bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Terra-Cortril as Local Pain Medication on the Healing Process of a Fresh Extraction Socket: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Vuylsteke Fauve , Cosyn Jan , Tytgat Manon , Eghbali Aryan
Published: June 2023

(1) Background: Use of Terra-Cortril may reduce pain and discomfort after tooth extraction. It is widely used among dentists, especially for third molar extraction and for treatment of dry socket. Only few case reports described unsuccessful healing with formation of myospherulosis. (2) Aim: The primary objective of this retrospective cohort study was to compare the occurrence of unsuccessful healing between extraction sockets locally treated with Terra-Cortril (TC) (exposure cohort) and extraction sockets subjected to unassisted healing (non-exposure cohort). The assessment of the three-dimensional morphology of the bone was a secondary objective. (3) Material and methods: The records of patients who had one or more extractions between 1 January 2020 and 1 July 2021 followed by implant placement in one private practice were retrieved and data were extracted. At the time of implant placement, practitioners established, both clinically and radiographically, if the healing was successful or unsuccessful. Explanatory demographic as well as clinical variables were extracted from patient files, checked and supplemented by contacting patients in cases of missing data. (4) Results: 69 patients were included who had, in total, 99 extractions. The exposure cohort included 55 sites, while the non-exposure cohort included 44 sites. A total of 56 sites demonstrated successful healing, and 53 showed unsuccessful healing. The regression model identified TC as a significant predictor (p = 0.014) for unsuccessful healing with an odds ratio of 2.86. Sites treated with Terra-Cortril had a significantly greater bone defect at level −1 mm, level −3 mm, and level −5 mm from the bone crest, and significantly greater maximal vertical and horizontal bone defects. At sites where Terra-Cortril was used, significantly more surgical consequences were reported (70.91% vs. 18.18%, p < 0.001). (5) Conclusions: fresh extraction sockets treated with Terra-Cortril increased the likelihood of unsuccessful healing with an odds ratio of 2.86. The greater defect size leads to significantly more limitations when planning implants at sites previously treated with TC.
Effect of Balance Training in Sitting Position Using Visual Feedback on Balance and Gait Ability in Chronic Stroke Patients
Authors: Yeo Sang-Seok , Koo Dong-Kyun , Ko Seong-Young , Park Seo-Yoon
Published: June 2023

Chronic stroke often results in balance and gait impairments, significantly impacting patients’ quality of life. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether the combined effect of unstable surface balance training and visual feedback, based on proprioceptive neuromuscular stimulation in patients with chronic stroke, is effective in restoring balance and gait ability. A total of 39 chronic stroke patients were randomly assigned to a visual feedback combined with unstable surface balance training group (VUSBG), an unstable surface balance training group (USBG), or a conventional physical therapy group (CG). This study was conducted with the Trunk Impairment Scale, the Bug Balance Scale, the Timed Get Up and Go Test, and Gait Analysis. VUSBG and USBG improved function and gait (stride length and hip/knee flexion angle), but there was no significant difference in the CG group. Specific results showed that the stride length in the VUSBG improved by 25% (p < 0.05), and the hip/knee flexion angle improved by 18% (p < 0.05). The post-hoc analysis revealed that VUSBG had a greater impact on the hip/knee flexion angle relative to the other two groups, as well as gait velocity and stride length relative to CG. Visual feedback complex exercise based on the principle of proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation could be an intervention strategy to improve gait speed, trunk stability, and mobility in chronic stroke patients.
Circulating Syndecan-1 Levels Are Associated with Chronological Coagulofibrinolytic Responses and the Development of Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC) after Trauma: A Retrospective Observational Study
Authors: Matsumoto Hironori , Annen Suguru , Mukai Naoki , Ohshita Muneaki , Murata Satoru , Harima Yutaka , Ogawa Shirou , Okita Mitsuo , Nakabayashi Yuki , Kikuchi Satoshi , Takeba Jun , Sato Norio
Published: June 2023

Background: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the association between endotheliopathy represented by high levels of circulating syndecan-1 (SDC-1) and coagulofibrinolytic responses due to trauma, which can lead to disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). Methods: We retrospectively evaluated 48 eligible trauma patients immediately admitted to our hospital and assessed SDC-1 and coagulofibrinolytic parameters for 7 days after admission. We compared the longitudinal changes of coagulofibrinolytic parameters and SDC-1 levels between two groups (high and low SDC-1) according to median SDC-1 value on admission. Results: The median circulating SDC-1 level was 99.6 (61.1–214.3) ng/mL on admission, and levels remained high until 7 days after admission. Coagulofibrinolytic responses assessed by biomarkers immediately after trauma were correlated with SDC-1 elevation (thrombin–antithrombin complex, TAT: r = 0.352, p = 0.001; antithrombin, AT: r = −0.301, p < 0.001; plasmin-α2-plasmin inhibitor complex, PIC: r = 0.503, p = 0.035; tissue plasminogen activator, tPA: r = 0.630, p < 0.001). Sustained SDC-1 elevation was associated with intense and prolonged coagulation activation, impairment of anticoagulation, and fibrinolytic activation followed by inhibition of fibrinolysis, which are the primary responses associated with development of DIC in the acute phase of trauma. Elevation of circulating SDC-1 level was also associated with consumption coagulopathy and the need for transfusion, which revealed a significant association between high SDC-1 levels and the development of DIC after trauma (area under the curve, AUC = 0.845, cut-off value = 130.38 ng/mL, p = 0.001). Conclusions: High circulating levels of syndecan-1 were associated with intense and prolonged coagulation activation, impairment of anticoagulation, fibrinolytic activation, and consumption coagulopathy after trauma. Endotheliopathy represented by SDC-1 elevation was associated with trauma induced coagulopathy, which can lead to the development of DIC.
Comparative Evaluation of the Accuracy of Gingival Thickness Measurement by Clinical Evaluation and Intraoral Ultrasonography
Authors: Soltani Parisa , Yaghini Jaber , Rafiei Kosar , Mehdizadeh Mojdeh , Armogida Niccolò Giuseppe , Esposito Luigi , Spagnuolo Gianrico
Published: June 2023

This study aimed to investigate the accuracy of gingival thickness measurement by two methods of clinical evaluation and intraoral ultrasonography. The gingival thickness was measured in the midbuccal area of the right maxillary lateral incisor and first molar teeth in 30 individuals. For clinical measurement, a #15 K-file with rubber stops was vertically inserted 2 mm apical to the gingival margin and the length of the file in the tissue was measured using a digital caliper. Ultrasonographic measurement was performed using an intraoral probe on the gingival surface in the midbuccal area, at the entry point of the file. Statistical analysis was performed by paired t-test, correlation coefficient, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve (α = 0.05). In the anterior region, the mean gingival thicknesses using ultrasonography (1.517 ± 0.293 mm) and clinical evaluation (1.610 ± 0.272 mm) were not significantly different (p = 0.434). In the posterior region, the mean gingival thicknesses were significantly different between ultrasonography (1.372 ± 0.442 mm) and clinical evaluation (1.626 ± 0.310 mm) (p = 0.006). The area under ROC curve values for ultrasonographic measurements in the anterior and posterior regions were 0.681 and 0.597, respectively. The use of ultrasonography with an intraoral probe has acceptable accuracy for the determination of gingival thickness, especially for the anterior regions.
Triglyceride-Rich Lipoprotein Metabolism: Key Regulators of Their Flux
Authors: Gugliucci Alejandro
Published: June 2023

The residual risk for arteriosclerotic cardiovascular disease after optimal statin treatment may amount to 50% and is the consequence of both immunological and lipid disturbances. Regarding the lipid disturbances, the role of triglyceride-rich lipoproteins (TRLs) and their remnants has come to the forefront in the past decade. Triglycerides (TGs) stand as markers of the remnants of the catabolism of TRLs that tend to contain twice as much cholesterol as compared to LDL. The accumulation of circulating TRLs and their partially lipolyzed derivatives, known as “remnants”, is caused mainly by ineffective triglyceride catabolism. These cholesterol-enriched remnant particles are hypothesized to contribute to atherogenesis. The aim of the present narrative review is to briefly summarize the main pathways of TRL metabolism, bringing to the forefront the newly discovered role of apolipoproteins, the key physiological function of lipoprotein lipase and its main regulators, the importance of the fluxes of these particles in the post-prandial period, their catabolic rates and the role of apo CIII and angiopoietin-like proteins in the partition of TRLs during the fast-fed cycle. Finally, we provide a succinct summary of the new and old therapeutic armamentarium and the outcomes of key current trials with a final outlook on the different methodological approaches to measuring TRL remnants, still in search of the gold standard.
An Experimental Study on Trajectory Tracking Control of Torpedo-like AUVs Using Coupled Error Dynamics
Authors: Cho Gun Rae , Kang Hyungjoo , Kim Min-Gyu , Lee Mun-Jik , Li Ji-Hong , Kim Hosung , Lee Hansol , Lee Gwonsoo
Published: June 2023

In this paper, we propose a trajectory tracking controller with experimental verification for torpedo-like autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) with underactuation characteristics. The proposed controller overcomes the underactuation problem by designing the desired error dynamics in a coupled form using state variables in body-fixed and world coordinates. Unlike the back-stepping control requiring high-order derivatives of state variables, the proposed controller only requires the first derivatives of the states, which can alleviate noise magnification issues due to differentiation. We adopt time delay estimation to estimate the dynamics indirectly using control inputs and vehicle outputs, making the proposed controller relatively easy to apply without requiring the all of the vehicle dynamics. We also address some practical issues that commonly arise in experimental environments: handling measurement noises and actuation limits. To mitigate the effects of noise on the controller, a filtering technique using a moving window average is employed. Additionally, to account for the actuation limits, we design an anti-windup structure that takes into consideration the nonlinearity between the thrusting force and rotating speed of the thruster. We verify the tracking performance of the proposed controller through experimentation using an AUV. The experimental results show that the 3D motion control of the proposed controller exhibits an RMS error of 0.3216 m and demonstrate that the proposed controller achieves accurate tracking performance, making it suitable for survey missions that require tracking errors of less than one meter.
Crashworthiness Optimization Method of Ship Structure under Multi-Working Conditions
Authors: Qiu Weijian , Liu Kun , Liu Hewei , Zong Shuai , Wang Jiaxia , Gao Zhenguo
Published: June 2023

Numerous collision conditions can occur during ship operations, resulting in various consequences that require specific consideration for optimizing crashworthiness design. Existing studies have investigated crashworthiness design in ship structures; however, they often focus on single working conditions and do not comprehensively consider the diverse scenarios encountered during ship operations. To overcome this drawback, this paper proposes a novel method that addresses multi-working conditions and combines orthogonal testing with a backpropagation neural network (BPNN) to establish an efficient surrogate model for collision optimization. The accuracy of the BPNN was improved by introducing the genetic algorithm and Adam algorithm. The technique for order preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS) is introduced to formulate a multi-working condition optimization function. The crashworthiness of the ship structure is optimized using the sparrow search algorithm (SSA) while considering the constraint of lightweight design. The results demonstrate a substantial reduction in the objective functions for the optimized collision conditions. Moreover, the BPNN predicted values are in good agreement with the finite element simulation results, affirming the effectiveness of the proposed method in improving the crashworthiness of the ship structure and providing valuable guidance for engineering design.
Cross-Domain Fixed-Time Formation Control for an Air-Sea Heterogeneous Unmanned System with Disturbances
Authors: Ke Can , Chen Huifang , Xie Lei
Published: June 2023

This paper studied the cross-domain fixed-time formation control problem of an air-sea heterogeneous unmanned system (ASHS). Taking advantage of individual characteristics of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), unmanned surface vehicles (USVs), and unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs), the ASHS was introduced to accomplish the ocean stereoscopic observation mission, which was transformed into the formation control problem. Due to the difference of dimension and the communication constraint between UAV, USV, and UUV, a cross-domain communication protocol was proposed to achieve the state information flow between heterogeneous unmanned vehicles with different dimensions rather than construct the identical low-dimensional output. The high-dimensional unmanned vehicle can receive full state information from low-dimensional neighbors, while the low-dimensional follower can only receive partial state information from high-dimensional neighbors. Moreover, by means of fixed-time control theory and the backstepping control technique, the distributed fixed-time observer and controller were designed to solve the formation control problem for the ASHS with disturbances. Simulation results show that the ASHS can achieve fixed-time formation control with the proposed coordinated control protocols. Meanwhile, the convergence time of the proposed fixed-time formation control protocols is independent of the initial state.
Impact of Extreme Wind and Freshwater Runoff on the Salinity Patterns of a Mesotidal Coastal Lagoon
Authors: Pereira Francisco , Picado Ana , Pereira Humberto , Pinheiro João Pedro , Lopes Carina Lurdes , Dias João Miguel
Published: June 2023

The interaction between tide, river runoff, and wind in coastal lagoons induces complex salinity gradients, which are remarkable when the meteorological forcing is exacerbated. This work aims to characterize the salinity structure under extreme freshwater and wind events in the Ria de Aveiro coastal lagoon (Portugal). The Delft3D model was implemented and validated in 3D mode and used to perform simulations forced with extreme freshwater and wind scenarios. Results show that forcing conditions determine salinity stratification intensity and location. Generally, stratification increases as the freshwater increases, while the salinity intrusion moves downstream. Extreme wind tends to destroy stratification but fails to promote full-depth mixing, which is also dependent on the wind direction, as shown for the Espinheiro channel. The salinity intrusion is also impacted by wind events, being NW storms responsible for an upstream salt transport along the Mira channel and a downstream transport along the Espinheiro channel, and SW storms for an upstream displacement of the salinity intrusion along the São Jacinto channel. Finally, it is observed that the advection of a freshwater plume from the Vouga River into the middle of the São Jacinto channel under high freshwater scenarios causes an unusual local salinity pattern. This plume can either be pushed upstream or prevented from entering the channel, depending on the wind direction.
Characterization of Breast Tumors from MR Images Using Radiomics and Machine Learning Approaches
Authors: Faraz Khuram , Dauce Grégoire , Bouhamama Amine , Leporq Benjamin , Sasaki Hajime , Bito Yoshitaka , Beuf Olivier , Pilleul Frank
Published: June 2023

Determining histological subtypes, such as invasive ductal and invasive lobular carcinomas (IDCs and ILCs) and immunohistochemical markers, such as estrogen response (ER), progesterone response (PR), and the HER2 protein status is important in planning breast cancer treatment. MRI-based radiomic analysis is emerging as a non-invasive substitute for biopsy to determine these signatures. We explore the effectiveness of radiomics-based and CNN (convolutional neural network)-based classification models to this end. T1-weighted dynamic contrast-enhanced, contrast-subtracted T1, and T2-weighted MR images of 429 breast cancer tumors from 323 patients are used. Various combinations of input data and classification schemes are applied for ER+ vs. ER−, PR+ vs. PR−, HER2+ vs. HER2−, and IDC vs. ILC classification tasks. The best results were obtained for the ER+ vs. ER− and IDC vs. ILC classification tasks, with their respective AUCs reaching 0.78 and 0.73 on test data. The results with multi-contrast input data were generally better than the mono-contrast alone. The radiomics and CNN-based approaches generally exhibited comparable results. ER and IDC/ILC classification results were promising. PR and HER2 classifications need further investigation through a larger dataset. Better results by using multi-contrast data might indicate that multi-parametric quantitative MRI could be used to achieve more reliable classifiers.
Time Spent Interacting with Nature Is Associated with Greater Well-Being for Girl Scouts Before and during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Gray Carly E. , Kahn Peter H. , Lawler Joshua J. , Tandon Pooja S. , Bratman Gregory N. , Perrins Sara P. , Lin Yian , Boyens Frances
Published: June 2023

The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic rendered daily life overwhelmingly difficult for many children. Given the compelling evidence for the physical and mental health benefits of interaction with nature, might it be the case that time spent interacting with nature buffered the negative effects of the pandemic for children? To address this question, we conducted a longitudinal investigation with a cohort of 137 Girl Scouts across two time periods: right before the onset of the pandemic (December 2019–February 2020) and one year later (December 2020–February 2021). We found that during the pandemic (compared to pre-pandemic), Girl Scouts fared worse on measures of physical activity, positive emotions, negative emotions, anxiety, behavioral difficulties, and problematic media use. However, by using mixed models, we also found that, on average, Girl Scouts who spent more time interacting with nature fared less poorly (in this sense, “did better”) on measures of physical activity, positive emotions, anxiety, and behavioral difficulties, irrespective of the pandemic. Further analysis revealed that these advantageous associations were present even when accounting for the amount of nature near each child’s home (as measured by the normalized difference vegetation index, percent of natural land cover, and self-reported access to nature). To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study investigating nature interaction and children’s well-being to use data collected from the same cohort prior to and during the pandemic. In addition, we discuss the importance of opportunities to interact with nature for children’s well-being during future periods of social upheaval.
Exploring the Interplay between Landscape Planning and Human Well-Being: A Scientometric Review
Authors: Wang Huixin , Xie Jing , Luo Shixian , Ta Duy Thong , Wang Qian , Zhang Jiao , Su Daer , Furuya Katsunori
Published: June 2023

Numerous studies have indicated that proximity to nature positively affects human well-being. Landscape planning and related techniques have been widely implemented to achieve balance between natural environments and human society, thereby contributing to human well-being. This study examines peer-reviewed empirical research using scientometric analysis and systematic review to clarify how landscape planning enhances human well-being. On analysing 439 documents, we found a significant increase in publications by multidisciplinary teams in this research area from 2016 to date. There was an uneven global distribution of publications, with most institutions cooperating within the same continent. These findings suggest the potential for greater international collaboration in the future. We identified three main research topics in this field, traced their dynamic development, and highlighted intangible values requiring attention. Moreover, we proposed a loop of ‘naturalness-landscape structures-landscape services-human well-being’ which includes four intermediary steps to illustrate how landscape planning can improve human well-being. This loop clarifies the pathway between landscape planning approaches and human well-being, thus providing a foundation for future research. Overall, this research highlights the conceptual pathways of landscape planning in promoting human well-being and calls for further investigation to fully understand this complex relationship.
Uncovering Bias in Objective Mapping and Subjective Perception of Urban Building Functionality: A Machine Learning Approach to Urban Spatial Perception
Authors: Zhang Jiaxin , Yu Zhilin , Li Yunqin , Wang Xueqiang
Published: June 2023

Urban spatial perception critically influences human behavior and emotional reactions, emphasizing the necessity of aligning urban spaces with human needs for enhanced urban living. However, functionality-based categorization of urban architecture is prone to biases, stemming from disparities between objective mapping and subjective perception. These biases can result in urban planning and designs that fail to cater adequately to the needs and preferences of city residents, negatively impacting their quality of life and the city’s overall functionality. This research scrutinizes the perceptual biases and disparities in architectural function distribution within urban spaces, with a particular focus on Shanghai’s central urban district. The study employs machine learning to clarify these biases within urban spatial perception research, utilizing a tripartite methodology: objective mapping, subjective perception analysis, and perception deviation assessment. The study revealed significant discrepancies in the distribution centroids between commercial buildings and residential or public buildings. This result illuminates the spatial organization characteristics of urban architectural functions, serving as a valuable reference for urban planning and development. Furthermore, it uncovers the advantages and disadvantages of different data sources and techniques in interpreting urban spatial perception, paving the way for a more comprehensive understanding of the subject. Our findings underscore the need for urban planning strategies that align with human perceptual needs, thereby enhancing the quality of the urban environment and fostering a more habitable and sustainable urban space. The study’s implications suggest that a deeper understanding of perceptual needs can optimize architectural function distribution, enhancing the urban environment’s quality.
Green Agendas and White Markets: The Coloniality of Agroecology in Senegal
Authors: Marfurt Franziska , Haller Tobias , Bottazzi Patrick
Published: June 2023

Development actors in West Africa have been promoting agroecological farming as a solution to combat climate change and to create more sovereign food systems that enhance the autonomy of local smallholders. However, there is a lack of empirical evidence regarding the actual implementation of such programs and their potential to empower smallholders, especially in the West African region. Drawing on co-produced knowledge from anthropological fieldwork in Western Senegal, the case study of an alternative food network explores the interlinkages between the promotion of agroecology, anti-migration policies, and unequal power and market relations. Informed by decolonial political ecologies, the analysis reveals different layers of coloniality which complicate embodied effects on horticultural smallholders. The authors conclude that instead of fostering the emancipation of smallholders, development actors promote a labor-intensive and unprofitable way of farming that exploits local resources for the sake of green agendas and white markets. This article highlights the need for a critical reflection on the potential limitations of agroecology and calls for a more nuanced approach that considers the complex realities of smallholders in West Africa.
Scenario Paths of Developing Forest Carbon Sinks for China to Achieve Carbon Neutrality
Authors: Xu Guangyue , Schwarz Peter , Shi Xiaojing , Duma Nathan
Published: June 2023

To explore the role of forest carbon sinks in achieving carbon neutrality, the cointegration regression method and scenario analysis are utilized to forecast the long-term development trend of China’s forest carbon sinks up to the year 2100 and their impact on carbon neutrality. The results show that: (1) Under routine, accelerated, and strengthened ecological civilization scenarios (or RECS, AECS, and SECS, respectively), China’s forests are projected to absorb 531–645 million tons of carbon by 2050 and 2.32–4.69 billion tons of carbon by 2100, respectively, and the value of the strengthened scenario will be markedly higher than that of the routine scenario. (2) Driven by slower growth in forestry investment, China’s forest carbon sinks growth in all three scenarios peak by 2050 and then slow in a U-trend, with the growth rate in the SECS 0.45 percentage points higher than that of AECS, and the growth rate in the AECS 0.44 percentage points higher than that of RECS. (3) Under SECS, forest carbon sinks can help China achieve its carbon neutrality goal in 2054 (before the target date of 2060) with cumulative forestry investment of 53.3 trillion yuan and an annual investment growth rate of about 6.3%. Therefore, this study provides a deeper understanding than previous works of the important role of forest carbon sinks in achieving carbon neutrality.
Impact of Airports on Landside Industrial Development: A Case Study of Brisbane Airport
Authors: Ke Meihong , Baker Douglas , Collis Christy
Published: June 2023

Numerous studies have established strong connections between air traffic and economic growth at the regional level. However, without consideration of individual airports’ immediate vicinities, this aggregate view can lead to an overly simplistic conclusion about the role of airports in their urban environment. The impact of airports on local economic development is evaluated through a case study of Brisbane Airport by using primary data sourced from semi-structured interviews and a survey. The results demonstrate that the role of airports as transport hubs is not the dominant mechanism that drives industries to locate in airport areas. Rather, the local urban context is a dominant driver for development in and around airports. Based on the survey and interview results, urbanization economies have the highest significance on the landside industrial location decision, with a mean of 3.53 in terms of importance level. The findings provide a reference for policymakers regarding investment in airport expansion or construction, as well as a refinement of the understanding of the local economic impact of airports.
An Activation-Specific Anti-Mac-1 Designed-Ankyrin-Repeat-Protein Attenuates Colitis in Mice
Authors: Bojti Istvan , Wang Qianqi , Bojti Tibor , Bojti Felicitas , Siegel Patrick Malcolm , Heidt Timo , Moser Martin , Bode Christoph , Westermann Dirk , Peter Karlheinz , Diehl Philipp
Published: June 2023

(1) Background: Inflammatory bowel diseases are complex and multifactorial disorders of unknown etiology. The extravasation of activated leukocytes is a critical step in the pathogenesis of these diseases. Leukocyte integrin Mac-1 (αMβ2; CD11b/CD18) is crucial for the extravasation of myeloid cells, and a novel activation-specific anti-Mac-1 Designed Ankyrin Repeat protein (DARPin F7) is a promising therapeutic agent for inflammatory diseases. In its activated conformation, Mac-1 expresses the high-affinity binding site I-domain, which the DARPin F7 selectively targets. In our study, we aimed to explore the therapeutic potential of anti-Mac-1 DARPin F7 in murine dextrane sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced colitis. (2) Methods: C57BL/6J mice received 3% DSS drinking water for five days, followed by normal drinking water for one week. The mice were treated with DARPin F7 or a control substance daily via intraperitoneal injections. Disease activity index (DAI), colon length, myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity measurements, H&E staining, and qRT-PCR were conducted after euthanizing the mice on day 12. (3) Results: Treatment with DARPin F7 resulted in less pronounced colon shortening and significantly lower histological scores. The DARPin F7-treated animals experienced substantially less disease and myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity. Animals that received DARPin F7 treatment suffered less weight loss and recovered from the weight loss more efficiently. Treatment with DARPin F7 also led to significantly reduced mRNA expression of inflammatory cytokines. (4) Conclusion: Anti-Mac-1 treatment markedly reduced disease activity and inflammatory reaction accompanying DSS-induced colitis in mice.
Relationship of Blood Inflammatory Composite Markers with Cardiovascular Risk Factors and Subclinical Atherosclerosis in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: González-Sierra Marta , Quevedo-Rodríguez Adrián , Romo-Cordero Alejandro , González-Chretien Gaël , Quevedo-Abeledo Juan Carlos , de Vera-González Antonia , González-Delgado Alejandra , Martín-González Candelaria , González-Gay Miguel Ángel , Ferraz-Amaro Iván
Published: June 2023

The neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), monocyte-to-lymphocyte ratio (MLR), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), and systemic immune-inflammatory index (SIRI, neutrophils × monocytes/lymphocytes) have been described as potential blood-derived inflammatory biomarkers in several diseases. Rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory disease that has been related to an increased risk of cardiovascular (CV) disease. In the present work, we analyze how these hematological composite scores of inflammation are related to classic CV risk factors and subclinical atherosclerosis in patients with RA. In this cross-sectional study that included 430 patients with RA, the NLR, MLR, PLR, and SIRI scores were calculated. Multivariable analysis was performed to examine the relationships of these composite blood scores with subclinical carotid atherosclerosis and with traditional cardiovascular factors, producing a complete profile of lipid molecules and insulin resistance or indices of beta-cell function, and a Systematic Coronary Risk Assessment (SCORE2) calculation. C-reactive protein and disease activity were significantly and positively associated with the four blood composite scores. SCORE2 was significantly associated with higher values of SIRI, NLR, and MLR, but not PLR. These relationships were maintained when SCORE 2 was considered categorical; patients in the very high CV risk category had higher values in all hematological composite scores, except PLR. In the multivariable analysis, SIRI and NLR were independently associated with higher levels of beta cell dysfunction. In conclusion, SCORE2 and the values of the hematological composite scores were positively correlated in patients with RA. In addition, there were some relationships of these scores with traditional CV risk factors, with their association with beta cell dysfunction being the most consistent.
Influence of Keratoconus Severity on Detecting True Progression with Scheimpflug Imaging and Anterior Segment Optical Coherence Tomography
Authors: Ortiz-Toquero Sara , Fuente Carlota , Auladell Clara , Arnalich-Montiel Francisco
Published: June 2023

To determine consistent change over time in keratoconus disease, it is necessary to establish progression cut-off values based on intersession variability of the device used to monitor the cornea. The aim of this study was to analyze the accuracy of corneal parameters using Scheimpflug tomography and anterior segment optical coherence tomography in healthy and keratoconic eyes of varying severity to determine the cut-off values that indicate real progression. Three repeated measurements of each cornea of healthy (20 eyes) and keratoconic eyes (mild = 16, moderate = 25 and severe = 20) were recorded using Pentacam and Casia SS-1000 devices, which were repeated 2–3 weeks later. K1, K2, maximal anterior and posterior keratometry, and corneal thickness at the thinnest location (TCT) were collected. The accuracy was excellent with both devices; however, the Casia device presented better repeatability and reproducibility in all parameters in all groups compared to the Pentacam. The cut-off of the Pentacam and Casia in the mild stage were lower (K1 = 0.50 and 0.37 D; K2 = 0.51 and 0.37 D; Kmax-A = 1.24 and 0.65 D; Kmax-P = 0.38 and 0.17 D; TCT = 19.64 and 11.19 µm) than that of the severe stage (K1 = 1.09 and 0.88 D; K2 = 1.41 and 0.87 D; Kmax-A = 2.74 and 2.15 D; Kmax-P = 0.82 and 0.22 D; TCT = 28.68 and 14.83 µm). These results show that the greater the keratoconus severity, the greater the change that must occur for it to be considered real.
Fertility Preservation as an Option for Women with Genetic Disorders: Insights from a SWOT Analysis on Elective Oocyte Freezing and Preimplantation Genetic Testing
Authors: Cermisoni Greta Chiara , Pisaturo Valerio , Vanni Valeria Stella , Minetto Sabrina , Pagliardini Luca , Masciangelo Rossella , Candiani Massimo , Papaleo Enrico , Alteri Alessandra
Published: June 2023

This paper uses a SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats) analysis to overview the option of fertility preservation in women with genetic diseases, who would later use preimplantation genetic testing for monogenic disorders, in order to not transmit their condition. Strengths associated with elective oocyte freezing are ethical considerations, overall maternal and fetal safety, and effectiveness, if performed at <35 years of age. Weaknesses are related to costs and rare but present (<1–3%) risks of maternal complications. Counselling on fertility management aimed at preventing infertility offers a valuable opportunity, the same as it has been in oncological patients’ care. The potentially high percentage of women with genetic conditions who would return to use their frozen oocytes also represents an opportunity together with the minimization of the need for egg donation, which has higher obstetrical risks compared to the use of autologous oocytes. Finally, a threat is represented by the potential psychological distress to young women who could never attempt to become pregnant through preimplantation genetic testing, or do it before any decline in their fertility. Potential unknown future long-term health risks for children conceived after egg vitrification/thawing are also a threat, but current knowledge is reassuring. Altogether, early counselling on the option of fertility preservation should thus be incorporated into standard care of all patients with any genetic condition.
Corrosion Behavior and Comprehensive Evaluation of Al0.8CrFeCoNiCu0.5B0.1 High-Entropy Alloy in 3.5% NaCl Solution
Authors: Li Yanzhou , Shi Yan , Chen Rongna , Lin Hua , Ji Xiaohu
Published: June 2023

In this study, Al0.8CrFeCoNiCu0.5B0.1 high-entropy alloy coating was prepared on the surface of 5083 aluminum alloy using laser cladding technology. The corrosion behavior of the coating and substrate in 3.5% NaCl solution was analyzed using experimental methods, including polarization curves and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The corrosion current density of Al0.8CrFeCoNiCu0.5B0.1 coating is 2.04 × 10−7 A/cm 2. The passivation range width reaches 2.771 V, and these polarization test results are superior to the substrate. The Al0.8CrFeCoNiCu0.5B0.1 coating exhibited selective corrosion behavior, with the Cu-rich FCC1 phase and Cr-poor phase being susceptible to corrosion, leading to localized pitting and intergranular corrosion traces, but the corrosion did not spread extensively. The intergranular distribution of Cu is the main reason for the intergranular corrosion trace features. In contrast, the substrate exhibited overall corrosion. The Nyquist plot of the Al0.8CrFeCoNiCu0.5B0.1 coating consisted of a single capacitive semicircle arc in the high-frequency region with a larger radius than the substrate. In conclusion, using the Al0.8CrFeCoNiCu0.5B0.1 high-entropy alloy as a coating can significantly improve the corrosion resistance of the 5083 aluminum alloy substrate.
Simulation of Spatial Distribution of Multi-Size Bubbles in a Slab Continuous-Casting Mold Water Model
Authors: Tian Yushi , Xu Lijun , Qiu Shengtao , Zhu Rong
Published: June 2023

In this paper, a fully coupled large eddy simulation model, including the volume of fluid model, the discrete phase model, the bubble-collision model, and the bubble-breakup model was used to simulate the spatial distribution of multi-size bubbles and its impact on the instantaneous two-phase flow in a slab continuous-casting mold. The influence of the bubble-interaction model on the bubbles’ three-dimensional spatial distribution and size distribution, as well as on two-phase flow was discussed. By comparison with the velocity on the meniscus and the average bubble diameter inside a continuous-casting slab water model, the appropriate numerical model was recommended to accurately simulate the two-phase flow and characteristics of discrete bubbles. The submerged entry nozzle and the area around it saw bubble coalescence and breakage more frequently than other areas. The key interaction between the bubbles was their bouncing in the deep region of the mold. In the mold, the average bubble diameter was 0.741 mm, and 44.5% of the total number of bubbles had an approximately average diameter.
Prediction and Global Sensitivity Analysis of Long-Term Deflections in Reinforced Concrete Flexural Structures Using Surrogate Models
Authors: Dan Wenjiao , Yue Xinxin , Yu Min , Li Tongjie , Zhang Jian
Published: June 2023

Reinforced concrete (RC) is the result of a combination of steel reinforcing rods (which have high tensile) and concrete (which has high compressive strength). Additionally, the prediction of long-term deformations of RC flexural structures and the magnitude of the influence of the relevant material and geometric parameters are important for evaluating their serviceability and safety throughout their life cycles. Empirical methods for predicting the long-term deformation of RC structures are limited due to the difficulty of considering all the influencing factors. In this study, four popular surrogate models, i.e., polynomial chaos expansion (PCE), support vector regression (SVR), Kriging, and radial basis function (RBF), are used to predict the long-term deformation of RC structures. The surrogate models were developed and evaluated using RC simply supported beam examples, and experimental datasets were collected for comparison with common machine learning models (back propagation neural network (BP), multilayer perceptron (MLP), decision tree (DT) and linear regression (LR)). The models were tested using the statistical metrics R2, RAAE, RMAE, RMSE, VAF, PI, A10−index and U95. The results show that all four proposed models can effectively predict the deformation of RC structures, with PCE and SVR having the best accuracy, followed by the Kriging model and RBF. Moreover, the prediction accuracy of the surrogate model is much lower than that of the empirical method and the machine learning model in terms of the RMSE. Furthermore, a global sensitivity analysis of the material and geometric parameters affecting structural deflection using PCE is proposed. It was found that the geometric parameters are more influential than the material parameters. Additionally, there is a coupling effect between material and geometric parameters that works together to influence the long-term deflection of RC structures.
Thermal Mechanical Bending Response of Symmetrical Functionally Graded Material Plates
Authors: Han Mengna , Li Zichan , Huang Zhicheng , Wang Xingguo , Gao Wenjie
Published: June 2023

This paper investigates the thermal mechanical bending response of symmetric functionally graded material (FGM) plates. This article proposes a thermodynamic analysis model of both the FGM plate and FGM sandwich plate, and the model only involves four control equations and four unknown variables. The control equation is based on the refined shear deformation theory and the principle of minimum potential energy. The Navier method is used to solve the control equation. According to the method, numerical examples are provided for the thermo-mechanical bending of the symmetric FGM plate and FGM sandwich plate under a simply supported boundary condition, and the accuracy of the model is verified. Finally, parameter analysis is conducted to investigate the effects of the volume fraction index, side-to-thickness ratio, thermal load, and changes in core thickness on the thermal mechanical bending behavior of the symmetric FGM plate and FGM sandwich plate in detail. It was found that the deflection of the FGM plate is greater than that of the FGM sandwich plate, while the normal stress of the FGM plate is smaller than that of the FGM sandwich plate. Moreover, the FGM plate and FGM sandwich plate are sensitive to nonlinear temperature changes.
Study on Electrochemical Performance of MnO@rGO/Carbon Fabric-Based Wearable Supercapacitors
Authors: Ke Qianlan , Zhang Yuhui , Fu Yuanheng , Yang Chenxi , Wu Fan , Li Zhongxiu , Wei Yi , Zhang Kun
Published: June 2023

In this work, we reported the electrochemical performance of a type of carbon fabric-based supercapacitor by coating MnOx@rGO nanohybrids on carbon fabric with a simple one-step hydrothermal method. We studied the mass ratio of MnOx to rGO on the electrochemical properties of the carbon fabric-based supercapacitors. We found that as the mass ratio is 0.8:1 for MnO@rGO, the supercapacitor with a loading of 5.40 mg cm−2 of MnO@rGO nanohybrids on carbon fabric exhibits a specific capacitance of 831.25 mF cm−2 at 0.1 mA cm−2 current density. It also shows long-term cycling capacitance retention of 97.2% after 10,000 charge–discharge cycles at a current density of 0.4 mA cm−2. We speculate that the high electrochemical performance results from the strong interfacial bonding between the hierarchical architecture of MnO@rGO nanohybrids and carbon fabric.
Pellet Production from Pruning and Alternative Forest Biomass: A Review of the Most Recent Research Findings
Authors: Picchio Rodolfo , Di Marzio Nicolò , Cozzolino Luca , Venanzi Rachele , Stefanoni Walter , Bianchini Leonardo , Pari Luigi , Latterini Francesco
Published: June 2023

Typically, coniferous sawdust from debarked stems is used to make pellets. Given the high lignin content, which ensures strong binding and high calorific values, this feedstock provides the best quality available. However, finding alternative feedstocks for pellet production is crucial if small-scale pellet production is to be developed and used to support the economy and energy independence of rural communities. These communities have to be able to create pellets devoid of additives and without biomass pre-processing so that the feedstock price remains low. The features of pellets made from other sources of forest biomass, such as different types of waste, broadleaf species, and pruning biomass, have attracted some attention in this context. This review sought to provide an overview of the most recent (2019–2023) knowledge on the subject and to bring into consideration potential feedstocks for the growth of small-scale pellet production. Findings from the literature show that poor bulk density and mechanical durability are the most frequent issues when making pellets from different feedstocks. All of the tested alternative biomass typologies have these shortcomings, which are also a result of the use of low-performance pelletizers in small-scale production, preventing the achievement of adequate mechanical qualities. Pellets made from pruning biomass, coniferous residues, and wood from short-rotation coppice plants all have significant flaws in terms of ash content and, in some cases, nitrogen, sulfur, and chlorine content as well. All things considered, research suggests that broadleaf wood from beech and oak trees, collected through routine forest management activities, makes the best feasible feedstock for small-scale pellet production. Despite having poor mechanical qualities, these feedstocks can provide pellets with a low ash level. High ash content is a significant disadvantage when considering pellet manufacture and use on a small scale since it can significantly raise maintenance costs, compromising the supply chain’s ability to operate cost-effectively. Pellets with low bulk density and low mechanical durability can be successfully used in a small-scale supply chain with the advantages of reducing travel distance from the production site and storage time.
Modified Mann-Type Algorithm for Two Countable Families of Nonexpansive Mappings and Application to Monotone Inclusion and Image Restoration Problems
Authors: Ungchittrakool Kasamsuk , Plubtieng Somyot , Artsawang Natthaphon , Thammasiri Purit
Published: June 2023

In this paper, we introduce and study a modified Mann-type algorithm that combines inertial terms for solving common fixed point problems of two countable families of nonexpansive mappings in Hilbert spaces. Under appropriate assumptions on the sequences of parameters, we establish a strong convergence result for the sequence generated by the proposed method in finding a common fixed point of two countable families of nonexpansive mappings. This method can be applied to solve the monotone inclusion problem. Additionally, we employ a modified Mann-type iterative algorithm to address image restoration problems. Furthermore, we present numerical results across different scenarios to demonstrate the superior efficiency of our algorithm compared to existing algorithms.
On Sub Convexlike Optimization Problems
Authors: Zeng Renying
Published: June 2023

In this paper, we show that the sub convexlikeness and subconvexlikeness defined by V. Jeyakumar are equivalent in locally convex topological spaces. We also deal with set-valued vector optimization problems and obtained vector saddle-point theorems and vector Lagrangian theorems.