bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Syntaxonomic classification of forb steppes and related vegetation of subalpine and alpine belts in the Pamir-Alai Mountains (Tajikistan, Middle Asia)
Authors: Świerszcz Sebastian , Nobis Marcin , Swacha Grzegorz , Nowak Sylwia , Nowak Arkadiusz
Published: November 2023

Aims: To complete the syntaxonomic scheme of subalpine forb steppes in the Pamir-Alai Mountains in Tajikistan with some remarks on its environmental predictors. Study area: Tajikistan. Methods: A total of 149 relevés were sampled in 2014 and 2021 using the seven-degree cover-abundance scale of the Braun-Blanquet scheme. These were classified with a modified TWINSPAN algorithm with pseudospecies cut-off levels of 0%, 2%, 5% and 25%, and total inertia as a measure of cluster heterogeneity. Diagnostic species were determined using the phi coefficient as a fidelity measure. Detrended Correspondence Analysis (DCA) was used to show compositional differences between the distinguished alpine and subalpine grassland units. Results: Our classification revealed 12 clusters of alpine and subalpine grassland vegetation in Middle Asia. A total of nine new associations and three communities were distinguished. New vegetation types at potential class rank for Irano-Turanian subalpine and alpine grasslands have been proposed: forb steppes with Eremogone griffithii and Nepeta podostachys in subalpine and alpine belts and alpine grasslands with Festuca alaica and Festuca kryloviana for mesic habitats in the alpine belt. The main factors differentiating the species composition were the mean diurnal temperature range, the sum of annual precipitation, precipitation seasonality and the minimum temperature of the coldest month. Conclusions: Our study sheds light on the open habitat vegetation in the Pamir-Alai Mountains and has contributed to the consistent hierarchical classification of the vegetation of the eastern Irano-Turanian region. Subalpine and alpine forb steppes are a very interesting and distinct grassland type in Middle Asia. The syntaxonomic position of some of the distinguished communities is still unclear and further research on this type of alpine and subalpine vegetation within the mountains of Middle Asia is needed.

Taxonomic references: The nomenclature of the vascular plants follows Plants of the World Online (POWO 2023) and problematic taxonomic issues were solved according to The World Flora Online (WFO 2023). Nomenclature of Stipa spp. follows Nobis et al. (2020, 2022) and of Geranium spp. Cherepanov (1995). The nomenclature of bryophytes follows Ignatov et al. (2006).

Abbreviations: DCA = Detrended Correspondence Analysis.
Pandémie de la Covid19, impact du confinement, sur la prise en charge addictologique au Centre Hospitalier Spécialisé Henri Ey en Eure et Loir
Authors: Crescent Nascimento Corentin , Salifou Saliou , Perdrieau Jean-François
Published: November 2023

La pandémie du Coronavirus a amené les autorités politiques et sanitaires à prendre des mesures sanitaires qui ont perturbées les patients et leurs prises en charge en addictologie au centre hospitalier Henri Ey à Morancez. Des troubles psychologiques à type d’irritabilité, d’angoisse et de tristesse sont plus observés chez les patients vivant en appartement. Il est évident que l’immobilisme et la promiscuité peuvent être sources d’angoisse, de dépression et d’irritabilité. Le taux de rechute des consommations des substances psychoactives a été croissant au fils du confinement. La persistance des émotions négatives constitue donc un facteur de risque de reprise d’une consommation de substances psychoactives en l’absence de protection.
Covid-19 : vécu du personnel soignant du Togo
Authors: Salifou Saliou , Wenkourama Daméga , Kanékatoua Sonia , Affo Charfoundine , Gbétogbé Mawuko , Dassa Kolou Simliwa
Published: November 2023

Introduction  : le Togo a été touché par l’épidémie du coronavirus dès le 6 mars 2020. Pour juguler cette crise, le personnel soignant du Togo, sur instruction des autorités, comme un peu partout dans le monde, s’est vu en première ligne. Objectif  : évaluer le stress et le vécu du personnel soignant du Togo dans ce contexte de pandémie de la Covid-19. Résultats  : au cours de notre étude, 120 personnels soignants ont répondu aux critères d’inclusion. Les paramédicaux ont représenté 53,33 % des soignants de l’échantillon. Le sexe masculin à prédominé parmi nos enquêtés à 85 %. La classe d’âge des 31 à 40 ans (41,67 %) a été plus représentée. Les mariés ont représenté 56,67 % de l’échantillon. Trente pour cent avait plus de 5 personnes à charge. Trente-cinq virgule quatre-vingt-trois pour cent avaient une ancienneté dans la profession comprise entre 1 et 5 ans. Les professionnels de la santé exerçant dans les structures publiques ont représenté 80,83 % de l’échantillon. Soixante-dix-huit virgule trente-trois pour cent n’avaient aucune expérience dans la gestion des épidémies et des catastrophes. Presque tout ce personnel soignant était stressé à l’échelle PSS. Conclusion  : notre étude vient renforcer la nécessité de porter un plus grand intérêt à la santé mentale du personnel de santé de première ligne dans les contextes de crise sanitaire.
De la précarité sociale à la précarité psychique : cas d’un étudiant de l’Université Omar Bongo de Libreville
Authors: Nyama Firmin Marius Olivaint
Published: November 2023

De nombreux étudiants font face aujourd’hui à une situation de précarité du fait entre autres, de la fermeture du campus universitaire en Décembre 2014. Se posent ainsi chez eux des problèmes réels comme le manque de logement, l’errance et même la clochardisation qui peuvent avoir pour conséquence de les fragiliser psychiquement. Notre hypothèse est que la précarité sociale des étudiants accentuée par la perte du logement en cité universitaire est source de précarité psychique car elle expose ces sujets, objets d’exclusion sociale, à une fragilité psychique. La précarité sociale chez les étudiants est-elle toujours destructrice ? Quel impact aura alors l'expérience de l’exclusion sociale sur la santé mentale des étudiants ? Cette étude a pour objectif, à partir des entretiens cliniques de type semi-directif, de mettre en évidence la souffrance psychique induite par la précarité sociale chez un étudiant de l’Université Omar Bongo.
Étude de quelques aspects psychothérapeutiques utilisés dans la médecine traditionnelle au Mali
Authors: Coulibaly Souleymane , Mounkoro Pakuy Pierre , Traoré Joseph , Coulibaly Souleymane Papa , Koumaré Baba
Published: November 2023

La médecine traditionnelle en santé mentale, constitue le premier recours des patients du fait qu’elle assure une fonction d’apaisement de l’angoisse liée à la maladie. L’objectif était de décrire les procédés thérapeutiques traditionnels et les analyser en vue d’identifier leurs mécanismes psychologiques. Méthode  : étude transversale descriptive réalisée en 2015, portant sur les pratiques thérapeutiques traditionnelles dans 3 zones ethniques du Mali. Les données ont été collectées à l’aide d’interview de 12 tradithérapeutes d’obédiences diverses. Le respect des codes éthiques et de bonne conduite était de mise Résultats  : ces thérapeutiques comportent différents mécanismes psychothérapeutiques compréhensibles à la lumière des procédés psychotechniques modernes et tiennent leur efficacité à la cohérence du système des représentations culturelles entre le thérapeute et le patient. Trois rôles se distinguent dans cette relation tradithérapeute-malade : celui des dispositions subjectives du patient ; celui de la capacité technique du tradithérapeute à mobiliser ces dispositions ; celui du sacré servant d’intermédiaire communicatif entre ces deux protagonistes. L’utilisation de fétiches et amulettes comme puissants stimuli, module le travail du patient dans la direction du tradithérapeute et joue un rôle activateur et organisateur de l’imagination du patient. Ces thérapeutiques peuvent être considérées comme des psychothérapies particulières dont les mécanismes opérationnels résident dans : 1) l’harmonie de leurs procédés avec les dispositions subjectives du patient et les représentations culturelles traditionnelles ; 2) le contenu complexe perceptivo-imaginatif particulier des procédés ; 3) une large utilisation des procédés-stimuli ; 4) le rôle particulier de l’observateur actif et participatif du patient au cours du traitement. Conclusion  : les thérapeutiques traditionnelles au regard de ces résultats, peuvent être considérées comme des psychothérapies particulières dont la capitalisation nécessite une collaboration entre les systèmes de soins conventionnels et traditionnels.
Violence à l’adolescence : analyse de dossiers judiciaires du Tribunal de Première Instance de Cotonou
Authors: Anagonou Lucrèce , Klikpo Tchédié Etdéchié Elvyre , Houinou Ebo Boris , Salifou Saliou , Adeossi Feldia , Gbetogbe Komlan , Gansou Magloire , Fiossi-Kpadonou Émilie
Published: November 2023

Notre recherche a eu pour but d’étudier à partir d’une analyse de dossiers judiciaires, les caractéristiques des adolescents auteurs d’infractions à caractère violent. L’étude rétrospective transversale descriptive, a été effectuée au Tribunal de Première Instance de Première Classe de Cotonou. La collecte des données a duré 3 mois (1 er  décembre 2016 - 28 février 2017) ; 34 dossiers d’adolescents jugés par le tribunal pour enfants, du 1er Janvier 2011 au 31 Décembre 2015 ont été pris en compte. Les enquêtés étaient âgés de 10 à 18 ans. La majorité d’entre eux a été jugé pour homicides (61,7 %) et viols (32,4 %). Pour 35,3 % des enquêtés, les relations avec le parent de sexe opposé étaient mauvaises. Ces adolescents, ont reçu une peine d’emprisonnement ferme (88,2 %), et 11,8 % ont été placé en centre de sauvegarde. La violence des adolescents vient questionner nos capacités à offrir un cadre sécurisant et approprié à leur construction psychique.
Catharsis & délivrance
Authors: Bonis-Montoyat Hélène
Published: November 2023

Dans le monde entier, on peut compter 23 millions de fausses couches tous les ans, soit une toutes les 44 minutes. En France, chaque année, on dénombre plus de 200 000 fausses couches, soit prêt de 15 % des grossesses. À partir d’un cas clinique, l’auteure reprend le déroulé de la cure et son enjeu psychique : la délivrance pour cette femme d’un deuil pathologique. Ce cas montre que la perte du foetus peut se rapporter à un traumatisme. D’où l’importance de comprendre la souffrance psychique que vivent ces femmes et pouvoir la prendre en considération dans la prévention des soins en périnatalité, et dans l’espace analytique. (chiffres publiés dans la revue médicale the Lancet, les fausses couches sont importantes : les coûts épidémiologiques, physiques, psychologiques et économique d’une fausse-couche précoce, avril 2021)
Bergson versus Ribot ? La psychologie comme « matière étrangère »
Authors: Camolezi Marcos
Published: November 2023

L’entreprise intellectuelle de Théodule Ribot est fondamentale pour l’œuvre et la trajectoire d’Henri Bergson, qu’on pourrait considérer comme un de ses collaborateurs. Les combats de Ribot pour la psychologie aboutissent à la formulation de principes méthodologiques (l’introspection et le recours aux études médicales) et de principes scientifiques (les concepts de réflexe et de mouvement) utilisés librement dans Matière et mémoire . Et avec le projet de « métaphysique positive » qu’il soutient entre 1901 et 1904, Bergson prend au Collège de France le relais du « positif », après que Ribot en a pacifié le terme.
Existence theorems for the dbar equation and Sobolev estimates on $ q $-convex domains
Authors: Adam Haroun Doud Soliman , Adam Khalid Ibrahim , Saber Sayed , Farid Ghulam
Published: November 2023

In this paper, we study a sufficient condition for subelliptic estimates in the weak $ \operatorname{Z}(k) $ domain with $ \operatorname{\operatorname{C}}^{3} $ boundary in an $ n $-dimentionsl $ \operatorname{Stein\, manifold} $ $ \operatorname{X} $. Consequently, the compactness of the $ \overline\partial $-Neumann operator $ \operatorname{N} $ on $ { M } $ is obtained and the closedness ranges of $ \overline\partial $ and $ \overline\partial^* $ are presented. The $ \operatorname{L}^2 $-setting and the Sobolev estimates of $ \operatorname{N} $ on $ { M } $ are proved. We study the $ \overline\partial $ problem with support conditions in $ { M } $ for $ \Xi $-valued $ (\operatorname{p}, \operatorname{k}) $ forms, where $ \Xi $ is the $ m $-times tensor product of holomorphic line bundle $ \Xi^{\otimes \operatorname{m}} $ for positive integer $ m $. Moreover, the compactness of the weighted $ \overline\partial $-Neumann operator is studied on an annular domain in a $ \operatorname{Stein\, manifold} $ $ { M } = { M }_{1}\backslash\overline{ M }_{2} $, between two smooth bounded domains $ { M }_{1} $ and $ { M }_{2} $ satisfy $ \overline{ M }_{2}\Subset{ M }_{1} $, $ { M }_{1} $ is weak $ Z(k) $, $ { M }_{2} $ is weak $ Z(n-1-k) $, $ 1 \leqslant k\leqslant n -2 $ with $ n \geqslant 3 $. In all cases, the closedness of $ \overline\partial $ and $ \overline\partial^* $, global boundary regularity for $ \overline\partial $ and $ \overline\partial_b $ are studied.
Fluid overload during operative hysteroscopy for metroplasty: A case report
Authors: Stomeo Niccolò , Simeone Giacomo , Ciavarella Leonardo , Lionetti Giulia , Arachchige Arosh S. Perera Molligoda , Cama Francesco
Published: November 2023

Background

Hysteroscopic surgery represents a minimally invasive approach to the diagnosis and treatment of intrauterine pathologies. A distension fluid is required to provide visualization and hemostasis of the operative field. The use of a bipolar resectoscope enables the usage of electrolyte solutions, averting dilutional hyponatremia. However, fluid overload that can develop after the absorption of a sufficient amount of the irrigation medium is a complication to be feared.

Case presentation

We report a case of a 23-year-old female patient who developed acute symptomatic fluid overload and pulmonary edema without dilutional hyponatremia (140 mmol/L) secondary to hysteroscopic transcervical endometrial resection (TCER) for a uterine septum, where the distending medium was saline solution 0.9%.

Conclusions

Several precautions could be implemented to reduce the risk of fluid overload induced by the absorption of distention fluid. Namely, reducing the operative time, the flow, the total volume infused, the intrauterine pressure and strictly monitoring the absorbed volume. The instrumentation should support visual and auditory alarms. Moreover, all staff members should be acquainted with the clinical presentation and management, which mainly revolves around early identification. Therefore, regular simulated cases, to sharpen pathology-related knowledge and teamwork, should become standard practice.
Léon Bourgeois et la « diplomatie du droit » à l’épreuve des faits (1900-1914)
Authors: Guieu Jean-Michel
Published: November 2023

Défenseur convaincu de la « diplomatie du droit » – dont les conférences de la Paix de La Haye ont jeté les bases en 1899 et 1907 –, Léon Bourgeois appartient à une époque marquée par la constitution d’alliances rivales en temps de paix, par la course aux armements et par la répétition de crises menaçant de dégénérer en affrontement armé. S’il a pu regarder avec un certain excès d’optimisme la timide mise en œuvre des instruments juridiques forgés à La Haye, il n’a jamais cru que la « diplomatie du droit » pourrait rapidement triompher dans les relations internationales. Loin donc d’être aveuglé par ses espérances, il a toujours agi en juriste scrupuleux du respect de la souveraineté des nations « civilisées », en négociateur soucieux de la défense des intérêts nationaux, en patriote désireux d’assurer la sécurité de son pays, ce qui l’a nécessairement amené à faire lui-même certaines concessions à la « diplomatie de la force ».
La Catalogne et les Communautés Autonomes espagnoles : un modèle pour les « langues de France » ?
Authors: Lagarde Christian
Published: November 2023

Les « langues régionales » sont devenues « langues de France » grâce au volontarisme de Bernard Cerquiglini, qui a impulsé du sommet de l’État, au pays de l’unilinguisme (mais sans grands moyens il est vrai), une véritable politique linguistique prenant en compte la « diversité ». On vise ici à rendre compte de cette évolution en établissant un parallèle avec les politiques menées dans le cadre de l’Espagne des Autonomies, et singulièrement de la Catalogne.
Les xarnegos sont aussi des femmes… Étude de l’immigration féminine en Catalogne sous le franquisme
Authors: Joutet Karim
Published: November 2023

À partir de témoignages de femmes immigrées recueillis dans deux ouvrages, nous tenterons de comprendre quelle est la spécificité de la migration interne féminine en Catalogne sous le franquisme et comment est vécue la double épreuve d’être femme et immigrée.
Tirant lo Blanc et l’arrière-pays médiéval (les sentiers de l’histoire et de la fiction)
Authors: Alchalabi Frédéric
Published: November 2023

Ce travail aborde la question des relations entre histoire et fiction dans le roman de Joanot Martorell, Tirant lo Blanc. L’étude revient sur l’application, au sein de l’œuvre, d’une convention du roman médiéval qui consiste à conférer artificiellement au livre une illusion d’historicité, à travers laquelle l’auteur se donne les moyens de rendre authentique et crédible un discours non pas historique mais bien romanesque.
The Influence of the Deposition Speed during Friction Screw Extrusion Additive Manufacturing of AA6060
Authors: Rezaeinejad Saed S. , Strik Sharon , Bor Ton C. , Luckabauer Martin , Akkerman Remko
Published: November 2023

Solid-state additive manufacturing may solve critical issues typically arising during fusion-based additive manufacturing of high-strength aluminium alloys. In this work, the recently introduced Friction Screw Extrusion Additive Manufacturing (FSEAM) process was employed to manufacture wall-like rectangular builds of AA6060 T6 deposited with deposition speeds from 300 mm/min to 500 mm/min. All builds were manufactured at a tool rotation rate of 400 rpm with 1 mm layer thickness. The volumetric supply rates were adjusted to maintain constant build width. Solid builds were formed without major defects over the full range of deposition speeds. The process generated sufficient normal force and heat at all deposition speeds which resulted in manufacturing of defect free builds. The resulting average grain size was consistently below 5 micrometer throughout all builds independent of deposition speed or location through the height. Microhardness measurements revealed a decrease in hardness from a feedstock value of 80 HV to around 50 HV in all manufactured builds. Tensile tests in the building direction showed consistent results for all the samples as a result of defect-free parts, demonstrating a tensile strength of approximately 150 MPa, yield strength of 100 MPa, and uniform elongation of 12-15%. The fracture surfaces revealed large amounts of dimples at all deposition speeds in line with the high degree of plastic deformation preceding fracture observed from the tensile tests. The obtained results indicated that FSEAM is a promising process for solid-state additive manufacturing of aluminium alloys.
Advantages of Hybrid Neural Network Architectures to Enhance Prediction of Tensile Properties in Laser Powder Bed Fusion
Authors: Funcke Florian , Forster Tobias , Mayr Peter
Published: November 2023

The properties of AlSi10Mg produced by Laser Powder Bed Fusion (PBF-LB) are defined by a multitude of different machine and laser parameters. This multi-parameter space presents the challenge of optimizing the material properties for a given application by the sheer amount of possible parameter combinations. Characterizing this multi-parameter space empirically is limited by time and resources and thus yields an incomplete picture of the process capabilities and local optima, respectively. To improve on this situation, machine learning to map the process parameters on the tensile properties of AlSi10Mg was used. The Hybrid Neural Network (HNN) used in this study consisted of a Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) to process the micrographs and a Dense Neural Network (DNN) to process the LPBF process parameters as well as the output of the CNN. The micrographs given to the CNN part of the network were printed with the same parameters given to the DNN part to include the information of the bulk microstructure as it strongly influences the tensile properties of the material. With the HNN, we observed good accuracy of the predicted tensile properties, given the small amount of training data. Furthermore, we explore which features of the micrographs were extracted by the CNN.
Microstructural and Mechanical Characterization of Large Surfaces after Laser Cladding by Wavering of Nickel Coating on Cast-Iron Molds Used in Glass Industry
Authors: Bourahima Fazati , Lauridant Timothée , Guasch Céline , Helbert Anne Laure , Baudin Thierry
Published: November 2023

Laser cladding of a Ni based powder on cast iron is performed by a 4kW continuous diode laser. For this, a robot programming method named “Wavering” is used. Indeed, this method allows to cover large surfaces (width higher than 5 mm and thickness higher than 4 mm). The cast iron substrate used during this work is employed for its thermal properties in glass mold Industry. However, it has drawbacks which are weak wear, corrosion, and abrasion resistance. Conventional techniques used to protect the molds, like Plasma Transferred Arc (PTA), affect the molds microstructure, but also the thermal and mechanical properties. The laser cladding of the Ni based alloy allows to protect the molds without affecting the cast iron thermal properties (low Heat Affected Zone). The purpose of this research is to produce a well bonded Ni based melted powder without pores or cracks on large and curvilinear surfaces. First, the coating, adapted to this substrate geometry, is optimized. Then, an investigation of the impact of the processing parameters (power, scanning speed and wavering frequency) on the microstructure is carried out. Besides, the mechanical behaviour is analysed by microhardness. In addition, the evolution of the Heat Affected Zone (HAZ) according to the processing parameters is observed. Two kinds of areas are inspected in terms of microstructure: a stable area obtained after a single pass and an interferenced area linked to superimposed passes. Those analyses led to a cladding parameter optimization to obtain perfect bonding, to avoid porosity propagation and to limit the HAZ emergence on curvilinear surfaces. Finally, in comparison with the PTA technique, it appears that laser cladding process with wavering method leads to a good coating of curvilinear surfaces.
316L-Si Austenitic Stainless Steel Elaborated by Additive Manufacturing Process: Porosity and Dislocation Density Estimation
Authors: Aberkane Salima , Mehdi Brahim , Badji Riad
Published: November 2023

This investigation estimated porosity and dislocation density in austenitic stainless steel 316LSi thin walls fabricated by Cold Metal Transfer Wire and Arc Additive Manufacturing (CMT-WAAM). Porosity density was calculated using ImageJ software. MAUD software (Materials Analysis Using Diffraction) was used to analyze the microstructural parameters and dislocation density. The density of pores and microstructural parameters of 316LSi alloy exhibit typical values of AM conditions. The porosity values oscillate between 2.80 to 3.48 %. The obtained dislocation density values are 5.0 e+12, 4.3 e+12, and 3.2 e+12 for 2.4 e+12 m-2 for 70, 80, 90, and 140 A current source, respectively. In 316LSi thin walls, the increases in the current input in CMT-WAAM are accompanied by the very lowest decrease in the dislocation density state.
Towards Laser Metal Deposition of Modified PH 13-8Mo Powder
Authors: Aydin Gökçe , Şelte Aydın , Andersson Joel , Valiente Bermejo Maria Asuncion
Published: November 2023

Modified PH 13-8Mo alloy exhibits a good combination of corrosion resistance and mechanical properties for demanding applications in aerospace, petrochemical, and tooling industries. Additive manufacturing, specifically the laser metal deposition process with powder as feedstock (LMDp), has the potential to be utilized in these industries. However, very limited knowledge on the LMDp of this alloy currently exists. The aim of this work was, therefore, to deposit a multi-track single layer of modified PH 13-8Mo alloy as a first step towards 3D geometries, and to analyze the resulting microstructure by using Optical Microscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy, X-Ray Diffraction, Electron Backscatter Diffraction, and micro-hardness. It was found that the multi-track single layer was free from major defects. The microstructure was heterogeneous, and it consisted of a martensitic matrix and small amounts of δ ferrite, austenite, and AlN. The results of this research will be used to tailor the microstructure and properties of future 3D additively manufactured components.
Production of a Ti6Al4V Automobile’s Lower Control Arm with EBM
Authors: Mirabile Gattia Daniele , Palombi Alessandra , Coglitore Antonino , De Pascalis Fabio , Nacucci Michele , Palano Fania , Tatì Angelo , Barbieri Giuseppe , Richetta Maria , De Angelis Ugo
Published: November 2023

Lattice structures and Topology Optimization are two of the main routes to design lightweight high resistance components. These design techniques often lead to complex geometries not obtainable by traditional manufacturing. In this work we show how Additive Manufacturing (AM) of metals can be a successful way to reach that result. At first, we studied Ti6Al4V samples produced by Electron Beam Melting (EBM) to determine the mechanical properties of the base material. Hot Isostatic Pressing (HIP) was performed on a part of these samples to understand the impact of this process on defects and material properties. The results we obtained showed that the properties of Ti6Al4V produced by EBM are comparable to the one of the conventionally produced one. Given these results we redesigned an automobile’s lower control arm to reduce its mass: considering both Topology Optimization (TO) and lattice structures. Ti6Al4V components with different lattice structures were successfully manufactured by EBM.
Design Strategies towards the Optimization of 3D Additive Manufactured Lattice Structures
Authors: de Crescenzo Chiara , Richetta Maria , Fava Alessandra , Papallo Ida , Lanzotti Antonio , Martorelli Massimo , Gloria Antonio
Published: November 2023

Additive manufacturing (AM) techniques are based on the process of joining materials, layer upon layer, differently from subtractive manufacturing methods. The design for AM allows for the creation of complex shapes as well as for the improvement of the performance of critical components in several fields, spanning from aerospace and automotive to biomedical applications. On the other hand, unlike man-made high load-bearing capacity devices, which are usually dense solids, nature uses mesoscopic or microscopic cellular structures as a fundamental support for the design. The increasing applications of AM in industrial production have led to product reimagination from a novel standpoint, enabling the fabrication of advanced lattice structures using polymer-based materials. Over the past few years, many efforts have been made to develop strategies for finding the design which is best suited to the requirements. In the current research, specific design scenarios were explored, the aim being to develop novel lattice structures for energy absorption, using an AM technique (i.e., fused deposition modelling) and a modified Acrylonitrile Styrene Acrylate (ASA)-based material. The fabricated structures were preliminarily analysed by means of compression tests.
Processability and Solidification Microstructure of Al-10Si-4.5Mg Alloy Fabricated by Laser Powder Bed Fusion
Authors: Otani Yuki , Takata Naoki , Suzuki Asuka , Kobashi Makoto , Kato Masaki
Published: November 2023

With the aim of developing a high-strength aluminum alloy for laser powder bed fusion (L-PBF), an Al–10Si–4.5Mg alloy with the a-Al/Si/Mg2Si three-phase microstructure was investigated. The Al–10Si–4.5Mg alloy processed by L-PBF exhibited a fine cellular microstructure including fine granular Mg2Si phases, and therefore exhibited a higher hardness of 187 HV0.1 than those of the conventional Al–Si–Mg alloy. However, cracks were macroscopically propagated between the internal fabrication voids along the melt pool boundaries in the L-PBF processed samples, resulting in a limited relative density below 95.5%. The cracking could be attributed to the relatively coarse Mg2Si particles decorated with the eutectic network. Although the improved strength suggests the advantage of strengthening by the Mg2Si phase, further optimization of the processing conditions will be required to manufacture the intact L-PBF parts.
Effective Strategies for Electron Beam Additive Manufacturing of Graded Metal Interfaces between Stainless Steel and Vanadium
Authors: Hawk Cheryl L. , O'Brien Lindsay B. , Bloom Rose A. , Carpenter John S.
Published: November 2023

This work examines the feasibility of joining two dissimilar metals, vanadium (V) and wrought Nitronic 40 stainless steel, through electron beam additive manufacturing (EBAM). Depositing V on Nitronic 40 led to mixed results with some builds exhibiting microcracking and other builds exhibiting severe cracking resulting in delamination. These build failures are thought to be caused by a large coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) mismatch and solubility issues, demonstrating the challenges associated with this material combination. The large melting temperature discrepancy between Nitronic 40 and V was thought to exacerbate the issues with CTE mismatch and solubility. Four strategies could be employed by EBAM to mitigate the observed issues to successfully deposit V on Nitronic 40: (1) adjust wire feed speed, (2) use dual wire feeders, (3) use different wire feedstocks to control composition, and (4) create a transition layer known as buttering to accommodate CTE mismatch.
Process Parameter Prediction in Laser Powder Bed Fusion Using an Artificial Neural Network
Authors: Nudelis Natan , Mayr Peter
Published: November 2023

Pores are the inevitable concomitant in the current state of laser powder bed fusion (PBF-LB/M) of AlSI10Mg components. Various pore characteristics, such as pore size and pore shape, influence the quality and affect the intended functionality of the component. Today, the experimental effort to find the appropriate process parameters for additive manufacturing (AM) results in high costs and long time-to-market. Pore formation is highly dependent on the applied process parameters. Consequently, pores can also be seen as an individual process fingerprint. Computed tomography is a commonly used measurement tool for AM components and can be used to comprehensively investigate process-induced defects. Furthermore, X-ray data allows an accurate categorisation of pores and provides a large amount of labelled data for supervised learning applications. The applied classification method classifies the pores into six classes (A-F) according to their shape and size. A total number of 3,066,249 pores detected in cylindrical samples were categorised and used for machine learning. The purpose of this work is to demonstrate an approach for predicting AM process parameters depending on the resulting pore distribution using supervised learning methods. The result is an expandable machine learning model based on an artificial neural network.
Myelofibrosis secondary to Hodgkin’s lymphoma: A case report
Authors: Indu M B , Kanthaliya Ravindra , Jami Swati , Sharma Brijesh , Chauhan D S , Garg Jyoti , Jyotsana P Lalita
Published: November 2023

A 23-year-old male was misdiagnosed as a case of tubercular lymphadenitis based on fever with B-symptoms and finding of epithelioid granuloma on fine-needle aspiration of mesenteric lymph node and was started on antitubercular treatment from an outside hospital. Since the patient had progression of symptoms, we re-evaluated the case. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography showed multiple conglomerated necrotic cervical, peritoneal lymph nodes, hepatosplenomegaly, and multiple mixed sclerotic lytic lesions in multiple vertebral bodies and pelvis. An excision lymph node biopsy was suggestive of a nodular sclerosis variant of Hodgkin’s lymphoma. A bone marrow study was performed subsequent to new-onset bicytopenia. Bone marrow aspiration was dry and bone marrow biopsy showed myelofibrosis. Thus, a diagnosis of myelofibrosis secondary to Hodgkin’s lymphoma was made.
The impact of COVID-19 and the confinement on the secondary level students of the Eastern region of Morocco
Authors: Moumni Hind , Elghazouani Fatima
Published: November 2023

Context:

In March 2020, Morocco announced the first COVID-19 case and implemented preventive measures, including home confinement.

Aims:

Monitoring the psychological effects and prevalence among high- and middle-school students.

Settings and Design:

This study is cross-sectional, carried online.

Methods and Materials:

The survey was conducted by publishing an online questionnaire between May 14, 2020 and June 14, 2020, which included inquiries about socio-demographic data, the conditions of home confinement, activities carried out during confinement, and medical history and sleep patterns. To assess depressive disorder, anxiety disorders, and stress, the survey employed the “DSRS-c,” “SCARED,” and “PSS10” scales, respectively.

Statistical Analysis Used:

Data were received on Google forms coded by Excel 2010 and analyzed by IBM SPSS Statistics 22.

Results:

Out of the 689 participants, 73.7% were females; the mean age was 16.08 years (standard deviation 1.48). 94.8% of subjects reported changes in sleep habits, and 41.4% of adolescents had high levels of depressive symptoms, while 50.7% had high levels of anxiety symptoms. Several factors were significantly associated with anxiety and depressive symptoms, including being a girl (P = 0.000), being a high-school student (P = 0.011), economic struggles during the pandemic (P = 0.003), doubting the necessity of home confinement (P = 0.000), spending over 3 hours a day on social networks and video games (P = 0.000), dropping out of remote learning (P = 0.000), having a psychiatric history (P = 0.000), having chronic illnesses in the family (P = 0.002), and changes in sleep habits (P = 0.000).

Conclusions:

The study found high prevalence of depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms among students during the pandemic, emphasizing the need for mental health awareness and support.
Prospective study of flap surgery-related complications in cutaneous tumors: A tertiary care institutional experience of 6 years
Authors: Kanathur Shilpa , Divya Gorur , Shanmukhappa Asha Gowrappala , Venkataramaiah Lakshmi Dammaningala , Eswari Loganathan
Published: November 2023

Introduction:

Flap surgeries are the standard choice for reconstruction of defects post excision of cutaneous tumours. Complications following these surgeries predominantly result as a consequence of bleeding, tension, ischemia, infection.

Study Design:

A Prospective study of patients treated for tumor excision and flap reconstruction between the period of 2014 and 2020 were followed up and complications encountered were analysed.

Results:

A total of 70 patients with cutaneous malignancies underwent flap surgeries. Complications encountered were bleeding, hematoma, infection, necrosis, pincushioning, keloid, hypertrophic scars.

Conclusion:

Successful outcome depends on pre operative evaluation, appropriate technique selection based on site of tumor, intraoperative care, post operative care and timely management of complications if any.
Small incision upper blepharoplasty in the treatment of upper eyelid solitary nasal pad fat protrusion
Authors: Elhamaky Tarek R
Published: November 2023

Purpose:

The aim of this article is to investigate the efficacy of small incision blepharoplasty in the treatment of upper eyelid single nasal pad fat bulge.

Materials and Methods:

This is a prospective study of 43 eyes of 24 patients who underwent small incision upper blepharoplasty for the treatment of solitary nasal pad fat bulge. All patients underwent a comprehensive ophthalmic examination, periorbital evaluation, and patient satisfaction evaluation using Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS) and Blepharoplasty Outcomes Evaluation (BOE) at baseline, 1 week, 3 months, and 6 months after the surgery. All patients underwent small incision upper eyelid blepharoplasty for excision of nasal fat pad bulge.

Results:

Baseline nasal fat bulge was graded into grades 1, 2, and 3 in 4 (9.3%), 12 (27.9%), and 27 (62.8%) eyes, respectively. While at 6-month follow-up, grade 0 was recorded in 38 (88.4%) eyes, and grade 1 was recorded in 5 (11.6%) eyes. The mean operative time was 11.7 ± 1.9 min. GAIS showed degrees 1, 2, and 3 in 2 (8.3%), 19 (79.2%), and 3 (12.5%) patients at 6-month follow-up, respectively. Twenty-two patients (91.7%) reported a BOE scale of more than 95%, whereas two patients (8.3%) reported a scale of 80–90% at 6-month follow-up.

Conclusion:

Our cohort highlights the beneficial effects of small incision upper blepharoplasty in the treatment of upper eyelid solitary or lone nasal pad fat bulge, providing a safe, short-timing, and effective option.
The safety of large-amount liposuction: A retrospective analysis of 28 cases
Authors: Mortada Hatan , Alshenaifi Saud A , Samawi Hussain A , Marzoug Mohanad M , Alhumsi Taghreed , Alaithan Bander
Published: November 2023

Aim:

Our study aims to assess the safety of large amounts of liposuction in a new light.

Materials and Methods:

This is a retrospective review of patients who underwent large-volume liposuction from August 2020 to April 2021. Patient demographics, liposuction areas, the amount of infiltrate and aspirate, the surface area of liposuction areas, anesthesia duration, pain score after surgery, preoperative and 4-h postoperative hemoglobin, and basic metabolic panel (sodium, potassium, creatinine, urea) were measured.

Results:

Out of the 28 patients, 26 (92.85%) were females. The mean age was 37.1 years old. The mean preoperative hemoglobin was 13.73 g/dL. The average anesthesia time was 220.39 min. The average amount of liposuction infiltrated was 7.55 L, and the average amount of liposuction aspirate was 6.83 L. The mean hemoglobin 4 h postoperatively was 13.7 g/dL.

Conclusions:

With proper patient selection and a comprehensive physical exam with preoperative blood workup performed in an accredited facility with a highly experienced plastic surgeon and anesthesiologist, mega liposuction can be safely performed as a day surgery procedure.
Efficacy of fractional carbon dioxide laser versus fractional carbon dioxide laser with platelet-rich plasma in treatment of striae distensae in a tertiary care center: A comparative study
Authors: Madegowda Shashikumar Basavapura , Rajegowda Harish Muddanahalli , Kalegowda Deepadarshan , Nagaraju Phani Halevoor , Naidu Hemalatha Mullagura
Published: November 2023

Background:

Striae distensae are atrophic scars that are often cosmetically distressing. The efficacy of fractional carbon dioxide (CO2) laser and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) in treating striae individually has been evaluated previously. However, not many studies described the combined efficacy of both.

Aims and Objectives:

The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy and safety of fractional CO2 laser alone and in combination with PRP.

Materials and Methods:

Twenty-four patients with striae presenting bilaterally in the abdomen, upper limbs, and lower limbs were included. PRP was prepared by double-spin method and cell count was done to ensure at least fourfold concentration of platelets. The patients were treated CO2 laser on both sides and PRP on the left side along with laser, every month for three sessions. Digital photography and dermoscopy were done at baseline, every treatment session, and 6 months after treatment. Clinical improvement was assessed by comparing photographs and patient satisfaction before and after treatment.

Results:

All patients showed improvement on both sides. In CO2-laser-treated patients, responses in 6 patients (25%) were moderate, 14 (56%) were good, and 4 (16.6%) were excellent. In CO2-laser and PRP-treated patients, responses in 5 patients (20.8%) were moderate, 11 (45.8%) were good, and 8 (33.3%) were excellent. Hyperpigmentation was the most common side-effect seen (19 patients) on both sides, which resolved spontaneously by 6 months.

Conclusion:

These results support the use of ablative CO2 fractional laser as effective and safe treatment modalities for striae. However, slightly better efficacy was noted with the addition of PRP.
Hypoxia and inflammatory factor preconditioning enhances the immunosuppressive properties of human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Li Hang , Ji Xiao-Qing , Zhang Shu-Ming , Bi Ri-Hui
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have great potential for the treatment of various immune diseases due to their unique immunomodulatory properties. However, MSCs exposed to the harsh inflammatory environment of damaged tissue after intravenous transplantation cannot exert their biological effects, and therefore, their therapeutic efficacy is reduced. In this challenging context, an in vitro preconditioning method is necessary for the development of MSC-based therapies with increased immunomodulatory capacity and transplantation efficacy.

AIM

To determine whether hypoxia and inflammatory factor preconditioning increases the immunosuppressive properties of MSCs without affecting their biological characteristics.

METHODS

Umbilical cord MSCs (UC-MSCs) were pretreated with hypoxia (2% O2) exposure and inflammatory factors (interleukin-1β, tumor necrosis factor-α, interferon-γ) for 24 h. Flow cytometry, polymerase chain reaction, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and other experimental methods were used to evaluate the biological characteristics of pretreated UC-MSCs and to determine whether pretreatment affected the immunosuppressive ability of UC-MSCs in coculture with immune cells.

RESULTS

Pretreatment with hypoxia and inflammatory factors caused UC-MSCs to be elongated but did not affect their viability, proliferation or size. In addition, pretreatment significantly decreased the expression of coagulation-related tissue factors but did not affect the expression of other surface markers. Similarly, mitochondrial function and integrity were retained. Although pretreatment promoted UC-MSC apoptosis and senescence, it increased the expression of genes and proteins related to immune regulation. Pretreatment increased peripheral blood mononuclear cell and natural killer (NK) cell proliferation rates and inhibited NK cell-induced toxicity to varying degrees.

CONCLUSION

In summary, hypoxia and inflammatory factor preconditioning led to higher immunosuppressive effects of MSCs without damaging their biological characteristics.
Influence of High-Strength, Low-Alloy Steel on Fatigue Life at a
Non-Load-Bearing Transverse Welded Attachment
Authors: Ramsay Gareth Allan , Venter Gerhard , Bredell Johann
Published: November 2023

This study investigated the influence of high-strength low-alloy steel on the
fatigue life of a load-bearing member with a non-load-bearing transverse welded
attachment (T-joint). It compared high cycle fatigue data to two fatigue design
codes, namely BS 7608 and Eurocode EN 1993-1-9. Different base and filler
material combinations of varying material strengths were investigated, resulting
in a total of three different specimen configurations. Two material combinations
had a high-strength steel (Strenx® 700 MC D) for the base material,
with one combination having a matched filler material and the other having an
undermatched filler material. The third material combination had a
lower-strength steel (S 355 JR AR) for the base material, with a matched filler
material. Tensile tests were performed to confirm the base material mechanical
properties and weld quality of the manufactured specimens. The investigation
showed that there was no significant benefit to using high-strength steel as the
base material for a fatigue loaded T-joint with a non-load-bearing welded
attachments.
Toughening a PNT System with COTS Inline GPS/GNSS Jamming Protection
Authors:   PNT Position, Navigation, and Timing
Published: November 2023

This recommended practice describes how to toughen a new or existing PNT system with the installation of inline GPS/GNSS jamming protection.
The War on Poverty Must Be Won: Educators Can Make a Difference
Authors: Shields Carolyn Muriel
Published: November 2023

According to reports, almost one billion children worldwide live in poverty, many of whom find it difficult to attend school on a regular basis.Moreover, when they are able to attend, they too often find themselves unable to succeed, falling farther and farther behind their more affluent peers. By attending to a number of relevantresearch findings, educators can reverse this situation. First, it is important to understand and address both generational and situational poverty by challenging and eliminating deficit thinking. We must understand the difference between a child’s prior opportunity to learn and his or her ability to learn; hold high expectations of every child and provide them with a rich and engaging learning environment. To accomplish this, it is important to ensure our curricula, our pedagogies, and our policies are inclusive, that they acknowledge the lived realities of every child, and that they openly address the social and societal inequities that marginalize some and privilege others. Educators must become advocates, when necessary, for those who desperately need the advice and encouragement of a caring adult. Only then can we change despair into hope.
Building School Capacity: Shared Leadership and Professional Learning Communities. A research Proposal
Authors: Bolívar Botía Antonio
Published: November 2023

If schools are to meet the needs of students and achieve educational success, to achieve this, simultaneously, should provide opportunities for teachers to innovate, share experiences and learn together. Schools should thus be configured as Professional Learning Communities (PLCs). This article is linked to building the collective capacity of the school through distributed leadership. It combines in a mixed design description of the situation in Elementary and Secondary schools of Andalusia, with in-depth case studies, properly selected; they can show progress in their levels of educational success, according to the degree of distributed leadership development that promotes the development of the school as a Professional Learning Community. We are interested more than good practices in practices that evidence success in education achievements. We would like to identify and describe the conditions and processes in which direction´s leadership makes possible to development schools as PLCs is one of the principal aims of the research proposal.