bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fungal-Algal Association Drives Lichen Mutualistic Symbiosis: A Case Study With Trebouxia-Related Lichens
Authors: Zuo Ya-Bo , Han Da-Yong , Wang Yan-Yan , Yang Qiu-Xia , Ren Qiang , Liu Xin-Zhan , Wei Xin-Li
Published: May 2023

Biotic and abiotic factors influence the formation of fungal-algal pairings in lichen symbiosis. It is poorly known which factors determine the specific associations, especially when distantly related fungi are considered. Here, we investigated the effect of different drivers on the association patterns of taxonomically diverse lichenized fungi and their trebouxioid symbiotic partners. In 200 samples collected across three biomes, we found 41 species of lichenized fungi, associating with 16 species of trebouxioid green algae, of which 62% were previously unreported. Species identity of the fungal and algal partner had the greatest effect on the outcome of the symbiosis compared with abiotic factors such as climatic variables and geographic distance. Partner specificity was found to be higher in tropical regions than in temperate and arctic regions. Co-phylogenetic analyses indicated congruent phylogenies of trebouxioid algae and associated fungi, rejecting their random associations. Evolutionary mechanisms contributing most to the observed phylogenetic patterns were ‘loss’ and ‘failure to diverge’ of the algal partners. This study broadens our knowledge of fungi-algae symbiotic patterns in view of Trebouxia-associated fungi.
Spin Frustrated Pyrazolato Triangular CuII Complex. Structure and Magnetic Properties, an Overview.
Authors: Cañón-Mancisidor Walter , Hermosilla-Ibáñez Patricio , Spodine Evgenia , Paredes-García Verónica , Gómez-García Carlos J. , Venegas-Yazigi Diego
Published: May 2023

The synthesis and structural characterization of a new triangular Cu3-3OH pyrazolato complex of formula, [Cu3(μ3-OH)(pz)3(Hpz)3][BF4]2 (1-Cu3), Hpz = pyrazole, is presented. The triangular unit forms a quasi-isosceles triangle with Cu-Cu distances of 3.3739(9), 3.3571(9), and 3.370(1) Å. This complex is isostructural to the hexanuclear complex [Cu3(μ3-OH)(pz)3(Hpz)3](ClO4)2]2 (QOPJIP). A comparative structural analysis with other reported triangular Cu3-3OH pyrazolato complexes has been done, showing that, depending on the pyrazolato derivative, auxiliary ligand or counter-anion can affect the nuclearity and/or the dimensionality of the system. The magnetic properties of 1-Cu3 are analyzed by experimental data and DFT calculation. A detailed analysis is done on the magnetic properties comparing experimental and theoretical data of other molecular triangular Cu3-3OH complexes, showing that the displacement of the μ3-OH- from the Cu3 plane, together with the type of organic ligands, influences the nature of the magnetic exchange interaction between the spin-carrier centers, since it affects the overlap of the magnetic orbitals involved in the exchange pathways. Finally, a detailed comparison of the magnetic properties of 1-Cu3 and QOPJIP was done, which allowed us to understand the differences in their magnetic properties.
Composition of Probabilistic Preferences in Multicriteria Problems With Variables Measured in Likert Scales and Fitted by Empirical Distributions
Authors: Gavião Luiz Octávio , Sant´Anna Annibal Parracho , Lima Gilson Brito Alves , Garcia Pauli Adriano de Almada
Published: May 2023

Multicriteria decision aid requires a database as a decision matrix, in which two or more alternatives are evaluated according to two or more variables selected as decision criteria. Several problems of this nature use measures by Likert scales. Depending on the method, parameters from these data (e.g. means, modes or medians) are required for calculations. This parameterization of data in ordinal scales has fueled controversy for decades between authors who favor mathematical/statistical rigor and argue against the procedure, stating that ordinal scales should not be parameterized, and scientists from other areas who have shown gains from the process that compensate for this relaxation. The aim of this article is to demonstrate the advantages of the Composition of Probabilistic Preferences (CPP) method in multicriteria problems with data from Likert scales. The CPP is capable of allaying the protests raised and obtaining more accurate results than descriptive statistics or parametric models can bring. The proposed algorithm in R-code involves the use of CPP with empirical distributions and fitting histograms of data measured by Likert scales. Two case studies with simulated datasets having peculiar characteristics and a real case illustrate the advantages of the CPP.
Study on Surface Settlement of Subway Tunnel Engineering Site overlying Soft Soil Layer under the Action of Earthquake
Authors: Wang Qiongyi , Zou Liang , Niu Yungang , Ma Fenghai , Lu Shasha , Fu Zhideyi
Published: May 2023

In order to study the surface settlement law of subway tunnel engineering site overlying soft soil layer under the action of earthquake, ABAQUS finite element analysis software was used to study the surface settlement law of subway tunnel construction site overlying soft soil layer under the action of three different seismic waves, including El-Centro wave, Kobe wave, and artificial seismic wave with exceedance probability of 10%, based on the Dalian Metro Line 5 with overlying soft soil layer as the engineering background, and the law was analyzed theoretically. Then, the surface settlement law of tunnel top was studied based on El-Centro wave and soft soil parameters, and the sensitivity analysis of soft soil parameters on surface settlement of tunnel top was carried out by orthogonal test method. The results show that under earthquake action, the settlement of the strata within a certain range of the tunnel roof is significantly greater than that of the surrounding strata, forming a settlement trough with a width of about 8 to 20 meters. The width of the settlement trough under the El-Centro wave is the largest, about 19.6 meters, surpassing the artificially synthesized seismic waves with a probability of 10%, which is about 15.6 meters, while the width of the settlement trough under the Kobe wave is the smallest, about 8.5 meters. The ground surface within a range of about 20 meters above the tunnel roof is most strongly affected by the seismic waves and the special lithology of the overlying soft soil layer, and the settlement is the largest. The settlement law of the settlement trough in the overlying strata of the tunnel conforms to the Peck formula. Increasing the elastic modulus of the silty soil can reduce the settlement of the ground surface above the tunnel roof, increasing the Poisson's ratio of the silty soil will increase the settlement of the ground surface above the tunnel roof, increasing the cohesive force of the silty soil to 20 kPa will basically stabilize the settlement of the ground surface above the tunnel roof, and increasing the internal friction angle of the silty soil will basically not change the settlement of the ground surface above the tunnel roof. The sensitivity of the soft soil parameters to the settlement of the ground surface above the tunnel roof is in the order of Poisson's ratio, elastic modulus, cohesive force, and internal friction angle.
Pastoral Differentiations on WTA Valuation for Grassland Eco-Subsidy – Empirical Study of 410 Herder Households in Grass-Livestock Balance Sub-Policy Zones in Inner Mongolia, China
Authors: Dong Jiayu , Ren Zimeng , Zhang Xinling , Liu Xiaoling
Published: May 2023

China’s Grassland Eco-Subsidy Program has been implemented since 2011 to protect and sustain grassland resources and improve the economic situation of herders. In this case study, we evaluated the policy from the perspective of pastoral differentiations and their willingness to accept (WTA) the eco-subsidy. Using the contingent valuation method (CVM), we interviewed 410 herder households in the grass-livestock balance sub-policy zones across Inner Mongolia, and examined how their horizontal and vertical differentiation affected their WTA and compensation expectations in a sorted Logistic model and a Tobit model, respectively. Our findings suggest that horizontal differentiation of herders (variations of income sources and employments) promoted the WTA for eco-subsidy and inhibited the increase of compensation expectations. A large vertical differentiation extent (income disparity) lowered the WTA but raised expectations for payment levels. Besides, factors such as operating pasture area, precipitation, and supervision intensity had significant impacts. Grazing income remained the primary income source for most herder households, reflecting the characteristics of "the rational economic man." Our results suggest a need for policy improvements to guide herders towards becoming "rational ecological men.” By considering this differentiation, policymakers can better tailor the program to meet the needs and expectations of diverse herder households.
A Survey on Fluorinated Greenhouse Gases in Taiwan: Emission Trends, Regulatory Strategies, and Abatement Technologies
Authors: Tsai Wen Tien , Tsai Chi Hung
Published: May 2023

Due to their excellent physicochemical properties, fluorinated greenhouse gases (F-gases), including hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), perfluorocarbons (PFCs), sulfur hexafluoride (SF6), and nitrogen trifluoride (NF3), are used in a variety of applications, but they are potent greenhouse gases. Therefore, they have been blanketed into the list of phase-out under the international protocols or treaties. In this work, the updated statistics of the Taiwan’s national inventory report (NIR) were used to analyze the trends of F-gases (i.e., HFCs, PFCs, SF6 and NF3) emissions during the period of 2000-2020. Furthermore, the regulatory strategies and measures for reducing the emissions of the four F-gases will be summarized to be in accordance with the national and international regulations. With the progressive efforts by the regulatory requirements and the industry’s voluntary reduction, the total F-gases emissions indicated a significant increase from 2,462 kilotons of carbon dioxide equivalents (CO2eq) in 2000 to the peak value (i.e., 12,643 kilotons) of CO2eq in 2004, but sharply decreased from 10,284 kilotons of CO2eq in 2005 to 3,906 kilotons of CO2eq in 2020. It was also found that the most commonly used method for controlling the emissions of F-gases from the semiconductor and optoelectronic industries was based on the thermal destruction-local scrubbing technology.
Assessing Contact Time and Concentration of Thymus vulgaris Essential Oil on Antibacterial Efficacy In Vitro
Authors: Galgano Michela , Pellegrini Francesco , Mrenoshki Daniela , Capozza Paolo , Omar Ahmed Hassan , Salvaggiulo Anna , Camero Michele , Lanave Gianvito , Tempesta Maria , Pratelli Annamaria , Buonavoglia Alessio
Published: May 2023

Overuse and misuse of antibiotics can pose the risks of spreading mutant strains that show antimicrobial resistance (AMR), with negative impact on management of bacterial infections and economic implications on healthcare systems. Research and development of natural antibacterial agents could be a priority in the next years to improve number of effective antibacterial molecules and to reduce AMR phenomenon and its development. The present study identified the most effective concentration and contact time of Thymus vulgaris L. essential oil (TEO) to obtain bactericidal effect in vitro against different Gram + and Gram – bacterial strains. Six clinically isolated (wild types) bacterial strains, (Citrobacter freundii, Enterococcus feciorum, Proteus mirabilis, Acinetobacter cioffi, Pasteurella putrefaciens, Klebsiella pneumoniae) and two ATCC (Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus mutans) were tested after 1min, 3min and 5min of contact with TEO. Preliminary results on S. aureus after 24h incubation revealed a TEO concentration of 9.28mg/mL (w/v) that completely inhibited bacteria growth keeping cell viability. Total suppression of bacterial growth at all tested contact times was observed for all tested bacterial strains and the results were confirmed after 48h incubation. Bacterial growth suppression was confirmed even with presence of organic component. These preliminary results showed in vitro antimicrobial efficacy of TEO against different Gram+ and Gram- bacterial strains. Future studies are necessary to confirm the reproducibility of these results even on other strains and to define exactly the molecular mechanisms of EOs, in order to consider TEO as a valid alternative of classic antibiotic therapies and subsequently to reduce the occurrence of AMR.
Enhancing the Role and Contributions of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in a Globalized and Innovative Economy: Challenges and Opportunities
Authors: Enaifoghe Andrew
Published: May 2023

This article explores the Role and Contributions of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in a globalized and innovative economy, looking specifically at the challenges and opportunities. The establishment and expansion of new firms provides a sizable amount of net new jobs. While high-expectation entrepreneurial enterprises and gazelles are usually found among innovative and technology-based new organizations, it is also essential that there be a sizable supply for them to play a significant part in economic growth. In other words, encouraging all forms of en-trepreneurship is likely to increase the number of innovative, fast-growing enterprises as well as entrepreneurship. In many European countries, entrepreneurship needs to be encouraged. Findings show the crucial role the SME sector plays in the South African economy in tackling sustainable development. About 90% of all official firms in South Africa are thought to be small, medium, or micro-enterprises. The study concluded that one of the major contributions to the South African economy is the SME sector. The SME is not just viewed as a source of new jobs, but also as a sector that absorbs laid-off workers from both the private and public sectors.
DC Circuit Breaker Evolution, Design, and Analysis
Authors: Moradian Mehdi , Lie Tek Tjing , Gunawardane Kosala
Published: May 2023

While traditional AC mechanical circuit breakers have been competent for protecting AC circuits, high penetration of DC power distribution technologies like DC microgrids (MGs) obligate better disruption performance features such as quick and reliable switch-ing speeds. However, a DC circuit breaker (DCCB) novel design is challenging due to the need to quickly break high currents within milliseconds, caused by the high fault current rise in DC grids compared to AC grids. In DC grids, the circuit breaker must provide zero current crossing and be designed for absorbing surges since the arc is not naturally extinguished by the system. Additionally, the DC breaker must mitigate the magnetic energy stored in the system inductance and withstand residual over-voltages after current interruption. These challenges require a fundamentally different topology for DCCBs, which are typically made using solid-state semiconductor technology, metal oxide varistors (MOV), and ultra-fast switches. This study aims to provide a comprehensive review on development, design, and performance description of DCCBs in parallel with a specific concentration on analysis of internal topology, energy absorption path and sub-circuits in Solid-State (SS)-based DCCBs. The research explores various novel designs that introduce different structures for energy dissipation solution. The classification of these designs is based on the fundamental principles of surge mitigation and a detailed analysis of the techniques employed in DCCBs. In addition, our framework offers an advantageous reference point for the future evolution of SS-circuit breakers in numerous developing power delivery systems.
The Beginner Laparoscopists Trends in the Learning Process Of Laparoscopy for Adnexal Gynecological Pathologies – The Experience of Our Center
Authors: Sima Romina-Marina , Crăițan Anca-Violeta , Pleș Liana , Bobircă Florin , Amza Mihaela , Gorecki Gabriel-Petre , Georgescu Mihai-Teodor , Hamoud Bashar Haj
Published: May 2023

Background: Laparoscopy for benign ovarian pathology is the appropriate surgical approach and it has a lot of well-known advantages. Minimal invasive gynecological surgery increases the quality of life for the patient. The learning process of laparoscopy is difficult and re-quires many interventions to acquire manual skills. The objectives of the study were to assess the learning process of laparoscopy for adnexal pathology surgery performed by beginner laparoscopists. Materials and Methods: This study included three gynecological surgeons who were beginners in laparoscopy and who were named A, B and C. We collected information about patients, diagnosis, surgical technique and complications. Results: We have analyzed the data from 159 patients. The most frequent primary diagnosis was functional ovarian cyst, and the laparoscopic cystectomy was performed in 49.1% of intervention. The need to convert a laparoscopy into laparotomy was necessary in 1.3% of patients. There were no cases of reintervention, blood transfusion or ureteral lesions. The duration of the surgical intervention varied statistically significantly according to patient's BMI and to the surgeon. After 20 laparoscopic interventions, a significant improvement was found in the time needed to perform ovarian cystectomy (operator A and B) and salpingectomy (operator C). Conclusions: The process of learning laparoscopy is laborious and difficult. We found a significant decrease in operating time after a number of twenty laparoscopic interventions.
Enhancing Energy Power Quality in Low Voltage Networks integrating Renewable Energy Generation with High Intermittency: A Case of Study in a Microgrid located in a High-Altitude Equatorial City
Authors: Villa-Ávila Edisson , Arévalo Paul , Aguado Roque , Ochoa-Correa Danny , Iñiguez-Morán Vinicio , Jurado Francisco , Tostado-Véliz Marcos
Published: May 2023

Nowadays, energy decarbonization due to the integration of renewable energy sources presents important challenges to overcome. The intermittent nature of photovoltaic systems reduces power quality by producing voltage variations and frequency deviations in electrical systems networks, especially, in weak and isolated distribution systems in developing countries. This paper presents a power smoothing method improving the low pass filter and moving average for grid-connected photovoltaic system, the novel method includes state-of-charge monitoring control of the supercapacitors energy storage system to reduce the fluctuations of photovoltaic power at the point of common coupling. A case study for a microgrid in a high-altitude city in Ecuador is presented with exhaustive laboratory tests using real data. The ultimate goal of this research is to improve energy power quality in electrical distribution systems to cope with the growth of renewable penetration.
Research on Restorative Environment Characteristics through Urban Forest User Experience Focusing on Big Data of Dobongsan Mountain in Seoul, Korea
Authors: Chae Jinhae , Park Jaemin , Kim Seonghak
Published: May 2023

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, urban forest mountains have become important restorative environmental spaces, and demand-customized management based on users’ experiences is needed. We collected 21,557 data points from blogs from January 2020 to December 2021. For data analysis, keyword frequency, term frequency-inverse document frequency, and sentiment analyses were conducted using TEXTOM 4.0, and a semantic linkage network was established and analyzed using Gephi 0.92. In the analyses, the restorative environment components of “being away” “fascination,” “extent,” and “compatibility” were derived from users’ experiences. Fascination, which stems from natural objects such as rocks, valleys, and trails, was derived the most frequently, and being away and compatibility, representing leisure activities such as climbing and walking, formed the largest cluster in cluster analysis. Sentiment analysis revealed a high positive word rate of 91.6%, with favorable feelings accounting for 87.5%, whereas the proportions of joy and interest (12.5%) were relatively low. This study showed that leisure activities related to nature objects had a positive impact. However, joy and interest, which correspond to vitality, were relatively lacking in the restorative experience. To improve restorative experience quality, diversification of leisure activities should be promoted and customized management plans corresponding to restorative environment components developed.
Adjuvant Oligonucleotide Vaccine Increases Survival of Transgenic Mice [B6.Cg-Tg (K18-ACE2)2]
Authors: Oberemok Volodymyr , Laikova Kateryna , Yurchenko Kseniya , Novikov Ilya , Makalish Tatyana , Kubyshkin Anatolii , Andreeva Oksana , Bilyk Anastasiya
Published: May 2023

The main problem in creating anti-coronavirus vaccines that target mainly proteins of the outer membrane of the virus remains the rapid variability of the RNA genome of the pathogen that encodes these proteins. In addition, the introduction of technologies that can provide affordable and fast production of flexible vaccine formulas that easily adapt to the emergence of new subtypes of SARS-CoV-2 is required. Universal oligonucleotide vaccine can take into account the dynamics of rapid changes in the virus genome, as well as be synthesized on automatic DNA synthesizers in large quantities in a short time. In this brief report, the effectiveness of four phosphorothioate constructs of the La-S-so type oligonucleotide vaccine will be evaluated for the first time on transgenic mice [B6.Cg-Tg (K18-ACE2)2]. In our primary trials, the oligonucleotide vaccine increased the survival rate of animals infected with SARS-CoV-2 and also reduced the destructive effects of the virus on the lung tissue of mice. The obtained results show the perspective of the development of vaccine constructs of the La-S-so type for the prevention of coronavirus infections, including those caused by SARS-СoV-2.
Nightingale: Web components for protein feature visualization
Authors: Salazar Gustavo A , Luciani Aurelien , Watkins Xavier , Kandasaamy Swaathi , Rice Daniel L , Blum Matthias , Bateman Alex , Martin Maria
Published: May 2023

Motivation: The visualization of biological data is a fundamental technique that enables researchers to understand and explain biology. Some of these visualizations have become iconic, for instance: tree views for taxonomy, cartoon rendering of 3D protein structures, or tracks to represent features in a gene or protein, for instance in a genome browser. Nightingale provides visualizations in the context of proteins and protein features. Results: Nightingale is a library of re-usable data visualization web components that are currently used by UniProt and InterPro, among other projects. The components can be used to display protein sequence features, variants, interaction data, 3D structure, etc. These components are flexible, allowing users to easily view multiple data sources within the same context, as well as compose these components to create a customized view. Availability: Nightingale examples and documentation are freely available at https://ebi-webcomponents.github.io/nightingale/. It is distributed under the MIT license, and its source code can be found at https://github.com/ebi-webcomponents/nightingale.
Using Carbon tax to reach the US’s 2050 NDCs goals - A CGE Model of Firms, Government and Households
Authors: Yen Kejia , Gupta Rakesh , Maheshwari Suneel K
Published: May 2023

Our study shows how the United States government can achieve its goal of Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) in 2025, 2030, and 2050 by reducing energy consumption through a pure carbon tax. To achieve its emissions reduction goals, it is necessary for the US to impose a long-term carbon tax that balances taxes on labour, capital, energy, and carbon. Therefore, in this study, through the two-layer CGE Cobb-Douglas model, the carbon tax rate is set while balancing the production and profit functions of government, businesses, and households. This study concludes that the carbon price will increase from US$ 0.4391/kg CO2 in 2020 to US$ 2.5671/kg CO2 in 2050 when the CO2 emissions reduction target is increased from 17% reduction in 2020 to 83% reduction in 2050 for the US.
Two Novel Neutral Cyclometalated iridium(III) Complexes Based on 10,11,12,13-Tetrahydrodibenzo[a, C]phenazine for Efficient Red Electroluminescences
Authors: Jiang Zizhan , Zhao Han , Zhou Weiqiao , Zeng Qin , Zhang Zihao , Jiang Junjie , Gong Yongyang , Miao Yanqin , Guo Song , Liu Yuanli
Published: May 2023

Two novel neutral phosphorescent iridium(III) complexes (Ir1 and Ir2) were rationally designed and synthesized with high yields using 10,11,12,13-tetrahydrodibenzo[a,c]phenazine as the main ligand. The two complexes showed bright red phosphorescence (625 nm for Ir1, and 620 nm for Ir2, in CH2Cl2), high luminescence quantum efficiency (0.32 for Ir1, and 0.35 for Ir2), obvious solvatochromism and good thermostability. Then, they were used to fabricate high-efficiency red OLEDs via vacuum evaporation, the maximum CE, PE, and EQE of the red devices based on Ir1 and Ir2 are 13.47/15.22 cd/A, 10.35/12.26 lm/W, and 10.08/7.48%, respectively.
Leader-follower Formation Tracking Control of Underactuated Surface Vehicles Based on Event-trigged Control
Authors: Xia Xiaoming , Yang Zhaodi , Yang Tianxiang
Published: May 2023

This paper investigates the leader–follower formation tracking control of underactuated surface vessels (USVs) with input saturation. Each vessel is subject to the uncertainties induced by model uncertainties and environmental disturbances. At first, an event-trigged extended state observer (ETESO) is used to recover the velocity, yaw rate and the uncertainties. Then, an estimator is used to estimate velocity of the leader. An event-trigged controller (ETC) is constructed based on the estimator, the observer and extra variables. Specifically, extra variables are used to solve the underactuated problem and input saturation. Stability analysis of control system is given to prove all signals are bounded. Simulations demonstrate that the ETESO can estimate accurately the uncertainties, the velocity and yaw rate; the ETC can largely reduce the action times of actuator.
Auditory Processing in Musicians: a Basis for Auditory Training Optimization
Authors: Kyrtsoudi Maria , Sidiras Christos , Papadelis Georgios , Iliadou Vasiliki Maria
Published: May 2023

Better auditory processing of musicians is observed in previous research. As musicians differentiate their practice method and performance environment, we aimed to assess auditory perception in Greek musicians with respect to their musical specialization. If there are differences, this may provide a basis for better shaping auditory training in individuals with auditory processing disorder. The auditory tests administered were speech in noise (Speech in Babble), with and without rhythmic advantage (Word Recognition—Rhythm Component), short-term and working memory (Digit Span - Forward and Backwards), temporal resolution (Gaps In Noise) and detection of frequency discrimination threshold (DFL). Groups consisted of classical musicians, Byzantine chanters, percussionists, and non-musicians (12 participants/group). Statistical analysis revealed significant difference in: (i) word recognition in noise with precursor synchronized pulse between classical musicians compared to Byzantine musicians, (ii) better frequency discrimination of Byzantine musicians compared to non-musicians for the 2000Hz region and (iii) working memory, an advantage detected in musicians. Considering all the above, we conclude that musicians have a superior auditory perception, regardless of musical specialization. Musical training enhances elements of auditory processing and may be used as an additional rehabilitation during auditory training, focusing on specific types of music for specific auditory processing deficits.
MODERN DEVELOPMENTS RELATED TO THE DIRECTED IMPACT ON THE CUTTING SURFACE OF A DIAMOND ABRASIVE TOOL AND ITS CONTACT ZONE IN THE PROCESSES OF MACHINING (REVIEW)
Authors: Lavrinenko Valerii , Fedorovich Vladimir , Ostroverkh Yevgeniy , Solod Volodymyr
Published: May 2023

This article provides information on modern developments in the direction of directed impact on the cutting surface of a diamond-abrasive tool and its contact zone in machining processes. For the most part, such processing is faced with issues of influence on the cutting surface of diamond tools, including ruling mechanical and electrophysical, taking into account the defectiveness of the diamonds that undergo processing, the directed influence on the surface of such diamonds, thermal and modification of the surface of diamonds. Such developments make it possible to significantly intensify processing processes and increase the efficiency of the diamond abrasive tool. That is why, in this review, the main attention is paid to the presentation of modern developments, known from scientific publications, mainly for the last 5 years, related to the above-mentioned issues.
REGULARITIES OF VIBRATION FINISHING AND GRINDING PROCESSING AND DIRECTIONS OF IMPROVEMENT OF ITS INTENSITY AND QUALITY
Authors: Fedorovich Vladimir , Mitsyk Andrii
Published: May 2023

The data on the labor intensity of manufacturing engineering products and the share of finishing and grinding operations in the total labor costs of their manufacture are presented. The list and the degree of mastering the technological operations of finishing and grinding processing, performed in the conditions of machine-building industries during the last years are given. The grounds are given for highlighting the method of vibration processing as the most promising for ensuring complete mechanization of the process of finishing and cleaning, as well as achieving high technological characteristics of the surface roughness of parts. An assessment was made of the influence of modes, the trajectory of the movement of the reservoir and the grain size of the granules of the abrasive medium on metal removal. It is indicated that the intensity and quality of vibration treatment is estimated quantitatively by the weight removal of metal and qualitatively by the roughness of the processed surface. It is indicated that the determining factor in this case is the speed of the oscillating movement of granules and parts, the difference of which represents the speed of vibration processing, depending on the speed of the oscillating movement of the medium. It is noted that in order to increase the productivity of the process, it is necessary to increase the speed of the medium by increasing the frequency and amplitude of the reservoir oscillations. The layer-by-layer transmission of a force impulse from the bottom of the reservoir to the bulk medium is considered. The physical meaning of increasing productivity by increasing the amplitude of the reservoir oscillations is indicated. The conditions for obtaining metal removal are indicated, which provide increased efforts for the interaction of granules with parts at high micro-cutting speeds. Experimental studies are described to determine the influence of the amplitude and frequency of oscillations on the results of vibration finishing and grinding. Graphic dependences of metal removal were obtained for various ratios of the sample weight to the weight of the medium granule. The dependence of metal removal on the ellipticity coefficient and the amplitude of the reservoir oscillations was obtained in a similar way. It is noted that the vertical component of the amplitude during in-plane oscillations of the reservoir is the determining factor of the complex influence of the parameters of the ellipse coefficient of the trajectory of the reservoir and its amplitude of oscillations. It has been established that when using a coarse-grained abrasive, the penetration of grains into the metal of the part occurs to a greater depth and larger metal chips are removed with a large metal removal. With a small grain size of the abrasive, small chips are removed with a small metal removal and a decrease in the height of micro-roughness.
IMPROVING THE EFFICIENCY OF MAINTENANCE PROCESS IN MANUFACTURING SYSTEMS USING INDUSTRY 4.0 TOOLS
Authors: Tamás Péter , Hermans Marc
Published: May 2023

In ever bigger quest to maximal efficiency, this article wants to show a route for Total Production Maintenance (TPM) at maximal efficiency. By bringing the digital twin into the real world, this essay wants to show how a digital twin can be used as a reliable basis for controlling the running line. But before the digital twin can be used at its maximal potential, a common ground must be defined not only in calculating Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE), but also in categorizing TPM tasks according to 3 factors of OEE. The paper outlines the foundations of a new concept that has not been applied in practice.
INCREASING THE ACCURACY OF DEFECTOSCOPY BY THE METHOD OF ACTIVE THERMOGRAPHY OF PRODUCTS MADE OF NON-METALLIC HETEROGENEOUS MATERIALS AND USED IN ENGINEERING
Authors: Tonkonogyi Vladimir , Stanovskyi Oleksandr , Holofieieva Maryna , Levynskyi Oleksandr , Klimov Serhiy
Published: May 2023

Nowadays, non-metallic heterogeneous materials are widely used in mechanical engineering, which is primarily due to their unique properties, such as strength, light weight, corrosion resistance, and high vibration, sound, and heat insulation characteristics. At the same time, non-destructive control methods that would allow to obtain the most complete picture of the defective state of products made of such materials are of great importance. The main task of the work is the development of optimal algorithms for determining each defect of a product made of non-metallic heterogeneous material with the establishment of its exact location, including the depth of occurrence, as well as its geometric parameters. The method of thermal non-destructive testing is considered promising. Studies of the accuracy of determining the parameters of defects in non-metallic heterogeneous materials by the specified method have been carried out.
INVESTIGATION OF FACE MILLED SURFACE TOPOGRAPHY ON C45 WORKPIECE ASSUMING MOVEMENT AT 30° AND 60° TO FEED DIRECTION
Authors: Nagy Antal , Kundrak Janos
Published: May 2023

When surfaces with anisotropic texture are moved in different directions related to their assembled counterpart during operation, the friction conditions change, as they are determined by the lay of the topographies. In the article, contributing to the exploration of this characteristic, we analyze the inhomogeneity of the topography on a face milled plane surface with a symmetrical setting in sections at an angle of 30° or 60° to the feed direction. Roughness profiles are recorded at 13 points located equidistantly from each other in each measurement plane, and the degree and distribution of the roughness deviations are determined on the surface.
Periacetabular Osteotomy for Symptomatic Acetabular Dysplasia in Patients ≥40 Years Old
Authors: Novais Eduardo N. , Ferraro Samantha L. , Miller Patricia , Kim Young-Jo , Millis Michael B. , Clohisy John C.
Published: May 2023

Background:

The Bernese periacetabular osteotomy (PAO) is controversial as a treatment for symptomatic acetabular dysplasia in patients ≥40 years of age. We conducted a retrospective study to evaluate the outcomes, measure the survival rate, and identify factors associated with PAO failure in patients ≥40 years of age.

Methods:

We performed a retrospective study of patients ≥40 years of age undergoing PAO. Study eligibility criteria were met by 166 patients (149 women; mean age, 44 ± 3 years), and 145 (87%) were followed for ≥4 years after PAO. We used a Kaplan-Meier curve with right-censoring to calculate survivorship, with “failure” defined as either conversion to or recommendation for total hip arthroplasty or a Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) pain score of ≥10 at the most recent follow-up. We used simple logistic regression models to determine whether any preoperative characteristics were significantly associated with PAO failure.

Results:

The median follow-up time was 9.6 years (range, 4.2 to 22.5 years). Sixty-one of 145 hips (42%, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 34% to 51%) experienced PAO failure during follow-up. The median survival time was 15.5 years (95% CI = 13.4 to 22.1 years). The median survival time was longer for hips with no or mild preoperative osteoarthritis: 17.0 years for Tönnis grade 0, 14.6 years for grade 1, and 12.9 years for grade 2. Higher preoperative Tönnis arthritis grades (p = 0.03) and worse WOMAC function scores (p < 0.001) were associated with an increased likelihood of failure.

Conclusions:

PAO is usually effective at improving function and is effective at preserving the hip in patients ≥40 years of age provided that they have good preoperative function and no or mild preoperative osteoarthritis (Tönnis grade 0 or 1). Patients who are ≥40 years old with advanced preoperative osteoarthritis (Tönnis grade 2) and those with poor preoperative dysfunction have a high risk of therapeutic failure after PAO.

Level of Evidence:

TherapeuticLevel IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Allowing Standing and Assisted Steps in a Patient With Renshaw Type IV Sacral Agenesis
Authors: Martínez-Caballero Ignacio , Gabardo Santiago , Galán-Olleros María , García Cruz Guillermo , Herraiz Ayllón María , Egea-Gámez Rosa M.
Published: May 2023

Case:

A 6-year-old boy with a Renshaw type 4 sacral agenesis presented paraplegia and rigid, “Buddha-like” lower-limb contractures, including severe knee pterygia, which made crawling and sitting difficult. Staged surgical treatment involved bilateral knee disarticulation, soft tissue surgery, and bifocal femoral osteotomies for lower-limb reorientation. At 18 months postoperatively and after prosthetic fitting, the patient can stand and take steps with assistance.

Conclusion:

This effective surgical strategy achieves standing in a troublesome orthopaedic congenital condition. The intervention should be tailored to specific orthopaedic disorders and the wishes of patients and families, aiming to improve function.
Bank Communication in Building a Saving Culture at Bank Muamalat Indonesia Madiun Sub-Branch Office
Authors: Utami Anita Putri , Hanifuddin Iza
Published: May 2023

Communication is needed by every individual or group in interacting. Without community communication, it is impossible to form, on the contrary, without society, it is impossible for humans to develop communication. Communication is very important in an institution, one of which is Bank Muamalat Indonesia KCP Madiun. Based on the results of interviews conducted with customers, it can be said that communication at Bank Muamalat Indonesia KCP Madiun is good, but CS neglects to inform the advantages and other service features in the product so that it does not affect customers to make transactions at the Bank, especially in terms of saving. This is not in accordance with the theory put forward by Harold Laswell that communication is defined as: Who Says What Through What Channel To Whom With What Effect?. The main purpose of this research is to describe several things which include bank communication patterns, narration of communication language, and the impact of narration of communication language on the culture of saving at Bank Muamalat Indonesia KCP Madiun. Methods This research uses qualitative research methods. While the data collection techniques used were interviews, observation, and documentation. The results of the study conclude that there are 4 communication patterns used at Bank Muamalat Indonesia KCP Madiun in building a culture of saving, namely primary, linear, secondary and circular communication patterns. The narration of the communication language applied by Bank Muamalat Indonesia KCP Madiun is that it has used good language, easy to understand and in accordance with the script recommended by the bank, but in the CS section the narrative used is still not optimal, which is indicated by the negligence of CS in conveying the advantages of products and features other services. The impact arising from the application of the language communication narrative is the lack of knowledge and understanding of customers about the product so that it does not generate customer interest in saving.
Knowledge of Obstetric Danger Signs and Birth Preparedness and Complications Readiness among Mobile Pokot Nomadic Pastoralists’ Pregnant Women in Tiaty Sub-County, Baringo County-Kenya
Authors: KIPTULON EVANS Kasmai , Orsolya Mate
Published: May 2023

Problem: Maternal mortality in Kenya remains unacceptably high. Mobile pastoralist communities, Pokot community included take the greatest burden of these maternal deaths.
Background: Knowledge of obstetric danger signs is important for the prevention of pregnancy and birth complications as it influences pregnant women to prepare for birth and complications.
Aim: To assess the level of knowledge of obstetrics danger signs and their effect on Birth Preparedness and complications Readiness among mobile Pokot nomadic pastoralists in Kenya.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 275 Pokot nomadic pastoralists’ pregnant women using a multistage sampling technique. Chi-square (X2) was used to test the association between categorical variables and a P-value of <0.05 was considered significant.
Findings: Most of the women had high knowledge of obstetric danger signs. However, the level of Birth Preparedness and complication readiness was low.
Discussion: Knowledge of obstetric danger signs and birth preparedness and complication readiness remains a key subject in the fight against maternal mortality especially in pastoralists and unsettled communities where services are unpredictable and disrupted by frequent movements.
Conclusion: Maternal mortality, which remains a major reproductive health concern in Kenya may be reduced through the government and other stakeholders' deliberate delivery of quality antenatal care targeting mobile Pokot and other pastoralists living in Kenya.
Comparison of oral nifedipine and labetalol in the management of hypertension during pregnancy in tertiary hospital in Pakistan, a cross sectional study
Authors: Awan Nukhbat ullah , Fida Tooba , Waheed Khadija , Malik Uzma , Aslam Ayesha , Mehmood Khansa , abiddin Zain ul , Haider Muhammad Usman
Published: May 2023

INTRODUCTION: Hypertension is a common medical disorder in pregnancy, complicating one in ten pregnancies. There is a documented association of untreated hypertension during pregnancy and adverse fetomaternal outcomes. Options for oral antihypertensive include methyldopa, nifedipine and lately labetalol. With multiple oral anti-hypertensives being introduced, it is important to test and compare the efficacy of these drugs. OBJECTIVES:to compare the efficacy of oral nifedipine with oral labetalol in the management of patients with hypertension during pregnancy METHOD: Total 62 patients with a diagnosis of hypertension in pregnancy were included and randomly divided into two groups using lottery method i.e. Group-A: Oral Labetalol (200–1800 mg/d) and Group-B: Oral Nifedipine (20–80 mg/day) for blood monitoring on daily basis. Data were entered and analyzed using SPSS v26.0. Independent sample t-test and chi square test were applied to compare the quantitative and qualitative variables. RESULTS: Mean ages of the patients into group-A was 24.19 ± 2.926 years and 23.32 ± 2.688 years of patients in group-B. Mean gestational age of patients in group-A was 29.58 ± 3.529 weeks and 29.39 ± 3.442 weeks of patients in group-B. In group-A (Oral Labetalol), successful control of hypertension at least one of regular usage was noted in 31(100.0%) patients and 31(100.0%) patients in group-B, while proteinuria was noted in 2(6.5%) patients and 6(19.4%) patients in group-B CONCLUSION: Both oral Labetalol as well as Nifedipine controls mean blood pressures in the pregnant woman having hypertension. This research is providing supports for large definitive trials scrutinizing benefit and the side effect of the firstlined antihypertensive treatments. The research has been conducted after the approval through the IRB committee of KEMU/ Lady Aitchison hospital with the registration number 15322/REG/KEMU/2022 dated 04/11/22
Prevalence and Risk Factors of Oral Cancer and Precancerous Lesions Among the Indigenous Nicobarese Tribe of Remote Car Nicobar Island, India: A Community Based Study
Authors: Parvez Rehnuma , Roy Avijit , sivanandan Nimisha , Junaid Mohammed , Ramasamy Jawahar , Shahid P.P Abdul , Shergill Gurshinderpal Singh , Kaur Harpreet , Nagarajan Muruganandam
Published: May 2023

Background:Tobacco usage and consumption of alcoholic beverages are reported to be high among the Nicobarese tribe. The main objective of this study was to assess the status of oral cancer and precancerous lesions among this tribe.Methods:A cross-sectional study was conducted for screening Nicobarese tribal population by documenting the details of the potential risk factors in a predesigned proforma and clinically examining them according to WHO guidelines. A total of 2600 individuals from 10 study villages by including 260 individuals from each village were screened in the study. Informed consent was collected from each participant.Results:The prevalence of oral precancerous lesions including oral cancer was found to be 9.92% whereas oral cancer alone was 0.19%. Tobacco use by smoking cigarettes, using smokeless tobacco in form of sukka alone or with an adjunct to other forms of smokeless tobacco were significantly associated with oral cancer and precancerous lesions. These oral lesions were predominant in the age group of 26- 45 years and male.Conclusions:There is no available data on the prevalence of oral cancer and precancerous lesions among the indigenous Nicobarese tribe of remote Car Nicobar Island. Our study reports a high prevalence of oral precancerous lesions among this tribe. Although the prevalence of oral cancer is low the use of smokeless tobacco is much higher than the national prevalence. Hence early screening for oral lesions and creating awareness of the harmful effects of tobacco is necessary among this tribe.