bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lateral or Medial Parapatellar Surgical Approach to the Valgus Osteoarthritic Knee? A Retrospective Single-Center Study
Authors: Dudek Piotr , Marczak Dariusz , Okoń Tomasz , Grzelecki Dariusz , Szneider Jan , Kowalczewski Jacek
Published: October 2022

Aims: Total knee arthroplasty in patients with fixed valgus deformity is a demanding procedure. The aim of this study was to compare the clinical results of using the lateral approach [LA] versus the medial approach [MA] in the treatment of fixed valgus knee deformities. Methods: This single-center study compared the results of 143 consecutive patients with fixed valgus deformity (mean 21.55° valgus, mean age 68.2 years) undergoing LA Total Knee Arthroplasty [TKA] to 50 patients (mean 16.58° valgus, mean age 67.2 years) undergoing MA TKA. The mean follow-up period was 5.1 years (2–10 years). Data was collected from operative notes, routine postoperative visits, and radiological findings. Apart from a radiological evaluation, patients were clinically assessed both pre- and postoperatively using the Knee Society Score [KSS]. Descriptive statistics together with the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test, the Student’s t-test for independent samples, and the Mann-Whitney U test were used. The level of significance in this study was α = 0.05. Results: In the LA group, the KSS Knee was significantly higher than in the MA group [85.31 vs. 77.42, respectively, p-value < 0.001]. The difference was also in the KSS total but with no statistical significance [155.17 vs. 149.22, p-value 0.087]. The surgery time in the LA group was shorter than in the MA group [81 vs. 91 min, respectively, p-value—0.002]. The complication rate after surgery was higher in the MA group than in the LA group (14% vs. 9%, respectively). Conclusions: The lateral approach is a good alternative to the standard medial parapatellar approach in the treatment of fixed valgus knee deformities. A higher postoperative KSS Knee, shorter surgery time, and similar complication rate make the lateral approach a valuable option for treating patients with osteoarthritis and fixed valgus knee deformity.
Angioside: The role of Angiogenesis and Hypoxia in Lung Neuroendocrine Tumours According to Primary Tumour Location in Left or Right Parenchyma
Authors: La Salvia Anna , Carletti Raffaella , Verrico Monica , Feola Tiziana , Puliani Giulia , Bassi Massimiliano , Sesti Franz , Pernazza Angelina , Mazzilli Rossella , Lamberti Giuseppe , Siciliani Alessandra , Mancini Massimiliano , Manai Chiara , Venuta Federico , Ibrahim Mohsen , Tomao Silverio , D’Amati Giulia , Di Gioia Cira , Giannetta Elisa , Cappuzzo Federico , Faggiano Antongiulio
Published: October 2022

Well-differentiated lung neuroendocrine tumours (Lu-NETs), classified as typical (TC) and atypical (AC) carcinoids, represent 30% of NETs. Angiogenesis plays an essential role in NET development and progression. A higher vascular network is a marker of differentiation, with positive prognostic implications. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively evaluated microvessel density (MVD) by CD34 immunohistochemical (IHC) staining and hypoxia by IHC staining for Hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF-1α), comparing right- and left-lung parenchyma in 53 lung NETs. Results: The median age was 66 years (39–81), 56.6% males, 24.5% AC, 40.5% left-sided tumours and 69.8% TNM stage I. The mitotic count was <2/10 per 10 HPF in 79.2%, and the absence of necrosis in 81.1%, 39.6% with Ki67, was ≤2%. The MVD, the number of vessels and the average vessel area median values were significantly higher in the right than the left parenchyma (p: 0.025, p: 0.019, p: 0.016, respectively). Hypoxia resulted present in 14/19 (73.6%) left tumours and in 10/20 (50%) right tumours in the parenchyma (p: 0.129). Conclusions: This study suggests a biological rationale for a different angiogenesis and hypoxia according to the Lu-NETs’ location. In our study, left primary tumours were less vascularized and most likely to present hypoxia than right primary tumours. This finding could have potentially useful prognostic and predictive implications for Lu-NETs.
Mitigation of Heat Propagation in a Battery Pack by Interstitial Graphite Nanoplatelet Layer: Coupled Electrochemical-Heat Transfer Model
Authors: Palmieri Barbara , Cilento Fabrizia , Siviello Ciro , Bertocchi Francesco , Giordano Michele , Martone Alfonso
Published: October 2022

The use of high thermal conductive materials for heat transfer is gaining attention as a suitable treatment for improving battery performance. Thermal runaway is a relevant issue for maintaining safety and for proficient employment of accumulators; therefore, new solutions for thermal management are mandatory. For this purpose, a hierarchical nanomaterial made of graphite nanoplatelet has been considered as an interface material. High-content graphite nanoplatelet films have very high thermal conductivity and might improve heat dissipation. This study investigates the effect of a thermally conductive material as a method for safety enhancement for a battery module. A numerical model based on the finite element method has been developed to predict the heat generation during a battery pack’s charge and discharge cycle, using the Multiphysics software Comsol. The lumped battery interface generates appropriate heat sources coupled to the Heat Transfer Interface in 3D geometry. Simulation results show that the protection of neighbouring cells from the interleaved layer is fundamental for avoiding heat propagation and an uncontrollable heating rise of the entire battery pack. The use of graphite nanocomposite sheets could effectively help to uniform the temperature and delay the TR propagation.
New Structural Nanocomposite Based on PLGA and Al2O3 NPs as a Balance between Antibacterial Activity and Biocompatibility with Eukaryotic Cells
Authors: Simakin Alexander V. , Sarimov Ruslan M. , Smirnova Veronika V. , Astashev Maxim E. , Serov Dmitriy A. , Yanykin Denis V. , Chausov Denis N. , Shkirin Alexey V. , Uvarov Oleg V. , Rotanov Evgeny , Shakhovskoy Andrey , Bruskov Vadim I. , Ivanov Vladimir E. , Dorokhov Alexey S. , Izmailov Andrey Y.
Published: October 2022

Development of eco-friendly and biodegradable package materials is an important goal of modern science and international industry. Poly(lactic)-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) is suitable for this purpose. However, biocompatible materials may be contaminated with bacteria. This problem may be solved by the addition of metal oxides nanoparticles (NPs) with antibacterial properties. Although metal oxides NPs often show cytotoxicity against plant and mammalian cells, a new nanocomposite based on PLGA and aluminum oxide (Al2O3) NPs has been developed. The PLGA/Al2O3 NP composite has pronounced antibacterial properties. The addition of Al2O3 NPs 0.01% inhibited growth of E. coli for >50%. The antimicrobial effect of Al2O3 NPs is implemented through the generation of reactive oxygen species and damage of bacterial proteins and DNA. The biocompatibility of the nanocomposite with plant and mammalian cells was studied. The PLGA/Al2O3 NP composite did not influence the growth and development of tomatoes and cucumbers. PLGA and its composite with Al2O3 NPs 0.001–0.1% did not influence viability and proliferation of mammalian cells, on their density or substrate colonization rate. The developed nanocomposite has controlled mechanical properties, high antibacterial activity and high biocompatibility, which makes it an attractive candidate for building and food package material manufacture and agriculture.
High Dispersion of Platinum Nanoparticles over Functionalized Zirconia for Effective Transformation of Levulinic Acid to Alkyl Levulinate Biofuel Additives in the Vapor Phase
Authors: Pothu Ramyakrishna , Mameda Naresh , Mitta Harisekhar , Boddula Rajender , Gundeboyina Raveendra , Perugopu Vijayanand , Radwan Ahmed Bahgat , Abdullah Aboubakr M. , Al-Qahtani Noora
Published: October 2022

In recent years, functionalized metal oxides have been gaining popularity for biomass conversion to fuels and chemicals due to the global energy crisis. This study reports a novel catalyst based on noble metal immobilization on functionalized zirconia that has been successfully used in the production of biofuel alkyl levulinates (ALs) from lignocellulosic biomass-derived levulinic acid (LA) under vapor-phase. The wet impregnation method was used to immobilize Pt-metal nanoparticles on zirconia-based supports (silicotungstic acid zirconia, STA-ZrO2; sulfated zirconia, S-ZrO2; and tetragonal zirconia, t-ZrO2). A variety of physicochemical techniques were used to characterize the prepared catalysts, and these were tested under atmospheric pressure in continuous flow esterification of LA. The order of catalytic activity followed when ethyl levulinate was produced from levulinic acid via esterification: Pt/STA-ZrO2 ≫ Pt/S-ZrO2 ≫ Pt/t-ZrO2. Moreover, it was found that ALs synthesis from LA with different alcohols utilizing Pt/STA-ZrO2 catalyst followed the order ethyl levulinate ≫ methyl levulinate ≫ propyl levulinate≫ butyl levulinate. This work outlines an excellent approach to designing efficient catalysts for biofuels and value-added compounds made from biomass.
Enhancing Resilience and Self-Centering of Existing RC Coupled and Single Shear Walls Using EB-FRP: State-of-the-Art Review and Research Needs
Authors: Abbaszadeh Ali , Chaallal Omar
Published: October 2022

The primary seismic force-resisting system (SFRS) in middle- to high-rise reinforced concrete (RC) building structures often includes coupled shear walls (CSWs) and single shear walls (SSWs). These walls are designed to transfer lateral forces to the foundation and dissipate energy through the development of plastic hinges. The latter lead to residual displacement in these structural components. On the other hand, self-centering systems enable the structures to return to their initial position after severe loading or at least reduce residual displacement. The objectives of this study were, therefore, as follows: (i) to review the state of the art on shear wall self-centering techniques and retrofitting methods based on externally bonded fiber-reinforced polymer (EB-FRP); (ii) to evaluate research needs to improve the self-centering ability of shear walls using EB-FRP.
Germ Granules in Animal Oogenesis
Authors: Dobrynin Mikhail A. , Bashendjieva Ekaterina O. , Enukashvily Natella I.
Published: October 2022

In eukaryotic cells, many macromolecules are organized as membraneless biomolecular condensates (or biocondensates). Liquid–liquid and liquid–solid phase transitions are the drivers of the condensation process. The absence of membrane borders makes biocondensates very flexible in their composition and functions, which vary in different cells and tissues. Some biocondensates are specific for germ line cells and are, thus, termed germ granules. This review summarizes the recent data on the composition of germ granules and their functions in gametes. According to these data, germ granules are involved in the determination of germline cells in some animals, such as Amphibia. In other animals, such as Mammalia, germ granules are involved in the processes of transposons inactivation and sequestration of mRNA and proteins to temporarily decrease their activity. The new data on germ granules composition and functions sheds light on germ cell differentiation and maturation properties.
Quantitative Analysis of Liver Disease Using MRI-Based Radiomic Features of the Liver and Spleen
Authors: Sack Jordan , Nitsch Jennifer , Meine Hans , Kikinis Ron , Halle Michael , Rutherford Anna
Published: October 2022

Background: Radiomics extracts quantitative image features to identify biomarkers for characterizing disease. Our aim was to characterize the ability of radiomic features extracted from magnetic resonance (MR) imaging of the liver and spleen to detect cirrhosis by comparing features from patients with cirrhosis to those without cirrhosis. Methods: This retrospective study compared MR-derived radiomic features between patients with cirrhosis undergoing hepatocellular carcinoma screening and patients without cirrhosis undergoing intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm surveillance between 2015 and 2018 using the same imaging protocol. Secondary analyses stratified the cirrhosis cohort by liver disease severity using clinical compensation/decompensation and Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD). Results: Of 167 patients, 90 had cirrhosis with 68.9% compensated and median MELD 8. Combined liver and spleen radiomic features generated an AUC 0.94 for detecting cirrhosis, with shape and texture components contributing more than size. Discrimination of cirrhosis remained high after stratification by liver disease severity. Conclusions: MR-based liver and spleen radiomic features had high accuracy in identifying cirrhosis, after stratification by clinical compensation/decompensation and MELD. Shape and texture features performed better than size features. These findings will inform radiomic-based applications for cirrhosis diagnosis and severity.
Structural Relationships between Cognitive Achievement and Learning-Related Factors among South Korean Adolescents
Authors: Lee Ji-Hye
Published: October 2022

This study aimed to differentiate between middle and high school students by investigating the structural relationships between academic self-efficacy, academic stress, learning motivation, and learning strategies—the learning-related factors of South Korean adolescents’ learning achievements. We obtained relevant information for 4051 middle school students and 4242 high school students from the Gyeonggi Institute of Education’s three-year panel data study (2016–2018). The results showed direct and indirect influential relationships between academic self-efficacy, academic stress, learning motivation, and learning strategy. Results of the analysis conducted by separating the structural equation model into middle and high school student groups showed that both models met the goodness-of-fit indices criteria; the difference between middle and high school student group models was significant. Hence, to promote academic achievement among middle and high school students, differential assistance is needed. Middle school students should be assisted so that they have a good command of learning strategy after reducing academic stress by increasing academic self-efficacy. For high school students, management of academic stress by increasing academic self-efficacy is the most important aspect.
A Review on Structural Failure of Composite Pressure Hulls in Deep Sea
Authors: Li Yongsheng , Yu Changli , Wang Weibo , Li Hongyun , Jiang Xu
Published: October 2022

With the increasing application and study of lightweight and high strength fiber reinforced polymer composites in ocean industry, the structural failure problem of composite pressure hulls has attracted great attention from many researchers in China and globally. Analysis of the structural failure mechanisms is foundational to the design of deep-sea composite pressure hulls, since nowadays the design rules of pressurized vessels is mostly formulated according to their failure modes. Hence, this paper aims to review the research on the structural failure of composite pressure hulls in deep sea settings. First of all, the applied research status on composite material in marine equipment is analyzed, including inspection modalities for composite pressure hulls. The review then focuses on the three main failure modes, namely overall buckling, material failure and snap buckling of the deep-sea composite pressure hulls. The study identifies further problems of composite pressure hulls to be solved through the application of the deep sea equipment research, aiming to provide a reference for the study of mechanical behavior, ultimate strength computation, and design of thick composite pressure hulls for deep sea equipment.
Effects of Purified β-Glucosidases from Issatchenkia terricola, Pichia kudriavzevii, Metschnikowia pulcherrima on the Flavor Complexity and Typicality of Wines
Authors: Zhu Wanying , Zhang Wenxia , Qin Tao , Liao Jing , Zhang Xiuyan
Published: October 2022

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of purified β-glucosidases from Issatchenkia terricola SLY-4, Pichia kudriavzevii F2-24, and Metschnikowia pulcherrima HX-13 (named as SLY-4E, F2-24E, and HX-13E, respectively) on the flavor complexity and typicality of wines. Cabernet Sauvignon wines were fermented by Saccharomycescerevisiae with the addition of SLY-4E, F2-24E, and HX-13E; the fermentation process and characteristics of wines were analyzed. The addition of SLY-4E, F2-24E, and HX-13E into must improved the contents of terpenes, higher alcohols, and esters, and decreased the contents of C6 compounds and fatty acids, which enhanced the fruity, floral, and taste aspects, reducing the unpleasant green of wines with no significant difference in their appearance. β-glucosidases from different yeast species produced different aroma compound profiles which presented different flavor and quality. F2-24EW had the best effect on flavor and quality of wine followed by SLY-4EW and HX-13EW. These research results can provide references for the use of β-glucosidases from non-Saccharomyces yeasts to improve the flavor complexity, typicality, and quality of wines.
Non-Oncological Radiotherapy: A Review of Modern Approaches
Authors: Nardone Valerio , D’Ippolito Emma , Grassi Roberta , Sangiovanni Angelo , Gagliardi Federico , De Marco Giuseppina , Menditti Vittorio Salvatore , D’Ambrosio Luca , Cioce Fabrizio , Boldrini Luca , Salvestrini Viola , Greco Carlo , Desideri Isacco , De Felice Francesca , D’Onofrio Ida , Grassi Roberto , Reginelli Alfonso , Cappabianca Salvatore
Published: October 2022

Despite being usually delivered in oncological patients, radiotherapy can be used as a successful treatment for several non-malignant disorders. Even though this use of radiotherapy has been scarcely investigated since the 1950s, more recent interest has actually shed the light on this approach. Thus, the aim of this narrative review is to analyze the applications of non-oncological radiotherapy in different disorders. Key references were derived from a PubMed query. Hand searching and clinicaltrials.gov were also used. This review contains a narrative report and a critical discussion of non-oncological radiotherapy approaches. In conclusion, non-oncological radiotherapy is a safe and efficacious approach to treat several disorders that needs to be further investigated and used in clinical practice.
The Effect of Lumbar Belts with Different Extensibilities on Kinematic, Kinetic, and Muscle Activity of Sit-to-Stand Motions in Patients with Nonspecific Low Back Pain
Authors: Im Sang-Cheol , Seo Seong-Wook , Kang Na-Yeon , Jo Hoon , Kim Kyoung
Published: October 2022

Although lumbar belts can be used for the treatment and prevention of low back pain, the role of the lumbar belt remains unclear without clear guidelines. This study aimed to investigate the effect of lumbar belts with different extensibilities on the kinematics, kinetics, and muscle activity of sit-to-stand motions in terms of motor control in patients with nonspecific low back pain. A total of 30 subjects participated in the study: 15 patients with nonspecific low back pain and 15 healthy adults. Participants performed the sit-to-stand motion in random order of three conditions: no lumbar belt, wearing an extensible lumbar belt, and wearing a non-extensible lumbar belt. The sit-to-stand motion’s kinematic, kinetic, and muscle activity variables in each condition were measured using a three-dimensional motion analysis device, force plate, and surface electromyography. An interaction effect was found for the time taken, anterior pelvic tilt angle, and muscle activity of the vastus lateralis and biceps femoris. The two lumbar belts with different extensibilities had a positive effect on motor control in patients with nonspecific low back pain. Therefore, both types of extensible lumbar belts can be useful in the sit-to-stand motion, which is an important functional activity for patients with nonspecific low back pain.
Single Surgeon versus Co-Surgeons in Primary Total Joint Arthroplasty: Does “Two Is Better than One” Apply to Surgeons?
Authors: Frenkel Rutenberg Tal , Vitenberg Maria , Daglan Efrat , Kadar Assaf , Shemesh Shai
Published: October 2022

Background: As the demand for total joint arthroplasties (TJA) increases steadily, so does the pressure to train future surgeons and, at the same time, achieve optimal outcomes. We aimed to identify differences in operative times and short-term surgical outcomes of TJAs performed by co-surgeons versus a single attending surgeon. Methods: A retrospective analysis of 597 TJAs, including 239 total hip arthroplasties (THAs) and 358 total knee arthroplasties (TKAs) was conducted. All operations were performed by one of four fellowship-trained attending surgeons as the primary surgeon. The assisting surgeons were either attendings or residents. Results: In 51% of THA and in 38% of TKA, two attending surgeons were scrubbed in. An additional scrubbed-in attending was not found to be beneficial in terms of surgical time reduction or need for revision surgeries within the postoperative year. This was also true for THAs and for TKAs separately. An attending co-surgeon was associated with a longer hospital stay (p = 0.028). Surgeries performed by fewer surgeons were associated with a shorter surgical time (p = 0.036) and an increased need for blood transfusion (p = 0.033). Neither the rate of intraoperative complications nor revisions differed between groups, regardless of the number of attending surgeons scrubbed in or the total number of surgeons. Conclusion: A surgical team comprised of more than a single attending surgeon in TJAs was not found to reduce surgical time, while the participation of residents was not related with worse patient outcomes.
Molecular Profiling in Non-Squamous Non-Small Cell Lung Carcinoma: Towards a Switch to Next-Generation Sequencing Reflex Testing
Authors: Pujol Nina , Heeke Simon , Bontoux Christophe , Boutros Jacques , Ilié Marius , Hofman Véronique , Marquette Charles-Hugo , Hofman Paul , Benzaquen Jonathan
Published: October 2022

Molecular diagnosis of lung cancer is a constantly evolving field thanks to major advances in precision oncology. The wide range of actionable molecular alterations in non-squamous non-small cell lung carcinoma (NS-NSCLC) and the multiplicity of mechanisms of resistance to treatment resulted in the need for repeated testing to establish an accurate molecular diagnosis, as well as to track disease evolution over time. While assessing the increasing complexity of the molecular composition of tumors at baseline, as well as over time, has become increasingly challenging, the emergence and implementation of next-generation sequencing (NGS) testing has extensively facilitated molecular profiling in NS-NSCLC. In this review, we discuss recent developments in the molecular profiling of NS-NSCLC and how NGS addresses current needs, as well as how it can be implemented to address future challenges in the management of NS-NSCLC.
Exploring the Role of Transit Ridership as a Proxy for Regional Centrality in Moderating the Relationship between the 3Ds and Street-Level Pedestrian Volume: Evidence from Seoul, Korea
Authors: Kim Seung-Nam , Chung Juwon , Lee Junseung
Published: October 2022

The preference for walking and the resulting pedestrian activities have been considered key success factors for streets, neighborhoods, and cities alike. Although micro- and meso-scale built environment factors that encourage walking have been investigated, the role of macroscopic factors such as regional centrality in explaining street-level pedestrian volume is often neglected. Against this backdrop, this study examines the relationship between built environments and street-level pedestrian volume using Smart Card and pedestrian volume survey data from Seoul after controlling for transport ridership as a proxy for regional centrality. As a preliminary study, we analyzed 36 regression models applying different sets of transit ridership variables and found that the combination of bus ridership within 400 m and subway ridership within 300 m best explained the variation in pedestrian volume on a street. Then, the effects of the 3D variables (density, diversity, and design) on pedestrian volume were compared before and after controlling for ridership within this spatial range. The results demonstrated that, after taking transit ridership into account, the influence of built environment variables is generally reduced, and the decrease is more pronounced among walkshed-level 3D variables than street-level variables. Particularly, while the effect of “design” (street connectivity) on pedestrian volume appeared to be negatively significant in the constrained model, it was found to be insignificant in the unconstrained model which controlled for transit ridership. This suggests that the degree of street connectivity is influenced by regional centrality, and accordingly, the coefficient of the “design” variable in our constrained model might be biased. Thus, to accurately understand the effect of the meso-scale 3D variables on pedestrian volume, both micro- and macro-scale built environmental factors should be controlled.
Estimating Groundnut Yield in Smallholder Agriculture Systems Using PlanetScope Data
Authors: Kpienbaareh Daniel , Mohammed Kamaldeen , Luginaah Isaac , Wang Jinfei , Bezner Kerr Rachel , Lupafya Esther , Dakishoni Laifolo
Published: October 2022

Crop yield is related to household food security and community resilience, especially in smallholder agricultural systems. As such, it is crucial to accurately estimate within-season yield in order to provide critical information for farm management and decision making. Therefore, the primary objective of this paper is to assess the most appropriate method, indices, and growth stage for predicting the groundnut yield in smallholder agricultural systems in northern Malawi. We have estimated the yield of groundnut in two smallholder farms using the observed yield and vegetation indices (VIs), which were derived from multitemporal PlanetScope satellite data. Simple linear, multiple linear (MLR), and random forest (RF) regressions were applied for the prediction. The leave-one-out cross-validation method was used to validate the models. The results showed that (i) of the modelling approaches, the RF model using the five most important variables (RF5) was the best approach for predicting the groundnut yield, with a coefficient of determination (R2) of 0.96 and a root mean square error (RMSE) of 0.29 kg/ha, followed by the MLR model (R2 = 0.84, RMSE = 0.84 kg/ha); in addition, (ii) the best within-season stage to accurately predict groundnut yield is during the R5/beginning seed stage. The RF5 model was used to estimate the yield for four different farms. The estimated yields were compared with the total reported yields from the farms. The results revealed that the RF5 model generally accurately estimated the groundnut yields, with the margins of error ranging between 0.85% and 11%. The errors are within the post-harvest loss margins in Malawi. The results indicate that the observed yield and VIs, which were derived from open-source remote sensing data, can be applied to estimate yield in order to facilitate farming and food security planning.
Using Interdisciplinary Techniques for Digital Reconstruction of Anti-Turkish Fortification Watchtower
Authors: Kamnik Rok , Jelenko Saša Djura , Nekrep Matjaž Perc , Jaušovec Marko
Published: October 2022

Modern heritage protection goes beyond the mere protection of individual buildings and objects. Modern technologies and techniques of field data capture and visual (3D) presentations are increasingly penetrating this field and are becoming more and more essential and necessary for archives, cadastres, and users and visitors of museums, exhibitions, collections, and archaeological parks. In the area between Kotlje and Ravne na Koroškem, Slovenia, in 1476–1477, 9 to 10 anti-Turkish fortifications, called Turške Šance, reportedly were erected. The remains were left to decay slowly. This paper highlights the possibility of applying interdisciplinary data capture and 3D visualization techniques that are used in the fields of civil engineering and architecture for digital reconstruction of the anti-Turkish fortification as a case study in order to present them in the most contemporary way and emphasize them on a local, regional, national, and international level. Unfortunately, similar remains elsewhere in Europe are primarily ignored (with some notable exceptions). The digital reconstruction of anti-Turkish watchtowers therefore represented an extended reconstruction to revive that part of the historical heritage of Slovenia using the proposed techniques.
Subtypes and Mechanisms of Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Proposed by Machine Learning Algorithms
Authors: Glavaški Mila , Preveden Andrej , Jakovljević Đorđe , Filipović Nenad , Velicki Lazar
Published: October 2022

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a relatively common inherited cardiac disease that results in left ventricular hypertrophy. Machine learning uses algorithms to study patterns in data and develop models able to make predictions. The aim of this study is to identify HCM subtypes and examine the mechanisms of HCM using machine learning algorithms. Clinical and laboratory findings of 143 adult patients with a confirmed diagnosis of nonobstructive HCM are analyzed; HCM subtypes are determined by clustering, while the presence of different HCM features is predicted in classification machine learning tasks. Four clusters are determined as the optimal number of clusters for this dataset. Models that can predict the presence of particular HCM features from other genotypic and phenotypic information are generated, and subsets of features sufficient to predict the presence of other features of HCM are determined. This research proposes four subtypes of HCM assessed by machine learning algorithms and based on the overall phenotypic expression of the participants of the study. The identified subsets of features sufficient to determine the presence of particular HCM aspects could provide deeper insights into the mechanisms of HCM.
Exosomes Derived from Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells Alleviate Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury and Promote Survival of Skin Flaps in Rats
Authors: Niu Qifang , Yang Yang , Li Delong , Guo Wenwen , Wang Chong , Xu Haoyue , Feng Zhien , Han Zhengxue
Published: October 2022

Free tissue flap transplantation is a classic and important method for the clinical repair of tissue defects. However, ischemia-reperfusion (IR) injury can affect the success rate of skin flap transplantation. We used a free abdomen flap rat model to explore the protective effects of exosomes derived from bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs-exosomes) against the IR injury of the skin flap. Exosomes were injected through the tail vein and the flaps were observed and obtained on day 7. We observed that BMSCs-exosomes significantly reduced the necrotic lesions of the skin flap. Furthermore, BMSCs-exosomes relieved oxidative stress and reduced the levels of inflammatory factors. Apoptosis was evaluated via the terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL) assay and Western blot analysis of Bax, Bcl-2. Simultaneously, BMSCs-exosomes promoted the formation of new blood vessels in the IR flap, as confirmed by the increased expression level of VEGFA and the fluorescence co-staining of CD31 and PCNA. Additionally, BMSCs-exosomes considerably increased proliferation and migration of human umbilical vein endothelial cells and promoted angiogenesis in vitro. BMSCs-exosomes could be a promising cell-free therapeutic candidate to reduce IR injury and promote the survival of skin flaps.
Mediating Effect of Self-Cognitive Oral Health Status on the Effect of Obstructive Sleep Apnea Risk Factors on Quality of Life (HINT-8) in Middle-Aged Korean Women: The Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey
Authors: Kim Yu-Rin
Published: October 2022

Background: Obstructive sleep apnea and oral health are highly correlated with quality of life. The purpose of this study is to determine the mediating effect of self-cognitive oral health status on the effect of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) risk factors on quality of life in middle-aged Korean women using the 2019 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey data. Methods: A hierarchical regression analysis was performed on the mediating effect of self-cognitive oral health status on the effects of OSA risk factors on health-related quality of life (Korean health-related quality of life instrument with 8 items; HINT-8). Results: Self-cognitive oral health status as a parameter had a significant effect on quality of life (β = 0.713, p < 0.001). Compared to the effect of the OSA risk factor of the second stage on the quality of life (β = −1.329, p < 0.001), the input of the third stage of self-cognitive oral health was partially mediated (β = −1.280, p <0.001). Conclusions: Therefore, if middle-aged women have OSA risk factors, they should try to improve their quality of life by managing oral health as well as OSA treatment.
(Z)-2-(1-(5-Methyl-1-(4-nitrophenyl)-1H-1,2,3-triazol-4-yl)ethylidene)-N-phenylhydrazine-1-carbothioamide
Authors: Kariuki Benson M. , Abdel-Wahab Bakr F. , Bekheit Mohamed S. , El-Hiti Gamal A.
Published: October 2022

Reaction of equimolar equivalents of 1-(5-methyl-1-(4-nitrophenyl)-1H-1,2,3-triazol-4-yl)ethan-1-one (1) and N-phenylhydrazinecarbothioamide (2) in boiling ethanol containing a catalytic amount of concentrated hydrochloric acid for 4 h gave (Z)-2-(1-(5-methyl-1-(4-nitrophenyl)-1H-1,2,3-triazol-4-yl)ethylidene)-N-phenylhydrazine-1-carbothioamide (3) with 88% yield. The structure of 3 was established using single-crystal X-ray diffraction and magnetic resonance spectroscopy.
Annealing-Dependent Morphotropic Phase Boundary in the BiMg0.5Ti0.5O3–BiZn0.5Ti0.5O3 Perovskite System
Authors: Cardoso João Pedro V. , Shvartsman Vladimir V. , Pushkarev Anatoli V. , Radyush Yuriy V. , Olekhnovich Nikolai M. , Khalyavin Dmitry D. , Čižmár Erik , Feher Alexander , Salak Andrei N.
Published: October 2022

The annealing behavior of (1-x)BiMg0.5Ti0.5O3–xBiZn0.5Ti0.5O3 [(1-x)BMT–xBZT] perovskite solid solutions synthesized under high pressure was studied in situ via X-ray diffraction and piezoresponse force microscopy. The as prepared ceramics show a morphotropic phase boundary (MPB) between the non-polar orthorhombic and ferroelectric tetragonal states at 75 mol. % BZT. It is shown that annealing above 573 K results in irreversible changes in the phase diagram. Namely, for compositions with 0.2 < x < 0.6, the initial orthorhombic phase transforms into a ferroelectric rhombohedral phase. The new MPB between the rhombohedral and tetragonal phases lies at a lower BZT content of 60 mol. %. The phase diagram of the BMT–BZT annealed ceramics is formally analogous to that of the commercial piezoelectric material lead zirconate titanate. This makes the BMT–BZT system promising for the development of environmentally friendly piezoelectric ceramics.
Improving the Properties of Magnetite Green Pellets with a Novel Organic Composite Binder
Authors: Liu Shuo , Zhang Yuanbo , Su Zijian , Jiang Tao
Published: October 2022

A novel composite binder (humic acid modified bentonite, HAMB) and two other binders (bentonite and Modified humic acid, MHA) were used to explore the effects of binders on the properties of magnetite green pellets in this study. The results of green pellet properties and drying tests show that the low doses of a humic substance-based binder can achieve the same effect as high doses of bentonite binder. A humic substance-based binder could be a promising organic binder to replace bentonite. Meanwhile, the influence mechanism of adding different binders on the strength of green pellet was discussed, and the relationship between moisture content in the pellet and the compression strength of three binders was determined. A TG-DSC analysis found that the novel composite binder (HAMB) was not a simple mix of humic acid and bentonite, in which a humic substance could change the structure of bentonite and reduce the thermal stability of bentonite, causing the HAMB composite binder to have a high decomposition temperature.
Nanoplatforms for Irinotecan Delivery Based on Mesoporous Silica Modified with a Natural Polysaccharide
Authors: Brezoiu Ana-Maria , Prelipcean Ana-Maria , Lincu Daniel , Deaconu Mihaela , Vasile Eugeniu , Tatia Rodica , Seciu-Grama Ana-Maria , Matei Cristian , Berger Daniela
Published: October 2022

Natural compounds are an important source of beneficial components that could be used in cancer therapy along with well-known cytostatic agents to enhance the therapeutic effect while targeting tumoral tissues. Therefore, nanoplatforms containing mesoporous silica and a natural polysaccharide, ulvan, extracted from Ulva Lactuca seaweed, were developed for irinotecan. Either mesoporous silica-ulvan nanoplatforms or irinotecan-loaded materials were structurally and morphologically characterized. In vitro drug release experiments in phosphate buffer solution with a pH of 7.6 emphasized the complete recovery of irinotecan in 8 h. Slower kinetics were obtained for the nanoplatforms with a higher amount of natural polysaccharide. Ulvan extract proved to be biocompatible up to 2 mg/mL on fibroblasts L929 cell line. The irinotecan-loaded nanoplatforms exhibited better anticancer activity than that of the drug alone on human colorectal adenocarcinoma cells (HT-29), reducing their viability to 60% after 24 h. Moreover, the cell cycle analysis proved that the irinotecan loading onto developed nanoplatforms caused an increase in the cell number trapped at G0/G1 phase and influenced the development of the tumoral cells.
Effect of Coating Pre-Treatment on Surface Recrystallization of DD6 Single Crystal
Authors: Liu Delin , Li Jiaping , Jin Xiaochao , Mu Rende , Yang Wenhui
Published: October 2022

Thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) are widely used to protect high-temperature components against harsh environments, such as extremely high temperatures. In this work, a second generation Ni-based single crystal superalloy (DD6) was treated in two ways: (1) via simple surface sandblasting under different pressures with no additional coating, and (2) through simple surface sandblasting under different pressures and then by applying NiCoCrAlYHf (HY5) coatings. The effects of pre-treatment (sandblasting) and the HY5 coating on the surface recrystallization of the alloy were thoroughly investigated. According to the results, both sandblasting pressure and the presence or absence of a coating significantly influence surface recrystallization. In particular, the critical sandblasting pressure for recrystallization increased the maximum recrystallization depth in both the coated and uncoated samples. Meanwhile, the recrystallization depth of the alloy with a coating was reduced compared to that without a coating. In addition, the number of recrystallized cells in the coated alloy was decreased, which indicated that the HY5 coating effectively reduced the degree of recrystallization.
Effect of Process Parameters on Properties of Cold-Sprayed Zn–Al Composite Coatings
Authors: Wang Naijiang , Liu Chengxin , Wang Yangang , Chen Hao , Chu Xingrong , Gao Jun
Published: October 2022

Al–Zn composite coating can provide effective cathodic protection for E235 steel. This study aims to obtain the Al–Zn composite coating with the best anti-corrosion performance by optimizing the spraying temperature, spraying distance and powder-feeding motor speed. The Al and Zn powders were analyzed by scanning electron microscope (SEM), and the microstructure of the coatings prepared by different process parameters was observed by optical microscope. The mechanical and anticorrosive properties of the coating were evaluated using hardness, porosity, thickness and electrochemical tests. According to the experimental results, when the spraying temperature, spraying distance and powder-feeding motor speed were 500 °C, 27 mm and 1.5 r/min, respectively, the hardness of the coating was 67 HV, the porosity was 0.57% and the thickness was 0.588 mm. The EIS test results show that the coating has the maximum polarization resistance, and therefore the coating has good corrosion resistance at this parameter.
Deep Learning in the State of Charge Estimation for Li-Ion Batteries of Electric Vehicles: A Review
Authors: Zhang Dawei , Zhong Chen , Xu Peijuan , Tian Yiyang
Published: October 2022

As one of the critical state parameters of the battery management system, the state of charge (SOC) of lithium batteries can provide an essential reference for battery safety management, charge/discharge control, and the energy management of electric vehicles (EVs). To analyze the application of deep learning in electric vehicles’ power battery SOC estimation, this study reviewed the technical process, common public datasets, and the neural networks used, as well as the structural characteristics and advantages and disadvantages of lithium battery SOC estimation in deep learning methods. First, the specific technical processes of the deep learning method for SOC estimation were analyzed, including data collection, data preprocessing, feature engineering, model training, and model evaluation. Second, the current commonly and publicly used lithium battery dataset was summarized. Then, the input variables, data sets, errors, and advantages and disadvantages of three types of deep learning methods were obtained using the structure of the neural network used for training as the classification criterion; further, the selection of the deep learning structure for SOC estimation was discussed. Finally, the challenges and future development directions of lithium battery SOC estimation using the deep learning method were explained. Over all, this review provides insights into deep learning for EVs’ Li-ion battery SOC estimation in the future.
Actuators and Sensors for Application in Agricultural Robots: A Review
Authors: Xie Dongbo , Chen Liang , Liu Lichao , Chen Liqing , Wang Hai
Published: October 2022

In recent years, with the rapid development of science and technology, agricultural robots have gradually begun to replace humans, to complete various agricultural operations, changing traditional agricultural production methods. Not only is the labor input reduced, but also the production efficiency can be improved, which invariably contributes to the development of smart agriculture. This paper reviews the core technologies used for agricultural robots in non-structural environments. In addition, we review the technological progress of drive systems, control strategies, end-effectors, robotic arms, environmental perception, and other related systems. This research shows that in a non-structured agricultural environment, using cameras and light detection and ranging (LiDAR), as well as ultrasonic and satellite navigation equipment, and by integrating sensing, transmission, control, and operation, different types of actuators can be innovatively designed and developed to drive the advance of agricultural robots, to meet the delicate and complex requirements of agricultural products as operational objects, such that better productivity and standardization of agriculture can be achieved. In summary, agricultural production is developing toward a data-driven, standardized, and unmanned approach, with smart agriculture supported by actuator-driven-based agricultural robots. This paper concludes with a summary of the main existing technologies and challenges in the development of actuators for applications in agricultural robots, and the outlook regarding the primary development directions of agricultural robots in the near future.
Electromagnetic and Mechanical Analysis and Measurements of Interior Permanent Magnet Motors Based on Equivalent Magnetic Circuit Method
Authors: Lee Young-Keun , Bang Tae-Kyoung , Jo Seong-Tae , Kim Yong-Joo , Shin Kyung-Hun , Choi Jang-Young
Published: October 2022

This paper is about the magnetic field analysis of an interior permanent magnet motor (IPM motor) by using the equivalent magnetic circuit method (EMC method), which requires a small amount of computation time compared with the finite element method (FEM). IPM motors have a specific shape of rotor in which the permanent magnets are embedded. Therefore, in the bridge region, the magnetic saturation is generated due to the shape of the permanent magnet, which affects the magnetic flux density distribution in the air gap and the characteristics of the IPM motor. Thus, to design an IPM motor, the magnetic saturation effects should be considered along with the rotor shape. In addition, because the rotor of the IPM rotates at a high speed directly in connection with the load, the stress generated from the rotor must be stably distributed. Consequently, according to the rotor shape characteristics of the IPM, the stress is concentrated in the thin bridge region during high-speed rotation. When the stress generated in the bridge region exceeds the yield stress of the rotor iron core material, the bridge part is destroyed. Therefore, it is important to analyze the stress that occurs in the rotor during high-speed rotation in the rotor design stage of the IPM. In this study, we analyzed the magnetic field characteristics of an IPM motor using its equivalent magnetic circuit while considering the magnetic saturation in the bridge region. The stability of the rotor was determined by presenting a safety factor based on the maximum stress generated at the rotor for each speed. We derived the stator natural frequency to evaluate the resonance possibility between the electrical frequency and the stator natural frequency. Finally, the validity of the constructed equivalent magnetic circuit was verified by comparing the results with those obtained via the FEM analysis and experiments.
Recent Advances on Penalized Regression Models for Biological Data
Authors: Wang Pei , Chen Shunjie , Yang Sijia
Published: October 2022

Increasingly amounts of biological data promote the development of various penalized regression models. This review discusses the recent advances in both linear and logistic regression models with penalization terms. This review is mainly focused on various penalized regression models, some of the corresponding optimization algorithms, and their applications in biological data. The pros and cons of different models in terms of response prediction, sample classification, network construction and feature selection are also reviewed. The performances of different models in a real-world RNA-seq dataset for breast cancer are explored. Finally, some future directions are discussed.
Machine-Learning-Based Improved Smith Predictive Control for MIMO Processes
Authors: Guo Xinlan , Shirkhani Mohammadamin , Ahmed Emad M.
Published: October 2022

Controlling time-delayed processes is one of the challenges in today’s process industries. If the multi-input/multi-output system is dynamically coupled, the delay problem becomes more critical. In this paper, a new method based on Smith’s predictive method, with the help of a type-2 fuzzy system to control the system with the mentioned features, is presented. The variability in the time delay, the existence of disturbances and the existence of structural and parametric uncertainty lead to the poor performance of the traditional Smith predictor. Even if the control system is set up correctly at the beginning of the setup, it will eventually wear out, and the above problems will appear. Therefore, computational intelligence is used here, and by updating the parameters of the control system at the same time as the system changes, the control system adapts itself to achieve the best performance. To evaluate the proposed control system, a complex process system is simulated, the results of which show the good performance of Smith’s prediction method based on a type-2 fuzzy system.