bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Incidence and Outcomes of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Repair in New Zealand from 2001 to 2021
Authors: Gormley Sinead , Bernau Oliver , Xu William , Sandiford Peter , Khashram Manar
Published: March 2023

Purpose: The burden of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) has changed in the last 20 years but is still considered to be a major cause of cardiovascular mortality. The introduction of endovascular aortic repair (EVAR) and improved peri-operative care has resulted in a steady improvement in both outcomes and long-term survival. The objective of this study was to identify the burden of AAA disease by analysing AAA-related hospitalisations and deaths. Methodology: All AAA-related hospitalisations in NZ from January 2001 to December 2021 were identified from the National Minimum Dataset, and mortality data were obtained from the NZ Mortality Collection dataset from January 2001 to December 2018. Data was analysed for patient characteristics including deprivation index, repair methods and 30-day outcomes. Results: From 2001 to 2021, 14,436 patients with an intact AAA were identified with a mean age of 75.1 years (SD 9.7 years), and 4100 (28%) were females. From 2001 to 2018, there were 5000 ruptured AAA with a mean age of 77.8 (SD 9.4), and 1676 (33%) were females. The rate of hospitalisations related to AAA has decreased from 43.7 per 100,000 in 2001 to 15.4 per 100,000 in 2018. There was a higher proportion of rupture AAA in patients living in more deprived areas. The use of EVAR for intact AAA repair has increased from 18.1% in 2001 to 64.3% in 2021. The proportion of octogenarians undergoing intact AAA repair has increased from 16.2% in 2001 to 28.4% in 2021. The 30-day mortality for intact AAA repair has declined from 5.8% in 2001 to 1.7% in 2021; however, it has remained unchanged for ruptured AAA repair at 31.6% across the same period. Conclusions: This study highlights that the incidence of AAA has declined in the last two decades. The mortality has improved for patients who had a planned repair. Understanding the contemporary burden of AAA is paramount to improve access to health, reduce variation in outcomes and promote surgical quality improvement.
Mid-Term Results of Ab Interno Trabeculectomy among Japanese Glaucoma Patients
Authors: Kitamura Kazuyoshi , Fukuda Yoshiko , Hasebe Yuka , Matsubara Mio , Kashiwagi Kenji
Published: March 2023

Background: The evaluation of ab interno trabeculectomy, referred to as trabectome®, among Japanese patients is insufficient. Subjects and methods: Japanese patients who underwent trabectome® at the University of Yamanashi Hospital were included. The investigated parameters were intraocular pressure (IOP), best corrected visual acuity, glaucoma medications, visual field, and corneal endothelial cell density. The success rate and its associated factors were investigated. Results: A total of 250 eyes from 197 patients were enrolled. The trabectome® significantly reduced IOP and glaucoma medications up to 48 months. Concomitant cataract extraction enhanced the reduction in IOP and glaucoma medications up to 42 months. At 36 months postoperatively, 40.8% satisfied IOP of the same or less than 18 mmHg or more than a 20% IOP reduction with the same or less use of glaucoma medications as preoperatively. Preoperative IOP and combined cataract extraction were significantly associated with the success rate. The trabectome® alone did not show a significant reduction in corneal endothelial cells. Eyes with postoperative transient IOP elevation and removal of anterior chamber hemorrhage were 11.2% and 1.2%, respectively. Twenty-four eyes (9.6%) underwent additional glaucoma surgeries. Conclusions: The trabectome® could be considered an effective and safe surgery. Compared to trabectome® alone, combined cataract surgery was superior in lowering IOP and reducing glaucoma medications.
Urinary Oxidative Stress Biomarker Levels Might Be Useful in Identifying Functional Bladder Disorders in Women with Frequency and Urgency Syndrome
Authors: Jiang Yuan-Hong , Jhang Jia-Fong , Kuo Hann-Chorng
Published: March 2023

Purpose: lower urinary tract dysfunctions (LUTDs) are difficult to diagnose based on symptoms. This study used a cluster of urinary biomarkers, including inflammatory cytokines, neurogenic proteins, and oxidative stress biomarkers, to identify LUTDs in women with frequency and urgency symptoms. Methods: in total, 253 women with video urodynamics (VUDS)- and cystoscopy-confirmed detrusor overactivity (DO), interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS), dysfunctional voiding (DV), and hypersensitive bladder (HSB), and normal controls were included. Before diagnosis and treatment, urine samples were collected for analysis of biomarkers. The urine levels of biomarkers were compared between groups with bladder dysfunctions and controls and were combined to test the sensitivity in identifying total pathological bladder diseases and specific bladder diseases. Results: After video urodynamic study, VUDS, and urological examinations, bladder dysfunctions were classified into DO (n = 31), IC/BPS (n = 114), DV (n = 45), HSB (n = 29), and control (n = 34) groups. By using a cystomeric bladder capacity of ≤350 mL, 186/219 (84.9%) of the patients with DO, IC/BPS, DV, and HSB can be discriminated from the controls. Among these urine biomarkers, oxidative stress biomarkers 8-isoprostane, 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), or total antioxidant capacity (TAC) are useful for identifying pathological bladder dysfunction (DO, IC/BPS, and DV) and HSB. With elevated IL-1β and lower IL-2, and elevated TNF-α levels, most patients with DV can be identified. Between DO and IC/BPS, a higher NGF level can identify 58.3% of IC/BPS cases, whereas a lower NGF level can identify 75.0% of DO cases. Conclusion: by using a cluster of urine biomarkers, DO, IC/BPS, and DV cases can be identified based on elevated levels of urine oxidative stress biomarkers 8-isoprostane, TAC, or 8-OHdG, and HSB cases with a low TAC. These urine biomarkers are useful for identifying specific LUTDs in women with frequency and urgency symptoms.
Olfaction and Anxiety Are Differently Associated in Men and Women in Cognitive Physiological and Pathological Aging
Authors: Cieri Filippo , Cera Nicoletta , Ritter Aaron , Cordes Dietmar , Caldwell Jessica Zoe Kirkland
Published: March 2023

Background: Olfaction impairment in aging is associated with increased anxiety. We explored this association in cognitively healthy controls (HCs), Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) and Parkinson’s disease (PD) patients. Both olfaction and anxiety have sex differences, therefore we also investigated these variances. Objectives: Investigate the association of olfaction with anxiety in three distinct clinical categories of aging, exploring the potential role of sex. Methods: 117 subjects (29 HCs, 43 MCI, and 45 PD patients) were assessed for olfaction and anxiety. We used regression models to determine whether B-SIT predicted anxiety and whether sex impacted that relationship. Results: Lower olfaction was related to greater anxiety traits in all groups (HCs: p = 0.015; MCI: p = 0.001 and PD: p = 0.038), significantly differed by sex. In fact, in HCs, for every unit increase in B-SIT, anxiety traits decreased by 7.63 in men (p = 0.009) and 1.5 in women (p = 0.225). In MCI patients for every unit increase in B-SIT, anxiety traits decreased by 1.19 in men (p = 0.048) and 3.03 in women (p = 0.0036). Finally, in PD patients for every unit increase in B-SIT, anxiety traits decreased by 1.73 in men (p = 0.004) and 0.41 in women (p = 0.3632). Discussion: Olfaction and anxiety are correlated in all three distinct diagnostic categories, but differently in men and women.
CD8+ Regulatory T Cell Deficiency in Elderly-Onset Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Watanabe Ryu , Kadoba Keiichiro , Tamamoto Atsuko , Murata Koichi , Murakami Kosaku , Onizawa Hideo , Fujii Takayuki , Onishi Akira , Tanaka Masao , Ito Hiromu , Morinobu Akio , Hashimoto Motomu
Published: March 2023

Elderly-onset rheumatoid arthritis (EORA) is associated with higher disease activity and accelerated joint destruction compared with young-onset RA (YORA). However, the underlying immunological mechanism remains unclear. Regulatory T cells (Tregs) are an immunosuppressive T cell subset, and CD4+ Tregs are deficient and/or dysfunctional in RA; however, CD8+ Tregs have not been fully examined in RA. Here, we aimed to determine the role of CD8+ Tregs, particularly in EORA. A total of 40 patients (EORA, n = 17; YORA, n = 23) were cross-sectionally enrolled. Current disease activity and treatment were comparable between the two groups; however, levels of multiple cytokines, including IL-1β, TNFα, interferon (IFN)-γ, IL-2, and IL-10, were significantly increased in EORA. The number of CD4+ Tregs did not differ between the groups (p = 0.37), but those of CD8+ Tregs were significantly decreased in EORA (p = 0.0033). The number of CD8+ Tregs were inversely correlated with plasma matrix metalloprotease (MMP)-3 levels (r = −0.3331, p = 0.036). Our study results revealed an intrinsic deficiency of CD8+ Tregs in patients with EORA, which leaves synovitis unchecked with excessive MMP-3 release. A therapeutic approach to restore CD8+ Tregs may provide a new avenue for the treatment of EORA.
Comparison between FlowTrac and Pulmonary Arterial Catheter in Off-Pump Cardiac Surgery Patients: “Why Did We Miss Our Appointment?”. Comment on Oh et al. Comparison between Fourth-Generation FloTrac/Vigileo System and Continuous Thermodilution Technique for Cardiac Output Estimation after Time Adjustment during Off-Pump Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery: A Retrospective Cohort Study. J. Clin. Med. 2022, 11, 6093
Authors: Vetrugno Luigi , Barbariol Federico , Deana Cristian
Published: March 2023

We read with great interest the study by Chahyun Oh et al., which compared estimates of cardiac output (CO) provided by the FloTrac system (CO-FloTrac) with those obtained with continuous thermodilution (COcont) after time adjustments using continuous recordings of intraoperative physiological datal [...]
Effect of Anti-COVID-19 Mouthwashes on Shear Bond Strength of Resin-Matrix Ceramics Repaired with Resin Composite Using Universal Adhesive: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Limsiriwong Wichuda , Klaisiri Awiruth , Krajangta Nantawan
Published: March 2023

Using anti-COVID-19 mouthwashes has become necessary to reduce acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) transmissions. Resin-matrix ceramic (RMCs) materials that are exposed to mouthwashes may affect the bonding of repaired materials. This research was performed to assess the effects of anti-COVID-19 mouthwashes on the shear bond strengths (SBS) of RMCs repaired with resin composites. A total of 189 rectangular specimens of two different RMCs (Vita Enamic (VE) and Shofu Block HC (ShB)) were thermocycled and randomly divided into nine subgroups according to different mouthwashes (distilled water (DW), 0.2% povidone–iodine (PVP-I), and 1.5% hydrogen peroxide (HP)) and surface treatment protocols (no surface treatment, hydrofluoric acid etching (HF), and sandblasting (SB)). A repair protocol for RMCs was performed (using universal adhesives and resin composites), and the specimens were assessed using an SBS test. The failure mode was examined using a stereomicroscope. The SBS data were evaluated using a three-way ANOVA and a Tukey post hoc test. The SBS were significantly affected by the RMCs, mouthwashes, and surface treatment protocols. Both surface treatment protocols (HF and SB) for both RMCs, whether immersed in anti-COVID-19 mouthwash or not, improved the SBS. For the VE immersed in HP and PVP-I, the HF surface treatment had the highest SBS. For the ShB immersed in HP and PVP-I, the SB surface treatment had the highest SBS.
DycSe: A Low-Power, Dynamic Reconfiguration Column Streaming-Based Convolution Engine for Resource-Aware Edge AI Accelerators
Authors: Lin Weison , Zhu Yajun , Arslan Tughrul
Published: March 2023

Edge AI accelerators are utilized to accelerate the computation in edge AI devices such as image recognition sensors on robotics, door lockers, drones, and remote sensing satellites. Instead of using a general-purpose processor (GPP) or graphic processing unit (GPU), an edge AI accelerator brings a customized design to meet the requirements of the edge environment. The requirements include real-time processing, low-power consumption, and resource-awareness, including resources on field programmable gate array (FPGA) or limited application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) area. The system’s reliability (e.g., permanent fault tolerance) is essential if the devices target radiation fields such as space and nuclear power stations. This paper proposes a dynamic reconfigurable column streaming-based convolution engine (DycSe) with programmable adder modules for low-power and resource-aware edge AI accelerators to meet the requirements. The proposed DycSe design does not target the FPGA platform only. Instead, it is an intellectual property (IP) core design. The FPGA platform used in this paper is for prototyping the design evaluation. This paper uses the Vivado synthesis tool to evaluate the power consumption and resource usage of DycSe. Since the synthesis tool is limited to giving the final complete system result in the designing stage, we compare DycSe to a commercial edge AI accelerator for cross-reference with other state-of-the-art works. The commercial architecture shares the competitive performance within the low-power ultra-small (LPUS) edge AI scopes. The result shows that DycSe contains 3.56% less power consumption and slight resources (1%) overhead with reconfigurable flexibility.
Thrust Enhancement of DTMB 5415 with Elastic Flapping Foil in Regular Head Waves
Authors: Mei Lei , Yan Wenhui , Zhou Junwei , Shi Weichao
Published: March 2023

Recent studies indicate that bow foil biomimetic systems can significantly improve ship propulsion in waves. In this paper, the DTMB 5415 ship model is taken as the object and a semi-active elastic flapping foil is proposed to install at its bow underwater position. When a ship sails in head wave, heave and pitch motion will occur, which will drive the bow foil to form heave motion. According to the working characteristics of elastic foil, bow foil can generate forward thrust under drive of given heave motion. At first, co-simulation of the ship with self-pitching bow foil in head waves is realized by ISIS-CFD solver and preliminarily realizes drag reduction and thrust increase effect of the bow foil. At the same time, it is found that the effect of bow foil on hull drag reduction is reflected in two aspects, one is the additional thrust generated by the bow foil and the other is that suppression of the bow foil on hull motion also reduces hull resistance in waves. Then, in order to optimize the working characteristics of elastic bow foil, the influence of spring stiffness and span length of the bow foil on drag reduction and thrust increase effect is discussed. A preliminary spring optimization result is obtained, as well as the influence of the span length of the bow foil on the system.
ITER Test Blanket Module—ALARA Investigations for Port Cell Pipe Forest Replacement
Authors: Friconneau Jean-Pierre , Batal Tristan , David Olivier , Di Paolo Chiara , Ferlay Fabien , Gazzotti Stéphane , Giancarli Luciano , Lacroix Christophe , Martins Jean-Pierre , Michel Benjamin , Travere Jean-Marcel
Published: March 2023

The objective of the ITER test blanket module (TBM) program is to provide experimental data on the performance of the breeding blankets in the integrated fusion nuclear environment. The ITER test blanket modules are installed and operated inside the vacuum vessel (VV) at the equatorial ports located within port plugs (PP), and each PP includes two TBMs. After each 18-month-long plasma operation campaign, the TBM research plan testing program requires the replacement of the TBMs with new ones during the ITER long-term shutdown, called long-term maintenance (LTM). The replacement of a TBM requires the removal/reinstallation of all test blanket system (TBS) equipment present in the port cell (PC), including those in the port interspace (PI), called pipe forest (PF). TBSs shall be designed so that occupational radiation exposure (ORE) can be as low as reasonably achievable (ALARA) over the life of the plant to follow the ITER policy. To implement ALARA process requirements, design activities shall consider careful integration investigations starting from the early phase to address all engineering aspects of the replacement sequence. The case study focuses on the PF replacement, in particular the port cell operations. This paper describes the investigations and findings of the ALARA optimisation process implementation in the early engineering phase of the PF.
The Impact of the Density of Individual Social Networks on WeChat Usage in Intimate Relationships among Chinese Youngsters
Authors: Nie Zhou , Li Mingzhu , Waheed Moniza , Kasimon Diyana , Wan Abas Wan Anita Binti
Published: March 2023

WeChat has become the most popular type of social media among youngsters in China. They use it for various reasons including communicating in intimate relationships. This study aims to investigate the impact of the density of individuals’ social networks on WeChat Usage in Intimate Relationships among Chinese youngsters, guided by the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB). An online questionnaire was constructed and disseminated to respondents online. In total, 923 undergraduate students from Chinese universities completed the questionnaires. Utilizing Structural Equation Modelling, findings show that the density of individuals’ social networks has a limited impact on WeChat usage. On the other hand, TPB factors such as subjective norms and perceived control bring a substantial impact on WeChat usage, while attitude has a less significant impact. These results indicate that Chinese youngsters exhibit strong attributes of the collective culture. This study also suggests that future social media research should place more emphasis on cultural and social factors.
An Overview of Clinical Conditions and a Systematic Review of Personalized TMJ Replacement
Authors: Olate Sergio , Ravelo Víctor , Huentequeo Claudio , Parra Marcelo , Unibazo Alejandro
Published: March 2023

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a complex structure in the cranio-maxillomandibular region. The pathological changes of the joint cause deficiencies at different levels, making its replacement necessary in some cases. The aim of this article is to analyze the current indications, treatment and criteria, and follow-up using a systematic review and case series. A systematic review was carried out, identifying the indications for the use of a customized TMJ prosthesis and evaluating criteria and validation in the international literature. After review and exclusion, 8 articles were included with a minimum follow-up of 12 months. The age of the subjects was between 18 and 47 years old. In 226 patients, 310 TMJ prostheses were installed, 168 bilaterally and 142 unilaterally. In most of the articles, a good condition in the follow-up was observed, with a reduction in pain and better conditions of mandibular movement and function. TMJ prosthesis and replacement is a protocolized, defined, stable, and predictable procedure. Indications and criteria must be evaluated by specialists and patients related to the pathology involved in TMJ deformity or degeneration. Randomized research with an accurate diagnosis and follow-up is necessary to obtain the best indication for this treatment.
Correction: Brauner et al. Dental Management of Maxillofacial Ballistic Trauma. J. Pers. Med. 2022, 12, 934
Authors: Brauner Edoardo , Laudoni Federico , Amelina Giulia , Cantore Marco , Armida Matteo , Bellizzi Andrea , Pranno Nicola , De Angelis Francesca , Valentini Valentino , Di Carlo Stefano
Published: March 2023

The authors wish to make the following correction to this paper [...]
Effects of Sodium-Glucose Co-Transporter-2 Inhibitors on Markers of Vascular Damage
Authors: Kourtidou Christodoula , Rafailidis Vasileios , Varouktsi Garyfallia , Kanakis Efthimios , Liakopoulos Vassilios , Vyzantiadis Timoleon-Achilleas , Savopoulos Christos , Marinaki Smaragdi , Stangou Maria , Tziomalos Konstantinos
Published: March 2023

Background: Sodium glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors reduce cardiovascular morbidity and delay the progression of kidney disease in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). However, the mechanisms underpinning these benefits are not entirely clear. More specifically, it is uncertain whether these agents exert cardiorenal protective effects through a direct action on the vascular wall. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of SGLT2 inhibitors on markers of subclinical vascular damage. Methods: In total, 40 adult patients with T2DM and glomerular filtration rate (GFR) < 60 mL/min/1.73 m2 and age- and gender-matched patients with T2DM and GFR > 60 mL/min/1.73 m2 were consecutively enrolled. Indices of arterial stiffness (pulse wave velocity, augmentation index (AIx), AIx adjusted to a heart rate of 75 beats/min (Alx@75) and central systolic, diastolic, pulse and mean pressure), carotid atherosclerosis (stenosis, intima-media thickness (cIMT) and maximal plaque thickness) and peripheral arterial disease (ankle brachial index (ABI)) were determined. The chi-squared and Mann–Whitney U-test were used to detect differences in categorical and continuous variables between groups, respectively. Results: In total, 15 patients were treated with SGLT2 inhibitors and 25 patients were not receiving these agents. Serum low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels were lower in the former whereas other cardiovascular risk factors, the prevalence of established cardiovascular disease, anthropometric and demographic characteristics, and vital signs did not differ between the 2 groups. The AIx was lower in patients treated with SGLT2 inhibitors (21.9 ± 11.3 vs. 29.7 ± 12% in patients not treated with SGLT2 inhibitors; p < 0.05). The AIx@75 was also lower in the former (21.3 ± 10.9 and 32.6 ± 11.3%, respectively, p < 0.005). Other markers of arterial stiffness were similar in the 2 groups. In addition, markers of carotid atherosclerosis and the ABI did not differ between patients treated and not treated with SGLT2 inhibitors. Conclusions: Treatment with SGLT2 inhibitors appears to reduce arterial stiffness. Accordingly, these agents might improve cardiovascular outcomes not only in patients with T2DM and established cardiorenal disease but also in lower-risk patients.
Early Administration of Vancomycin Inhibits Pulmonary Embolism by Remodeling Gut Microbiota
Authors: Zhang Zhengyan , Chen Huiling , Huang Jiating , Zhang Shilong , Li Zhanming , Kong Chaoyue , Mao Yuqin , Han Bing
Published: March 2023

Pulmonary embolism (PE) is a common and potentially fatal condition in the emergency department, and early identification of modifiable risk factors for prevention and management is highly desirable. Although gut dysbiosis is associated with a high incidence of venous thromboembolism, the role and mechanisms of the gut microbiome in the pathogenesis of venous thromboembolism, especially PE, remain unexplored. Here, we attempted to elucidate the benefits of the gut microbiome in the pathogenesis of PE using multiple antibiotics and fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) for early intervention in a classical mouse model of PE. The results showed that early administration of various antibiotics (except ampicillin) could inhibit pulmonary thrombosis to a certain extent and reduced mortality in young and old mice with PE. Among them, vancomycin has the best inhibitory effect on PE. With the help of gut microbiota sequencing analysis, we found that antibiotic treatment can reshape the gut microbiota; especially vancomycin can significantly improve the gut microbiota structure in PE mice. Furthermore, FMT could transfer vancomycin-modified gut microbes into mice and inhibit the pathogenesis of PE, possibly due to increased intestinal colonization by Parasutterella. These data elucidate the underlying molecular mechanism by which early administration of vancomycin can remodel the gut microbiota to suppress PE, providing new clues for clinical optimization and development of PE prevention strategies.
Cortical Astrocyte Progenitors and Astrocytes from Human Pluripotent Stem Cells
Authors: Battistella Ingrid , Cutarelli Alessandro , Zasso Jacopo , Clerici Massimo , Sala Carlo , Marcatili Matteo , Conti Luciano
Published: March 2023

Astrocytes coordinate several homeostatic processes of the central nervous system and play essential roles for normal brain development and response to disease conditions. Protocols for the conversion of human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) into mature astrocytes have opened to the generation of in vitro systems to explore astrocytes’ functions in living human cell contexts and patient-specific settings. In this study, we present an optimized monolayer procedure to commit hiPSC-derived cortical progenitors into enriched populations of cortical astrocyte progenitor cells (CX APCs) that can be further amplified and efficiently differentiated into mature astrocytes. Our optimized system provides a valid tool to explore the role of these cells in neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric diseases, opening it up to applications in drug development and biomarkers discovery/validation.
The Multidisciplinary Approach in the Study of Landscape Evolution: The Fluvial Capture of the San Donato Creek (Gubbio, Central Italy), an Example of Hydrological Regime and Hydrogeological Risk Changes
Authors: Cencetti Corrado , Paciotti Filippo , Sannipoli Ettore A. , Scavizzi Ubaldo E.
Published: March 2023

Historical maps, especially those at a small scale and rich in detail (e.g., the old “Cadastres”), represent an exceptionally important tool for understanding the recent historical evolution of landscapes. The note describes the example of the territory of Gubbio, in Umbria (Central Italy), where a map from the end of the 16th century shows a drawing of the hydrographic network partially different from the current one. A multidisciplinary study based on field surveys, observations of satellite images, archaeological discoveries, and archival research proved useful to confirm what was reported by the cartographer at the time. The possible causes that led to this variation of the surface hydrography up to its current configuration are then discussed in the light of other documentary finds from the archives, taken from the chronicles of the time, which have made it possible to identify, with sufficient approximation, the period where this change occurred. All this leads to a highlighting of a profound evolution of fluvial and slope morphogenetic processes that have affected the study area in recent centuries, in which the regulation of surface waters and afforestation, conducted during the 20th century, have played a decisive role.
Assessing Integrated Hydrologic Model: From Benchmarking to Case Study in a Typical Arid and Semi-Arid Basin
Authors: Lu Zheng , He Yuan , Peng Shuyan
Published: March 2023

Groundwater-surface water interactions play a crucial role in hydrologic cycles, especially in arid and semi-arid basins. There is a growing interest in developing integrated hydrologic models to describe groundwater-surface water interactions and the associated processes. In this study, an integrated process-based hydrologic model, ParFlow, was tested and utilized to quantify the hydrologic responses, such as changes in surface runoff and surface/subsurface storage. We progressively conducted a complexity-increasing series of benchmarking cases to assess the performance of ParFlow in simulating overland flow and integrated groundwater-surface water exchange. Meanwhile, the overall performance and the computational efficiency were quantitatively assessed using modified Taylor diagrams. Based on the benchmarking cases, two case studies in the Heihe River Basin were performed for further validation and to diagnose the hydrologic responses under disturbance, named the Bajajihu (BJH) and Dayekou (DYK) cases, respectively. Both cases were 2D transects configured with in-situ measurements in the mid- and downstream of the Heihe River Basin. In the BJH case, simulated soil moisture by ParFlow was shown to be comparable with in-situ observations in general, with Pearson’s correlation coefficient (R) > 0.93 and root mean square difference (RMSD) < 0.007. In the DYK case, seven scenarios driven by remote sensing and reanalysis data were utilized to study hydrological responses influenced by natural physical processes (i.e., precipitation) and groundwater exploitations (i.e., pumping) that are critical to surface and subsurface storage. Results show that subsurface storage is sensitive to groundwater exploitation before an obvious stationary point. Moreover, a correlation analysis was additionally provided demonstrating the impacts of different factors on subsurface storage timeseries. It was found that pumping influences subsurface storage remarkably, especially under short-term but large-volume pumping rates. The study is expected to provide a powerful tool and insightful guidance in understanding hydrological processes’ effects in arid and semi-arid basins.
The Effect of Place-Based Policy on Urban Land Green Use Efficiency: Evidence from the Pilot Free-Trade Zone Establishment in China
Authors: Feng Yuan , Li Ying , Nie Changfei
Published: March 2023

The improvement of urban land green use efficiency is significant in promoting sustainable development. As an important place-based policy in China, the pilot free-trade zone establishment has exerted a profound impact on urban economy and society. Meanwhile, the issue of whether the pilot free-trade zone can improve urban land green use efficiency or not is missing from prior literature, which is the concern of this study. Specifically, based on the super-efficiency slacks-based measure model, we first measure urban land green use efficiency of 279 cities in China from 2011 to 2019 and then use the multi-period difference-in-differences method to investigate the causal effect of the pilot free-trade zone establishment on urban land green use efficiency. The results show that the pilot free-trade zone significantly improved urban land green use efficiency, especially in the eastern cities, the coastal cities, and the cities with a high economic development level. Further, there exists a spatial spillover effect of the pilot free-trade zone on urban land green use efficiency. This study has implications for optimal allocation of urban land in the deployment of place-based policies, serving economic structural upgrading and a carbon neutrality vision.
Executive Function and Working Memory Deficits in Females with Fragile X Premutation
Authors: Segal Osnat , Kowal Tamar , Banet-Levi Yonit , Gabis Lidia V.
Published: March 2023

The Fragile X premutation is a genetic instability of the FMR1 gene caused by 55–199 recurrences of the CGG sequence, whereas there are only 7–54 repeats of the CGG sequence in the normal condition. While males with the premutation of Fragile X were found to have difficulties in executive functions and working memory, little data have been collected on females. This study is among the first to address executive functions and phonological memory in females with the Fragile X premutation. Twenty-three female carriers aged 20–55 years and twelve non carrier females matched in age and levels of education (in years) participated in this study. Executive functions and phonological memory were assessed using the self-report questionnaire The Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function (BRIEF) and behavioral measures (nonword repetitions, forward and backward digit span). Females who were carriers of the premutation of the FMR1 gene reported less efficient executive functions in the BRIEF questionnaire compared to the control group. In addition, a relationship was found between the number of repetitions on the CGG sequence of nucleotides, nonword repetitions, and forward digit span. The findings suggest that the premutation of Fragile X in females affects their performance of executive functions and may have impact on everyday functioning.
Estimated Prevalence of Tuberculosis in Ruminants from Slaughterhouses in Constantine Province (Northeastern Algeria): A 10-Year Retrospective Survey (2011–2020)
Authors: Dergal Nadir Boudjlal , Ghermi Mohamed , Imre Kálmán , Morar Adriana , Acaroz Ulaș , Arslan-Acaroz Damla , Herman Viorel , Ayad Abdelhanine
Published: March 2023

Tuberculosis (TB) is considered one of the most widespread and devastating zoonotic diseases in low-income countries, with a cosmopolitan distribution. The aim of this 10-year retrospective survey (from 2011 to 2020) was to determine the frequency of bovine, ovine, and goat tuberculosis in different local slaughterhouses across Constantine Province, Algeria. The control of livestock carcasses was systematically performed by veterinarian inspectors, after each stage of the slaughter process. The routine abattoir inspection included the detection of visible abnormalities on different organs and lymph nodes. The overall prevalence of tuberculosis recorded in slaughtered animals was 0.83%, with the following distribution among species: 2.73% in cattle, 0.001% in sheep, and 0.0% in goats. During the study period, there was a strong correlation (R = 0.82) (p < 0.01) between tuberculosis occurrence and the number of slaughtered cattle. Fluctuations in monthly TB prevalence ranged from 2% to 24.8% between 2018 and 2020, although there were no statistically significant correlations between infection and the age or gender of the animals, except for the year 2020 when a significantly higher (p = 0.017) percentage of TB cases were recorded in female cattle compared to male cattle. The average monthly weight of the confiscated livers and lungs ranged significantly (p ≤ 0.05) from 150 kg to 350 kg. The study results provide baseline data regarding livestock tuberculosis monitoring in the area of Constantine, Algeria, indicating that the disease incidence is not highly alarming, yet remains a serious public and animal health issue in the screened region.
Investigation into the Microstructure and Hardness of Additively Manufactured (3D-Printed) Inconel 718 Alloy
Authors: Kurdi Abdulaziz , Aldoshan Abdelhakim , Alshabouna Fahad , Alodadi Abdulaziz , Degnah Ahmed , Alnaser Husain , Tabbakh Thamer , Basak Animesh Kumar
Published: March 2023

Additive manufacturing (AM) of Ni-based super alloys is more challenging, compared to the production other metallic alloys. This is due to their high melting point and excellent high temperature resistance. In the present work, an Inconel 718 alloy was fabricated by a powder laser bed fusion (P-LBF) process and investigated to assess its microstructural evolution, together with mechanical properties. Additionally, the alloy was compared against the cast (and forged) alloy of similar composition. The microstructure of the P-LBF-processed alloy shows hierarchy microstructure that consists of cellular sub-structure (~100–600 nm), together with melt pool and grain boundaries, in contrast of the twin infested larger grain microstructure of the cast alloy. However, the effect of such unique microstructure on mechanical properties of the L-PBF alloy was overwritten, due to the absence of precipitates. The hardness of the L-PBF-processed alloy (330–349 MPa) was lower than that of cast alloy (408 MPa). The similar trend was also observed in other mechanical properties, such as Young’s modulus, resistance to plasticity and shear stress.
Preparation and Hydration Mechanisms of Low Carbon Ferrochrome Slag-Granulated Blast Furnace Slag Composite Cementitious Materials
Authors: Ren Chao , Li Keqing , Wang Yonghua , Li Yanfang , Tong Jiannan , Cai Jingyao
Published: March 2023

Low carbon ferrochrome slag (LCFS) is the metallurgical waste slag from the carbon ferrochrome alloy smelting process. Compared with high carbon ferrochrome slag, LCFS has great potential as cementitious material; the chemical compositions of the two types of slag are quite different. In this research, composite cementitious materials are prepared which use low carbon ferrochrome slag and granulated blast furnace slag (GBFS) as the main raw material. Steel slag mud (SSM) and flue gas desulfurization gypsum (FGDG) are used as the activator. In order to find the variety rule of compressive strength on the composite cementitious materials, a three-factor three-level Box-Behnken design is used to discuss the following independent variables: LCFS content, GBFS content, and water-binder ratio. Moreover, the hydration characteristics of the LCFS-GBFS composite cementitious materials is studied in this paper in terms of hydration product, micromorphology, and hydration degree, based on multi-technical microstructural characterizations. The results show that the compressive strength of the LCFS-GBFS composite cementitious materials is significantly affected by single factors and the interaction of two factors. The mechanical property of the mortar samples at 3, 7, and 28 days are 26.6, 35.3, and 42.7 MPa, respectively, when the LCFS-GBFS-SSM-FGDG ratio is 3:5:1:1 and the water-binder ratio is 0.3. The hydration products of LCFS-GBFS composite cementitious materials are mainly amorphous gels (C-S-H gel), ettringite, and Ca(OH)2. With the increase of LCFS content, more hydration products are generated, and the microstructure of the cementitious system becomes more compact, which contributes to the compressive strength. The results of this research can provide a preliminary theoretical foundation for the development of LCFS-GBFS composite cementitious materials and promote the feasibility of its application in the construction industry. Deep hydration mechanism analysis and engineering applications should be studied in the future.
Molecular Dynamics Simulation on Nanoindentation of M50 Bearing Steel
Authors: Hu Xuyang , Yang Lei , Wei Xunkai , Wang Hao , Fu Guoru
Published: March 2023

M50 bearing steel has great potential for applications in the field of aerospace engineering, as it exhibits outstanding mechanical and physical properties. From a microscopic point of view, bearing wear originates from the microscopic region of the contact interface, which usually only contains hundreds or even several atomic layers. However, the existing researches seldom study the wear of M50 bearing steel on the microscopic scale. This study explored the atomic-scale modeling method of M50 bearing steel. Then molecular dynamics simulations of nanoindentation on the M50 bearing steel model were carried out to study the size effect of the mechanical behaviors. The simulation results show that with the change in the radius of the diamond indenter in the nanoindentation simulation, the calculated nanohardness decreases. According to the size effect, when the indentation radius is 200 nm, the hardness obtained by the simulation is about 9.26 GPa, and that of the M50 sample measured by the nanoindentation is 10.4 GPa. Then nanoindentation simulations were carried out at different temperatures. The main bearings of aero-engines generally work at 300–500 degrees Celsius. When the simulated temperature was increased from 300 K to 800 K, the hardness of the model decreased by 15%, and the model was more prone to plastic deformation. In this study, a new molecular dynamics modeling method for M50 bearing steel was proposed, and then nanoindentation simulation was carried out, and the nanoindentation experiment verified the correctness of the model. These results are beneficial to the basic understanding of the mechanical performance of M50 bearing steel.
Local Antibiotic Delivery Ceramic Bone Substitutes for the Treatment of Infected Bone Cavities and Bone Regeneration: A Systematic Review on What We Have Learned from Animal Models
Authors: Alegrete Nuno , Sousa Susana R. , Peleteiro Bárbara , Monteiro Fernando J. , Gutierres Manuel
Published: March 2023

Aims: the focus of this study is to evaluate if the combination of an antibiotic with a ceramic biomaterial is effective in treating osteomyelitis in an infected animal model and to define which model and protocol are best suited for in vivo experiments of local bone infection treatment. Methods: a systematic review was carried out based on PRISMA statement guidelines. A PubMed search was conducted to find original papers on animal models of bone infections using local antibiotic delivery systems with the characteristics of bone substitutes. Articles without a control group, differing from the experimental group only by the addition of antibiotics to the bone substitute, were excluded. Results: a total of 1185 records were retrieved, and after a three-step selection, 34 papers were included. Six manuscripts studied the effect of antibiotic-loaded biomaterials on bone infection prevention. Five articles studied infection in the presence of foreign bodies. In all but one, the combination of an antibiotic with bioceramic bone substitutes tended to prevent or cure bone infection while promoting biomaterial osteointegration. Conclusions: this systematic review shows that the combination of antibiotics with bioceramic bone substitutes may be appropriate to treat bone infection when applied locally. The variability of the animal models, time to develop an infection, antibiotic used, way of carrying and releasing antibiotics, type of ceramic material, and endpoints limits the conclusions on the ideal therapy, enhancing the need for consistent models and guidelines to develop an adequate combination of material and antimicrobial agent leading to an effective human application.
Fighting Phytopathogens with Engineered Inorganic-Based Nanoparticles
Authors: Kanakari Eirini , Dendrinou-Samara Catherine
Published: March 2023

The development of effective and ecofriendly agrochemicals, including bactericides, fungicides, insecticides, and nematicides, to control pests and prevent plant diseases remains a key challenge. Nanotechnology has provided opportunities for the use of nanomaterials as components in the development of anti-phytopathogenic agents. Indeed, inorganic-based nanoparticles (INPs) are among the promising ones. They may play an effective role in targeting and killing microbes via diverse mechanisms, such as deposition on the microbe surface, destabilization of cell walls and membranes by released metal ions, and the induction of a toxic mechanism mediated by the production of reactive oxygen species. Considering the lack of new agrochemicals with novel mechanisms of action, it is of particular interest to determine and precisely depict which types of INPs are able to induce antimicrobial activity with no phytotoxicity effects, and which microbe species are affected. Therefore, this review aims to provide an update on the latest advances in research focusing on the study of several types of engineered INPs, that are well characterized (size, shape, composition, and surface features) and show promising reactivity against assorted species (bacteria, fungus, virus). Since effective strategies for plant protection and plant disease management are urgently needed, INPs can be an excellent alternative to chemical agrochemical agents as indicated by the present studies.
Low-Temperature Transient Liquid Phase Bonding Technology via Cu Porous-Sn58Bi Solid–Liquid System under Formic Acid Atmosphere
Authors: He Siliang , Xiong Bifu , Xu Fangyi , Chen Biyang , Cui Yinhua , Hu Chuan , Yue Gao , Shen Yu-An
Published: March 2023

This study proposes a low-temperature transient liquid phase bonding (TLPB) method using Sn58Bi/porous Cu/Sn58Bi to enable efficient power-device packaging at high temperatures. The bonding mechanism is attributed to the rapid reaction between porous Cu and Sn58Bi solder, leading to the formation of intermetallic compounds with high melting point at low temperatures. The present paper investigates the effects of bonding atmosphere, bonding time, and external pressure on the shear strength of metal joints. Under formic acid (FA) atmosphere, Cu6Sn5 forms at the porous Cu foil/Sn58Bi interface, and some of it transforms into Cu3Sn. External pressure significantly reduces the micropores and thickness of the joint interconnection layer, resulting in a ductile fracture failure mode. The metal joint obtained under a pressure of 10 MPa at 250 °C for 5 min exhibits outstanding bonding mechanical performance with a shear strength of 62.2 MPa.
Evaluation of Cross-Linked Polyamide 6 Micro-Indentation Properties: TAIC Concentration and Electron Radiation Intensity
Authors: Ovsik Martin , Stanek Michal , Bednarik Martin
Published: March 2023

Nowadays, technical practice puts emphasis on improving selected material properties of polymers which could lead to new applications. Material properties can be modified in numerous ways, among which is radiation treatment. This study looks into the influence of beta radiation on several properties of polyamide 6, e.g., indentation hardness, modulus and creep. Main changeable parameters were the concentration of triallyl isocyanurate (TAIC), which promotes cross-linking, and intensity of radiation. The concentration was in the range from 2 to 6 wt.%, while the radiation dose was 0, 66, 99 and 132 kGy. The treated materials were measured for indentation hardness, modulus and creep. Degree of cross-linking was verified by thermo-mechanical analysis (TMA), while degradation processes was investigated by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The results indicate that electron radiation positively affects the tested material properties. The best results were seen in polyamide with 6 wt.% of TAIC, which demonstrated a 38% improvement in mechanical properties after exposure to 132 kGy. This improvement in properties affects the final parts and their application (e.g., in the automotive industry—engine parts; in electrical engineering—insulation of wires and cables; and in industry—pipes for underfloor heating, etc.).
Fabrication of EVOH/PANI Composite Nanofibrous Aerogels for the Removal of Dyes and Heavy Metal Ions
Authors: Zhu Junshan , Lu Hang , Song Jianan
Published: March 2023

Water pollution caused by the leakage and discharge of pollutants, such as dyes and heavy metal ions, can cause serious damage to the environment and human health. Therefore, it is important to design and develop adsorbent materials that are efficient and multifunctional for the removal of these pollutants. In this work, poly(vinyl alcohol-co-ethylene) (EVOH)/polyaniline (PANI) composite nanofibrous aerogels (NFAs) were fabricated via solution oxidation and blending. The aerogels were characterized by a scanning electron microscope, Fourier transform infrared spectrometry, a contact angle measuring instrument and a universal testing machine. The influences of the introduction of PANI nanorods on the structural properties of aerogels were investigated, and the adsorption performance of aerogels was also studied. The results showed that the introduction of PANI nanorods filled the fibrous network structure, reduced porosity, increased surface hydrophilicity and improved compressive strength. Furthermore, EVOH/PANI composite NFAs possess good adsorption performances for dyes and heavy metal ions: The adsorption capacities of methyl orange and chromium ions (VI) are 73.22 mg/g and 115.54 mg/g, respectively. Overall, the research suggests that EVOH/PANI NFAs have great potential as efficient and multifunctional adsorbent materials for the removal of pollutants from water.