bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diplomatic response to global health challenges in recognizing patient needs: A qualitative interview study
Authors: Karačić Zanetti Jasna , Brown Matthew , Viđak Marin , Marušić Ana
Published: April 2023

Background

Global health diplomacy is the applied practice of foreign affairs to further national goals that focus on health issues requiring international cooperation and collective action. We aimed to determine how international diplomats and health policy-related professionals in the EU understand the concept of health diplomacy, which impacts both diplomatic relations as well as patients' rights.

Methods

In a qualitative interview study, we used a heterogeneous stratified purposeful sampling to reach participants from different countries and different practitioners from the Pyramid of Health Diplomacy: core, multi-stakeholder, and informal. Reflexive thematic analysis was used to identify the main themes.

Findings

We contacted 131 practitioners of GHD, of which 37 responded, and nine agreed to be interviewed. From 11 interview questions, four main themes emerged from the analysis of the individual interview. The participants reported limited knowledge about the definition of GHD but also that they engaged in daily activities and decisions of inter-governmental bodies. They were not aware of existing special education and training for health attachés and made suggestions for improving the field and practice of GHD. They were not fully familiar with the European Charter of Patients' Rights. There was a consensus from all participants that patient rights need to improve as a fundamental right. They stressed the fact that the hospital lockdown and the right access to healthcare were impaired during the COVID pandemic.

Interpretation

The role of health diplomacy in linking public health and foreign affairs is key to respecting patients' rights. Health over other interests is becoming an increasingly critical element in foreign policy. Establishing a clear career path for health attachés is necessary to foster effective global health agreements and coordination across countries.
Applying an equity lens to assess context and implementation in public health and health services research and practice using the PRISM framework
Authors: Fort Meredith P. , Manson Spero M. , Glasgow Russell E.
Published: April 2023

Dissemination and implementation science seeks to enhance the uptake, successful implementation, and sustainment of evidence-based programs and policies. While a focus on health equity is implicit in many efforts to increase access to and coverage of evidence-based programs and policies, most implementation frameworks and models do not explicitly address it. Disparities may in fact be increased by emphasizing high intensity interventions or ease of delivery over meeting need within the population, addressing deep-rooted structural inequities, and adapting to local context and priorities. PRISM (Practical, Robust Implementation and Sustainability Model), the contextual expansion of the RE-AIM (Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation, Maintenance) framework has several elements that address health equity, but these have not been explicated, integrated, or illustrated in one place. We present guidance for applying PRISM with an equity lens across its four context domains (external environment; multi-level perspectives on the intervention; characteristics of implementers and intended audience; and the implementation and sustainability infrastructure—as well as the five RE-AIM outcome dimensions. We then present an example with health equity considerations and discuss issues of representation and participation, representativeness and the importance of ongoing, iterative assessment of dynamic context and structural drivers of inequity. We also elaborate on the importance of a continuous process that requires addressing community priorities and responding to capacity and infrastructure needs and changes. We conclude with research and practice recommendations for applying PRISM with an increased emphasis on equity.
Stakeholder knowledge and perceptions of the circular economy in Ugandan cities
Authors: Geme Tom , Nijman Elke , Ntawuhiganayo Elisée Bahati , Negesa Doryn
Published: April 2023

Transitioning to a circular economy (CE) has been touted as the necessary paradigm shift to counterbalance the ever-increasing socio-economic metabolism in the face of global challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, population growth, pollution, and unemployment. Previous research has indicated that the transition to CE requires stakeholder collaboration. Yet, at present, a dearth of literature exists about stakeholder knowledge and perceptions of CE, more so in Africa. This begs the question; how will stakeholders collaborate when their understanding on the subject is dissimilar? To contribute to closing this knowledge gap, this research employs a mixed-methods approach to investigate the knowledge and perception of CE among key stakeholders in selected cities in Uganda. Interview data from 230 respondents selected via a snowballing process in the Ugandan cities of Gulu, Jinja, Masaka, Mbale, Mbarara and the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area indicate that several stakeholder groups are involved in Uganda's CE space. These include government, businesses, civil society, the public as well as academia, research and think tanks. In terms of CE knowledge, the findings show that respondents were generally knowledgeable about CE. However, much of the knowledge is about the 3Rs (reduce, repair, and recycle) and waste management to the point that many respondents misconstrued recycling to be synonymous with CE. Overall, participant knowledge and perception of CE are determined by the level of education, sector of operation, position at the workplace, how long one has been in the CE space and whether one participated in decision-making. The findings indicate that respondents believe that the government had not done enough in promoting CE concepts and practices including creating avenues for stakeholder collaboration. The findings offer insights for CE proponents on attributes to consider when advocating and communicating about CE. This research could also inform the formulation of policies that stimulate CE development particularly with determining entry points for CE interventions and effective stakeholder engagement.
Dietary diversity of women from soybean and non-soybean farming households in rural Zambia
Authors: Kapulu Ndashe , Chomba Christian , Nkonde Chewe , Holmes Melvin , Manda Simon , Smith Harriet E. , Macdiarmid Jennie I. , Orfila Caroline
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Soybean farming in Zambia is promoted to increase farm productivity and diversification away from maize, and improve cash income and livelihoods for farmers. However, the impact of soybean farming on women's dietary intake is not clear. This study compares the dietary diversity of women from soybean (S) and non-soybean (NS) farming households as a pathway to understanding policy efficacy.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey involving 268 women of reproductive age from 401 rural households was conducted in two soybean-producing districts of Central Province, Zambia. Data from a qualitative 7-day food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) was used to calculate dietary diversity scores (DDS), women's dietary diversity scores (WDDS-10) and assess dietary patterns. Information on household sociodemographic and agricultural characteristics was used to explore determinants of dietary diversity.

Results

Results show there were no significant differences in the mean DDS (S: 10.3 ± 2.4; NS:10.3 ± 2.6) and WDDS-10 (S:6.27 ± 1.55; NS:6.27 ± 1.57) of women from soybean and non-soybean farming households. Both cohorts had similar dietary patterns, plant-based food groups with additional fats and oils. Agricultural diversity was not associated with dietary diversity. Household wealth status was the most important determinant of dietary diversity, as women from wealthier households were more likely to have higher DDS (β = 0.262, 95% CI = 0.26 to 0.70, P < 0.001) and WDDS-10 (β = 0.222, 95% CI = 0.08 to 0.37, P < 0.003) compared to those from poorer households. Women from households that spent more on food had a higher DDS (β = 0.182, 95% CI = 0.002 to 0.07), but not WDDS-10 (β = 0.120, 95% CI = −0.01 to 0.03); for every additional dollar spent on food in the past 7 days, the DDS increased by 0.18. Meanwhile, soyabean farming was not statistically associated with higher wealth.

Conclusions

Policymakers and promoters of agricultural diversification and nutrition-sensitive agriculture need to consider how women can benefit directly or indirectly from soybean farming or other interventions aimed at smallholder farmers.
Land tenure, land use antecedents, and willingness to embrace resilient farming practices among smallholders in Nigeria
Authors: Kehinde Mojisola Olanike , Shittu Adebayo Musediku , Oriade Opeyemi Abosede , Edewor Sarah Edore
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Shifting to Resilient Farming Practices (RFPs) is crucial in building resilience to climate change and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. This study seeks to assess how land tenure and land-use antecedents affect the willingness of smallholder farmers (SHFs) to embrace RFPs in Nigeria.

Methods

The respondents were selected in a multi-stage random sampling process across 16 States and 192 farming communities, yielding a final sample of 1,344 SHFs that cultivate maize and/or rice. The RFPs include a set of good agricultural practices (GAPs), GAPs with manure application and GAPs with agroforestry as against the status quo of conventional agricultural practices. Data were analyzed using descriptive and regression methods.

Results and discussion

The results show that 20% of the respondents were willing to adopt agroforestry while 25% and 37% were willing to adopt GAPs with and without manure application respectively. On the other hand, about 18% preferred to stick to the status quo. The multinomial logit result shows that RFPs were significantly influenced by age, education and gender of the household head, membership of the cooperative, household size, land acquisition through inheritance and purchase, newly deforested land, mechanical clearing, and bush burning. The study suggests that land titling and some level of perceived tenure security are necessary conditions for smallholder farmers to embrace RFPs in Nigeria.
Repair of fingertip defect with reverse digital artery island flap and repair of donor site with digital dorsal advancement flap
Authors: Ma Junwei , Ding Yunqi , Xu Lina , Zou Haibo , Wu Jinsheng , Shen Lin , Xing Changtai , Liu Yue , Zhou Zehui , Zhan Jie
Published: April 2023

Objective

The reverse digital artery island flap (RDAF) is widely used in repairing fingertip skin defects based on its good appearance and practicability. However, the donor area of the flap needs skin grafting, which can lead to complications. This retrospective study explored the clinical application of digital dorsal advance flap (DDAF) in repairing the donor site of the reverse digital artery island flap.

Method

From June 2019 to February 2022, 17 patients with a soft tissue defect of the finger had been restored with the reverse digital artery island flap, and at the same time, the donor area was repaired with digital dorsal advance flap (DDAF). The sensitivity, the active range of motion (ROM) and patient satisfaction were assessed after the operation.

Results

All flaps survived completely without skin grafting with only one linear scar. The sensory and motor functions of all patients recovered well. Assessment based on the Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire (MHQ) showed satisfactory functional recovery for all patients.

Conclusions

Reconstruction using RDAF combined with DDAF represents an effective alternative for repairing fingertip skin defects.
Effects of short-distance transportation on physiological indexes, intestinal morphology, microbial community, and the transcriptome of the jejunum in weaned piglets
Authors: Fu Qin , Yang Xuesong , Zhou Sitong , Yang Yue , Zhang Xiaohong , Han Qi , Ji Wenbo , Liu Honggui
Published: April 2023

Transportation of livestock is unavoidable in animal production. A total of 72 piglets were randomly divided into the CON group and the TSG group, and the piglets in CON group were transported for two hours. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of short-distance road transportation lasting 2 h on the jejunum of weaned piglets. Our results showed that compared with the control group, there was no impact on the growth performance of piglets in the transport group (P > 0.05). The concentrations of cortisol, heat shock protein (HSP)70, HSP90, C-reactive protein, interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, IL-12, and interferon-γ and the activity of reactive oxygen species were increased in the jejunum of piglets in the transport group (P < 0.05 compared with the control group). The concentrations of glutathione peroxidase, claudin-1, occludin, and zonula occludens-1 showed no between-group differences (P > 0.05). Regarding intestinal morphology, the transport group showed infiltration of a small amount of lymphocytes into the jejunum mucosa epithelium that was accompanied by edema of the lamina propria, whereas the control group showed no obvious abnormalities. At the genus level, in the transport group, the 16S rRNA sequencing revealed a downward trend in the relative abundance of Lactobacillus and an upward trend in the relative abundance of Muribaculaceae_unclassified. There was also increased mRNA expression of genes associated with inflammation in the transport group, but the genes and pathways related to apoptosis were not activated. In summary, weaned piglets undergoing 2 h of short-distance road transportation showed stress and inflammatory reactions of the jejunum but did not exhibit oxidative damage or activation of the apoptosis pathway of the jejunum. Furthermore, the growth performance of the piglets was not affected by the trip.
Definition of Mesh Weight and Pore Size in Groin Hernia Repair: A Systematic Scoping Review of Randomised Controlled Trials
Authors: Deveci Can Deniz , Öberg Stina , Rosenberg Jacob
Published: April 2023

Introduction: Groin hernia literature often uses the terms light- and heavyweight and small or large pores to describe meshes. There is no universal definition of these terms, and the aim of this scoping review was to assess how mesh weight and pore sizes are defined in the groin hernia literature.

Methods: In this systematic scoping review, we searched PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane CENTRAL. We included randomised controlled trials with adults undergoing groin hernia repair with the Lichtenstein or laparoscopic techniques using a flat permanent polypropylene or polyester mesh. Studies had to use the terms lightweight, mediumweight, or heavyweight to be included, and the outcome was to report how researchers defined these terms as well as pore sizes.

Results: We included 48 studies with unique populations. The weight of lightweight meshes ranged from 28 to 60 g/m2 with a median of 39 g/m2, and the pore size ranged from 1.0 to 4.0 mm with a median of 1.6 mm. The weight of heavyweight meshes ranged from 72 to 116 g/m2 with a median of 88 g/m2, and the pore size ranged from 0.08 to 1.8 mm with a median of 1.0 mm. Only one mediumweight mesh was used weighing 55 g/m2 with a pore size of 0.75 mm.

Conclusion: There seems to be a consensus that meshes weighing less than 60 g/m2 are defined as lightweight and meshes weighing more than 70 g/m2 are defined as heavyweight. The weight terms were used independently of pore sizes, which slightly overlapped between lightweight and heavyweight meshes.
Understanding Health-Related Quality of Life in Kidney Transplant Recipients: The Role of Symptom Experience and Illness Perceptions
Authors: Wang Yiman , Van Der Boog Paul , Hemmelder Marc H. , Dekker Friedo W. , De Vries Aiko , Meuleman Yvette
Published: April 2023

The purpose of our article is to investigate the impact of symptom experience on health related quality of life (HRQOL) in kidney transplant recipients (KTRs) and whether illness perceptions mediated this impact. Symptom experience, illness perceptions, and HRQOL were measured at transplantation and 6 weeks after transplantation in KTRs in an ongoing Dutch cohort study. Multivariable linear regression models were used for the analysis. 90 KTRs were analyzed. Fatigue and lack of energy were the most prevalent and burdensome symptoms at transplantation. Mental HRQOL at 6 weeks after transplantation was comparable to that of the general Dutch population (mean [standard deviation, SD]: 49.9 [10.7]) versus 50.2 [9.2]), while physical HRQOL was significantly lower (38.9 [9.1] versus 50.6 [9.2]). Experiencing more symptoms was associated with lower physical and mental HRQOL, and the corresponding HRQOL reduced by −0.15 (95%CI, −0.31; 0.02) and −0.23 (95%CI, −0.42; −0.04) with each additional symptom. The identified mediation effect suggests that worse symptom experiences could cause more unhelpful illness perceptions and consequently lead to lower HRQOL. Illness perceptions may explain the negative impact of symptom experience on HRQOL. Future studies at later stages after kidney transplantation are needed to further explore the mediation effect of illness perceptions and guide clinical practice to improve HRQOL.
Lungs From Donors ≥70 Years of Age for Transplantation—Do Long-Term Outcomes Justify Their Use?
Authors: Sommer Wiebke , Franz Maximilian , Aburahma Khalil , Saipbaev Akylbek , Flöthmann Katharina , Yablonski Pavel , Avsar Murat , Tudorache Igor , Greer Mark , Haverich Axel , Welte Tobias , Kuehn Christian , Salman Jawad , Warnecke Gregor , Ius Fabio
Published: April 2023

Donor shortages have led transplant centers to extend their criteria for lung donors. Accepting lung donors ≥70 years of age has previously shown good short-term outcomes; however, no mid- and long-term outcome data on these extended criteria donors has been published to date. In this study, all patients who underwent lung transplantation between 06/2010 and 12/2019 were included in the analysis, and the outcomes were compared between patients receiving organs from donors <70 years of age and patients transplanted with lungs from donors ≥70 years of age. Among the 1,168 lung-transplanted patients, 62 patients received lungs from donors ≥70 years of age. The recipient age of those receiving older organs was significantly higher, and they were more likely to suffer from obstructive lung disease. Older donors were exposed to significantly shorter periods of mechanical ventilation prior to donation, had higher Horowitz indices, and were less likely to have smoked. The postoperative time on mechanical ventilation, time on ICU, and total hospital stay were comparable. The overall survival as well as CLAD-free survival showed no differences between both groups in the follow-up period. Utilization of lungs from donors ≥70 years of age leads to excellent mid- and long-term results that are similar to organs from younger donors when the organs from older donors are carefully preselected.
Development of a Dynamically Adaptable Routing System for Data Analytics Insights in Logistic Services
Authors: Tsoukas Vasileios , Boumpa Eleni , Chioktour Vasileios , Kalafati Maria , Spathoulas Georgios , Kakarountas Athanasios
Published: April 2023

This work proposes an effective solution to the Vehicle Routing Problem, taking into account all phases of the delivery process. When compared to real-world data, the findings are encouraging and demonstrate the value of Machine Learning algorithms incorporated into the process. Several algorithms were combined along with a modified Hopfield network to deliver the optimal solution to a multiobjective issue on a platform capable of monitoring the various phases of the process. Additionally, a system providing viable insights and analytics in regard to the orders was developed. The results reveal a maximum distance saving of 25% and a maximum overall delivery time saving of 14%.
Microsatellite Instability Assay as a Potential Approach to Evaluate Genotoxicity: Lead Exposure in a Nestling Passerine Bird at the Stage of Intensive Erythropoiesis
Authors: Markowski Marcin , Kaliński Adam , Wawrzyniak Jarosław , Glądalski Michał , Skwarska Joanna , Bańbura Jerzy
Published: April 2023

Although many avian studies have investigated the toxic effects of lead on important biochemical and physiological processes, organ and system function, and behavior, studies evaluating the specific genotoxic effects of exposure to lead are scarce. Nowadays, rapid technological advances can provide new molecular techniques in this regard. In this study, as a novel approach in bird studies, we used a panel of ten microsatellite loci to investigate the microsatellite instability (MSI) in response to experimental lead intoxication in a common hole-nesting species, the great tit Parus major. For this purpose, an experiment based on an intentional single supplementation of a lead (II) acetate trihydrate compound was conducted, with the use of two different doses, applied to randomly chosen great tit nestlings from randomly selected broods, being at the stage of intensive erythropoiesis. Although this preliminary study did not find any MSI in the seven microsatellite markers retained for the final comparison, it contributes to the examination of this molecular technique in field conditions as being potentially applicable in ecotoxicological bird studies. We believe that certain issues should be considered in finding an explanation for our result. First, the single doses of lead used in this study may have been too weak to induce genetic instability. Second, the panel of microsatellite markers studied may have been unsusceptible to lead genotoxicity in general. Third, the relatively short time interval (5 days) between the experimental procedure (lead exposure) and the sampling of post-exposure material (blood) for genetic analyses could have limited the effect of lead genotoxicity. Further analyzes are needed to verify these findings and to evaluate the scope of application of the MSI analysis in wild bird population studies.
Barley, Triticale, or Rye? The Type of Grain Can Affect the Growth Performance and Meat Quality of Sustainable Raised Pigs
Authors: Grela Eugeniusz R. , Kowalczuk-Vasilev Edyta , Świątkiewicz Małgorzata , Skiba Grzegorz
Published: April 2023

The effect of high level of barley, triticale, or rye as base of complete mixtures for growing-finishing pigs on growth performance, carcass traits, meat quality, and fatty acid profile in meat and backfat was investigated. The 100-day experiment involved 72 pigs, assigned into three groups (24 animals each). Pigs of each group were kept in six pens (two gilts and two barrows per pen). Diets offered to pigs differed in the proportion of cereals as the leading ingredients in the mixture formulation: I—barley, II—triticale, III—rye. The results showed diversified grain influence on the production results and meat quality. Triticale- and barley-based diets ensured better weight gain and lower carcass fatness than rye (p ≤ 0.05). The basic nutrients digestibility of mixtures containing triticale was comparable to that containing barley and higher than that of rye (p ≤ 0.05). The meat and backfat of pigs receiving diet with triticale or barley was characterized by more favorable fatty acids profile in respect to the health-promoting indicators (atherogenicity and thrombogenicity indexes; hypocholesterolemic/hypercholesterolemic ratio). The cholesterol level in various tissues was the lowest in pigs fed with rye diet, and their meat characterized by better water holding capacity and more SFA. Higher fat saturation indicate better resistance to oxidation during storage and longer meat shelf life. It seems that the supplementation of triticale to diet may improve the growth efficiency of pigs and the health-promoting value of meat, while the supplementation of rye may be better for the production of traditional or long-matured meat products.
Metabolomic Analysis Reveals Domestication-Driven Reshaping of Polyphenolic Antioxidants in Soybean Seeds
Authors: Li Xuetong , Li Sujuan , Wang Jian , Chen Guang , Tao Xiaoyuan , Xu Shengchun
Published: April 2023

Crop domestication has resulted in nutrient losses, so evaluating the reshaping of phytonutrients is crucial for improving nutrition. Soybean is an ideal model due to its abundant phytonutrients and wild relatives. In order to unravel the domestication consequence of phytonutrients, comparative and association analyses of metabolomes and antioxidant activities were performed on seeds of six wild (Glycine soja (Sieb. and Zucc.)) and six cultivated soybeans (Glycine max (L.) Merr.). Through ultra-high performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS), we observed a greater metabolic diversity in wild soybeans, which also displayed higher antioxidant activities. (−)-Epicatechin, a potent antioxidant, displayed a 1750-fold greater abundance in wild soybeans than in cultivated soybeans. Multiple polyphenols in the catechin biosynthesis pathway were significantly higher in wild soybeans, including phlorizin, taxifolin, quercetin 3-O-galactoside, cyanidin 3-O-glucoside, (+)-catechin, (−)-epiafzelechin, catechin–glucoside, and three proanthocyanidins. They showed significant positive correlations with each other and antioxidant activities, indicating their cooperative contribution to the high antioxidant activities of wild soybeans. Additionally, natural acylation related to functional properties was characterized in a diverse range of polyphenols. Our study reveals the comprehensive reprogramming of polyphenolic antioxidants during domestication, providing valuable insights for metabolism-assisted fortification of crop nutrition.
Differences in Body Composition between Playing Positions in Men’s Professional Soccer: A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis
Authors: Sebastiá-Rico Jaime , Martínez-Sanz José Miguel , González-Gálvez Noelia , Soriano Jose M.
Published: April 2023

The performance of male soccer players (MSPs) depends on multiple factors, such as body composition. It is understandable to think that, due to the physical demands and specific functions during play, body composition may vary depending on the playing position. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to describe the anthropometric, BC, and somatotype characteristics of professional MSPs and to compare the reported values according to playing position. We systematically searched Embase, PubMed, SPORTDiscus, and Web of Science following the PRISMA statement. Random-effects meta-analysis, a pooled summary of means, and 95% CI (method or equation) were calculated. Random models were used with the Restricted Maximum Likelihood (REML) method. Twenty-six articles were included in the systematic review and the meta-analysis. After comparing the groups according to the playing position (goalkeeper, defender, midfielder, and forward), significant differences were found in age, height, weight, the sum of skinfolds, kilograms of muscle mass, and kilograms of fat-free mass (p = 0.001; p < 0.0001). No significant differences were observed in fat mass, percentage of fat-free mass, percentage of muscle mass, bone mass, and somatotype. Despite the limitations, this study provides useful information to help medical–technical staff to properly assess the BC of professional MSPs, providing reference values for the different positions.
Coordinated Control Method of Bus Signal Priority and Speed Adjustment Based on Stop-Skipping
Authors: Zhou Xuemei , Xi Jiaojiao , Guan Zhen , Wei Guohui
Published: April 2023

There is an inherent coupling relationship between the time when buses arrive at the station and the time when they arrive the intersection, and it is essential to study the relationship as a whole to maximize the benefits of company operations and passenger services. In this study, a coordinated control method of signal priority and speed regulation in the stop-skipping mode at peak hours is proposed. First, the decision result of stop-skipping is obtained based on the historical passenger flow data. On this basis, the signal-priority decision is made for each vehicle in combination with the signal period and the arrival time of the intersection, and coordinated control is carried out in combination with the speed adjustment. The result of the genetic algorithm shows that cooperative control and prevention can minimize the passenger delay time and enterprise operation cost. The conclusions obtained in this research lay a theoretical foundation for company operation and signal-priority triggering mechanism.
Impact of Blockchain Technology for Business and Information Systems: Automation of Inter-Company Debt Compensation Case Study
Authors: Mateo-Cortés José A. , Arias-Antúnez Enrique , Cazorla-López Diego
Published: April 2023

Debt compensation is a process via which various entities (companies, people, etc.) propose the payment of their mutual debts by compensating them according to the credits they may have in their favor. The aim is to establish the financial information of a company so that its debts can somehow be satisfied by its credits, breaking the vicious cycle of debts that cannot be paid. To this end, this financial information is retrieved from the business information system of a company, encompassing how much is owed and to which companies. From the retrieved information, this paper describes the implementation of an automatic system that allows calculating not only the debt cycles involving different companies, but also how these cycles can be effectively solved using blockchain technology thanks to the use of smart contracts. Blockchain technology can have a great impact for companies in this kind of application, guaranteeing the security and traceability of transactions among companies, which are two well-appreciated features from a financial auditing point of view.
Identification Method for Instantaneous Friction and Wear Energy Density Variation of High-Feed Milling Tool Flank
Authors: Jiang Bin , Nie Qiurui , Zhao Peiyi , Ma Qiang , Sun Shuling
Published: April 2023

Instantaneous friction and wear energy density are important indicators of the friction and wear state of the tooth flank of the milling cutter. Existing methods for identifying the friction and wear on the tooth flank of milling cutters mainly focus on the overall level of friction energy consumption and the maximum width of the accumulated wear on the teeth flanks, ignoring the unevenness and variability of the friction energy consumption and wear volume distribution of the tool flank, and the dynamic relationship between the instantaneous friction and wear on each tooth flank of the milling cutter is to be revealed. Transient cutting position of a high feed milling cutter tooth under milling vibration, and the use of the micro-element method to construct a model for solving the transient wear volume on the tool flank. A method of transient friction energy consumption on the cutter flank was proposed. The variation property of the instantaneous friction and wear energy density on the flank was exposed. The identification method of the variation property of the energy density was proposed according to different analysis results of the distribution of friction and wear energy density and verified by experiments. The outcomes indicated the maximum and mean of the energy density at different positions on the flank had a high similarity with the wear depth distribution on the flank. Using this method, the influence property of the friction and wear state and the cutting parameters under the milling vibration of the milling cutter tooth can be identified.
Generalised Performance Estimation in Novel Hybrid MPC Architectures: Modeling the CONWIP Flow-Shop System
Authors: Vespoli Silvestro , Grassi Andrea , Guizzi Guido , Popolo Valentina
Published: April 2023

The ability to supply increasingly individualized market demand in a short period of time while maintaining costs to a bare minimum might be considered a vital factor for industrialized countries’ competitive revival. Despite significant advances in the field of Industry 4.0, there is still an open gap in the literature regarding advanced methodologies for production planning and control. Among different production and control approaches, hybrid architectures are gaining huge interest in the literature. For such architectures to operate at their best, reliable models for performance prediction of the supervised production system are required. In an effort to advance the development of hybrid architecture, this paper develops a model able to predict the performance of the controlled system when it is structured as a controlled work-in-progress (CONWIP) flow-shop with generalized stochastic processing times. To achieve this, we employed a simulation tool using both discrete-event and agent-based simulation techniques, which was then utilized to generate data for training a deep learning neural network. This network was proposed for estimating the throughput of a balanced system, together with a normalization method to generalize the approach. The results showed that the developed estimation tool outperforms the best-known approximated mathematical models while allowing one-shot training of the network. Finally, the paper develops preliminary insights about generalized performance estimation for unbalanced lines.
UAV Hyperspectral Characterization of Vegetation Using Entropy-Based Active Sampling for Partial Least Square Regression Models
Authors: Amitrano Donato , Cicala Luca , De Mizio Marco , Tufano Francesco
Published: April 2023

Optimization of agricultural practices is key for facing the challenges of modern agri-food systems, which are expected to satisfy a growing demand of food production in a landscape characterized by a reduction in cultivable lands and an increasing awareness of sustainability issues. In this work, an operational methodology for characterization of vegetation biomass and nitrogen content based on close-range hyperspectral remote sensing is introduced. It is based on an unsupervised active learning technique suitable for the calibration of a partial least square regression. The proposed technique relies on an innovative usage of Shannon’s entropy and allows for the set-up of an incremental monitoring framework from scratch aiming at minimizing field sampling activities. Experimental results concerning the estimation of grassland biomass and nitrogen content returned RMSE values of 2.05 t/ha and 4.68 kg/ha, respectively. They are comparable with the literature, mostly relying on supervised frameworks and confirmed the suitability of the proposed methodology with operational environments.
Equivalent Stress Intensity Factor: The Consequences of the Lack of a Unique Definition
Authors: Tavares Sérgio M. O. , de Castro Paulo M. S. T.
Published: April 2023

The concept of an equivalent stress intensity factor Keq is used in the study of fatigue crack growth in mixed-mode situations. A problem seldom discussed in the research literature are the consequences of the coexistence of several alternative definitions of mixed mode Keq, leading to rather different results associated with the alternative Keq definitions. This note highlights the problem, considering several Keq definitions hitherto not analyzed simultaneously. Values of Keq calculated according to several criteria were compared through the determination of Keq/KI over a wide range of values of KI/KII or KII/KI. In earlier work on Al alloy AA6082 T6, the fatigue crack path and growth rate were measured in 4-point bend specimens subjected to asymmetrical loading and in compact tension specimens modified with holes. The presentation of the fatigue crack growth data was made using a Paris law based on Keq. Important differences are found in the Paris laws, corresponding to the alternative definitions of Keq considered, and the requirements for candidate Keq definitions are discussed. A perspective for overcoming the shortcomings may consist in developing a data-driven modelling methodology, supported by material characterization and structure monitoring during its life cycle.
Ultrasound Intima-Media Complex (IMC) Segmentation Using Deep Learning Models
Authors: Hassen Mohammed Hanadi , Elharrouss Omar , Ottakath Najmath , Al-Maadeed Somaya , Chowdhury Muhammad E. H. , Bouridane Ahmed , Zughaier Susu M.
Published: April 2023

Common carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) is a common measure of atherosclerosis, often assessed through carotid ultrasound images. However, the use of deep learning methods for medical image analysis, segmentation and CIMT measurement in these images has not been extensively explored. This study aims to evaluate the performance of four recent deep learning models, including a convolutional neural network (CNN), a self-organizing operational neural network (self-ONN), a transformer-based network and a pixel difference convolution-based network, in segmenting the intima-media complex (IMC) using the CUBS dataset, which includes ultrasound images acquired from both sides of the neck of 1088 participants. The results show that the self-ONN model outperforms the conventional CNN-based model, while the pixel difference- and transformer-based models achieve the best segmentation performance.
The Picassos in the 1901 Vollard Exhibition and Their History
Authors: Mallen Enrique
Published: April 2023

This article describes Picasso’s first visit to the French capital in 1900, and the events that led to his first major exhibition at the acclaimed Galerie Ambroise Vollard in Paris in 1901. The first section provides a narrative of his early experiences abroad as a young unknown artist, his influences, and the contacts he established with friends, artists and dealers during this important period of his career; the second section traces the histories of the sixty-five artworks that were exhibited, identifying the collections those items went through after they were exhibited, their current locations, as well as the exhibitions in which they have been featured since Vollard first displayed them in his gallery. The last section elaborates on some of the immediate repercussions of the exhibition. The reported findings are the result of extensive research on hundreds of books and catalogs published on Pablo Picasso from 1901 to the present. The new facts we have uncovered are published here for the first time. Readers of the article will learn that the works included in Picasso’s first exhibition in France have been part of the most prestigious art collections, such as those of Justin K. Thannhauser, Gertrude Stein, Chester Dale, Paul Guillaume, Walter P. Chrysler, Jr., Paul Mellon, Helena Rubinstein, Alfred Flechtheim, Walter C. Arensberg, among others. The works have also been featured in such important overviews of his career as “Picasso, 75th Anniversary” 1957–1958, and “Picasso: An American Tribute”, 1962. Thus, while Vollard claimed that the exhibition at his gallery had no major impact, the facts show that it not only played an important role in Picasso’s acceptance as a groundbreaking newcomer, but also left a significant mark on the rest of his career, as evidenced by the works’ inclusion in the retrospectives held in Paris and Zürich in 1932, and New York in 1980.
A Comparison of the Statistical Downscaling and Long-Short-Term-Memory Artificial Neural Network Models for Long-Term Temperature and Precipitations Forecasting
Authors: Fouotsa Manfouo Noé Carème , Potgieter Linke , Watson Andrew , Nel Johanna H.
Published: April 2023

General circulation models (GCMs) run at regional resolution or at a continental scale. Therefore, these results cannot be used directly for local temperatures and precipitation prediction. Downscaling techniques are required to calibrate GCMs. Statistical downscaling models (SDSM) are the most widely used for bias correction of GCMs. However, few studies have compared SDSM with multi-layer perceptron artificial neural networks and in most of these studies, results indicate that SDSM outperform other approaches. This paper investigates an alternative architecture of neural networks, namely the long-short-term memory (LSTM), to forecast two critical climate variables, namely temperature and precipitation, with an application to five climate gauging stations in the Lake Chad Basin. Lake Chad is a data scarce area which has been impacted by severe drought, where water resources have been influenced by climate change and recent agricultural expansion. SDSM was used as the benchmark in this paper for temperature and precipitation downscaling for monthly time–scales weather prediction, using grid resolution GCM output at a 5 degrees latitude × 5 degrees longitude global grid. Three performance indicators were used in this study, namely the root mean square error (RMSE), to measure the sensitivity of the model to outliers, the mean absolute percentage error (MAPE), to estimate the overall performance of the predictions, as well as the Nash Sutcliffe Efficiency (NSE), which is a standard measure used in the field of climate forecasting. Results on the validation set for SDSM and test set for LSTM indicated that LSTM produced better accuracy on average compared to SDSM. For precipitation forecasting, the average RMSE and MAPE for LSTM were 33.21 mm and 24.82% respectively, while the average RMSE and MAPE for SDSM were 53.32 mm and 34.62% respectively. In terms of three year ahead minimum temperature forecasts, LSTM presents an average RMSE of 4.96 degree celsius and an average MAPE of 27.16%, while SDSM presents an average RMSE of 8.58 degree celsius and an average MAPE of 12.83%. For maximum temperatures forecast, LSTM presents an average RMSE of 4.27 degree celsius and an average MAPE of 11.09 percent, while SDSM presents an average RMSE of 9.93 degree celsius and an average RMSE of 12.07%. Given the results, LSTM may be a suitable alternative approach to downscale global climate simulation models’ output, to improve water management and long-term temperature and precipitations forecasting at local level.
A Hermite Surface Triangle Modeling Method Considering High-Precision Fitting of 3D Printing Models
Authors: Lian Ruichao , Jing Shikai , Chen Yang , Fan Jiangxin
Published: April 2023

Three-dimensional printing is a layer-by-layer stacking process. It can realize complex models that cannot be manufactured by traditional manufacturing technology. The most common model currently used for 3D printing is the STL model. It uses planar triangles to simplify the CAD model. This approach makes it difficult to fit complex surface shapes with high accuracy. The fitting result usually suffers from loss of local features of the model, poor fitting accuracy, or redundant data due to face piece subdivision, which will cause problems such as poor manufacturing accuracy or difficult data processing. To this end, this paper proposes a method for constructing Hermite surface models considering high-precision fitting of 3D printing models. The mapping relationship between different surface triangles and the same base triangle is established by analyzing the characteristics of Hermite surface triangles in AMF format files and using the radial variation property. By constructing a cubic surface model with general parameters and combining the vertex and tangent vector information, a cubic Hermite curve and surface triangle model are obtained. A sampling mapping point solution method is proposed, which transforms the volume integration problem between models into the summation problem of sampling point height difference. Considering the mean deviation and variance in multiple directions of the sampling points, a method for calculating and evaluating the model fitting error is constructed. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed method is verified by rabbit and turbine.
Battery Sharing: A Feasibility Analysis through Simulation
Authors: Neroni Mattia , Herrera Erika M. , Juan Angel A. , Panadero Javier , Ammouriova Majsa
Published: April 2023

Nowadays, several alternatives to internal combustion engines are being proposed in order to reduce CO2 emissions in freight transportation and citizen mobility. According to many experts, the use of electric vehicles constitutes one of the most promising alternatives for achieving the desirable reductions in emissions. However, popularization of these vehicles is being slowed by long recharging times and the low availability of recharging stations. One possible solution to this issue is to employ the concept of battery sharing or battery swapping. This concept is supported by important industrial partners, such as Eni in Italy, Ample in the US, and Shell in the UK. This paper supports the introduction of battery swapping practices by analyzing their effects. A discrete-event simulation model is employed for this study. The obtained results show that battery sharing practices are not just a more environmentally and socially friendly solution, but also one that can be highly beneficial for reducing traffic congestion.
Craniotomy Simulator with Force Myography and Machine Learning-Based Skills Assessment
Authors: Singh Ramandeep , Godiyal Anoop Kant , Chavakula Parikshith , Suri Ashish
Published: April 2023

Craniotomy is a fundamental component of neurosurgery that involves the removal of the skull bone flap. Simulation-based training of craniotomy is an efficient method to develop competent skills outside the operating room. Traditionally, an expert surgeon evaluates the surgical skills using rating scales, but this method is subjective, time-consuming, and tedious. Accordingly, the objective of the present study was to develop an anatomically accurate craniotomy simulator with realistic haptic feedback and objective evaluation of surgical skills. A CT scan segmentation-based craniotomy simulator with two bone flaps for drilling task was developed using 3D printed bone matrix material. Force myography (FMG) and machine learning were used to automatically evaluate the surgical skills. Twenty-two neurosurgeons participated in this study, including novices (n = 8), intermediates (n = 8), and experts (n = 6), and they performed the defined drilling experiments. They provided feedback on the effectiveness of the simulator using a Likert scale questionnaire on a scale ranging from 1 to 10. The data acquired from the FMG band was used to classify the surgical expertise into novice, intermediate and expert categories. The study employed naïve Bayes, linear discriminant (LDA), support vector machine (SVM), and decision tree (DT) classifiers with leave one out cross-validation. The neurosurgeons’ feedback indicates that the developed simulator was found to be an effective tool to hone drilling skills. In addition, the bone matrix material provided good value in terms of haptic feedback (average score 7.1). For FMG-data-based skills evaluation, we achieved maximum accuracy using the naïve Bayes classifier (90.0 ± 14.8%). DT had a classification accuracy of 86.22 ± 20.8%, LDA had an accuracy of 81.9 ± 23.6%, and SVM had an accuracy of 76.7 ± 32.9%. The findings of this study indicate that materials with comparable biomechanical properties to those of real tissues are more effective for surgical simulation. In addition, force myography and machine learning provide objective and automated assessment of surgical drilling skills.