonstrated that the fly ash had variable capacities for metal ion adsorption. The maximum adsorption of UFA was 79.958%(Cr), 80.814%(Cu), 81.580%(Ni), and 82.742%(Zn) while HCl-FA was adsorbing 77.148%(Cr), 82.546%(Cu), 78.896%(Ni), and 78.248%(Zn). NaOH-FA in this study was found to adsorb 80.828%(Cr), 79.230%(Cu), 81.692%(Ni), and 77.394%(Zn). Further to this, it was revealed that the Temkin Isotherm model was best fitted with the highest R² values (> 0.98). The negative value of the slope, B indicated that the adsorption is an endothermic process which leans towards physical adsorption. In conclusion, this study demonstrated the successful application of fly ash in water or wastewater treatment of metal ions.
LANDSCAPE ATTRACTIVENESS AND PLACE IDENTITY: CONSIDERING THE ROLE OF URBAN PARKS
Authors: Chen Xuanxian , Marzbali Massoomeh Hedayati , Abdullah Aldrin
Published: August 2024

Urban parks, vital public spaces for community health and well-being, also face challenges related to safety and security. Balancing the need for recreational spaces with ensuring safety is paramount for urban stability. However, existing research on the nexus between landscape attractiveness and perceived safety often overlooks the influence of factors such as park usage patterns, place identity, and park typologies. To address this research gap, we conducted a survey among 411 urban park users and employed SmartPLS and SPSS for data analysis. Our findings reveal a robust correlation between landscape attractiveness and perceived safety. Furthermore, we uncover that the combined influence of place identity and time spent in the park can serve as positive mediators in this relationship. Surprisingly, our analysis indicates that time spent in the park alone does not exert a significant mediating effect. Notably, our results highlight nuanced variations: the association between landscape attractiveness and place identity is particularly pronounced in parks with lower landscape attractiveness, while the mediating role of place identity on the relationship between park usage time and perceived safety is more pronounced in parks with higher landscape attractiveness. These findings contribute to our understanding of how urban park landscapes relate to perceived safety and provide new insights for improving the safety of urban parks, offering valuable insights for urban planners and public health policymakers in designing healthier urban environments.
Initial Evaluation of Acceptability, Engagement, and Effectiveness of the MO App to Provide Tailored and Comprehensive Support for Smoking Cessation: Development and Usability Study
Authors: Zhou Shuo , Brunetta Paul , Silvasstar Joshva , Feldman Greg , Oromi Nicolas , Bull Sheana
Published: August 2024

Background

Despite the growing availability of smoking cessation apps, low engagement and cessation rates have remained a significant challenge. To address this issue, we used a user-centered design to iteratively develop a mobile app (MO) to provide comprehensive, tailored, and evidence-based content to support smokers in their quitting journey.

Objective

This study examined the acceptability, use, and preliminary efficacy of the MO app for smoking cessation. Specifically, we sought to understand smokers’ preferred features, engagement, and satisfaction with MO; identify concerns in using the app and ways to improve the app; and evaluate its smoking cessation outcomes.

Methods

Through 3 cohorts, we recruited 10, 12, and 85 adult smokers who attempted to quit smoking to pilot-test the MO app between December 2019 and July 2022. Participants were instructed to complete a baseline survey, interact with the app for 6 weeks, and fill in a postsurvey at week 6. Participants in cohort 3 completed an additional postsurvey at week 12. Participants’ app use was tracked and analyzed. The primary outcome measures were participants’ 7-day point prevalence abstinence at 6 and 12 weeks.

Results

Participants reported high levels of satisfaction with the MO app across all 3 cohorts, rating it between 4.40 and 4.76 on a scale of 5 for acceptability. Users engaged with app activities for an average of 89 to 159 times over 35 days. The most liked features of the app included “quit plan,” “tracking,” “reminders and notifications,” “MOtalks,” and “motivational quotes.” The 7-day point prevalence abstinence rate of the modified intention to treat population in cohort 3 was 58% at 6 weeks and 52% at 12 weeks. Those who interacted more frequently with app features and engaged with more diverse activities were more likely to maintain abstinence at weeks 6 and 12. For each additional time logged into the app, the odds of staying abstinent at week 12 increased by 5% (odds ratio [OR] 1.05, 95% CI 1.01-1.08). Participants who earned >5000 points during app use also had higher odds of quitting at both 6 weeks (OR 3.12, 95% CI 1.25-7.75) and 12 weeks (OR 4.65, 95% CI 1.83-11.76), compared with those who earned <5000 points.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrated that MO is a feasible mobile phone app with high acceptability and usability and can effectively deliver smoking cessation support to individuals who want to quit. Implications for developing and evaluating mobile phone apps for smoking cessation are discussed.