bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Discovery of the Cross “十” Shape Ocean-Plate Whirlpool of Double Whirl Arms of the Planet Earth
Authors: Yan Henghua
Published: December 2023

The ocean of the planet Earth, which is as thin as a cicada's wings, play a role of catalyst to the evolving of the ancient plates. The ocean and the ancient plates of the planet Earth formed a magic Whirlpool of the Cross “十” shape with double whirl arms. The central core of the Cross “十” shape Ocean-Plate Whirlpool is the Hint Black Hole (HBH) located at the Northwestern Pacific Ocean floor which is decorated with invisible geological age distribution of clam shell. The double whirl arms of ancient plates are distinguished to be left and right at Bering Strait and just formed the ring of fire of the Pacific Ocean.The Cross “十” shape Ocean-Plate Whirlpool of the planet Earth was born at the equatorial area about 66 Ma ago and is rotating anticlockwise and drifting northward by a mini footprint of spiral at s speed of as slow as a snail moves. Obviously, it would come to an end at the North Pole about 100 Ma in the future. So, the lifespan of the Cross “十” shape Ocean-Plate Whirlpool would be about 166 Ma, from birth to death on the planet Earth.What is hidden behind of the evolving of the oceans and the ancient plates is the golden law of geometrical progression of ladder pagoda of attributes evolving of them, which is “1➨2➨4➨2➨1”, including upgrading and downgrading process. It seems to hint that what is happening on the planet Earth, including the top-level species of human race, is actually unique in the Milky Way galaxy in essence.The property roles of expanding and shrinking are existing in the Cross “十” shape Ocean-Plate Whirlpool by face to face and the exchange of property roles took place tens of millions of years ago. And that situation would happen again tens of millions of years in the future. It seems a giant circle of evolving of the exchange of property roles would be drawn by the Cross “十” shape Ocean-Plate Whirlpool in her lifetime.
Uterine Fibroid prevalence in a predominantly Black, Chicago-Based Cohort
Authors: Ndebele Sithembinkosi , Turner Tecora , Liao Chuanhong , Aschebrook-Kilfoy Briseis , Randorf Nina , Ahsan Habibul , Odunsi Kunle , Madueke-Laveaux Obianuju Sandra
Published: December 2023

ABSTRACT

Objectives: To investigate the effect of individual-level, neighborhood, and environmental variables on uterine fibroid (UF) prevalence in a Chicago-based cohort.

Methods: Data from the Chicago Multiethnic Prevention and Surveillance Study (COMPASS) were analyzed. Individual-level variables were obtained from questionnaires, neighborhood variables from the Chicago Health Atlas, and environmental variables from NASA satellite ambient air exposure levels. The Shapiro-Wilks test, logistic regression models, and Spearman’s correlations were used to evaluate the association of variables to UF diagnosis.

Results: We analyzed 602 participants (mean age: 50.3±12.3) who responded to a question about UF diagnosis. More Black than White participants had a UF diagnosis (OR, 1.32; 95% CI, 0.62–2.79). We observed non-significant trends between individual-level and neighborhood variables and UF diagnosis. Ambient air pollutants, PM2.5 and DSLPM were protective against UF diagnosis (OR 0.20, CI: 0.04–0.97: OR 0.33, CI: 0.13–0.87).

Conclusions: Associations observed within a sample in a specific geographic area may not be generalizable and must be interpreted cautiously.
On R-fuzzy Soft δ-Open Sets and Applications via Fuzzy Soft Topologies
Authors: Alshammari Ibtesam , Alqahtani Mesfer H. , Taha Islam M.
Published: December 2023

In this work, we introduce the concepts of r-fuzzy soft δ-open (resp. semi-open and α-open) sets on fuzzy soft topological space, the relations of these sets with each other are established. Next, we introduce the concepts of fuzzy soft δ-continuous (resp. β-continuous, semi-continuous, pre-continuous and α-continuous) functions, and some properties of these functions along with their mutual relationships are investigated. Also, a decomposition of fuzzy soft semi-continuity and a decomposition of fuzzy soft α-continuity are given. Finally, as a weaker form of fuzzy soft continuity by Aygunoglu et al. (2014), the concepts of fuzzy soft almost (resp. weakly) continuous functions are introduced, and some properties are specified. Moreover, we explore the notion of continuity in a very general setting namely fuzzy soft (L, M, N, O)-continuous functions, and a historical justification are obtained.
An Improved Evaluation Metrics for Sentence Suggestions in Nursing and Elderly Care Record Applications
Authors: Hamdhana Defry , Kaneko Haru , Victorino John Noel , Inoue Sozo
Published: December 2023

In this paper, we propose a novel approach named EmbedHDP to enhance the evaluation models used to assess sentence suggestions within nursing care record applications. The key focus is determining whether these suggestions garner assessments that align with caregivers as human evaluators. It is crucial due to the direct relevance of the information provided to the health or condition of the elderly. The motivation behind this proposal stems from challenges observed in previous models, such as BERTScore, which encountered difficulties in effectively evaluating the nurse care record domain, consistently providing quality assessments of generated sentence suggestions above 60%. Additionally, while widely used, cosine similarity exhibits limitations concerning word order, leading to potential misjudgments of semantical differences within similar word sets. Similarly, relying on lexical overlap, ROUGE tends to overlook semantic accuracy. Furthermore, despite its utility, BLEU neglects semantic coherence in its evaluations. EmbedHDP excels in evaluating nurse care records by effectively handling a variety of sentence structures and medical terminology and providing differentiated and contextually relevant assessments. We used a dataset comprising 320 pairs of sentences with correspondingly equivalent lengths. The results revealed that EmbedHDP outperformed other evaluation models, achieving a coefficient score of 61%, followed by cosine similarity with a score of 59%, and BERTScore with 58%. This shows the effectiveness of our proposed approach in improving the evaluation of sentence suggestions in nursing care record applications.
Quantitative Research of Cutoff Wavenumber and Wave Spectrum for Electromagnetic Scattering Computation with Two-Scale Method
Authors: Guo Chenyu , Ye Hongxia
Published: December 2023

The two-scale method (TSM) is an effective approach to simulate electromagnetic (EM) scattering from rough sea surface, to interpret physical interaction of EM wave with rough sea surfaces. The sea surface roughness spectrum and the cutoff wavenumber are two key factors affecting the accuracy of TSM simulation. This paper takes the geophysical model functions (GMFs) of different band as reference, and quantitatively studies the two factors based on the numerical simulation of different polarization backscattering coefficients. The numerical simulation demonstrates that Apel spectrum is more suitable for the backscattering simulation in C/X/Ku-band, and the optimal cutoff wavenumbers are also derived for TSM simulation of EM scattering in C/X/Ku-band. Then an empirical model function of optimal cutoff wavenumbers with respect to frequency, incident angle and wind speed are obtained with regression method. Finally, the simulation results with the new model function of cutoff wavenumber are compared with the GMF and measured data in different bands and they are all consistent. Moreover, a physical explanation for the optimal cutoff wavenumber is also given.
Making Referee Decisions with Machine Learning in the Sport of Squash
Authors: Ma Enqi , Kabala Zbigniew J.
Published: December 2023

Squash is a sport where referee decisions are essential to the game. However, referee decisions in squash are very subjective in nature. Disputes, both from the players and the audience, regularly happen because the referee made a controversial call. In this study ,we proposed to automate the referee decision process through machine learning. We trained neural networks to predict squash referee decisions using data from 400 referee decisions acquired through extensive video footage reviewing and labeling. Six positional values were extracted, including the attacking player’s position, the retreating player’s position, the ball’s position in the frame, the ball’s projected first bounce, the ball’s projected second bounce, and the attacking player’s racket head position. We calculated nine additional distance values, such as the distance between players and the distance from the attacking player's racket head to the ball's path. Models were trained on Wolfram Mathematica and Python using these values. The best Wolfram Mathematica model achieved an 86% ± 3.03% accuracy, while the best Python model performed a 0.852 ± 0.051 accuracy (85.2% ± 5.1%). These accuracies surpass 85%, demonstrating near-human performances. Our model has great potential for improvement as it's currently trained with limited data (400 referee decisions) and lacks crucial data points such as time and speed. The performance of our model is almost surely going to improve significantly with a larger training data set. Unlike human referees, machine learning models follow a consistent standard, have unlimited attention spans, and make decisions instantly. If the accuracy is improved in the future, the model can potentially serve as an extra refereeing official for both professional and amateur squash matches. Both the analysis of referee decisions in squash and proposal to automate the process using machine learning is unique to this study.
Phosphine Catalyzed Michael-Type Additions: Synthesis of Glutamic Acid Derivatives from Arylidene-α-Amino Esters
Authors: Rodríguez-Flórez Lesly , González-Marcos María , García-Mingüens Eduardo , Retamosa María de Gracia , Kawase Misa , Selva Elisabet , Sansano José M.
Published: December 2023

The reaction of arylidene-α-amino esters with electrophilic alkenes to yield the Michael type addition compounds is optimized using several phosphines as organocatalysts. The transformation is very complicated due to the generation of several final compounds, including those derived from the 1,3-dipolar cycloadditions. For this reason, the selection of the reaction conditions is a very complex task and the slow addition of the acrylic system is very important to complete the reaction. The study of the variation of the structural components of the starting imino ester is performed as well as the expansion of other electron-poor alkenes. The crude products have a purity higher than 90% in most cases without any purification. A plausible mechanism is detailed based on the bibliography and the experimental results. The synthesis of pyroglutamate entities, after reduction of the imino group and cyclization, is performed in high yields. In addition, the hydrolysis of the imino group, under acidic media, represents a direct access to glutamate surrogates.
Prevention of Delayed Graft Function in Kidney Transplant Recipients by Continuous Infusion of Prostaglandin-Analogue Iloprost: A Single-Center Prospective Study
Authors: Veroux* Massimiliano , Sanfilippo Floriana , Roscitano Giuseppe , Giambra Martina Maria , Giaquinta Alessia , Riccioli Giordana , Zerbo Domenico , Corona Daniela , Sorbello Massimiliano , Veroux Pierfrancesco
Published: December 2023

Background: Delayed graft function (DGF) is common after kidney transplantation from de-ceased donor and may significantly affect post-transplant outcomes. This study aimed to evaluating whether an innovative approach, based on the administration of intravenous prostaglandin-analogue iloprost, could be beneficial in reducing the incidence of DGF occurring after kidney transplantation from deceased donors. Methods: This prospective, randomised (1:1), place-bo-controlled study enrolled all consecutive patients who received a kidney transplantation from a deceased donor from January 2000 to December 2012 and who were treated in the peri-transplant period with the prostaglandin-analogue iloprost at 0.27 μg/min through elastomeric pump (treatment group) or placebo (control group). Results: A total of 476 patients were included : DGF was reported in 172 (36.1%) patients in the entire cohort. The multivariate analysis showed that donor’s age > 70 years (OR 2.50, 95% Confidence Interval (CI) 1.40-3.05, p < .001), cold ischemia time > 24 h (OR 2.60, 95 CI 1.50-4.51, p < .001), donor’s AKI (OR 2.71, 95% CI 1.61-4.52, p = .021) and, above all, recipient’s arterial hypotension (OR 5.06, 95% CI 2.52-10.1, p < .0001) were the strongest risk factors for developing post-transplant DGF. The incidence of DGF was 21.4% in the treatment group and 50.9% in the control group (p< .001). Interestingly, among patients who developed DGF, those who received iloprost had a shorter duration of post-transplant DGF (10.58.3 v s13.46.7, days, p= .016). Conclusions: This study showed that the use of a continuous infusion of iloprost could safely and effectively reduce the incidence of DGF in recipients of deceased donor kidneys, allowing a better graft functionality as well as a better graft survival.
Improving Dust Aerosol Optical Depth (DAOD) Retrievals from GEOKOMPSAT-2A (GK-2A) Satellite for Daytime and Nighttime Monitoring
Authors: Ahn Soi , Kim Hyeon-Su , Byon Jae-Young , Lim Hancheol
Published: December 2023

The Advanced Meteorological Image (AMI) onboard GEOKOMPSAT 2A (GK-2A) enables the retrieval of dust aerosol optical depth (DAOD) from geostationary satellites using infrared (IR) channels. IR observations allow the retrieval of DAOD and the dust layer altitude (24 hour) over surface properties, particularly over deserts. In this study, dust events in northeast Asia from 2020 to 2021 were investigated using five GK-2A thermal IR bands (8.7, 10.5, 11.4, 12.3, and 13.3 μm). For the dust cloud, the observed brightness temperature differences (BTDs) of 10.5 and 12.3 μm were found to be always negative, while the BTD of 8.7 and 10.5 μm varies relying on the dust intensity. Making the best use of optical properties, a physical approach for DAOD lookup tables (LUTs) was developed using IR channels to retrieve the DAOD. This study simulated the characteristics of thermal radiation transfer using the forward model and dust aerosols can explain by BTD (10.5, 12.3 μm), which is an intrinsic characteristic of dust aerosol. The DAOD and property of dust can be gained from the brightness temperature (BT) of 10.5 μm and the BTD of 10.5, 12.3 μm. Additionally, the cumulative distribution function (CDF) was employed to strengthen the continuity of 24-hour DAOD, which was applied to the algorithm by calculating the conversion value coefficient for the DAOD error correction of the IR with daytime visible aerosol optical depth (VAOD) as the true value. The results show that DAOD product can be successfully used during both daytime and nighttime to continuously monitor the flow of yellow dust from the GK-2A satellite in northeast Asia. In particular, the validation result of IR DAOD was similar to that of the active satellite product (CALIPSO/CALIOP), which showed a tendency similar to that for IR DAOD at night.
Fixed Point Properties of Precompletely and Positively Numbered Sets
Authors: Faizrahmanov Marat
Published: December 2023

In this paper, we prove a joint generalization of Arslanov’s completeness criterion and Visser’s ADN theorem for precomplete numberings. Then we consider the properties of completeness and precompleteness of numberings in the context of the positivity property. We show that the completions of positive numberings are not their minimal covers and that the Turing completeness of any set A is equivalent to the existence of a positive precomplete A-computable numbering of any infinite family with positive A-computable numbering.
An Investigation of BIM Advantages in Analyzing Claims Procedures Related to Extension of Time and Money in the KSA Construction Industry
Authors: Abougamil Reda Abdelshafy , Thorpe David , Heravi Amirhossein
Published: December 2023

The construction industry in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) is a significant sector in the Middle East, with annual expenditures exceeding USD 120 billion. It employs 15% of the work force and consumes more than 14% of the country’s energy resources. Despite the significant growth in the Saudi construction sector, it faces various challenges due to the rapid launch of mega projects such as NEOM and the Line project, as well as other new projects as part of the Saudi Vision 2030. Challenges might be limited to shortages of skilled labours, rising costs, construction disputes, and material shortages. This study aims to investigate the claims management procedures under traditional practice to be compared with a proposed BIM package as an alternative solution to mitigate construction disputes. The proposed BIM model improves and streamlines the claims process through automation. This study presents prospective and retrospective methods for delay analysis under an accepted program. A questionnaire survey was conducted, and out of a total of 123 practitioners, 79 replied. The findings reveal that 40% of the respondents acknowledged a growing awareness of BIM in the KSA construction industry. 47% agreed that BIM can help reduce potential disputes, and 33% strongly agreed that BIM can reduce overall project cost overruns.
Enigma of Pyramidal Neurons:Chirality-Centric View on Biological Evolution. Congruence to Molecular, Cellular, Physiological, Cognitive and Psychological Function
Authors: Dyakin Victor Vasilyevich , Dyakina-Fagnano Nika Victorovna
Published: December 2023

The mechanism of brain information processing unfolds within spatial and temporal domains inherently linked to the concept of symmetry. Biological evolution, beginning with the prevalent molecular chirality, results in the handedness of cognitive and psychological functions (the phenomena known as biochirality). The key element in the chain of chirality transfer from the downstream to upstream processes is the pyramidal neuron (PyrN) morphology-function paradigm (archetype). The most apparent landmark of PyrN is the geometry of the cell soma. However, “why/how PyrN soma gains the shape of quasi-tetrahedral symmetry” has never been explicitly articulated. Resolving the above inquiry is only possible based on the broad-view assumption that encoding 3D-space requires specific 3D-geometry of the neuronal detector and corresponding network. Accordingly, our hypothesis states that if the primary function of PyrNs, at the organism level, is sensory space perception, then the pyramidal shape of soma is the best evolutionary-selected geometry to support sensory-motor coupling.
Modelling Dynamic Processes in the Black Sea Pelagic Habitat -Casual Connections between Abiotic and Biotic Factors in Two Climate Change Scenarios
Authors: Lazar Luminita , Boicenco Laura , Pantea Elena , Timofte Florin , Vlas Oana , Bișinicu Elena
Published: December 2023

The paper aims to introduce user-friendly modelling approaches to analyze how abiotic factors influence various trophic levels within the marine ecosystem, both naturally and through human impact. It specifically investigates the connections between environmental parameters (like temperature, salinity, and nutrients) and plankton along the Romanian Black Sea coast during the warm season (May-September) over a decade. Utilizing machine learning (ML) algorithms and data collected during this period, models were developed to project the proliferation of zooplankton. During the warm season, water temperature emerged as a significant factor affecting copepods and “other groups” zooplankton densities, while no discernible impact was noted on Noctiluca scintillans blooms. Salinity fluctuations notably influenced typical phytoplankton proliferation, with phosphate concentrations primarily driving widespread blooms. Two scenarios were explored for forecasting zooplankton growth: Business as Usual, predicting modest increases in temperature, salinity, and constant nutrient levels, and the Mild scenario, anticipating more substantial temperature and salinity increases while nutrients decrease significantly by 2042. The findings highlight that under both scenarios, Noctiluca scintillans displays notably high densities, with the second scenario projecting even higher values, surpassing the first by around 70%. These densities indicate characteristics of a eutrophic ecosystem, suggesting the potential implications of altered abiotic factors on ecosystem health.
Functional Characterization of the Lysosomal Peptide/Histidine Transporter PHT1 (SLC15A4) by Solid Supported Membrane Electrophysiology (SSME)
Authors: Pujol-Giménez Jonai , Hediger Matthias A
Published: December 2023

Peptide/Histidine Transporter PHT1 (SLC15A4) is expressed in lysosomal membranes of immune cells where it plays an important role in metabolic and inflammatory signaling. PHT1 is an H+-coupled/histidine symporter that can transport a broad range of oligopeptides, including a variety of bacterial-derived peptides. Moreover, it enables the scaffolding of various metabolic signaling molecules and interacts with key regulatory elements of the immune response. Therefore, it is not surprising that PHT1 is associated with the development of autoimmune diseases, such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Unfortunately, the pharmacological development of PHT1 has been hampered by the lack of appropriate transport assays. With the aim to address this shortcoming, a novel transport assay based on solid supported membrane-based electrophysiology (SSME) is presented. Key findings of the present SSME studies include the first recordings of electrophysiological properties, a pH dependence analysis, an assessment of PHT1 substrate selectivity, as well as the transport kinetics of the identified substrates. In contrast to previous works, PHT1 is studied its native lysosomal environment. Moreover, observed substrate selectivity is validated by molecular docking. Overall, this new SSME-based assay is expected to contribute to unlock the pharmacological potential of PHT1 and to deepen the understanding of its functional properties.
In and Out Beauty and Sensitive Skin, a Psychophysiological Exploration: Myth or Reality?
Authors: Falcao Leila , Kappes Rachida Nachat , Filaire Edith
Published: December 2023

Knowing that biomolecules, such as β-amyrin and α-amyrin, have some pharmacological effects, the aim of this study was directed towards exploring the protective effect of a Tomato Peel and Seed Extract (TPSE) for its soothing function but also for its capacity to modulate the adrenal axis, involved in stress response. Ex vivo tests were carried out on skin explants to evaluate the effectiveness of TPSE formulated at 0.5% on Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide (CGRP) and IL-10 release, Kappa Opioid Receptor (KOR) and Caspase 14 expression. An in vivo study combined a clinical evaluation of skin homogeneity, psychological parameter as well as analysis of salivary cortisol and dehydroepiandrosterone concentrations. All measurements were carried out at the beginning and after 28 days of applying a TPSE face cream. TPSE regulated not only the release of CGRP and Il-10, reflecting an anti-neurogenic and anti-inflammatory properties, but also modulated KORs. Twenty height days of TPSE application induced a significant decrease in intensity and extent erythrosis, a lower output of salivary cortisol and a significant increase in pleasant emotions when compared to placebo.

These results provide encouragement to continue exploring the impact of cosmetic ingredient on psychophysiological parameters to improve skin health and well-being.
A Rare Case Report of Rhombencephalosynapsis:- The Donald Duck Sign of Unique Cerebellar Malformation
Authors: Soni Zeal , Desai Dev , Shah Sahil , Gami Vismit
Published: December 2023

Rhombencephalosynapsis (RES) is a rare, congenital developmental disorder of the central nervous system. Even after many years of its identification, the etiology and pathogenesis of RES remain unclear. It occurs in combination with many syndromes and thus has overlapping symptoms. The clinical presentation of this disorder varies depending on the severity of the maldevelopment of vermis. Here, we present a case of a 60-year-old Indian female diagnosed with Rhombencephalosynapsis. Clinical and MRI characteristics of RES along with treatment options have been discussed.
The Application of Green Seismic Survey Technology in Forested Areas and Its Ecological and Economic Effectiveness: Methodology and Practice of Application
Authors: Kalinina Olga , Metkin Dmitry , Bichevaya Olga
Published: December 2023

Abstract: The establishment of a circular economy in the mining sector, taking advantage of innovations in the exploration and development of hydrocarbon reserves, [ ], their [ ], transportation [ ] and subsequent processing [ ] are significant concerns. The issues surrounding the employment of technology targeted at enhancing environmental safety to increase the productivity of the reproduction process of the natural gas and oil resource base are equally important. The paper discusses the use of green seismic technology of survey to determine the oil and gas potential of the subsoil. A methodological toolkit is proposed for carrying out technical and economic calculations to determine indicators of the environmental and economic efficiency of using innovative resource-saving technology for geological survey in areas densely planted with forests. The purpose of the work is to establish the viability of employing resource-saving technology known as Green Seismic to search for promising hydrocarbon objects in forested areas and determine the expected environmental and economic benefits of geological exploration using the suggested enhanced methodology for their evaluation. The tasks set to achieve the goal were solved using methods of geological and economic assessment of the hydrocarbon raw material potential of territories and water areas, environmental assessment of the negative influence of anthropogenic environmental impact on the natural environment, economic and statistical methods of performing technical and economic calculations to determine performance indicators for the implementation of innovative projects in the field of geological exploration. The novelty of the results obtained lies in the proposed improved algorithm for conducting an environmental and economic assessment of geological exploration for hydrocarbon raw materials, a conceptual description of the Green Seismic technology, systematization of technical, economic, and environmental risks, justification of new regional directions for geological exploration using resource-saving seismic exploration technology.
Data Driven AI Models within a User-Defined Optimization Objective Function in Cement Production
Authors: Manis Othonas , Skoumperdis Michalis , Kioroglou Christos , Tzilopoulos Dimitrios , Ouzounis Miltos , Loufakis Michalis , Tsalikidis Nikos , Kolokas Nikolaos , Georgakis Panagiotis , Panagoulis Ilias , Alexandros Tsolkas , Ioannidis Dimosthenis , Tzovaras Dimitrios , Stankovski Mile
Published: December 2023

The energy-intensive sector of the cement industry needs to find technologically advanced methods to produce cement with as little energy as possible, without polluting the environment and without sacrificing the quality (fineness) of the cement. In addition, the stress on the machines changes the behavior of the data. By combining the k-means method, two (2) feature selection methods, nine (9) machine learning methods, and the differential evolution (DE) method, a dynamic system is created where the user determines the key performance indicators (KPIs) each time. The user has the potential to control the distribution of the data, the input of machine learning models, and the ability to switch the system to the suggested values without damage. The selection of the best-performing models is based on the normalized root mean squared error (NRMSE). The DE method optimizes the dynamic objective function. The optimal values of the manipulated variables are evaluated compared to the value of the objective function from the actual values of the variables. In all experiments, the recommendations are acceptable. The final results show an improvement in the operation of both the cement mill and kiln compared to the current operating condition.
Breast Cancer Imaging Using Light: Ancient, History and Current State
Authors: Walker Kyle
Published: December 2023

Breast cancer is a global health concern, necessitating continuous advancements in diagnostic medical imaging technologies for early detection and improvement of treatment. This paper presents an overview of the past, present and future of breast cancer imaging using light and some results from the current studies. The paper specifically presents the role of Diffuse Optical Tomography (DOT) in breast cancer imaging. Conventional methods, such as X-ray mammography, face limitations. Diffuse Optical Tomography, a non-invasive light-based imaging modality can provide quantitative descriptive and architectural information about breast tissue. The paper discusses the key challenges and recent developments in breast cancer imaging using DOT to overcome some key challenges. This paper aims to contribute to the understanding of the evolving technological landscape in breast cancer imaging using light for improving early detection and patient outcomes.
Chinese Cultural Values and Happiness: the Composition and Expanse of Happiness Circle
Authors: Erjia Xu , Sihua Liao , Ping Hu
Published: December 2023

The conceptualisation of happiness varies across different cultures. In Chinese culture, happiness is not only inclusive of oneself, but also hinges on the people is related to and society. Chinese social development have influenced psychological traditionality and modernity and individual's happiness. In Experienment1, 450 participants were recruited and surveyed to examine the levels of happiness amongst Chinese undergraduates with diverse cultural values. The results showed that individuals with both traditional and modern psychological orientations had high levels of happiness. Those with higher psychological traditionality showed more satisfaction with family relationships and social happiness, while those with higher psychological modernity demonstrated a higher level of relational happiness. In Experienment2, 280 participants were recruited, and a "happiness token distribution" and "happiness importance survey" were employed to draw a 'happiness circle' for Chinese undergraduates. The results revealed that those with a higher degree of psychological traditionality assigned a greater proportion of their happiness to ascribed relationships. In contrast, those with a higher degree of psychological modernity allocated a larger share of their happiness to interactive relationships and social relationships. Individuals with lower values of both traditionality and modernity perceived themselves as the most important component in their happiness circle.
Simultaneously Predicting the Pharmacokinetics of CES1-Metabolized Drugs and Their Metabolites Using Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic Model in Cirrhosis Subjects
Authors: Luo Xin , Zhang Zexin , Mu Ruijing , Hu Guangyu , Liu Li , Liu Xiaodong
Published: December 2023

Hepatic carboxylesterase 1(CES1) metabolizes many prodrugs into active ingredients or direct-acting drugs into inactive metabolites. We aim to develop a semi-physiologically based pharmacokinetic model(Semi-PBPK model) to simultaneously predict pharmacokinetics of CES1 substrates and their active metabolites in liver cirrhosis(LC) patients. Six prodrugs(enalapril, benazepril, cilazapril, temocapril, perindopril and oseltamivir) and three direct-acting drugs (flumazenil, pethidine and remimazolam) were selected. The parameters including organ blood flows, plasma binding protein concentrations, functional liver volume, hepatic enzymatic activity, glomerular filtration rate(GFR) and gastrointestinal transit rate were introduced into the simulation. Pharmacokinetic profiles of these drugs and their active metabolites were simulated in 100 virtual subjects. The developed semi-PBPK model, following validation in healthy subjects, was extrapolated to LC patients. Most of the observations are within the 5% and 95% quantile of simulations from 100 virtual patients. The estimated AUC and Cmax are within 0.5-2-fold of observation. The sensitivity analysis showed that the decreased plasma exposure of active metabolite due to the decreased CES1 was partly attenuated by the decreased GFR. Conclusion: The developed PBPK model has successfully predicted pharmacokinetics of CES1 substrates and their metabolites in healthy subjects and LC patients, which assists in tailoring dosages of CES1 substrates in LC patients.
Development and Evaluation of Arm Lifting Assist Devices
Authors: Jitsukawa Ryota , Kobayashi Hiroshi , Matsumoto Kenta , Hashimoto Takuya
Published: December 2023

Musculoskeletal disorders are common occupational diseases that have become a major social problem. Mechanization has been promoted as a solution to this problem. However, several tasks still require manual labor, such as fruit harvesting in orchards, making the introduction of machinery difficult in many cases. Recently, from the viewpoint of worker protection and ergonomics, various wearable robots for work support have attracted attention. In Europe and the US, there has been much development of arm-lifting assistive devices that support upward work while holding tools in the hands for industrial applications. However, most of the devices currently on the market are expensive compared to their assistive capabilities. Against this background, we developed three types of arm-lifting assistive devices with different concepts (an exoskeleton arm-lifting assistive device utilizing a gas spring, an exoskeleton arm-lifting assistive device utilizing McKibben-type artificial muscles, and an arm-lifting assistive suit utilizing rubber) to develop inexpensive, high-power devices. Furthermore, comparative verification of the assist effectiveness of each device was conducted.
The liquidation of undivided common land ownership in Hungary
Authors: Árvai Gergő
Published: December 2023

The issue of undivided common land ownership is a special anomaly in Hungarian land law that has been waiting for a solution for decades. As a result of the reorganization of land tenure relations after the change in regime and the legal successions that have taken place since then, almost one-third of Hungarian farmland is in common ownership. The legal institution of undivided common land ownership creates a bureaucratic obstacle to the circulation of farmland; the land register is unorganized due to the lack of knowledge of the co-owners, which exists only on the surface because of the small ownership they have, all of which lead to administrative burdens for land users and public administration and, in sum, reduce the competitiveness of Hungarian agriculture. As a result of the legislator's action in 2021, new rules allowed the liquidation of joint ownership, and from 2023, special land inheritance rules were introduced into the Hungarian legal system. This study focuses on the introduction of undivided common land ownership, relevant legal problems, and particularities of liquidation.
Evaluation of Proximal Femoral Bone Mineral Density in Cementless Total Hip Arthroplasty
Authors: Hooper Gary , Thompson Deirdre , Frampton Christopher , Lash Nicholas , Sharr Jonathan , Fulker David , Gilchrist Nigel
Published: December 2023

Background:

Femoral stem design affects periprosthetic bone mineral density (BMD), which may impact long-term survival of cementless implants in total hip arthroplasty (THA). The aim of this study was to examine proximal femoral BMD in 3 morphologically different uncemented femoral stem designs to investigate whether any particular design resulted in better preservation of BMD.

Methods:

A total of 119 patients were randomized to receive a proximally coated collarless dual-taper wedge stem, a proximally coated collarless anatomic stem, or a fully coated collarless triple-taper stem. All surgeries were performed via the posterior approach, with mobilization on the day of surgery. Dual x-ray absorptiometry scans (Lunar iDXA, GE Healthcare) assessed BMD across the 7 Gruen zones preoperatively and at 6 weeks and 2 years postoperatively; if available, the native contralateral femur was also assessed as a control. Patient-reported outcomes of pain, function, and health were also assessed at these follow-ups.

Results:

Averaged across all stems, BMD increased in zones 1 (2.5%), 2 (17.1%), 3 (13.0%), 5 (10%), and 6 (17.9%) at 2 years. Greater preservation of BMD was measured on the lateral cortex (zone 2) for both the dual-taper wedge and anatomic stems (p = 0.019). The dual-taper wedge stem also demonstrated preservation of BMD in the medial calcar (zone 7), while the anatomic and triple-taper stems declined in this region; however, the difference did not reach significance (p = 0.059). Averaged across all stems, BMD decreased in the mid-diaphysis region, distal to the stem tip (zone 4). All stems performed similarly at the time of final follow-up with respect to the patient-reported outcomes.

Conclusions:

This study demonstrated maintenance of femoral BMD after use of 3 different cementless femoral stem designs, with all achieving excellent improvements in patient-reported outcomes. The stems designed to load the proximal metaphyseal region resulted in higher BMD in that region. No significant stress-shielding was observed; however, longer follow-up is required to elucidate the impact of this finding on implant survivorship.

Level of Evidence:

Therapeutic Level I. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Intermediate to Long-Term Results Following Traumatic Hip Dislocation
Authors: Jaecker Vera , Zocholl Malin , Friederichs Jan , Osten Philipp , Fuchs Thomas , Stuby Fabian M. , Regenbogen Stephan
Published: December 2023

Background:

Traumatic hip dislocation is a rare yet severe injury. As the long-term morbidity, subsequent complications, and clinical outcomes are nearly unknown, we aimed to analyze traumatic hip dislocations and identify specific factors that may predict the clinical outcome.

Methods:

Data on injury-related characteristics and computed tomographic (CT) scans for all consecutive adult patients who had been managed for traumatic hip dislocation between 2009 and 2021 were analyzed. At the time of follow-up, the patients were assessed with regard to osteonecrosis, posttraumatic osteoarthritis (OA), further operations and complications, return to sports and work, and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs), including the Tegner Activity Scale and modified Harris hip score.

Results:

One hundred and twelve patients (mean age [and standard deviation], 43.12 ± 16.6 years) were included. Associated acetabular rim and femoral head fractures (Pipkin Type I to IV) were observed in 44% and 40% of patients, respectively. Concomitant injuries occurred in 67% of the patients, most commonly involving the knee (29% of patients). Sixty-nine patients (61.6%) were available for follow-up; the mean duration of follow-up was 6.02 ± 3.76 years. The rates of osteonecrosis and posttraumatic OA were 13% and 31.9%, respectively, and were independent of the timing of hip reduction, leading to subsequent total hip arthroplasty (THA) in 19% of patients. Sciatic nerve injury occurred in 27.5% of the patients who were available for follow-up. Both THA and sciatic nerve injury were associated with posterior acetabular rim or Pipkin Type-IV fractures (p < 0.001). Only 33.3% of the patients returned to their pre-injury level of sports, 24.6% did not return to work, and 27.5% reported having sexual dysfunction. PROMs (Tegner Activity Scale, modified Harris hip score) were significantly worse in patients with osteonecrosis, posttraumatic OA, or residual sciatic nerve injury (p < 0.05).

Conclusions:

Traumatic hip dislocations are predominantly associated with Pipkin and acetabular rim fractures, leading to overall limitations of activities of daily living, sports, and sexual function at intermediate to long-term follow-up. Patients with associated acetabular rim or Pipkin Type-IV fractures are most likely to require THA for the treatment of osteonecrosis or posttraumatic OA and are at greater risk for sustaining sciatic nerve injury.

Level of Evidence:

Prognostic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Working conditions of agricultural workers on mixing plant areas of foundry shops
Authors: Lazarenkov A. M. , Sadokha M. A.
Published: December 2023

The working conditions of agricultural workers on mixing plant areas are examined, including the production factors that determine these conditions. The results of research on the parameters of the working conditions for agricultural workers are compared with the regulatory values. It has been established that a comprehensive assessment of the working conditions of agricultural workers should take into account the duration of exposure to the working equipment, the equipment and manual tools used, and the nature of the production.
О перспективности метода аэродинамического звукового упрочнения сплавов
Authors: Stetsenko V. Yu.
Published: December 2023

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Application of catastrophe theory for mathematical modeling of landslide process on concave slopes of mountain territories
Authors:   National University of Science and Technology “MISIS”, KHALKECHEV Kemal , KHALKECHEV Ruslan ,   National University of Science and Technology “MISIS”
Published: December 2023

Introduction. Analysis of existing theoretical and experimental studies has shown that the model approach is the main method of landslide research. The existing mathematical model of landslides does not meet the requirements of the necessary adequacy. Materials and methods. This study uses a mathematical modeling methodology based on catastrophe theory. Results and discussion. To solve this actual problem, in this article authors developed a mathematical model of the landslide process on the concave slopes of mountainous territories. The developed model contains two components. The first of them is a mathematical model of the stress field in the volume of rocks located inside the slope section. This model uses the framework of fractal and multifractal modeling methods developed by the authors. The results of this model research are final expressions for calculating the stress field used rock pressure and bending stress as the external stress field. The superposition of the field induced by these external stresses gives the stress field in the volume of rocks located inside the slope section. Analysis of program implementation of this model showed that there are two areas in the slope section: compressive and tensile stresses adjacent to each other. At the boundary between these areas, there is a discontinuity of the stress field. A displacement surface passes along this boundary, forming a potentially landslide body. Moreover, it was found that a potentially landslide body on a slope is in a state of local and global instabilities. A potentially landslide body tends to occupy the position of the minimum potential energy. Local instability is expressed as the tendency of movement to a stable equilibrium without changing its location in the rock mass. The tendency of landslide body to move down the slope is a demonstration of global instability. The second mathematical model describes the realization of local instability that leads to the formation of a landslide body. Conclusion. According to the model analysis, it was found that the implementation of instability leads to the formation of a landslide body. At the same time, according to this analysis a landslide body can take up three stable equilibrium positions, allowing it to stay on the slope without global instability. Suggestions for practical application and direction of future research. The research results can be used to predict landslides on concave slopes of mountainous territories and to develop new mathematical models allowing to make the analysis of concave slopes of mountainous territories taking into account fracturing.
Deploying the World's Largest Bismuth Alloy Plug for Cost Effective P&A
Authors: Talapatra Didhiti , Carragher Paul John
Published: December 2023

This paper focusses on the successful re-abandonment of a subsea well in the Gulf of Mexico using a rigless approach. The operator had already abandoned the well using conventional technology, but it was still bubbling. The objective was to re-abandon the well by setting a reliable and permanent gas tight seal in the 36" conductor. To achieve this a herculean engineering and operational feat was undertaken to design and manufacture a custom tool using record breaking volume of bismuth and thermite. The tool was deployed from a lift boat and guided into the conductor using ROV's. A timer activation mechanism initiated the thermite heater melting the bismuth alloy cast on to the outside of the tool. The bismuth alloy once molten flowed into the well filling the entire cross section of the 36" conductor. The thermite heater was then retrieved from the molten alloy leaving a solid gas tight metal to metal seal inside the conductor. Observations confirmed the success of the operation, as the bismuth alloy plug created a reliable gas tight seal, with no observed bubbles for a duration of 20 hours. By utilizing bismuth alloy technology, the complexity associated with traditional abandonment methods was eliminated, while ensuring long term reliability. The use of bismuth alloy allowed for a shorter plug length, enabling deployment in the shallow conductor without extensive workover efforts not only reducing costs but also saving time and mitigating HSE risks.
Dissolver Treatments to Re-Instate Functionality of Subsurface Safety Valves in Water Injection Wells
Authors: Hatscher S. T. , Havrevoll N. , Herrmann T. , Gjersdal S. , Dzhuraev D. , Torsvik M.
Published: December 2023

The Downhole Safety Valve (DHSV) integrity tests of two water injection wells on the Nova subsea oil field on the Norwegian Continental Shelf failed after one month in operation. One of the two wells, W-1, also showed issues with the Injection Master Valve (IMV). The objective was to re-instate the functionality of all compromised valves as soon as possible.

First, the root cause for the malfunction was to be identified. Several hypotheses were developed and assessed, including mechanical and chemical issues. Both injectors (W-1 and W-4) are completed in the oil leg of the reservoir and have been cleaned up to rig before an injection test was conducted. The wells were then suspended for several months prior to initial start-up and commencement of water injection. Although wax inhibition was used during the clean-up, wax deposition at DHSV depth could not be fully discarded. Monoethylene glycol (MEG) has been deployed for hydrate mitigation after the injection tests and during initial well start-up. Pressure data indicated that at least partially, a column inversion within the tubing, from water to hydrocarbons, occurred during the suspension period. This observation gave support to that wax or hydrate deposition might restrict the DHSVs' flappers' movement.

Based on this hypothesis, an operation with an Inspection Maintenance and Repair (IMR) vessel was planned, organized and conducted within five weeks after the failed tests. The treatment concept included not only a wax dissolver, but also MEG and heated fluids to combine the benefits of temperature as well as chemical dissolution towards either potential type of deposit. Both wells were treated from the vessel as per plan. The operation successfully re-instated the functionality of all three compromised valves, allowing to safely commence water injection into the reservoir.