bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Types of Physical Activity in Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease and All-Cause and Cardiovascular Mortality
Authors: Kim Donghee , Wijarnpreecha Karn , Dennis Brittany B. , Cholankeril George , Ahmed Aijaz
Published: March 2023

The impact of different types of physical activity (PA) on mortality in the context of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is not clearly defined and was investigated. This prospective study was performed using the 2007–2014 US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey with mortality follow-up through 2019. Over a median follow-up of 8.6 years, leisure-time and transportation-related PA that fulfilled the criteria outlined in the PA guidelines (≥150 min/week) in NAFLD were associated with a risk reduction in all-cause mortality (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.76, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.59–0.98 for leisure-time PA; HR: 0.62, 95% CI: 0.45–0.86 for transportation-related PA). Leisure-time and transportation-related PA in NAFLD were inversely associated with all-cause mortality in a dose-dependent manner (p for trends <0.01). Furthermore, the risk for cardiovascular mortality was lower in those meeting the PA guidelines for leisure-time PA (HR: 0.63, 95% CI: 0.44–0.91) and transportation-related PA (HR: 0.38, 95% CI: 0.23–0.65). Increasing sedentary behavior was linked to an increased risk of all-cause and cardiovascular mortality (p for trend <0.01). Meeting PA guidelines (≥150 min/week) for leisure-time and transportation-related PA has beneficial health effects on all-cause and cardiovascular mortality among individuals with NAFLD. Sedentary behavior in NAFLD showed harmful effects on all-cause and cardiovascular mortality.
Mental Health and Health-Related Quality of Life in Austrian Adolescents with Chronic Physical Health Conditions: Results from the MHAT Study
Authors: Wagner Gudrun , Karwautz Andreas , Philipp Julia , Truttmann Stefanie , Dür Wolfgang , Waldherr Karin , Berger Gabriele , Zeiler Michael
Published: March 2023

Chronic physical health conditions (CPHC) are on the rise in younger age groups and might have a negative impact on children and adolescents. In a representative sample of Austrian adolescents aged 10–18 years, internalizing, externalizing, and behavioral problems were assessed cross-sectionally using the Youth Self-Report and health-related quality of life (HrQoL) using the KIDSCREEN questionnaire. Sociodemographic variables, life events, and chronic illness specific parameters were considered as associated variables with mental health problems in individuals with CPHC. Of 3469 adolescents, 9.4% of girls and 7.1% of boys suffered from a chronic pediatric illness. Of these individuals, 31.7% and 11.9% had clinically relevant levels of internalizing and externalizing mental health problems, respectively, compared to 16.3% and 7.1% adolescents without a CPHC. Anxiety, depression, and social problems were twice as high in this population. Medication intake due to CPHC and any traumatic life-event were related to mental health problems. All HrQoL domains were deteriorated in adolescents with a double burden of mental and CPHC, whereas adolescents with a CPHC without mental health problems did not differ significantly from adolescents without a chronic illness. Targeted prevention programs for adolescents with a CPHC are urgently needed to prevent mental health problems in the long term.
Characteristics of Spatial Changes in Molars and Alveolar Bone Resorption among Patients with Loss of Mandibular First Molars: A CBCT-Based Morphometric Study
Authors: Hong Huiyi , Zhou Jing , Fan Qi , Jiao Ruijie , Kuang Qianyun , Zhou Hong , Hua Chengge , Yang Zheng , Lai Wenli , Long Hu
Published: March 2023

Objectives: To investigate the characteristics of spatial changes in molars and alveolar bone resorption among patients with loss of mandibular first molars. Methods: A total of 42 CBCT scans of patients with missing mandibular first molars (3 males, 33 females) and 42 CBCT scans of control subjects without loss of mandibular first molars (9 males, 27 females) were evaluated in this cross-sectional study. All images were standardized using the mandibular posterior tooth plane with Invivo software. The following indices regarding alveolar bone morphology were measured, including alveolar bone height, bone width, mesiodistal and buccolingual angulation of molars, overeruption of maxillary first molars, bone defects, and the capability of molar mesialization. Results: The vertical alveolar bone height in the missing group was reduced by 1.42 ± 0.70 mm, 1.31 ± 0.68, and 1.46 ± 0.85 mm on the buccal, middle, and lingual side, respectively (no differences among the three sides; p > 0.05). Alveolar bone width was reduced the greatest at the buccal CEJ level and the least at the lingual apex level. Mandibular second molar mesial tipping (with mean of the mesiodistal angulation = 57.47 ± 10.34°) and lingual tipping (with mean of the buccolingual angulation = 71.75 ± 8.34°) were observed. The mesial and distal cusps of maxillary first molars were extruded by 1.37 mm and 0.85 mm, respectively. Buccal and lingual defects of alveolar bone occurred at the CEJ, mid-root, and apex levels. Through 3D simulation, the second molar cannot be successfully mesialized into the missing tooth position, and the difference between the available and required distances for mesialization was the greatest at the CEJ level. The duration of tooth loss was significantly correlated with the mesio-distal angulation (R = −0.726, p < 0.001), buccal-lingual angulation (R = −0.528, p < 0.001) and the extrusion of the maxillary first molar (R = −0.334, p < 0.05). Conclusion: Both vertical and horizontal resorption of alveolar bone occurred. Mandibular second molars exhibit mesial and lingual tipping. Lingual root torque and uprighting of the second molars are needed for the success of molar protraction. Bone augmentation is indicated for severely resorbed alveolar bone.
An Artificial Intelligence-Enabled ECG Algorithm for Predicting the Risk of Recurrence in Patients with Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation after Catheter Ablation
Authors: Jiang Junrong , Deng Hai , Liao Hongtao , Fang Xianhong , Zhan Xianzhang , Wei Wei , Wu Shulin , Xue Yumei
Published: March 2023

Background: Catheter ablation (CA) is an important treatment strategy to reduce the burden and complications of atrial fibrillation (AF). This study aims to predict the risk of recurrence in patients with paroxysmal AF (pAF) after CA by an artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled electrocardiography (ECG) algorithm. Methods and Results: 1618 ≥ 18 years old patients with pAF who underwent CA in Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital from 1 January 2012 to 31 May 2019 were enrolled in this study. All patients underwent pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) by experienced operators. Baseline clinical features were recorded in detail before the operation and standard follow-up (≥12 months) was conducted. The convolutional neural network (CNN) was trained and validated by 12-lead ECGs within 30 days before CA to predict the risk of recurrence. A receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) was created for the testing and validation sets, and the predictive performance of AI-enabled ECG was assessed by the area under the curve (AUC). After training and internal validation, the AUC of the AI algorithm was 0.84 (95% CI: 0.78–0.89), with a sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, precision and balanced F Score (F1 score) of 72.3%, 95.0%, 92.0%, 69.1% and 0.707, respectively. Compared with current prognostic models (APPLE, BASE-AF2, CAAP-AF, DR-FLASH and MB-LATER), the performance of the AI algorithm was better (p < 0.01). Conclusions: The AI-enabled ECG algorithm seemed to be an effective method to predict the risk of recurrence in patients with pAF after CA. This is of great clinical significance in decision-making for personalized ablation strategies and postoperative treatment plans in patients with pAF.
Effects of Biologic Therapy on Laboratory Indicators of Cardiometabolic Diseases in Patients with Psoriasis
Authors: Hagino Teppei , Saeki Hidehisa , Fujimoto Eita , Kanda Naoko
Published: March 2023

Psoriasis is associated with cardiometabolic and cardiovascular diseases. Biologic therapy targeting tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-23, and IL-17 may improve not only psoriasis but also cardiometabolic diseases. We retrospectively evaluated whether biologic therapy improved various indicators of cardiometabolic disease. Between January 2010 and September 2022, 165 patients with psoriasis were treated with biologics targeting TNF-α, IL-17, or IL-23. The patients’ body mass index; serum levels of HbA1c, total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C), low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol, triglyceride (TG), and uric acid (UA); and systolic and diastolic blood pressures were recorded at weeks 0, 12, and 52 of the treatment. Baseline psoriasis area and severity index (week 0) positively correlated with TG and UA levels but negatively correlated with HDL-C levels, which increased at week 12 of IFX treatment compared to those at week 0. UA levels decreased at week 12 after ADA treatment compared with week 0. HDL-C levels decreased 52 weeks after IXE treatment. In patients treated with TNF-α inhibitors, HDL-C levels increased at week 12, and UA levels decreased at week 52, compared to week 0. Thus, the results at two different time points (at weeks 12 and 52) were inconsistent. However, the results still indicated that TNF-α inhibitors may improve hyperuricemia and dyslipidemia.
Effects of Melatonin Administration on Post-Stroke Delirium in Patients with Intracerebral Hemorrhage
Authors: Siokas Vasileios , Roesch Sara , Stefanou Maria-Ioanna , Buesink Rebecca , Wilke Vera , Sartor-Pfeiffer Jennifer , Adeyemi Kamaldeen , Poli Sven , Dardiotis Efthimios , Ziemann Ulf , Feil Katharina , Mengel Annerose
Published: March 2023

Post-stroke delirium (PSD) after intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is considered to be even more detrimental compared to that after ischemic stroke. Treatment options for post-ICH PSD remain limited. This study aimed at investigating to what extent prophylactic melatonin administration may have beneficial effects on post-ICH PSD. We performed a mono-centric, non-randomized, non-blinded, prospective cohort study, including 339 consecutive ICH patients admitted to the Stroke Unit (SU) from December 2015 to December 2020. The cohort consisted of ICH patients who underwent standard care (defined as the control group) and ICH patients who additionally received prophylactic melatonin (2 mg per day, at night) within 24 h of ICH onset until the discharge from the SU. The primary endpoint was post-ICH PSD prevalence. The secondary endpoints were: (i) PSD duration and (ii) the duration of SU stay. The PSD prevalence was higher in the melatonin treated cohort compared to the propensity score-matched (PSM) control group. Post-ICH PSD patients receiving melatonin had shorter SU-stay durations, and shorter PSD durations, although not statistically significant. This study shows no efficacy in limiting post-ICH PSD with preventive melatonin administration.
Th2 Cytokines Affect the Innate Immune Barrier without Impairing the Physical Barrier in a 3D Model of Normal Human Skin
Authors: Donetti Elena , Riva Federica , Indino Serena , Lombardo Giulia , Baruffaldi Preis Franz , Rosi Elia , Prignano Francesca
Published: March 2023

(1) Background: Atopic dermatitis is one of the most common inflammatory skin diseases characterized by T helper (Th) 2 and Th22 cells producing interleukin (IL)-4/IL-13 and IL-22, respectively. The specific contribution of each cytokine to the impairment of the physical and the immune barrier via Toll-like receptors (TLRs) is poorly addressed concerning the epidermal compartment of the skin. (2) Methods: The effect of IL-4, IL-13, IL-22, and the master cytokine IL-23 is evaluated in a 3D model of normal human skin biopsies (n = 7) at the air–liquid interface for 24 and 48 h. We investigated by immunofluorescence the expressions of (i) claudin-1, zonula occludens (ZO)-1 filaggrin, involucrin for the physical barrier and (ii) TLR2, 4, 7, 9, human beta-defensin 2 (hBD-2) for the immune barrier. (3) Results: Th2 cytokines induce spongiosis and fail in impairing tight junction composition, while IL-22 reduces and IL-23 induces claudin-1 expression. IL-4 and IL-13 affect the TLR-mediated barrier largely than IL-22 and IL-23. IL-4 early inhibits hBD-2 expression, while IL-22 and IL-23 induce its distribution. (4) Conclusions: This experimental approach looks to the pathogenesis of AD through molecular epidermal proteins rather than cytokines only and paves the way for tailored patient therapy.
Assessing the Prospect of Joint Exploitations of Offshore Wind, Wave, and Tidal Stream Energy in the Adjacent Waters of China
Authors: Lian Zhan , Yu Weiye , Du Jianting
Published: March 2023

The exploitation of marine renewable energy sources, such as offshore wind (OW), wave (WA), and tidal stream (TS) energy, is essential to reducing carbon emissions in China. Here, we demonstrate that a well-designed deployment of OW-WA-TS joint exploitation would be better than OW alone in improving performance in terms of the total amount and temporal stability of integrated power output in the northern Bohai Sea/Strait, the Subei Shoal, and the surrounding areas of Taiwan and Hainan Island. The design principles for an efficient joint energy deployment can be summarized as follows: first, a small ratio of WA output favors a temporally stable performance, except for areas around Taiwan Island and southwest of Hainan Island. Second, more TS turbines will contribute to steadier integrated outputs. Meanwhile, in the coastal waters of Guangdong and Zhejiang, the potential of WA to increase the total amount of power output is very high due to its minor impact on temporal stability. Finally, joint exploitation significantly reduces diurnal power fluctuations compared with OW alone, which is crucial for the steady operation of power grids, power sufficiency, and controllability in periods with low or no wind.
Effects of Aerobic Exercise in the Intensive Care Unit on Patient-Reported Physical Function and Mental Health Outcomes in Severely Burned Children—A Multicenter Prospective Randomized Trial
Authors: Palackic Alen , Rego Andrea , Parry Ingrid , Sen Soman , Branski Ludwik K. , Hallman Taylor G. , Spratt Heidi , Lee Jong O. , Herndon David N. , Wolf Steven E. , Suman Oscar E.
Published: March 2023

Severe burns are life-altering and can have lasting effects on patients’ physical and mental health. Alterations in physical function, changes in appearance, and psychological disturbances resulting from severe burns are especially concerning in children, as they are still in the early stages of identity formation. Exercise in the nonburn population has been shown to improve quality of life and result in better physical and mental status. However, the effect of early exercise on the quality of life in pediatric burn patients requires more research. Methods: Forty-eight children between the ages of seven and seventeen with ≥30% total body surface area (TBSA) burn were randomized in a 1:2 fashion to receive treatment with standard-of-care (SOC) or standard-of-care plus exercise (SOC+Ex). Surveys administered at admission and discharge collected patient-reported information regarding physical and mental health outcomes. The results are given as means +/− standard deviation. Significance was set at p < 0.05. Results: The average age of the SOC and SOC+Ex groups were 12 ± 3 and 13 ± 4 years, respectively. The average %TBSA burned in the SOC and SOC+Ex groups were 54 ± 17 and 48 ± 14, respectively. The SOC+Ex group averaged 10 ± 9 exercise sessions (range of 1 to 38 sessions) with an attendance rate of 25% (10 sessions out of 40 BICU days). Both groups demonstrated significant improvement in patient-reported physical and mental outcomes during hospital admission (p < 0.05) However, additional exercise did not exhibit any additional benefits for measured levels. Conclusions: Our recommendation is for all pediatric patients in the BICU to continue with the SOC and consult with their physician over the benefits of additional aerobic exercise. This study suggests that perhaps there is potential for increasing the amount of exercise that can be administered to pediatric burn survivors beyond SOC as we did not find aerobic exercise to be of any harm to any patients if it is performed properly and under supervision.
New Evidence on the Information Content of Earnings Announcements for the Swiss Market
Authors: Bänziger Armin , Pitthan Alexander , Gramespacher Thomas , Hüppin Ursina
Published: March 2023

A semi-strong efficient market incorporates relevant new information immediately. Using an event study, we investigate whether and to what extent regular earnings announcements of Swiss companies listed on the Swiss Market Index show the expected effects in share prices. For this purpose, we test for abnormal returns caused by earnings announcements in the period from 2012 until 2022. In contrast to previous studies of the Swiss market, we find that deviations from analysts’ expected earnings lead to pronounced immediate movements in stock prices, as predicted by the semi-strong efficient market hypothesis. Pre- and post-announcement abnormal returns are modest and generally not statistically significant.
Effectiveness, Retrievability, and Safety of Celect vs. ALN Inferior Vena Cava Filters: A Randomized Prospective Multicenter Controlled Study
Authors: De Gregorio Miguel Angel , Ciampi-Dopazo Juan Jose , Urbano Jose , Bernal Roman , Serrano-Casorrán Carolina , Bonastre Cristina , Abadal Jose Maria , Mendez Santiago , Fredes Arturo , Rodriguez Jose , Rodriguez Sergio , Guirola Jose Andres
Published: March 2023

The purpose of this study is to compare IVC Celect and ALN filters in regard to their efficacy, retrievability, and one-year follow-up after retrieval. Materials and Methods: This is a prospective randomized study, conducted in three centers between April 2020 and May 2021. A total of 115 participants were randomized, of which 15 participants were excluded for various reasons. Each group of 50 participants was finally assigned a type of filter (Celect n = 50 and ALN = 50). Tilt angles at placement and retrieval, rates of overall filter retrieval, complications, complex retrieval, and clinical follow-up at 12 months were compared. Results: One hundred participants (59 men and 41 women) were included. The mean age was 62.4 ± 13.3, with no significant differences between both groups (p 0.503). The mean of dwelling time was 44.7 ± 93 days. (p 0.520) Filter retrieval was successful in all participants (100%). The main complication in CT prior to removal was tilt >15° (31%) and filter tip embedment (16%). No significant differences were observed in the type of retrieval (standard or complex) between both filters (p 0.24); however, fluoroscopy time was significantly longer in the complex removal of the Celect filter: 29.1 ± 12 min vs. 17.5 ± 10.3 (p 0.005). After one year, no recurrent pulmonary embolism was observed in both types of filters. Conclusions: The ALN filter had a significantly lower rate of tip and filter tip embedding, with no differences in complexity or removal success rate. There were significant differences in the fluoroscopy time consumed for standard and complex retrievals between both filters, with less time for the ALN filter.
Altered Grey Matter-Brain Healthcare Quotient: Interventions of Olfactory Training and Learning of Neuroplasticity
Authors: Watanabe Keita , Kokubun Keisuke , Yamakawa Yoshinori
Published: March 2023

Recent studies revealed that grey matter (GM) changes due to various training and learning experiences, using magnetic resonance imaging. In this study, we investigate the effect of psychological characteristics and attitudes toward training and learning on GM changes. Ninety participants were recruited and distributed into three groups: an olfactory training group that underwent 40 olfactory training sessions designed for odour classification tasks, a group classified for learning of neuroplasticity and brain healthcare using a TED Talk video and 28 daily brain healthcare messages, and a control group. Further, we assessed psychological characteristics, such as curiosity and personal growth initiatives. In the olfactory training group, we conducted a questionnaire survey on olfactory training regarding their interests and sense of accomplishment. In the olfactory training group, the GM change was significantly correlated with the sense of achievement and interest in training. The learning of neuroplasticity and brain healthcare group showed a significantly smaller 2-month GM decline than did the control group. The Curiosity and Exploration Inventory-II scores were significantly correlated with GM changes in both intervention groups only. In conclusion, our result suggested that training or learning with a sense of accomplishment, interest, and curiosity would lead to greater GM changes.
Hess Lancaster Screen Test with Eye Tracker: An Objective Method for the Measurement of Binocular Gaze Direction
Authors: Orduna-Hospital Elvira , Maurain-Orera Luz , Lopez-de-la-Fuente Carmen , Sanchez-Cano Ana
Published: March 2023

Background: To objectively measure with an eye tracker both eye movement conjugacy and gaze direction in different positions when performing the Hess Lancaster Screen Test (HLST) in a sample of control subjects without binocular dysfunction and compare the results with those of the traditional subjective HLST performance. Methods: The sample was selected avoiding subjects who suffered from suppression of one of the two eyes, visual acuity less than 20/25 on the Snellen chart in each eye, strabismus, or any symptom of binocular dysfunction that could alter the results. While performing the HLST, the examiner wrote down each of the points on a template in a traditional way while the eye tracker (Tobii Pro Fusion, Tobii AB, Danderyd, Sweden), placed in front of the subject, took objective measurements of the position of both eyes at each point. Of the 29 subjects recruited in this study, 13 subjects between 18 and 27 years old underwent the complete optometric examination and the HLST wearing anaglyph glasses; meanwhile, 16 people were excluded because of binocular or accommodative dysfunctions or because they didn’t give reliable eye-tracking results. Additionally, a specific program called Etracker Parse Video (University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain) was developed to analyse the prismatic deviation between both eyes at each evaluated point. Results: Similar horizontal prismatic deviations of visual axes were obtained in the different gaze positions with the Maddox rod, the manually annotated HLST, and the eye-tracker measurement. Variations were found in the magnitude of the deviation between methods but not in the direction. On the other hand, vertical deviations were more difficult for the examiner to detect and quantify, especially those with small magnitudes; more exact values were obtained when measuring objectively with the eye tracker. Conclusion: The HLST is very useful and allows the amount of heterophoria or heterotropia to be recorded in the patient’s medical record in all the main gaze positions. This test is complementary; by itself, it is not diagnostic and does not replace a complete examination of binocular vision. The eye tracker is an objective method with which we can evaluate the HLST in patients with no binocular problems, obtaining more accurate results than when it is performed in the traditional manner.
Numerical Investigation of the Formation of a Failure Cone during the Pullout of an Undercutting Anchor
Authors: Jonak Józef , Karpiński Robert , Wójcik Andrzej , Siegmund Michał
Published: March 2023

Previously published articles on anchors have mainly focused on determining the pullout force of the anchor (depending on the strength parameters of the concrete), the geometric parameters of the anchor head, and the effective anchor depth. The extent (volume) of the so-called failure cone has often addressed as a secondary matter, serving only to approximate the size of the zone of potential failure of the medium in which the anchor is installed. For the authors of these presented research results, from the perspective of evaluating the proposed stripping technology, an important aspect was the determination of the extent and volume of the stripping, as well as the determination of why the defragmentation of the cone of failure favors the removal of the stripping products. Therefore, it is reasonable to conduct research on the proposed topic. Thus far, the authors have shown that the ratio of the radius of the base of the destruction cone to the anchorage depth is significantly larger than in concrete (~1.5) and ranges from 3.9–4.2. The purpose of the presented research was to determine the influence of rock strength parameters on the mechanism of failure cone formation, including, in particular, the potential for defragmentation. The analysis was conducted with the finite element method (FEM) using the ABAQUS program. The scope of the analysis included two categories of rocks, i.e., those with low compressive strength (<100 MPa) and strong rocks (>100 MPa). Due to the limitations of the proposed stripping method, the analysis was conducted for an effective anchoring depth limited to 100 mm. It was shown that for anchorage depths <100 mm, for rocks with high compressive strength (above 100 MPa), there is a tendency to spontaneously generate radial cracks, leading to the fragmentation of the failure zone. The results of the numerical analysis were verified by field tests, yielding convergent results regarding the course of the de-fragmentation mechanism. In conclusion, it was found that in the case of gray sandstones, with strengths of 50–100 MPa, the uniform type of detachment (compact cone of detachment) dominates, but with a much larger radius of the base (a greater extent of detachment on the free surface).
Modelling of Resinous Material Filling Expansion Joints in Reinforced Concrete Structures
Authors: Schabowicz Krzysztof , Waśniewski Grzegorz , Wróblewski Krzysztof
Published: March 2023

This paper is a continuation of the research and analysis to estimate hyperelastic material constants when only uniaxial test data are available. The FEM simulation was expanded and the results obtained from three-dimensional and plane strain expansion joint models were compared and discussed. The original tests were carried out for a gap with a width of 10 mm, whereas in the case of axial stretching, the stresses and internal forces caused by the leading deformations were recorded for a smaller gap, and the axial compression was also recorded. The differences in the global response between the three- and two-dimensional models were also considered. Finally, using FEM simulations, the values of stresses and cross-sectional forces in the filling material were determined, which can be the basis for the design of expansion joints geometry. The results of these analyses could form the basis of guidelines for the design of expansion joint gaps filled with material, ensuring the waterproofing of the joint.
Temperature Field, Flow Field, and Temporal Fluctuations Thereof in Ammonothermal Growth of Bulk GaN—Transition from Dissolution Stage to Growth Stage Conditions
Authors: Schimmel Saskia , Tomida Daisuke , Ishiguro Tohru , Honda Yoshio , Chichibu Shigefusa F. , Amano Hiroshi
Published: March 2023

With the ammonothermal method, one of the most promising technologies for scalable, cost-effective production of bulk single crystals of the wide bandgap semiconductor GaN is investigated. Specifically, etch-back and growth conditions, as well as the transition from the former to the latter, are studied using a 2D axis symmetrical numerical model. In addition, experimental crystal growth results are analyzed in terms of etch-back and crystal growth rates as a function of vertical seed position. The numerical results of internal process conditions are discussed. Variations along the vertical axis of the autoclave are analyzed using both numerical and experimental data. During the transition from quasi-stable conditions of the dissolution stage (etch-back process) to quasi-stable conditions of the growth stage, significant temperature differences of 20 K to 70 K (depending on vertical position) occur temporarily between the crystals and the surrounding fluid. These lead to maximum rates of seed temperature change of 2.5 K/min to 1.2 K/min depending on vertical position. Based on temperature differences between seeds, fluid, and autoclave wall upon the end of the set temperature inversion process, deposition of GaN is expected to be favored on the bottom seed. The temporarily observed differences between the mean temperature of each crystal and its fluid surrounding diminish about 2 h after reaching constant set temperatures imposed at the outer autoclave wall, whereas approximately quasi-stable conditions are reached about 3 h after reaching constant set temperatures. Short-term fluctuations in temperature are mostly due to fluctuations in velocity magnitude, usually with only minor variations in the flow direction.
Study on the Process Characteristics Based on Joule Heat of Sliding-Pressure Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Ma Kaiyue , Li Suli , Xu Chao , Gao Zhuang , Yang Laixia , Lu Bingheng
Published: March 2023

This study developed an experimental system based on Joule heat of sliding-pressure additive manufacturing (SP-JHAM), and Joule heat was used for the first time to accomplish high-quality single-layer printing. The roller wire substrate is short-circuited, and Joule heat is generated to melt the wire when the current passes through. Through the self-lapping experimental platform, single-factor experiments were designed to study the effects of power supply current, electrode pressure, contact length on the surface morphology and cross-section geometric characteristics of the single-pass printing layer. Through the Taguchi method, the effect of various factors was analyzed, the optimal process parameters were obtained, and the quality was detected. The results show that with the current increase, the aspect ratio and dilution rate of a printing layer increase within a given range of process parameters. In addition, with the increase in pressure and contact length, the aspect ratio and dilution ratio decrease. Pressure has the greatest effect on the aspect ratio and dilution ratio, followed by current and contact length. When a current of 260 A, a pressure of 0.60 N and a contact length of 1.3 mm are applied, a single track with a good appearance, whose surface roughness Ra is 3.896 μm, can be printed. Additionally, the wire and the substrate are completely metallurgically bonded with this condition. There are also no defects such as air holes and cracks. This study verified the feasibility of SP-JHAM as a new additive manufacturing strategy with high quality and low cost, and provided a reference for developing additive manufacturing technology based on Joule heat.
Vortex Structure Topology Analysis of the Transonic Rotor 37 Based on Large Eddy Simulation
Authors: Li Kunhang , Tang Pengbo , Meng Fanjie , Guo Penghua , Li Jingyin
Published: March 2023

Highly three–dimensional and complex flow structures are closely related to the aerodynamic losses occurring in the transonic axial–flow compressor. The large eddy simulation (LES) approach was adopted to study the aerodynamic performance of the NASA rotor 37 for the cases at the design, the near stall (NS), and the near choke (NC) flow rate. The internal flow vortex topology was analyzed by the Q–criterion method, the omega (Ω) vortex identification method, and the Liutex identification method. It was observed that the Q–criterion method was vulnerable to being influenced by the flow with high–shear deformation rate, especially near the end–wall regions. The Ω method was adopted to recognize the three–dimensional vortex structure with a higher precision than that of the Q–criterion method. Meanwhile, the Liutex vortex identification method showed a good performance in vortex identification, and the corresponding contribution of Liutex components in the vortex topology was analyzed. The results show that the high–vortex fields around the separation line and reattachment line had high vortex components in the x–axis, the tip clearance vortices presented a high–vortex component in the y–axis, and the suction side corner vortex possessed high–vortex components in the y– and z–axes.
Sustainable Machining: MQL Technique Combined with the Vortex Tube Cooling When Turning Martensitic Stainless Steel X20Cr13
Authors: Šterpin Valić Graciela , Kostadin Tihana , Cukor Goran , Fabić Marko
Published: March 2023

For the purpose of contributing to sustainable machining, the aim was to investigate the turning of martensitic stainless steel X20Cr13 under alternative cooling and lubrication techniques. The minimum quantity lubrication technique in combination with the vortex tube cooling, as the determined optimal cooling method using the Taguchi-based entropy weighted grey relational analysis (compared to emulsion and minimum quantity lubrication technique) in previous research when turning martensitic stainless steel X20Cr13, were applied in this research in accordance with the Box–Behnken design. The aim is to investigate, when applying the optimal cooling condition (minimum quantity lubrication + vortex) with the Box–Behnken design, which parameters have a significant influence on reducing the surface roughness parameters Ra and Rz and also on the tool life (T). The cutting speed (vc = 260, 290 and 320 m/min), feed rate (f = 0.3, 0.35 and 0.4 mm/rev) and depth of cut (ap = 1, 1.5 and 2 mm) were selected as cutting parameters. An exponential model for Ra, Rz and T was obtained. According to the ANOVA results, it can be seen that only the feed rate had a significant influence on Ra and Rz. For tool life, according to the ANOVA results, it can be seen that all three parameters (cutting speed, feed rate and depth of cut) have significant influence on the tool life (T). Experimental results were compared with the results of the exponential mathematical model and presented in diagrams. A new nozzle was designed for this research to allow micro-droplets from the MQL unit and chilled compressed air from the vortex tube to be connected in one stream (single-channel system) before entering the cutting zone, thus allowing for simultaneous lubrication and cooling. For the used vortex tube system with an air flow of 708 L/min and the inlet air pressure of 0.69 MPa, a temperature drop of −29 °C can be achieved in regard to the inlet air temperature of 21 °C. Therefore, the minimum quantity lubrication technique with vortex tube cooling can be recommended for turning of martensitic stainless steel X20Cr13.
Scheduling BCG and IL-2 Injections for Bladder Cancer Immunotherapy Treatment
Authors: Yaniv-Rosenfeld Amit , Savchenko Elizaveta , Rosenfeld Ariel , Lazebnik Teddy
Published: March 2023

Cancer is one of the most common families of diseases today with millions of new patients every year around the world. Bladder cancer (BC) is one of the most prevalent types of cancer affecting both genders, and it is not known to be associated with a specific group in the population. The current treatment standard for BC follows a standard weekly Bacillus Calmette–Guérin (BCG) immunotherapy-based therapy protocol which includes BCG and IL-2 injections. Unfortunately, due to the biological and clinical complexity of the interactions between the immune system, treatment, and cancer cells, clinical outcomes vary significantly among patients. Unfortunately, existing models are commonly developed for a non-existing average patient or pose strict, unrealistic, expectations on the treatment process. In this work, we propose the most extensive ordinary differential equation-based biological model of BCG treatment to date and a deep learning-based scheduling approach to obtain a personalized treatment schedule. Our results show that resulting treatment schedules favorably compare with the current standard practices and the current state-of-the-art scheduling approach.
Acceleration of Wheel Factoring Techniques
Authors: Zaki Alaa M. , Bakr M. E. , Alsahangiti Arwa M. , Khosa Saima Khan , Fathy Khaled A.
Published: March 2023

The efficiency with which an integer may be factored into its prime factors determines several public key cryptosystems’ security in use today. Although there is a quantum-based technique with a polynomial time for integer factoring, on a traditional computer, there is no polynomial time algorithm. We investigate how to enhance the wheel factoring technique in this paper. Current wheel factorization algorithms rely on a very restricted set of prime integers as a base. In this study, we intend to adapt this notion to rely on a greater number of prime integers, resulting in a considerable improvement in the execution time. The experiments on composite numbers n reveal that the proposed algorithm improves on the existing wheel factoring algorithm by about 75%.
Generalization and Expansion of the Hermia Model for a Better Understanding of Membrane Fouling
Authors: Pereira Gustavo Leite Dias , Cardozo-Filho Lucio , Jegatheesan Veeriah , Guirardello Reginaldo
Published: March 2023

One of the most broadly used models for membrane fouling is the Hermia model (HM), which separates this phenomenon into four blocking mechanisms, each with an associated parameter n. The original model is given by an Ordinary Differential Equation (ODE) dependent on n. This ODE is solved only for these four values of n, which limits the effectiveness of the model when adjusted to experimental data. This paper aims extend the original Hermia model to new values of n by slightly increasing the complexity of the HM while keeping it as simple as possible. The extended Hermia model (EHM) is given by a power law for any n ≠ 2 and by an exponential function at n = 2. Analytical expressions for the fouling layer thickness and the accumulated volume are also obtained. To better test the model, we perform model fitting of the EHM and compare its performance to the original four pore-blocking mechanisms in six micro- and ultrafiltration examples. In all examples, the EHM performs consistently better than the four original pore-blocking mechanisms. Changes in the blocking mechanisms concerning transmembrane pressure (TMP), crossflow rate (CFR), crossflow velocity (CFV), membrane composition, and pretreatments are also discussed.
Corrosion Behavior of Fe2O3/Alumina Layer Produced by Plasma Electrolytic Oxidation of 6061 Al Alloy
Authors: Kaseem Mosab , Fattah-alhosseini Arash
Published: March 2023

This study looked into the influence of iron nitrate (Fe(NO3)3 on the corrosion behavior of a 6061 Al alloy treated by a plasma electrolytic oxidation coating (PEO). PEO coatings were fabricated on Al alloy samples under AC conditions utilizing an alkaline-aluminate electrolyte containing 0 and 5 gr of Fe(NO3)3. Surface examination demonstrated that some Fe2O3 particles were effectively integrated into the coating layer produced in a solution containing Fe(NO3)3. In addition, the porosity and the size of micropores made due to plasma activity were significantly reduced after the PEOO treatment of the 6061 Al substrate in an electrolyte containing Fe(NO3)3. Accordingly, the coating formed in the electrolyte with Fe(NO3)3 exhibited superior corrosion resistance to that treated in the electrolyte without Fe(NO3)3.
Economic and Environmental Sustainability of an Innovative Cryo-Mechano-Hydrometallurgical Process Validated at Pilot Scale for the Recycling of Li Batteries
Authors: Pagnanelli Francesca , Schiavi Pier Giorgio , Altimari Pietro , Beolchini Francesca , Amato Alessia , Coletta Jacopo , Forte Flavia , Moscardini Emanuela , Toro Luigi
Published: March 2023

An innovative cryo-mechano-hydrometallurgical process (named LIBAT) was demonstrated at pilot scale for the treatment of EOL lithium primary batteries with chemistry Li(0)-MnO2. The process allowed the recycling of steel scraps from external cases after cryomechanical dismantling, and the recovery of Mn and Li products after hydrometallurgical processing. During demonstration activities, about nine tons of batteries were treated in the cryomechanical section, and one ton of black mass was treated in the hydrometallurgical section for the recovery of Mn hydroxides and Li2CO3. The environmental impacts of the process were evaluated in comparison with an innovative pyrometallurgical approach allowing Li recovery, confirming the benefits of the proposed process due to a reduction in energy consumption. Process simulations were performed considering different mixture feeds (only Li primary, or mixture with Li-ion batteries) and process options (only the cryomechanical section of the integral process) to assess the lower limits of potentiality that would ensure economic sustainability.
Gemological and Luminescence Characteristics of Taaffeites from Mogok, Myanmar
Authors: Lin Bihan , Li Xingtong , Zhang Longbo , Lai Xiaojing , Zhang Qian
Published: March 2023

Taaffeite is a rare gem that has been found in different localities such as Tanzania, Sri Lanka, China, and Mogok, Myanmar. In this study, thirty-two taaffeite samples from Mogok, Myanmar, were investigated by conventional gemological testing, laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS), Raman spectrometry, and fluorescence spectrometry. Through microscopic observations, various types of inclusions were observed in these taaffeites, including irregular inclusions, orange and brown intrusions, black dotted and flake inclusions, healed fissures, tubular inclusions, fingerprint inclusions, and multi-phase inclusions. The Raman spectra demonstrated that the inclusions were mainly calcite, forsterite, celestite, graphite, dolomite, and transparent tubular or columnar inclusions filled with CO2. In previous studies, taaffeite showed inert or chalky fluorescence under long-wave ultraviolet (LWUV) light and inert fluorescence under short-wave ultraviolet (SWUV) light. In this study, the taaffeite samples revealed different fluorescence phenomena under ultraviolet light. Thirty-two taaffeite samples were classified into four categories according to their fluorescence under LWUV: orange-red, pink, green, and blue-white fluorescence. Under SWUV, all samples presented inert to bright pink fluorescence. Two-dimensional fluorescence spectra were obtained through a fluorescence spectrometer. For the samples with orange-red and pink fluorescence under LWUV, two-dimensional fluorescence spectra showed that peaks at 686 nm and 690 nm (in the red region) were strong. For the samples with green and blue-white fluorescence under LWUV, peaks at 439 nm and 464 nm (in the blue region) were strong, peaks at 507–515 nm (in the green region) were relatively weak, and peaks at 686 and 690 nm (in the red region) were very weak. Combined with the data from LA-ICP-MS, it is speculated that Cr3+ was responsible for samples having orange-red and pink fluorescence, that Mn2+ was responsible for samples having green fluorescence, and that Fe inhibited the generation of fluorescence.
Self-Consistent Study of GaAs/AlGaAs Quantum Wells with Modulated Doping
Authors: Gil-Corrales John A. , Morales Alvaro L. , Duque Carlos A.
Published: March 2023

In this work, the characterization and analysis of the physics of a GaAs quantum well with AlGaAs barriers were carried out, according to an interior doped layer. An analysis of the probability density, the energy spectrum, and the electronic density was performed using the self-consistent method to solve the Schrödinger, Poisson, and charge-neutrality equations. Based on the characterizations, the system response to geometric changes in the well width and to non-geometric changes, such as the position and with of the doped layer as well as the donor density, were reviewed. All second-order differential equations were solved using the finite difference method. Finally, with the obtained wave functions and energies, the optical absorption coefficient and the electromagnetically induced transparency between the first three confined states were calculated. The results showed the possibility of tuning the optical absorption coefficient and the electromagnetically induced transparency via changes to the system geometry and the doped-layer characteristics.
Fasting Glucose Level on the Oral Glucose Tolerance Test Is Associated with the Need for Pharmacotherapy in Gestational Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Rodrigo Natassia , Randall Deborah , Al-Hial Farah Abu , Pak Kathleen L. M. , Kim Alexander Junmo , Glastras Sarah J.
Published: March 2023

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) has a rapidly increasing prevalence, which poses challenges to obstetric care and service provision, with known serious long-term impacts on the metabolic health of the mother and the affected offspring. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between glucose levels on the 75 g oral glucose tolerance test and GDM treatment and outcomes. We performed a retrospective cohort study of women with GDM attending a tertiary Australian hospital obstetric clinic between 2013 and 2017, investigating the relationship between the 75 g oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) glucose values, and obstetric (timing of delivery, caesarean section, preterm birth, preeclampsia), and neonatal (hypoglycaemia, jaundice, respiratory distress and NICU admission) outcomes. This time frame encompassed a change in diagnostic criteria for gestational diabetes, due to changes in international consensus guidelines. Our results showed that, based on the diagnostic 75 g OGTT, fasting hyperglycaemia, either alone or in combination with elevated 1 or 2 h glucose levels, was associated with the need for pharmacotherapy with either metformin and/or insulin (p < 0.0001; HR 4.02, 95% CI 2.88–5.61), as compared to women with isolated hyperglycaemia at the 1 or 2 h post-glucose load timepoints. Fasting hyperglycaemia on the OGTT was more likely in women with higher BMI (p < 0.0001). There was an increased risk of early term birth in women with mixed fasting and post-glucose hyperglycaemia (adjusted HR 1.72, 95% CI 1.09–2.71). There were no significant differences in rates of neonatal complications such as macrosomia or NICU admission. Fasting hyperglycaemia, either alone or in combination with post-glucose elevations on the OGTT, is a strong indicator of the need for pharmacotherapy in pregnant women with GDM, with significant ramifications for obstetric interventions and their timing.
Lutein Prevents Liver Injury and Intestinal Barrier Dysfunction in Rats Subjected to Chronic Alcohol Intake
Authors: Zhao Suli , Zhang Yebing , Ding Haoyue , Hu Shouna , Wu Xiaoqing , Ma Aiguo , Ma Yan
Published: March 2023

Chronic alcohol intake can affect both liver and intestinal barrier function. The goal of this investigation was to evaluate the function and mechanism of lutein administration on the chronic ethanol-induced liver and intestinal barrier damage in rats. During the 14-week experimental cycle, seventy rats were randomly divided into seven groups, with 10 rats in each group: a normal control group (Co), a control group of lutein interventions (24 mg/kg/day), an ethanol model group (Et, 8–12 mL/kg/day of 56% (v/v) ethanol), three intervention groups with lutein (12, 24 and 48 mg/kg/day) and a positive control group (DG). The results showed that liver index, ALT, AST and TG levels were increased, and SOD and GSH-Px levels were reduced in the Et group. Furthermore, alcohol intake over a long time increased the level of pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-1β, disrupted the intestinal barrier, and stimulated the release of LPS, causing further liver injury. In contrast, lutein interventions prevented alcohol-induced alterations in liver tissue, oxidative stress and inflammation. In addition, the protein expression of Claudin-1 and Occludin in ileal tissues was upregulated by lutein intervention. In conclusion, lutein can improve chronic alcoholic liver injury and intestinal barrier dysfunction in rats.