bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Safety and Efficacy of Uninterrupted Oral Anticoagulation in Patients Undergoing Catheter Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation with Different Techniques
Authors: Schiavone Marco , Gasperetti Alessio , Filtz Annalisa , Vantaggiato Gaia , Gobbi Cecilia , Tondo Claudio , Forleo Giovanni Battista
Published: October 2023

Background. The safety and efficacy of an uninterrupted direct anticoagulation (DOAC) strategy during catheter ablation (CA) for atrial fibrillation (AF) has not been fully investigated with different ablation techniques. Methods. We evaluated consecutive AF patients undergoing catheter ablation with three different techniques. All patients were managed with an uninterrupted DOAC strategy. The primary endpoint was the rate of periprocedural thromboembolic and bleeding events. The secondary endpoints of the study were the rate of MACE and bleeding events at one-year follow-up. Results. In total, 162 patients were enrolled. Overall, 53 were female and the median age was 60 [55.5–69.5] years. The median CHA2DS2-VASc and HAS-BLED scores were 2 [1–4] and 2 [1–2], respectively. In total, 16 patients had a past stroke or TIA while 11 had a predisposition or a history of bleeding. The CA procedure was performed with different techniques: RF 43%, cryoballoon 37%, or laser–balloon 20%. Overall, 35.8% were on rivaroxaban, 20.4% were on edoxaban, 6.8% were on apixaban, and 3.7% were on dabigatran. All other patients were all naïve to DOACs; the first anticoagulant dose was given before the ablation procedure. As for periprocedural complications, we found three groin hematomas not requiring interventions, one ischemic stroke, and one systemic air embolism (the last two likely due to several catheter changes through the transeptal sheath). Five patients reached the secondary endpoints: one patient for a myocardial infarction while four patients experienced minor bleeding during 1-year follow-up. Conclusions. Our results corroborate the safety and the efficacy of uninterrupted DOAC strategy in patients undergoing CA for AF, regardless of the ablation technique.
Improvements in Maximum Bite Force with Gum-Chewing Training in Older Adults: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Kashiwazaki Kenta , Komagamine Yuriko , Shanglin Wu , Ren Xiangyu , Hayashi Nanaka , Nakayama Mirai , Namano Sahaprom , Kanazawa Manabu , Minakuchi Shunsuke
Published: October 2023

No specific methods have been officially proposed for the prevention and improvement of oral hypofunction. Therefore, in this randomized controlled trial, we aimed to develop a gum-chewing training program and determine its effects in older adults. A total of 218 older adults, aged 65–85 years, were randomly allocated to the intervention or control groups. The intervention group chewed the experimental gum daily, whereas the control group consumed the experimental granular food daily. The outcome assessments measured the maximum bite force, occlusal contact areas, oral dryness, tongue pressure, tongue and lip functions, masticatory function, and gum-chewing time. The measured values for each outcome were compared between groups using the Mann–Whitney U test and within groups pre- and post-intervention using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. A total of 211 participants completed the study. After 2 months, the intervention group had a significantly higher maximum bite force than the control group (p = 0.01), indicating that gum-chewing training improved maximum bite force in older adults. This was determined using one type of bite force measuring device. Therefore, it is suggested that gum-chewing training has a high potential to improve oral hypofunction.
Evolution of Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Post-COVID Patients
Authors: Abdulan Irina Mihaela , Feller Veronica , Oancea Andra , Maștaleru Alexandra , Alexa Anisia Iuliana , Negru Robert , Cumpăt Carmen Marinela , Leon Maria Magdalena
Published: October 2023

(1) Background: SARS-CoV-2 infection has been a subject of extensive discussion in the medical field, particularly in relation to the risk factors and effective treatment strategies for reducing the negative health outcomes associated with the virus. However, researchers indicate that individuals in the recovery phase after COVID-19 experience a range of symptoms that significantly impact their overall well-being and quality of life. At present, there is insufficient evidence to substantiate the claim that patients in the post-acute phase of COVID-19 are at an elevated risk of developing new-onset hypertension or even metabolic syndrome. The current study aimed to assess the risk of cardiovascular diseases after COVID-19 and the optimal treatment of these conditions. (2) Methods: This research was conducted at the Cardiovascular Rehabilitation Clinic of the Iasi Clinical Rehabilitation Hospital (Romania) between the 1st of September and 31st of December 2022. From a total of 551 patients hospitalized in that period, 70 patients with multiple comorbidities were selected. This study included patients over 18 years old who were diagnosed with COVID-19 within the past 30 days. (3) Results: The included patients were mostly women (62.9%) from the urban area (61.4%). Comparing the post-COVID-19 period to the pre-COVID-19 one, it was observed that the risk of hypertension increased from 69.57% to 90% among the subjects (p = 0.005). Risk factors for the new onset of hypertension were identified as age, female gender, and an elevated body mass index. Moreover, the number of patients with dyslipidemia doubled, and a higher body mass index was noted. (4) Conclusions: Our findings suggest that patients affected by COVID-19 are at an increased risk of developing hypertension and related disorders.
Complete Blood Count Alterations Prior to the Diagnosis of Colorectal Cancer May Help in the Detection of Synchronous Liver Metastases
Authors: Sala Rafael J. , Ery John , Cuesta-Peredo David , Muedra Vicente , Rodilla Vicent
Published: October 2023

Background and Aims: Colorectal cancer (CRC) represents 10% of all cancers worldwide with the highest incidence in developed countries; its incidence is also increasing in middle- and low-income countries. Population screening programs facilitate early diagnosis of the disease. When the diagnosis is carried out in advanced stages, approximately 80% of patients with liver metastases (LM) are considered unresectable at the time of diagnosis. In our study, variations in blood counts prior to CRC diagnosis were analyzed to assess whether they could be useful in identifying smaller, more manageable metastases at earlier stages for more effective treatment. Methods: A study was carried out using complete blood counts (CBCs) from CRC patients, obtained from primary health centers and the La Ribera University Hospital within La Ribera Health Department, Valencian Community, Spain, between July 2012 and September 2020. Data from CRC patients who presented synchronous liver metastasis (CRLM) were compared with those with CRC without LM at diagnosis (CRC patients). Results: Our analysis shows that at least 15 months before CRC diagnosis, a progressive alteration was observed in CBC parameters in both groups. A higher incidence of anemia (p < 0.001) was observed among CRLM patients in the three months prior to CRC diagnosis than in CRC patients showing no LM. Conclusions: A statistically significant deterioration of CBC was observed in patients with advanced-stage CRC and synchronous or early LM (CRLM) in the three months prior to diagnosis. The primary goal of incorporating CBC variations into predictive models is to identify individuals who are at a greater risk of developing metastatic colon cancer, leading to early diagnosis. Our research improves these models by highlighting a more pronounced and rapid decline in hemoglobin levels among CRLM patients. Identification of metastases at an earlier stage when they are smaller, more manageable, and more amenable to treatment may be a valuable tool to prevent their further progression.
In Vitro Biocompatibility of the Novel Ceramic Composite Baghdadite for Defect Augmentation in Revision Total Hip Arthroplasty
Authors: Jaenisch Max , Guder Christian , Ossendorff Robert , Randau Thomas M. , Gravius Sascha , Wirtz Dieter C. , Strauss Andreas C. , Schildberg Frank A.
Published: October 2023

Biological augmentation of bony defects in weight-bearing areas of both the acetabulum and the femur remains challenging. The calcium-silicate-based ceramic Baghdadite is a very interesting material to be used in the field of revision total hip arthroplasty for the treatment of bony defects in weight-bearing and non-weight-bearing areas alike. The aim of this study was to investigate the biocompatibility of Baghdadite utilizing an osteoblast-like, human osteosarcoma cell line (MG-63) and the human monocytic leukemia-derived cell line (THP-1). THP-1-derived macrophages and MG-63 were indirectly exposed to Baghdadite for 7 days using a transwell system. Viability was assessed with MTT assay and pH analysis. To investigate proliferation rate, both cell lines were labelled using CFSE and flow cytometrically analyzed. ELISA was used to measure the secretion of IL-1ß, IL-6 and TNFα. The investigation of viability, while showing a slight difference in optical density for the MTT assays in MG-63 cells, did not present a meaningful difference between groups for both cell lines. The comparison of pH and the proportion of living cells between groups did not present with a significant difference for both THP-1 and MG-63. Baghdadite did not have a relevant impact on the proliferation rate of the investigated cell lines. Mean fluorescence intensity was calculated between groups with no significant difference. Baghdadite exerted a proinflammatory effect, which could be seen in an upregulated production of TNFα in macrophages. Production of IL-1ß and IL-6 was not statistically significant, but the IL-6 ELISA showed a trend to an upregulated production as well. A similar effect on MG-63 was not observed. No relevant cytotoxicity of Baghdadite ceramics was encountered. Baghdadite ceramics exhibit a proinflammatory potential by significantly increasing the secretion of TNFα in THP-1-derived macrophages. Whether this proinflammatory potential results in a clinically relevant effect on osteointegration is unclear and requires further investigation. Baghdadite ceramics provide an interesting alternative to conventional bone substitutes and should be further investigated in a biomechanical and in vivo setting.
Non-Ventilated Patients with Spontaneous Pneumothorax or Pneumomediastinum Associated with COVID-19: Three-Year Debriefing across Five Pandemic Waves
Authors: Marza Adina Maria , Cindrea Alexandru Cristian , Petrica Alina , Stanciugelu Alexandra Valentina , Barsac Claudiu , Mocanu Alexandra , Critu Roxana , Botea Mihai Octavian , Trebuian Cosmin Iosif , Lungeanu Diana
Published: October 2023

Spontaneous pneumothorax and pneumomediastinum (SP–SPM) are relatively rare medical conditions that can occur with or independently of COVID-19. We conducted a retrospective analysis of SP–SPM cases presented to the emergency departments (EDs) of two University-affiliated tertiary hospitals from 1 March 2020 to 31 October 2022. A total of 190 patients were identified: 52 were COVID-19 cases, and 138 were non-COVID-19 cases. The primary outcome we were looking for was in-hospital mortality. The secondary outcomes concerned the disease severity assessed by (a) days of hospitalization; (b) required mechanical ventilation (MV); and (c) required intensive care (IC). All were investigated in the context of the five pandemic waves and the patients’ age and comorbidities. The pandemic waves had no significant effect on the outcomes of these patients. Logistic regression found age (OR = 1.043; 95%CI 1.002–1.085), COVID-19 (OR = 6.032; 95%CI 1.757–20.712), number of comorbidities (OR = 1.772; 95%CI 1.046–3.001), and ground-glass opacities over 50% (OR = 5.694; 95%CI 1.169–27.746) as significant risk predictors of in-hospital death while controlling for gender, smoking, the pandemic wave, and the extension of SP–SPM. The model proved good prediction performance (Nagelkerke R-square = 0.524) and would hold the same significant predictors for MV and IC.
Bioinformatic Analysis of Recurrent Genomic Alterations and Corresponding Pathway Alterations in Ewing Sarcoma
Authors: Rock Adam , Uche An , Yoon Janet , Agulnik Mark , Chow Warren , Millis Sherri
Published: October 2023

Ewing Sarcoma (ES) is an aggressive, mesenchymal malignancy associated with a poor prognosis in the recurrent or metastatic setting with an estimated overall survival (OS) of <30% at 5 years. ES is characterized by a balanced, reciprocal chromosomal translocation involving the EWSR1 RNA-binding protein and ETS transcription factor gene (EWS-FLI being the most common). Interestingly, murine ES models have failed to produce tumors phenotypically representative of ES. Genomic alterations (GA) in ES are infrequent and may work synergistically with EWS-ETS translocations to promote oncogenesis. Aberrations in fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR4), a receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) have been shown to contribute to carcinogenesis. Mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs) derived from knock-in strain of homologous Fgfr4G385R mice display a transformed phenotype with enhanced TGF-induced mammary carcinogenesis. The association between the FGFRG388R SNV in high-grade soft tissue sarcomas has previously been demonstrated conferring a statistically significant association with poorer OS. How the FGFR4G388R SNV specifically relates to ES has not previously been delineated. To further define the genomic landscape and corresponding pathway alterations in ES, comprehensive genomic profiling (CGP) was performed on the tumors of 189 ES patients. The FGFR4G388R SNV was identified in a significant proportion of the evaluable cases (n = 97, 51%). In line with previous analyses, TP53 (n = 36, 19%), CDK2NA/B (n = 33, 17%), and STAG2 (n = 22, 11.6%) represented the most frequent alterations in our cohort. Co-occurrence of CDK2NA and STAG2 alterations was observed (n = 5, 3%). Notably, we identified a higher proportion of TP53 mutations than previously observed. The most frequent pathway alterations affected MAPK (n = 89, 24% of pathological samples), HRR (n = 75, 25%), Notch1 (n = 69, 23%), Histone/Chromatin remodeling (n = 57, 24%), and PI3K (n = 64, 20%). These findings help to further elucidate the genomic landscape of ES with a novel investigation of the FGFR4G388R SNV revealing frequent aberration.
Identification of Ecological Risk “Source-Sink” Landscape Functions of Resource-Based Region: A Case Study in Liaoning Province, China
Authors: Wang Shaoqing , Zhao Yanling , Ren He , Zhu Shichao , Yang Yunhui
Published: October 2023

Ecological risk assessment plays an important role in ecosystem management and conservation. Conventional landscape-level assessment can only estimate the ecological risk level. It does not define ecological risk types, resulting in a lack of targeted regulation methods. This study establishes a model for identifying ecological risk-related “source-sink” landscape functions according to (1) “source-sink” landscape theory, (2) the responses of landscape types to ecological risks, and (3) the key influences on ecological risk. Four ecological risk “source-sink” landscape functions were mapped as a grid to understand their distribution. Natural and human activity factors were analyzed to determine their effects. After comprehensively considering the ecological risk levels, types of ecological risk, “source-sink” landscape functions, and their influencing factors, six principles and twenty-four targeted regulation strategies were proposed. Take the Liaoning province, China, as an example. The results prove that more than 80% of the grids were affected by the ecological risk “sink” landscape function for different and multiple ecological risks in the study area. Landscapes with the “source” function were mainly located in central cities and coastal areas. About 65% of the grids with “sink” landscape functions had medium, moderate-high, and high ecological risks. More than 75% of the grids with “source” landscape functions had medium, moderate-low, and low ecological risks. Local terrain features, vegetation, and climate were closely related to the “source” or “sink” landscape function of a grid. The land use type converted to artificial surface had the highest driving effects (q value) on multiple ecological risk “source-sink” landscape functions, and had a significant difference between other factors. The driving effects of land use type converted to artificial surface and road network density gradually increased with the risk level. The influences of GDP and population density gradually weakened with the level. The influence of interaction between any two factors was stronger than the influence of a single factor on ecological risk. The proposed assessment model can help to identify specific ecological risk at the grid level, and combined with the regulation strategy, the scientific basis can be provided for the regulation and management of different ecological risks.
Precision and Safety of Ultrasound-Guided versus Palpation-Guided Needle Placement on the Patellar Tendon: A Cadaveric Study
Authors: Arias-Buría José L. , Borrella-Andrés Sergio , Rodríguez-Sanz Jacobo , López-de-Celis Carlos , Malo-Urriés Miguel , Fernández-de-las-Peñas César , Gallego-Sendarrubias Gracia M. , González-Rueda Vanessa , Pérez-Bellmunt Albert , Albarova-Corral Isabel
Published: October 2023

For decades, needling interventions have been performed based on manual palpation and anatomic knowledge. The increasing use of real-time ultrasonography in clinical practice has improved the accuracy and safety of needling techniques. Although currently ultrasound-guided procedures are routinely used for patellar tendon pathology, e.g., during percutaneous electrolysis, the accuracy of these procedures is still unknown. This study used a cadaveric model to compare and evaluate both the accuracy and safety of ultrasound-guided and palpation-guided needling techniques for the patellar tendon. A total of five physical therapists performed a series of 20 needle insertion task each (n = 100), 10 insertions based on manual palpation (n = 50) and 10 insertions guided with ultrasound (n = 50) to place a needle along the interface between the patellar tendon and Hoffa’s fat pad. All procedures were performed on cryopreserved knee specimens. Distance to the targeted tissue, time of the procedure, accurate rate of insertions, number of passes, and unintentional punctured structures between both applications (with and without ultrasound guiding) were compared. The results revealed higher accuracy (100% vs. 80%), a lower distance from needle to the targeted tissue (0.25 ± 0.65 vs. 2.5 ± 1.9 mm), longer surface of contact with the needle (15.5 ± 6.65 vs. 4.7 ± 7.5 mm), and a lower frequency of patellar tendon puncture (16% vs. 52%, p < 0.001) with the ultrasound-guided procedure as opposed to palpation-guided one. Nevertheless, the ultrasound-guided procedure took longer (54.8 ± 26.8 vs. 23.75 ± 15.4 s) and required more passes (2.55 ± 1.9 vs. 1.5 ± 0.95) to be conducted than the palpation-guided procedure (all, p < 0.001). According to these findings, the accuracy of invasive procedures applied on the patellar tendon is higher when conducted with ultrasound guidance than when conducted just on manual palpation or anatomical landmark. These results suggest that ultrasound could improve the clinical application of invasive procedures at the fat-patellar tendon interface. Due to the anatomical features of the targeted tissue, some procedures require this precision, so the use of ultrasound is recommended.
A Comprehensive Review on Combinatorial Film via High-Throughput Techniques
Authors: Wang Dongxin , Jiang Wei , Li Shurong , Yan Xuehui , Wu Shuaishuai , Qiu Haochen , Guo Shengli , Zhu Baohong
Published: October 2023

Numerous technological advancements in the 21st century depend on the creation of novel materials possessing enhanced properties; there is a growing reliance on materials that can be optimized to serve multiple functions. To efficiently save time and meet the requirements of diverse applications, high-throughput and combinatorial approaches are increasingly employed to explore and design superior materials. Among them, gradient thin-film deposition is one of the most mature and widely used technologies for high-throughput preparation of material libraries. This review summarizes recent progress in gradient thin-film deposition fabricated by magnetron sputtering, multi-arc ion plating, e-beam evaporation, additive manufacturing, and chemical bath deposition, providing readers with a fundamental understanding of this research field. First, high-throughput synthesis methods for gradient thin films are emphasized. Subsequently, we present the characteristics of combinatorial films, including microstructure, oxidation, corrosion tests, and mechanical properties. Next, the screening methods employed for evaluating these properties are discussed. Furthermore, we delve into the limitations of high-throughput preparation and characterization techniques for combinatorial films. Finally, we provide a summary and offer our perspectives.
Amorphous BN-Based Synaptic Device with High Performance in Neuromorphic Computing
Authors: Pyo Juyeong , Jang Junwon , Ju Dongyeol , Lee Subaek , Shim Wonbo , Kim Sungjun
Published: October 2023

The von Neumann architecture has faced challenges requiring high-fulfillment levels due to the performance gap between its processor and memory. Among the numerous resistive-switching random-access memories, the properties of hexagonal boron nitride (BN) have been extensively reported, but those of amorphous BN have been insufficiently explored for memory applications. Herein, we fabricated a Pt/BN/TiN device utilizing the resistive switching mechanism to achieve synaptic characteristics in a neuromorphic system. The switching mechanism is investigated based on the I–V curves. Utilizing these characteristics, we optimize the potentiation and depression to mimic the biological synapse. In artificial neural networks, high-recognition rates are achieved using linear conductance updates in a memristor device. The short-term memory characteristics are investigated in depression by controlling the conductance level and time interval.
Analysis of Influencing Factors on the Tribological Behavior of 42CrMo4/17NiCrMo6-4 under Grease Lubrication
Authors: Wu Fenghe , Jiang Zhanpeng , Liu Zijian , Sun Yingbing , Li Xiang
Published: October 2023

The tribological behavior of 42CrMo4/17NiCrMo6-4 under grease lubrication was explored in terms of load, speed, hardness matching, and lubrication quantity. Optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and a surface profilometer were used to investigate the wear mechanism. The results show that hardness matching has the greatest impact on the wear resistance and friction reduction of the friction pair, followed by the load factor, with the impacts of speed and lubricant quantity being minor. Increasing the hardness of 42CrMo4 reduces the friction coefficient and wear volume of the friction pair substantially. When the maximum surface hardness of 42CrMo4 was compared with the lowest surface hardness, the friction coefficient was reduced by 21.5%, and the wear volume was reduced by 87.2%. Abrasive wear is the sort of wear failure that was seen, and as the hardness of 42CrMo4 increased, more severe fatigue wear appeared on 17NiCrMo6-4. While the wear volume initially increases and subsequently lowers with increasing load, the friction coefficient initially decreases and then stabilizes. A synergistic combination of abrasive and adhesive wear occurs under high load, changing the wear type from abrasive wear under low load. The wear volume is decreased by the sticky layer generated under high load conditions, which achieves superior wear prevention. This study is anticipated to offer recommendations for designing gears’ required hardness under various operating circumstances.
Explicit Symplectic Runge–Kutta–Nyström Methods Based on Roots of Shifted Legendre Polynomial
Authors: Zhang Jun , Zhang Jingjing , Zhang Shangyou
Published: October 2023

To date, all explicit symplectic Runge–Kutta–Nyström methods of order five or above are derived by numerical solutions of order condition equations and symplectic condition. In this paper, we derive 124 sets of seven-stage fifth-order explicit symplectic Runge–Kutta–Nyström methods with closed-form coefficients in the Butcher tableau using the roots of a degree-3 shifted Legendre polynomial. One method is analyzed and its P-stable interval is derived. Numerical tests on the two newly discovered methods are performed, showing their long-time stability and large step size stability over some existing methods.
Colon Bowel Preparation in the Era of Artificial Intelligence: Is There Potential for Enhancing Colon Bowel Cleansing?
Authors: Gimeno-García Antonio Z , Benítez-Zafra Federica , Nicolás-Pérez David , Hernández-Guerra Manuel
Published: October 2023

Background and Objectives: Proper bowel preparation is of paramount importance for enhancing adenoma detection rates and reducing postcolonoscopic colorectal cancer risk. Despite recommendations from gastroenterology societies regarding the optimal rates of successful bowel preparation, these guidelines are frequently unmet. Various approaches have been employed to enhance the rates of successful bowel preparation, yet the quality of cleansing remains suboptimal. Intensive bowel preparation techniques, supplementary administration of bowel solutions, and educational interventions aimed at improving patient adherence to instructions have been commonly utilized, particularly among patients at a high risk of inadequate bowel preparation. Expedited strategies conducted on the same day as the procedure have also been endorsed by scientific organizations. More recently, the utilization of artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged for the preprocedural detection of inadequate bowel preparation, holding the potential to guide the preparation process immediately preceding colonoscopy. This manuscript comprehensively reviews the current strategies employed to optimize bowel cleansing, with a specific focus on patients with elevated risks for inadequate bowel preparation. Additionally, the prospective role of AI in this context is thoroughly examined. Conclusions: While a majority of outpatients may achieve cleanliness with standard cleansing protocols, dealing with hard-to-prepare patients remains a challenge. Rescue strategies based on AI are promising, but such evidence remains limited. To ensure proper bowel cleansing, a combination of strategies should be performed.
From Diagnosis to Treatment: Comprehensive Care by Reproductive Urologists in Assisted Reproductive Technology
Authors: Kaltsas Aris , Dimitriadis Fotios , Zachariou Dimitrios , Zikopoulos Athanasios , Symeonidis Evangelos N. , Markou Eleftheria , Tien Dung Mai Ba , Takenaka Atsushi , Sofikitis Nikolaos , Zachariou Athanasios
Published: October 2023

Infertility is a global health concern, with male factors playing an especially large role. Unfortunately, however, the contributions made by reproductive urologists in managing male infertility under assisted reproductive technology (ART) often go undervalued. This narrative review highlights the important role played by reproductive urologists in diagnosing and treating male infertility as well as any barriers they face when providing services. This manuscript presents a comprehensive review of reproductive urologists’ role in managing male infertility, outlining their expertise in diagnosing and managing male infertility as well as reversible causes and performing surgical techniques such as sperm retrieval. This manuscript investigates the barriers limiting urologist involvement such as limited availability, awareness among healthcare professionals, and financial constraints. This study highlights a decrease in male fertility due to lifestyle factors like sedentary behavior, obesity, and substance abuse. It stresses the significance of conducting an evaluation process involving both male and female partners to identify any underlying factors contributing to infertility and to identify patients who do not require any interventions beyond ART. We conclude that engaging urologists more effectively in infertility management is key to optimizing fertility outcomes among couples undergoing assisted reproductive technology treatments and requires greater education among healthcare providers regarding the role urologists and lifestyle factors that could have an effect on male fertility.
Artificial Neural Network-Based Critical Conditions for the Dynamic Recrystallization of Medium Carbon Steel and Application
Authors: Tize Mha Pierre , Dhondapure Prashant , Jahazi Mohammad , Tongne Amèvi , Pantalé Olivier
Published: October 2023

This study presents a novel and thorough approach to comprehending and simulating the DRX process while hot compressing steel. To achieve this goal, we studied the high-temperature deformation behavior of a medium-carbon steel through hot compression testing on a Gleeble-3800 thermomechanical simulator over a broad range of strains, strain rates, and temperatures. We also employed an artificial neural network (ANN) to model the thermo-visco-plastic behavior with a flow law. The precision of quantifying the DRX volume fraction is dependent on critical conditions, which are essential for both analytical model evaluation and numerical implementation in finite element software. This study proposes a second ANN, serving as a universal approximator, to fit the data required for DRX critical condition calculations, whereas the Johnson–Mehl–Avrami–Kohnogorov (JMAK) model served as an analytical tool to estimate the DRX volume fraction, which underwent validation through experimental measurements. A numerical implementation of the JMAK model was conducted in ABAQUS software and compared against experimental data by means of microstructure analysis. The comparison revealed a strong correlation between the simulation and experiment. The study investigated the impact of temperature, strain, and strain rate on DRX evolution. The findings showed that DRX increases with rising temperature and strain but decreases with increasing strain rate.
A Phenomenological Model for Creep and Creep-Fatigue Crack Growth Rate Behavior in Ferritic Steels
Authors: Saxena Ashok
Published: October 2023

A model to rationalize the effects of test temperature and microstructural variables on the creep crack growth (CCG) and creep-fatigue crack growth (CFCG) rates in ferritic steels is described. The model predicts that as the average spacing between grain boundary particles that initiate creep cavities decrease, the CCG and CFCG rates increase. Further, the CCG data at several temperatures collapse into a single trend when a temperature compensated CCG rate derived from the model is used. The CCG and CFCG behavior measured at different temperatures is used to assess the effects of variables such as the differences between the base metal (BM), weld metal (WM), and heat-affected zone (HAZ) regions. The model is demonstrated for Grade 22 and Grade 91 steels using data from literature. It is shown that differences between the CCG behavior of the Grade 22 steel in new and ex-service conditions are negligible in the BM and WM regions but not in the HAZ region. The CCG behavior of the Grade 91 steels can be separated into creep-ductile and creep-brittle regions. The creep-brittle tendency is linked to the presence of excess trace element concentrations in the material chemistry. Significant differences found in the CCG rates between the BM, WM, and HAZ regions of the Grade 91 steel are explained.
Improvement of Analytical Model for Oblique Cutting—Part I: Identification of Mechanical Characteristics of Machined Material
Authors: Storchak Michael , Lekveishvili Maria A.
Published: October 2023

Analytical cutting models have recently become quite widespread due to the simplicity and rapidity of calculations as well as the stability of the solutions. This paper considers a procedure for determining the mechanical properties of machined material based on parameters for the analytical model of oblique cutting for a certain range of changes in cutting modes and inclination angles of the tool cutting edge. The model is based on the energy method of determining the main cutting process characteristics using the extreme assumptions of continuum mechanics. It is proposed to determine the parameters characterizing the mechanical properties of the processed material using the Johnson–Cook constitutive equation in two stages: preliminary determination of the constitutive equation parameters based on the results of mechanical compression specimen tests and experimental data of the oblique cutting process, and specifying the generalized values of the constitutive equation parameters using the inverse method through the finite element cutting model. The adequacy of the applied analytical cutting model is confirmed by comparing the kinetic characteristic values calculated using the analytical model of oblique cutting with the application of the specified parameters of the constitutive equation and the measured values of the kinetic characteristics. The deviation between the calculated and measured values of the cutting force components when changing the cutting depth (undeformed chip thickness) does not exceed 15%. The difference between the calculated and measured values of the cutting force components when the cutting speed is changed is about 20%.
Prediction of Occurrence of Hot Cracks in Laser Cladding Heat Resistant Nickel Alloys
Authors: Korsmik Rudolf , Zadykyan Grigoriy , Tyukov Stepan , Klimova-Korsmik Olga , Dmitrieva Anastasiia
Published: October 2023

Modern methods and technologies for the creation and processing of materials provide great opportunities for research. This work is devoted to the study of the causes of hot cracks, as well as the application of an analytical method for assessing the occurrence of hot cracks in high-temperature nickel alloys ZhS32, ZhS6U, ZhS6K, Rene 80, Rene 41, processed by laser powder cladding. In the course of the work, the process of the influence of a heat source on samples was modeled, an analysis of thermal fields and isotherms was performed, on the basis of which an analytical method was developed for finding the criterion for the pressure drop along the crystallization front in different modes and grades of alloys, to assess the tendency to form hot cracks in high-temperature nickel alloys.
Associations of Estimated Pulse Wave Velocity with Body Mass Index and Waist Circumference among General Korean Adults
Authors: Kim Hack-Lyoung , Joh Hyun Sung , Lim Woo-Hyun , Seo Jae-Bin , Kim Sang-Hyun , Zo Joo-Hee , Kim Myung-A
Published: October 2023

The correlation between body fat parameters and arterial stiffness is still under debate. This study aimed to examine the associations of body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference (WC) with estimated pulse wave velocity (ePWV). We utilized data from 14,228 subjects (mean age 53.4 ± 16.8 years; 56.9% were female) from the Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. The ePWV was calculated using a formula based on age and blood pressure. Simple linear correlation analyses revealed significant associations between both BMI and ePWV (r = 0.098; p < 0.001) and WC and ePWV (r = 0.291; p < 0.001), with a stronger correlation observed between WC and ePWV. Multiple linear regression analysis demonstrated that WC remained significantly associated with ePWV after adjusting for potential confounders (β = 0.020; p = 0.001). However, a statistically significant association was not found between BMI and ePWV (β = 0.011; p = 0.076). Multiple binary logistic regression analysis further indicated that both higher BMI and WC were independently associated with higher ePWV, but the association was more pronounced between WC and ePWV than between BMI and ePWV. These findings underscore a stronger correlation between visceral obesity (as indicated by WC) and arterial stiffness (as indicated by ePWV) compared to overall obesity (as indicated by BMI). This highlights the potential significance of abdominal obesity in assessing cardiovascular risk.
Tunable Helmholtz Resonators Using Multiple Necks
Authors: Papadakis Nikolaos M. , Stavroulakis Georgios E.
Published: October 2023

One of the uses of Helmholtz resonators is as sound absorbers for room acoustic applications, especially for the low frequency range. Their efficiency is centered around their resonance frequency which mainly depends on elements of their geometry such as the resonator volume and neck dimensions. Incorporating additional necks on the body of a Helmholtz resonator (depending on whether they are open or closed) has been found to alter the resulting resonance frequency. For this study, tunable Helmholtz resonators to multiple resonance frequencies, are proposed and investigated utilizing additional necks. The resonance frequencies of various multi-neck Helmholtz resonators are first modeled with the use of the finite element method (FEM), then calculated with the use of an analytical approach and the results of the two approaches are finally compared. The results of this study show that Helmholtz resonators with multiple resonances at desired frequencies are achievable with the use of additional necks, while FEM and analytical methods can be used for the estimation of the resonance frequencies. Analytical and FEM approach results show a good agreement in cases of small number of additional necks, while the increasing differences in cases of higher neck additions, were attributed to the change in effective length of the necks as demonstrated by FEM. The proposed approach can be useful for tunable sound absorbers for room acoustics applications according to the needs of a space. Also, this approach can be applied in cases of additional tunable air resonances of acoustic instruments (e.g., string instruments).
Structural and Dimensional Analysis by Computed Tomography of a Multi Geometric Template Manufactured by Fused Deposition Modeling
Authors: Aguilar-Duque Julian I. , Ontiveros Sinue , Baez-Lopez Yolanda , Juárez-Luna Victor Manuel , Brau-Avila Agustín , Tlapa Diego
Published: October 2023

As a consequence of the development of AM, strategies have been developed to optimize the printing process, which focuses on reducing manufacturing time, such as using genetic algorithms (GAs), among others. The effect caused by the modification of path patterns is an effect of interest in two aspects: dimensional assurance focused on the compliance of the dimensions of the components in comparison with the digital design of the components, and the structural composition and resistance that the printing process itself can generate. This paper aims to present the effect of optimizing the path of fused filament fabrication (FFF) equipment on the dimensional finish and structural quality of a multi-geometric component using computed tomography. For this purpose, a template composed of 23 geometric elements, printed using FFF technology and PLA as the base material, is used. The results show an 11% reduction in the total process time required to print the component. The effect on the dimensional precision of different geometric elements was identified. In addition, it was possible to ensure that the structural quality of the multi-geometric component was not affected by the modification of the path required by the printing process.
Seamless MEMS-INS/Geomagnetic Navigation System Based on Deep-Learning Strong Tracking Square-Root Cubature Kalman Filter
Authors: Zhao Tianshang , Wang Chenguang , Shen Chong
Published: October 2023

To suppress inertial navigation system drift and improve the seamless navigation capability of microelectromechanical system-inertial navigation systems/geomagnetic navigation systems (MEMS-INS/MNS) in geomagnetically unlocked environments, this paper proposes a hybrid seamless MEMS-INS/MNS strategy combining a strongly tracked square-root cubature Kalman filter with deep self-learning (DSL-STSRCKF). The proposed DSL-STSRCKF method consists of two innovative steps: (i) The relationship between the deep Kalman filter gain and the optimal estimation is established. In this paper, combining the two auxiliary methods of strong tracking filtering and square-root filtering based on singular value decomposition, the heading accuracy error of ST-SRCKF can reach 1.29°, which improves the heading accuracy by 90.10% and 9.20% compared to the traditional single INS and the traditional integrated navigation algorithm and greatly improves the robustness and computational efficiency. (ii) Providing deep self-learning capability for the ST-SRCKF by introducing a nonlinear autoregressive neural network (NARX) with exogenous inputs, which means that the heading accuracy can still reach 1.33° even during the MNS lockout period, and the heading accuracy can be improved by 89.80% compared with the single INS, realizing the continuous high-precision navigation estimation.
Comparative Transcriptome Analysis of Shiga Toxin-Producing Escherichia coli O157:H7 on Bovine Rectoanal Junction Cells and Human Colonic Epithelial Cells during Initial Adherence
Authors: Edison Lekshmi K. , Kudva Indira T. , Kariyawasam Subhashinie
Published: October 2023

Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) are notorious foodborne pathogens, capable of causing severe diarrhea and life-threatening complications in humans. Cattle, acting as both primary reservoirs and asymptomatic carriers of STEC, predominantly harbor the pathogen in their rectoanal junction (RAJ), facilitating its transmission to humans through contaminated food sources. Despite the central role of cattle in STEC transmission, the molecular mechanisms governing STEC’s adaptation in the RAJ of the asymptomatic reservoir host and its subsequent infection of human colonic epithelial cells, resulting in diarrhea, remain largely unexplored. This study aims to uncover these complicated dynamics by focusing on the STEC O157:H7 serotype within two distinct host environments, bovine RAJ cells and human colonic epithelial cells, during initial colonization. We employed comparative transcriptomics analysis to investigate differential gene expression profiles of STEC O157:H7 during interactions with these cell types. STEC O157:H7 was cultured either with bovine RAJ cells or the human colonic epithelial cell line CCD CoN 841 to simulate STEC-epithelial cell interactions within these two host species. High-throughput RNA sequencing revealed 829 and 1939 bacterial genes expressed in RAJ and CCD CoN 841, respectively. After gene filtering, 221 E. coli O157:H7 genes were upregulated during initial adherence to CCD CoN cells and 436 with RAJ cells. Furthermore, 22 genes were uniquely expressed with human cells and 155 genes with bovine cells. Our findings revealed distinct expression patterns of STEC O157:H7 genes involved in virulence, including adherence, metal iron homeostasis, and stress response during its initial adherence (i.e., six hours post-infection) to bovine RAJ cells, as opposed to human colonic epithelial cells. Additionally, the comparative analysis highlighted the potential role of some genes in host adaptation and tissue-specific pathogenicity. These findings shed new light on the potential mechanisms of STEC O157:H7 contributing to colonize the intestinal epithelium during the first six hours of infection, leading to survival and persistence in the bovine reservoir and causing disease in humans.
Differential Immune-Modulating Activities of Cell Walls and Secreted Metabolites from Probiotic Bacillus coagulans JBI-YZ6.3 under Normal versus Inflamed Culture Conditions
Authors: Iloba Ifeanyi , McGarry Sage V. , Yu Liu , Cruickshank Dina , Jensen Gitte S.
Published: October 2023

Spore-forming probiotic bacteria, including Bacillus coagulans, are resilient and produce a variety of beneficial metabolites. We evaluated the immune-modulating effects of the novel probiotic strain Bacillus coagulans JBI-YZ6.3, where the germinated spores, metabolite fraction, and cell wall fraction were tested in parallel using human peripheral blood mononuclear cell cultures under both normal and lipopolysaccharide-induced inflamed culture conditions. The expression of CD25 and CD69 activation markers was evaluated via flow cytometry. Supernatants were tested for cytokines, interferons, chemokines, and growth factors using Luminex arrays. The germinated spores were highly immunogenic; both the cell wall and metabolite fractions contributed significantly. Under normal culture conditions, increased levels of immune activation were observed as increased expressions of CD25 and CD69 relative to natural killer cells, suggesting an increased ability to attack virus-infected target cells. On monocytes, a complex effect was observed, where the expression of CD25 increased under normal conditions but decreased under inflamed conditions. This, in combination with increased interleukin-10 (IL-10) and decreased monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) production under inflamed conditions, points to anti-inflammatory effects. The production of the stem cell-related growth factor granulocyte colony-stimulating Factor (G-CSF) was enhanced. Further research is warranted to characterize the composition of the postbiotic metabolite fraction and document the characteristics of immunomodulating agents secreted by this probiotic strain.
Monophasic Variant of Salmonella Typhimurium Infection Affects the Serum Metabolome in Swine
Authors: Larivière-Gauthier Guillaume , Kerouanton Annaëlle , Mompelat Sophie , Bougeard Stéphanie , Denis Martine , Fravalo Philippe
Published: October 2023

Salmonella is the most relevant foodborne zoonotic agent found in swine, and its presence in French herds is significant. Its carriage is asymptomatic, which makes it difficult to detect during rearing, thus increasing the risk of its presence on pork meat. Studies have shown that enteric infection in animals could be associated with changes in the serum metabolome composition, through the immune response or changes in the digestive microbiota composition. We hypothesized that these changes in the serum metabolome composition could be used as markers for the detection of asymptomatic animals infected by Salmonella. Using untargeted analysis by liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry, we showed that significant differences in the composition of the serum metabolome could be detected between infected or noninfected animals both 1 and 21 days after experimental infection. This serum metabolome composition significantly changed during the 21 days postinfection in the infected animal groups, suggesting an evolution of the impact of infection with time. Despite this evolution, differences in the serum metabolome composition persisted between infected and noninfected animals 21 days after the initial infection. We also showed a possible difference between high-shedding and low-shedding animals 21 days postinfection. Finally, some of the variations in the metabolome were found to be significantly associated with variations of specific members of the fecal microbiota. Thus, excreting and asymptomatic animals, but also high-shedding animals, could be identified on the basis of their serum metabolome composition.