bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improving the efficiency of crossbred Pradu Hang Dam chicken production for meat consumption using cold plasma technology on eggs
Authors: Sakulthai Apichaya , Sawangrat Choncharoen , Pichpol Duangporn , Kongkapan Jutamart , Srikanchai Tiranun , Charoensook Rangsun , Sojithamporn Phanumas , Boonyawan Dheerawan
Published: February 2023

The Pradu Hang Dam chicken, a Thai Native Chicken (TNCs) breed, plays an important role in many regions of Thailand because of its chewiness. However, there are some challenges with Thai Native Chicken, such as low production and slow growth rates. Therefore, this research investigates the efficiency of cold plasma technology in enhancing the production and growth rates of TNCs. First, this paper presents the embryonic development and hatch of fertile (HoF) values of treated fertilized eggs. Chicken performance indices, such as feed intake, average daily gain (ADG), feed conversion ratio (FCR), and serum growth hormone measurement, were calculated to assess chicken development. Furthermore, the potential of cost reduction was evaluated by calculating return over feed cost (ROFC). Finally, the quality aspects of chicken breast meat, including color, pH value, weight loss, cooking loss, shear force, and texture profile analysis, were investigated to evaluate cold plasma technology's impact on chicken meat. The results demonstrated that the production rate of male Pradu Hang Dam chickens (53.20%) was higher than females (46.80%). Moreover, cold plasma technology did not significantly affect chicken meat quality. According to the average return over feed cost calculation, the livestock industry could reduce feeding costs by approximately 17.42% in male chickens. Therefore, cold plasma technology is beneficial to the poultry industry to improve production and growth rates and reduce costs while being safe and environmentally friendly.
Preclinical dental students self-assessment of an improved operative dentistry virtual reality simulator with haptic feedback
Authors: Rodrigues Pedro , Nicolau Francisco , Norte Martim , Zorzal Ezequiel , Botelho João , Machado Vanessa , Proença Luís , Alves Ricardo , Zagalo Carlos , Lopes Daniel Simões , Mendes José João
Published: February 2023

To test and evaluate the second installment of DENTIFY, a virtual reality haptic simulator for Operative Dentistry (OD), on preclinical dental students, by focusing on user performance and self-assessment. Twenty voluntary unpaid preclinical dental students, with different background experience, were enrolled for this study. After the completion of an informed consent, a demographic questionnaire, and being introduced to the prototype (on the first testing session), three testing sessions followed (S1, S2, S3). Each session involved the following steps: (I) free experimentation; (II) task execution; S3 also included (III) completion of questionnaires associated with the experiment (total of 8 Self-Assessment Questions (SAQ)); and (IV) guided interview. As expected, drill time decreased steadily for all tasks when increasing prototype use, verified by RM ANOVA. Regarding performance metrics (Comparisons by Student’s t-test and ANOVA) recorded at S3, in overall, a higher performance was verified for participants with the following characteristics: female, non-gamer, no previous VR experience and with over 2 semesters of previous experience of working on phantom models. The correlation between the participants’ performance (drill time), for the four tasks, and user self-assessment evaluation, verified by Spearman’s rho analysis, allowed to conclude that a higher performance was observed in students who responded that DENTIFY improved their self perception of manual force applied. Regarding the questionnaires, Spearman’s rho analysis showed a positive correlation between the improvement DENTIFY inputs on conventional teaching sensed by students, also enhancing their interest in learning OD, their desire to have more simulator hours and the improvement sensed on manual dexterity. All participating students adhered well to the DENTIFY experimentation. DENTIFY allows for student self-assessment and contributes to improving student performance. Simulators with VR and haptic pens for teaching in OD should be designed as a consistent and gradual teaching strategy, allowing multiplicity of simulated scenarios, bimanual manipulation, and the possibility of real-time feedback to allow for the student’s immediate self-assessment. Additionally, they should create performance reports per student to ensure self-perception/criticism of their evolution over longer periods of learning time.
Baseline characteristics in the Israel refraction, environment, and devices (iREAD) study
Authors: Shneor Einat , Ostrin Lisa A. , Doron Ravid , Benoit Julia S. , Levine Jonathan , Davidson Kevin , Gordon-Shaag Ariela
Published: February 2023

The purpose of this study is to present baseline data from a longitudinal study assessing behavioral factors in three groups of boys in Israel with varying myopia prevalence. Ultra-Orthodox (N = 57), religious (N = 67), and secular (N = 44) Jewish boys (age 8.6 ± 1.4 years) underwent cycloplegic autorefraction and axial-length measurement. Time-outdoors and physical-activity were assessed objectively using an Actiwatch. Ocular history, educational factors, and near-work were assessed with a questionnaire. Group effects were tested and mixed effects logistic and linear regression were used to evaluate behaviors and their relationship to myopia. The prevalence of myopia (≤ − 0.50D) varied by group (ultra-Orthodox: 46%, religious: 25%, secular: 20%, P < 0.021). Refraction was more myopic in the ultra-Orthodox group (P = 0.001). Ultra-Orthodox boys learned to read at a younger age (P < 0.001), spent more hours in school (P < 0.001), spent less time using electronic devices (P < 0.001), and on weekdays, spent less time outdoors (P = 0.02). Increased hours in school (OR 1.70) and near-work (OR 1.22), increased the odds of myopia. Being ultra-Orthodox (P < 0.05) and increased near-work (P = 0.007) were associated with a more negative refraction. Several factors were associated with the prevalence and degree of myopia in young boys in Israel, including being ultra-Orthodox, learning to read at a younger age, and spending more hours in school.
Rapid shift in greenhouse forcing of emerging arctic peatlands
Authors: Christensen Torben R. , Scheller Johan , Scheel Maria , Rudd Daniel Alexander , Jackowicz-Korczynski Marcin , Mastepanov Mikhail , López-Blanco Efrén
Published: February 2023

In this study, we hypothesised that the actual development stage (i.e., current age of the ecosystem) is a determining factor for the magnitude of methane production and emissions in young, northern high-latitude peatlands. We demonstrate that the earliest development of peat soil imposes a sink-to-source shift in the greenhouse warming potential of emerging peatlands in response to climate change that holds feedback mechanisms of importance for short-term (< 100 years) climate warming.
Modulation of AMPK/ TET2/ 5-hmC axis in response to metabolic alterations as a novel pathway for obesity-related colorectal cancer development
Authors: Kon Takashi , Sasaki Yu , Abe Yasuhiko , Onozato Yusuke , Yagi Makoto , Mizumoto Naoko , Sakai Takayuki , Umehara Matsuki , Ito Minami , Nakamura Shuhei , Goto Hiroki , Ueno Yoshiyuki
Published: February 2023

Obesity is a major risk factor for colorectal cancer (CRC). Sustained hyperglycemia destabilizes tumor suppressor ten-eleven translocation (TET) 2, which is a substrate of AMPK, thereby dysregulating 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5-hmC). However, the role played by this novel pathway in the development of obesity-related CRC is unclear. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the expression levels of TET2 and 5-hmC in obesity-related CRC and the effects of TET2 expression on the proliferation of CRC cells. To this end, surgically resected CRC samples from seven obese patients (Ob-CRC) and seven non-obese patients (nOb-CRC) were analyzed, and expression levels of the TET family and 5-hmC were compared between the groups. A decrease was observed in TET2 mRNA levels and 5-hmC levels in Ob-CRC compared to that in nOb-CRC. Furthermore, we used CRC cell lines to investigate the relationship between insulin, proliferation, and TET expression and AMPK. In cell lines, glucose and insulin treatments suppressed the expression of TET2 and increased cell proliferation. Downregulation of TET2 using siRNA also induced cell proliferation. An AMPK activator inhibited insulin- or glucose-stimulated cell proliferation and restored TET2 expression. We propose the AMPK-TET2-5-hmC axis as a novel pathway and potential therapeutic target in obesity-related CRC development.
Gas-phase organometallic catalysis in MFM-300(Sc) provided by switchable dynamic metal sites
Authors: Obeso Juan L. , López-Olvera Alfredo , Flores Catalina V. , Peralta Ricardo A. , Ibarra Ilich A. , Leyva Carolina
Published: February 2023

MFM-300(Sc) was explored as a catalyst for the gas-phase hydrogenation of acetone. The reaction was driven by Sc(iii) dynamics sites.
Magnesium: properties and rich chemistry for new material synthesis and energy applications
Authors: Shin Cheol-Hwan , Lee Ha-Young , Gyan-Barimah Caleb , Yu Jeong-Hoon , Yu Jong-Sung
Published: February 2023

Magnesium (Mg) has many unique properties. The present review highlights the basic properties of Mg and its application in energy processes such as photocatalysis, electrocatalysis, energy storage, solar harvesting, hydrogen storage, plasmonic, and sensing.
Goji berry leaf exerts a comparable effect against colitis and microbiota dysbiosis to its fruit in dextran-sulfate-sodium-treated mice
Authors: Yu Chengxiao , Chen Yihao , Ahmadi Shokouh , Wu Dongmei , Wu Jiaxiong , Ding Tian , Liu Donghong , Ye Xingqian , Chen Shiguo , Pan Haibo
Published: February 2023

We highlighted for the first time the potential anti-colitis effect of goji berry leaf comparable to goji berry.
Recent innovations in the technology and applications of low-dimensional CuO nanostructures for sensing, energy and catalysis
Authors: Baranov Oleg , Bazaka Kateryna , Belmonte Thierry , Riccardi Claudia , Roman H. Eduardo , Mohandas Mandhakini , Xu Shuyan , Cvelbar Uroš , Levchenko Igor
Published: February 2023

Low-dimensional copper oxide nanostructures are a promising family of functional nanomaterials. This article reviews recent progress in fabrication technologies for CuO nanostructures and gives examples of their leading-edge applications.
Quantitative structural assessments of potential meprin β inhibitors by non-linear QSAR approaches and validation by binding mode of interaction analysis
Authors: Banerjee Suvankar , Baidya Sandip Kumar , Ghosh Balaram , Nandi Suvendu , Mandal Mahitosh , Jha Tarun , Adhikari Nilanjan
Published: February 2023

Identification of key structural features of meprin β inhibitors by ML models and binding mode of interaction analysis.
Volatile organic compound removal by post plasma-catalysis over porous TiO2 with enriched oxygen vacancies in a dielectric barrier discharge reactor
Authors: Wu Wenjie , Bu Saiyu , Bai Liang , Su Yuanting , Song Yenan , Sun Haitao , Zhen Guangyin , Dong Ke , Deng Lunhua , Yuan Qinghong , Jing Chengbin , Sun Zhuo
Published: February 2023

Oxygen vacancy rich TiO2 catalysts were placed in the back of a non-thermal plasma reactor to convert harmful ozone molecules into reactive oxygen species, which exhibited superior catalytic activity in the degradation of toluene.
Tunable d-band center of a NiFeMo alloy with enlarged lattice strain enhancing the intrinsic catalytic activity for overall water-splitting
Authors: Ma Kewen , Chang Xueru , Wang Zehua , Deng Renchao , Wu Xiao , Yang Hao
Published: February 2023

Lattice strain induced by Mo/Fe dual doping changes the d-band center and charge distribution of nickel-based materials, which in turn enhances the HER and OER catalytic activity.
Light-driven textile sensors with potential application of UV detection
Authors: Zhang Jian , Zhou Jie , Zhou Qingqing , Wu Wen , Zhang Huanxia , Lin Xiangsong , Luo Qiulan , Cao Jianda , Ma Hui
Published: February 2023

Smart textiles based on monitoring systems of health conditions, structural behaviour, and external environmental conditions have been presented as elegant solutions for the increasing demands of health care.
Study on the surface wetting mechanism of bituminous coal based on the microscopic molecular structure
Authors: Zhao Yun , Li Hongmei , Lei Jinming , Xie Jing , Li Luming , Gan Ya , Deng Jie , Qi Rui , Liu Yongliang
Published: February 2023

The π–H interaction between aromatic hydrocarbon structure and water molecules, and hydrogen bond between surface oxygen-containing functional groups and water molecules, which enhances the coal surface wettability.
Highly efficient degradation of reactive black KN-B dye by ultraviolet light responsive ZIF-8 photocatalysts with different morphologies
Authors: Trung Le Gia , Nguyen Minh Kim , Hang Nguyen Thi Dieu , Tran Vy Anh , Gwag Jin Seog , Tran Nguyen Tien
Published: February 2023

UV light responsive ZIF-8 photocatalysts with three morphologies were prepared via a green one-step method, and exhibited excellent degradation of KN-B dye.
Biomass components toward H2 and value-added products by sunlight-driven photocatalysis with electronically integrated Auδ−–TiO2: concurrent utilization of electrons and holes
Authors: Bajpai Himanshu , Chauhan Inderjeet , Salgaonkar Kranti N. , Mhamane Nitin B. , Gopinath Chinnakonda S.
Published: February 2023

Electronically integrated Auδ−–TiO2 is shown to demonstrate photocatalytic glycerol conversion to hydrogen and value-added products in sunlight by concurrent utilization of electron and holes.
Natural-silk-inspired design provides ultra-tough biobased structural adhesives with supercold tolerance
Authors: Wu Xiankun , Li Haonan , Chen Peng , Zhang Jiale , Li Ming , Zhao Shujun , Wang Zhongkai , Wang Zhong
Published: February 2023

A bio-based supramolecular elastomer adhesive with exceptionally tough adhesion and supercold tolerance has been fabricatedviaa facile spider-silk-mimicking strategy.
Surface-functionalized three-dimensional MXene supports to boost the hydrogen evolution activity of Pt catalysts in alkaline media
Authors: Hong Haeji , Kim Ho Young , Cho Won Il , Song Ho Chang , Ham Hyung Chul , Chae Kyunghee , Marques Mota Filipe , Kim Jin Young , Kim Dong Ha
Published: February 2023

Distinctive surface functional groups on 3D MXenes as Pt-supports are correlated with optimized Pt–H affinity and HER activity in alkaline media.
Ultramicroporous iron-isonicotinate MOFs combining size-exclusion kinetics and thermodynamics for efficient CO2/N2 gas separation
Authors: Abánades Lázaro Isabel , Mazarakioti Eleni C. , Andres-Garcia Eduardo , Vieira Bruno J. C. , Waerenborgh João C. , Vitórica-Yrezábal Iñigo J. , Giménez-Marqués Mónica , Mínguez Espallargas Guillermo
Published: February 2023

Using the commercially available isonicotinic acid and iron, we report two ultramicroporous MOFs, denoted MUV-26.
Intrinsic Seebeck coefficients of 2D polycrystalline PtSe2semiconducting films through two-step annealing
Authors: Kim Min-Jeong , Lee Won-Yong , Kang Min-Sung , Kim Si-Hoo , Cho Jung-Min , Kim Yun-Ho , Choi Jae-Won , Park No-Won , Kim Gil-Sung , Yoon Young-Gui , Lee Sang-Kwon
Published: February 2023

A novel method for measuring the intrinsic Seebeck coefficients of two-dimensional polycrystalline PtSe2semiconducting films by two-step annealing.
Transition-metal-mediated benzylation of C60 with benzyl chlorides
Authors: Xu Li-Jun , Yang Wei-Wei , Han Fu-She , Gao Xiang
Published: February 2023

A new method for the first row transition-metal-mediated 1,4-dibenzylation of C60 with benzyl chlorides via a metal-mediated iterative single electron transfer pathway is presented.
EfficientO-demethylation of lignin-derived aromatic compounds under moderate conditions
Authors: Wang Yueqing , Chen Mingjie , Yang Yang , Ralph John , Pan Xuejun
Published: February 2023

Lignin-derived aromatics can be efficiently demethylated with a high yield in an acidic lithium bromide solution under moderate conditions.
Pressure-induced room-temperature phosphorescence enhancement based on purely organic molecules with a folded geometry
Authors: Yang Zhiqiang , Fu Zhiyuan , Liu Haichao , Wu Min , Li Nan , Wang Kai , Zhang Shi-Tong , Zou Bo , Yang Bing
Published: February 2023

Selenanthrene with a folded geometry was used as a model to study the purely organic room-temperature phosphorescence (RTP) behavior under high pressure, and an unprecedented phenomenon of pressure-induced RTP enhancement was deeply studied.
Unlocking the holy grail of sustainable and scalable mesoporous silica using computational modelling
Authors: Stavert Tom , Patwardhan Siddharth V. , Pilling Robert , Jorge Miguel
Published: February 2023

Enabling the design of silica materials with ordered and controllable pore structure using the principles of green and sustainable chemistry.
Preparation and formation mechanism of few-layer black phosphorene through liquid pulsed discharge
Authors: Qiao Jinchao , Gao Xin , Zhong Longhai , Zhou Qiang , Qiao Rufei , Liu Jianjun , Wang Tianchu , Song Qiuzhi , Chen Pengwan
Published: February 2023

In this study, a unique mechanical exfoliation route, liquid-electric effect, is applied to prepare few-layer black phosphorene using black phosphorus powders through liquid pulsed discharge.
Short‐term and long‐term memory self‐attention network for segmentation of tumours in 3D medical images
Authors: Wen Mingwei , Zhou Quan , Tao Bo , Shcherbakov Pavel , Xu Yang , Zhang Xuming
Published: February 2023

Tumour segmentation in medical images (especially 3D tumour segmentation) is highly challenging due to the possible similarity between tumours and adjacent tissues, occurrence of multiple tumours and variable tumour shapes and sizes. The popular deep learning‐based segmentation algorithms generally rely on the convolutional neural network (CNN) and Transformer. The former cannot extract the global image features effectively while the latter lacks the inductive bias and involves the complicated computation for 3D volume data. The existing hybrid CNN‐Transformer network can only provide the limited performance improvement or even poorer segmentation performance than the pure CNN. To address these issues, a short‐term and long‐term memory self‐attention network is proposed. Firstly, a distinctive self‐attention block uses the Transformer to explore the correlation among the region features at different levels extracted by the CNN. Then, the memory structure filters and combines the above information to exclude the similar regions and detect the multiple tumours. Finally, the multi‐layer reconstruction blocks will predict the tumour boundaries. Experimental results demonstrate that our method outperforms other methods in terms of subjective visual and quantitative evaluation. Compared with the most competitive method, the proposed method provides Dice (82.4% vs. 76.6%) and Hausdorff distance 95% (HD95) (10.66 vs. 11.54 mm) on the KiTS19 as well as Dice (80.2% vs. 78.4%) and HD95 (9.632 vs. 12.17 mm) on the LiTS.
TANet: Transformer‐based asymmetric network for RGB‐D salient object detection
Authors: Liu Chang , Yang Gang , Wang Shuo , Wang Hangxu , Zhang Yunhua , Wang Yutao
Published: February 2023

Existing RGB‐D salient object detection methods mainly rely on a symmetric two‐stream Convolutional Neural Network (CNN)‐based network to extract RGB and depth channel features separately. However, there are two problems with the symmetric conventional network structure: first, the ability of CNN in learning global contexts is limited; second, the symmetric two‐stream structure ignores the inherent differences between modalities. In this study, a Transformer‐based asymmetric network is proposed to tackle the issues mentioned above. The authors employ the powerful feature extraction capability of Transformer to extract global semantic information from RGB data and design a lightweight CNN backbone to extract spatial structure information from depth data without pre‐training. The asymmetric hybrid encoder effectively reduces the number of parameters in the model while increasing speed without sacrificing performance. Then, a cross‐modal feature fusion module which enhances and fuses RGB and depth features with each other is designed. Finally, the authors add edge prediction as an auxiliary task and propose an edge enhancement module to generate sharper contours. Extensive experiments demonstrate that our method achieves superior performance over 14 state‐of‐the‐art RGB‐D methods on six public datasets. The code of the authors will be released at https://github.com/lc012463/TANet.
Multi‐agent voltage balancing in modular motor drives with series‐connected power electronic converters
Authors: Verkroost Lynn , Vande Ghinste Alexander , Vanthuyne Karel , Van Damme Jordi , De Belie Frederik , Sergeant Peter , Vansompel Hendrik
Published: February 2023

Modular motor drives can be considered as multi‐agent systems, in which the agents can work together to reach a common goal. One agent in such a modular motor drive consists of only a subset of the machine phases and power electronic converter modules, and is equipped with a dedicated controller. When the dc‐links of the different agents are connected in series to a single voltage source, giving rise to a so‐called stacked polyphase bridges converter, the power electronic converter components can have low voltage ratings. However, a voltage balancing controller must ensure that the total dc‐link voltage is distributed evenly among the agents when working in motoring mode. The goal of this research is to propose a multi‐agent voltage balancing algorithm based on dynamic average consensus, which depends solely on local computations, local measurements, and neighbour‐to‐neighbour communication. The scalability and reliability of the modular hardware are hence extended towards the control. Simulations and experimental results on a 4 kW modular axial‐flux PMSM demonstrate the feasibility of the concept.
Magnetic reconnection plasmoid model for Sagittarius A* flares
Authors: Aimar N. , Dmytriiev A. , Vincent F. H. , El Mellah I. , Paumard T. , Perrin G. , Zech A.
Published: February 2023

Context. Sagittarius A*, the supermassive black hole at the center of our Galaxy, exhibits episodic near-infrared flares. The recent monitoring of three such events with the GRAVITY instrument has shown that some flares are associated with orbital motions in the close environment of the black hole. The GRAVITY data analysis indicates a super-Keplerian azimuthal velocity, while (sub-) Keplerian velocity is expected for the hot flow surrounding the black hole.

Aims. We develop a semi-analytic model of the Sagittarius A* flares based on an ejected large plasmoid, inspired by recent particle-in-cell global simulations of black hole magnetospheres. We model the infrared astrometric and photometric signatures associated with this model.

Methods. We considered a spherical macroscopic hot plasma region that we call a large plasmoid. This structure was ejected along a conical orbit in the vicinity of the black hole. This plasmoid was assumed to be formed by successive mergers of smaller plasmoids produced through magnetic reconnection that we did not model. Nonthermal electrons were injected into the plasmoid. We computed the evolution of the electron-distribution function under the influence of synchrotron cooling. We solved the radiative transfer problem associated with this scenario and transported the radiation along null geodesics of the Schwarzschild space time. We also took the quiescent radiation of the accretion flow into account, on top of which the flare evolves.

Results. For the first time, we successfully account for the astrometric and flux variations of the GRAVITY data with a flare model that incorporates an explicit modeling of the emission mechanism. The prediction of our model and recent data agree well. In particular, the azimuthal velocity of the plasmoid is set by the magnetic field line to which it belongs, which is anchored in the inner parts of the accretion flow, hence the super-Keplerian motion. The astrometric track is also shifted with respect to the center of mass due to the quiescent radiation, in agreement with the difference measured with the GRAVITY data.

Conclusions. These results support the hypothesis that magnetic reconnection in a black hole magnetosphere is a viable model for the infrared flares of Sagittarius A*.
Phase field topology optimisation for 4D printing
Authors: Garcke Harald , Lam Kei Fong , Nürnberg Robert , Signori Andrea
Published: February 2023

This work concerns a structural topology optimisation problem for 4D printing based on the phase field approach. The concept of 4D printing as a targeted evolution of 3D printed structures can be realised in a two-step process. One first fabricates a 3D object with multi-material active composites and apply external loads in the programming stage. Then, a change in an environmental stimulus and the removal of loads cause the object to deform in the programmed stage. The dynamic transition between the original and deformed shapes is achieved with appropriate applications of the stimulus. The mathematical interest is to find an optimal distribution for the materials such that the 3D printed object achieves a targeted configuration in the programmed stage as best as possible. Casting the problem as a PDE-constrained minimisation problem, we consider a vector-valued order parameter representing the volume fractions of the different materials in the composite as a control variable. We prove the existence of optimal designs and formulate first order necessary conditions for minimisers. Moreover, by suitable asymptotic techniques, we relate our approach to a sharp interface description. Finally, the theoretical results are validated by several numerical simulations both in two and three space dimensions.
Advances in the Use of Geosynthetics for Stabilization of Unbound Aggregate Layers
Authors: Zornberg Jorge G. , Subramanian S.
Published: February 2023

The governing mechanism associated with the stabilization of unbound aggregate layers in pavements is lateral restraint. Reproducing this mechanism in the laboratory maybe challenging because, while the original loading source is cyclic (traffic), lateral restraint develops through interlocking and interfacial friction between the geosynthetic and the aggregate to restrain the development of permanent lateral strains. Considering the relevance of lateral restraint in the quantification of the benefits of geosynthetics embedded within (or adjacent to) unbound aggregate layers, this study focuses on two experimental approaches to quantify this mechanism. The first experimental approach aims at defining a design parameter, identified as the Stiffness of the Soil-geosynthetic Composite (KSGC), which is obtained from Soil-Geosynthetic interaction (SGI) tests and is practical for use in specifications and design. The second experimental approach that quantifies the lateral restraint mechanism involves one-third scale accelerated pavement tests (APTs), which were performed on pavement test sections stabilized with various geosynthetics, diverse in terms of geometry and materials. The rutting from these sections was compared to that in the non-stabilized (control) section to evaluate the Traffic Benefit Ratio (TBR) at failure rut depth for each geosynthetic. The TBR obtained showed a strong linear correlation to the KSGC of the corresponding geosynthetic determined by SGI tests. Overall, the KSGC parameter was found to represent a suitable indicator of the performance of pavements with unbound aggregate layers stabilized using geosynthetics.
Effect of the durability of GCLs on Contaminants transfer through a composite liner exhibiting a hole in the geomembrane: A numerical approach
Authors: Bannour Hajer
Published: February 2023

This study performs numerical simulations of flow rate and organic contaminant migration through a geosynthetic composite lining system (geomembrane GMB-geosynthetic clay liner GCL) using the GeoStudio program (Ctran/W in conjunction with Seep /W). The GMB is considered defective with a circular hole to account for the coupled phenomena of advection and diffusion. GCLs are considered virgin and suggested for cation exchange and thermal gradient to verify and check the effect of the internal modification and alteration of the GCL by its environment on contaminant transfer. The results are compared with contaminant transport through composite liners with virgin GCL to investigate and study the resistance durability of GCLs to face contaminant transfer transport. After the validation of the proposed model, there was good agreement between the simulated and experimental flow. The result of this study confirms that indeed the typically published diffusion coefficient values for both virgin and aged GCL used in the present study provide good predictions of contaminant migration and effluent concentration over time across the GMB-GCL composite liners
The use of geomembrane as a remediation towards a sustainable OMWW landfilling: Case study of Agareb site in Sfax, Tunisia
Authors: S’habou Rakia , Ben Salem Zeineb
Published: February 2023

In Tunisia, olive mill wastewater (OMWW) locally named ‘margine’ constitutes a serious problem due to its huge amount, of about one million ton per year, and the high pollutant load resulting in the excessive chemical oxygen demand (COD) values and the presence of phytotoxic and antibacterial polyphenols. The most common treatment of OMWW was storage in evaporation ponds which are authorized but uncontrolled. Thus, it represents a potential contamination source of natural resources (air, soil and water) via infiltration. This study aims at a critically analysing the OMWW storage management on the site of Agareb in Sfax, Tunisia. The data relating to the OMWW production highlights that it exceeds its storage capacity due to the uncomplete OMWW evaporation. The geotechnical investigations confirmed the spread of OMWW through and below the storage basins. Furthermore, multiple slope sliding has been observed within embankments separating the OMWW storage basins. Faced with this alarming situation, the assessment of the incorporation of geomembrane is analysed in order to ensure the sustainability of OMWW landfilling. The slope stability analysis based on limit-equilibrium method (LEM) using Midas-Soil works software was investigated. The use of geomembrane can secure the slope stability and limit OMWW infiltrations in the landfill body and sub-soils in the studied site.
The design challenges of mechanically stabilized earth wall structures in extreme rainfall conditions for commercial operating owners
Authors: Govender Vernita , Schulz-Poblete Mario
Published: February 2023

Mine owners demand that structures perform optimally at the primary point of commercial mining operations, which force the designers’ attention to the critical contributions of the material characteristics. The extreme rainfall conditions and high loads exerted on the structures, required careful consideration of the design methodology and parameters used to cause the least amount of disruption during the full operating life span of the Mechanically Stabilized Earth Wall (MSEW) structures, through the varying conditions present on site. To design the low risk MSEW structures in Liberia, where the most common backfill construction material used is often of a lower grade laterite, combined with a rainfall condition classed as monsoon (above 4,000mm rain fall per annum), generated a scenario that forced the design approach and choice of geosynthetic materials to exclude any compromised solutions. Simplicity in the construction installation using geosynthetics and gabion materials have satisfied design requirements and minimized risk to mine operators and management.
Comparison between uniaxial and pull-out tests setup for polyester and HDPE geogrids
Authors: Sayed Sherif , Morsy Mohamed S. , Ahmed Sayed M. , Elhanafy Ahmed M.
Published: February 2023

Uniaxial tensile and/or pull-out tests are performed to obtain the stress-strain curve of geogrids. The clamp lining in contact with a specimen in the uniaxial tensile test or the grit of a sandpaper clamp liner in a pull-out test affects the results. In this study, one geogrid made of polyester and another one made of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) are tested in the uniaxial tensile test using various clamps and in pull-out test using sandpapers of different grits. Based on the results obtained, it is recommended to test HDPE in uniaxial tests with serrated steel-lined clamps and in pull-out tests with sandpaper (grit 180) lined clamps. A polyester geogrid shall be tested in uniaxial tests with plastic-lined clamps and in pull-out tests with sandpaper (grit 400) lined clamps.
Effect of installing columns from different solid waste materials on the soft clay bearing capacity
Authors: Saleh Nasser M. , Elmashad Mohie , Dawood Waleed , AbdelMonem M.M.
Published: February 2023

Soft clay deposits cause many problems due to low bearing capacity and high deformation. This paper presents the results of laboratory model tests for studying the improvement of soft clay-bearing capacity using two kinds of soil columns, the first is slag-cement dust columns and the second is bentonite column. Three columns from SCC (slag-cement dust columns) encased by Woven Geotextile are installed beneath a steel plate representing a footing. Four bentonite Columns (BC) encased with non-woven geotextile are installed around the steel plate at a distance of 1 B, where B is steel plate width. The research aims to assess the increase in the SCC length effect on clay-bearing capacity. A series of 4 experimental tests were performed. The results show that, the clay bearing capacity increased with the increase of column length because slag and bentonite can absorb the clay water content, leading to an increase clay shear strength. Floating columns gives better improvement than the end bearing columns. The slag partially replaced with cement dust is weak enough to transfer the total applied stress to a strong soil layer.
How GCLs can help create more efficient waterways?
Authors: Shahkohali Amir , von Maubeuge Kent
Published: February 2023

Commercial, agricultural, and recreational canals continue to be important economic drivers in many countries. A wide range of geosynthetic products, such as geotextiles, geomembranes, and geosynthetic clay liners (GCL), help create more efficient waterways. Barrier geosynthetics such as GCLs are used to improve canal performance in numerous applications. For example, for irrigation canals, geosynthetic lining systems prevent seepage loss into soils. This improves the economics and sustainability of the irrigation system. The geosynthetic barrier also optimizes water flow in the canal network. Irrigation is conveyed more quickly and efficiently. This presentation reviews the application of GCLs in hydraulic structures including canals, and presents considerations for GCLs to perform as an impervious lining in these applications.
Geomembranes for Canal Lining – Rehabilitation of a Hydropower Channel
Authors: Tarnowski Catrin
Published: February 2023

Over a number of decades the geosynthetics industry has developed a wide range of materials that are used for multiple canal applications to reduce seepage. Their performance compared with traditional solutions using mineral layers has been demonstrated. The choice of the appropriate material is related to different scenarios:

• New canal lining or refurbishment

• Surface conditions (roughness)

• Covered or uncovered application

• Weather conditions during installation and operation

• Cost of installation/system

White surfaced geomembranes manufactured with LLDPE were chosen for the refurbishment of the “Schütt” hydropower channel in Austria taking the above into account.
Peut-on enlever un pacemaker au nom de l’obstination déraisonnable ?
Authors: Berthiau Denis , Pagès Louise , Foureur Nicolas
Published: February 2023

« Les humanités en santé : histoire de cas » sont coor- données par Claire Crignon, professeure d’histoire et de philosophie des sciences à l’université de Lorraine, qui a créé le master « humanités biomédicales » à Sorbonne université.
Liebe Leserinnen, liebe Leser,
Authors: Kamp Rainer
Published: February 2023

im Rahmen der Pandemie standen sie und ihre Vulnerabilität lange im Zentrum
der Überlegungen der Gesellschaft: unsere älteren Mitbürger,
Familienangehörigen und Patienten. Der Fokus auf diese
Vulnerabilität galt lange der Anfälligkeit für Ansteckung
und Immunität, in unserem praktischen Alltag aber sind wir mit zahlreichen
anderen Herausforderungen bei der Behandlung unserer geriatrischen Mitmenschen
konfrontiert. Aus Sicht der AkupunkturPraxis beleuchten die Autoren des aktuellen
Heftes diese aus unterschiedlichen Perspektiven.
Comparison of Capsular Tension Ring Implantation before vs. after Toric
Intraocular Lens for Rotational Stability
Authors: Cetinkaya Servet , Ucar Fikret
Published: February 2023

Purpose To compare the effect of implanting the capsular tension ring (CTR) before
or after a toric intraocular lens (IOL) on rotational stability in patients with cataract
and astigmatism.

Methods This is a randomized retrospective study. Patients who underwent
phacoemulsification combined with toric IOL implantation due to cataract and astigmatism
between February 2018 and October 2019 were enrolled in the study. Group 1 consisted of 53
eyes of 53 patients in whom the CTR was placed into the capsular bag after the
implantation of the toric IOL. On the other hand, group 2 consisted of 55 eyes of 55
patients in whom the CTR was placed into the capsular bag before implantation of the toric
IOL. The two groups were compared in terms of preoperative and postoperative astigmatism,
uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA), best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), and postoperative
IOL rotation degree.

Results There were no significant differences between the two groups related to
age and sex (p > 0.05) or the mean preoperative spherical value, UCVA, BCVA, and
corneal astigmatism (p > 0.05). Although the mean postoperative residual astigmatism of
the first group (− 0.29 ± 0.26) was lower than that of the second (− 0.43 ± 0.31), the
difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.16). The mean degree of rotation was
0.75 ± 2.66° in group 1 and 2.90 ± 6.57° in group 2, which was found to be statistically
significant (p = 0.02).

Conclusion The implantation of CTR after a toric IOL provides further rotational
stability and more effective astigmatic correction.
Post-Load Insulin Secretion Patterns are Associated with Glycemic
Status and Diabetic Complications in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes
Mellitus
Authors: Jiang Jiajia , Li Yuhao , Li Feng , He Yan , Song Lijuan , Wang Kun , You Wenjun , Xia Zhang , Zuo Yingting , Su Xin , Zhai Qi , Zhang Yibo , Gaisano Herbert , Zheng Deqiang
Published: February 2023

Background To examine whether the different patterns of post-load insulin
secretion can identify the heterogeneity of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Methods Six hundred twenty-five inpatients with T2DM at Jining No. 1
People’s Hospital were recruited from January 2019 to October 2021. The
140 g steamed bread meal test (SBMT) was conducted on patients with
T2DM, and glucose, insulin, and C-peptide levels were recorded at 0, 60, 120,
and 180 min. To avoid the effect of exogenous insulin, patients were
categorized into three different classes by latent class trajectory analysis
based on the post-load secretion patterns of C-peptide. The difference in short-
and long-term glycemic status and prevalence of complications distributed among
the three classes were compared by multiple linear regression and multiple
logistic regression, respectively.

Results There were significant differences in long-term glycemic status
(e. g., HbA1c) and short-term glycemic status (e. g., mean blood
glucose, time in range) among the three classes. The difference in short-term
glycemic status was similar in terms of the whole day, daytime, and nighttime.
The prevalence of severe diabetic retinopathy and atherosclerosis showed a
decreasing trend among the three classes.

Conclusions The post-load insulin secretion patterns could well identify
the heterogeneity of patients with T2DM in short- and long-term glycemic status
and prevalence of complications, providing recommendations for the timely
adjustment in treatment regimes of patients with T2DM and promotion of
personalized treatment.
Mucoid Degeneration of the Anterior Cruciate Ligament: Characteristics and Conservative Management
Authors: Luo Jianzhou , Zhou Minmin , Luo Xiaozhen , Luo Peng , Yang Zili , Li Ruifang , Duan Chunguang , Feng Xujiao , Wu Tailin
Published: February 2023

Clinical and radiographic characteristics of mucoid degeneration of the anterior cruciate ligament (MD-ACL) were poorly documented in previous literature. And the optimal management strategy for MD-ACL remains unclear. Here, we summarized the characteristics associated with MD-ACL, and evaluated the clinical outcome of conservative management to MD-ACL.A total of 18 knees in 18 patients diagnosed with MD-ACL were collected and reviewed retrospectively. Sixteen patients underwent conservative management and two patients underwent arthroscopic surgery. Baseline demographic, clinical data, and pathologic changes of knee in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were recorded. Clinical outcome was evaluated with Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and Oxford Knee Score (OKS).

The most common clinical characteristic in patients with MD-ACL was knee pain (18/18), and seconded by mobility limitation (38.9%, 7/18). All patients presented a typical celery stalk sign with increased signal and diffuse thickening volume in the ACL in MRI. Thirteen patients companied with meniscus tear (72.2%, 13/18), and nine complicated with cartilage injury (50.0%, 9/18). Sixteen patients who underwent conservative treatment were followed up for 21.8 months, and a positive clinical outcome was observed with VAS decreasing from 5.3 ± 2.3 to 1.5 ± 1.9 and OKS decreasing from 27.5 ± 12.7 to 17.9 ± 11.8 (p < 0.001). The post-OKS score was highly correlated with age, duration of disease, and meniscus tear (r = 0.844, 0.707, and 0.474, p < 0.05, respectively). And the post-VAS highly correlated with age (r = 0.693, p < 0.05). Two patients who underwent arthroscopic surgery were followed up for 24.5 months, and the pain and function of knee was improved.

Knee pain and meniscus tear was the main characteristic of MD-ACL in clinical and radiographic exam. Conservative treatment could be an alternative management for treatment of MD-ACL with positive clinical outcome. Old age, long duration of disease and complications from meniscus tears were associated with inferior outcome of conservative treatment for MD-ACL.

Level of evidence IV.
National Inpatient Datasets May No Longer Be Appropriate for Overall Total Hip and Knee Arthroplasties Projections after Removal from Inpatient-Only Lists
Authors: Rullán Pedro J. , Emara Ahmed K. , Zhou Guangjin , Pasqualini Ignacio , Klika Alison K. , Koroukian Siran , Barsoum Wael K. , Piuzzi Nicolas S.
Published: February 2023

It is unknown if the National Inpatient Sample (NIS) remains suitable to conduct projections for total knee arthroplasty (TKA) and total hip arthroplasty (THA), after their removal from “inpatient-only lists” in 2018 and 2020, respectively. We aimed to: (1) quantify primary THA and TKA volume from 2008 to 2018; (2) project estimates of future volume of THA and TKA until 2050; and (3) compare projections based on NIS data from 2008 to 2018 and 2008 to 2017, respectively. We identified all primary THA and TKA performed from 2008 to 2018 from the NIS. The projected volumes of THA and TKA were modeled using negative binomial regression models while incorporating log-transformed population data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Annual volume increased by 26% for THA and 11% for TKA (2008/2018: THA: 360,891/465,559; TKA:592,352/657,294). Based on 2008 to 2018 data, THA volume is projected to grow 120%, to 1,119,942 THAs by 2050. While, based on 2008 to 2017 data, THA volume is projected to grow 136%, to 1,219,852 THAs by 2050. Based on 2008 to 2018 data, TKA volume is projected to grow 4%, to 794,852 TKAs by 2050. While, based on 2008 to 2017 data, TKA volume is projected to grow 28%, to 1,037,474 TKAs by 2050. Projections based on 2008 to 2017 data estimated up to 240,000 (23%) more annual TKAs by 2050, compared with projections based on 2008 to 2018 data. The largest discrepancy among THA projections was an 8.2% difference (99,000 THAs) for 2050. After 2018 for TKA, and potentially 2020 for THA, projections based on the NIS will have to be interpreted with caution and may only be appropriate to estimate future inpatient volume. Level of evidence is prognostic level II.
Association of Dietary Niacin Intake with Diabetes in Adults in the
United States
Authors: Liu Chan , Duan Wenjuan , Xu Wenming
Published: February 2023

Objective Previous studies have shown inconsistent associations between
niacin supplementation and diabetes, and little is known about the relationship
between dietary niacin intake and the risk of diabetes in the general
population. Our study aimed to explore the association between dietary niacin
intake and the risk of diabetes in the adult population in the United
States.

Methods Data from the 2005–2016 National Health and Nutrition
Examination Surveys were analyzed. Diabetes was diagnosed according to the
American Diabetes Association criteria. Multivariate logistic regression models
were used to estimate the association between dietary niacin intake and
diabetes. Covariates included age, sex, race, family income, educational level,
drinking status, smoking status, marital status, and physical activity.

Results This study included 24494 participants, of which 13.63%
had diabetes. In the fully adjusted model, a high niacin intake was
significantly associated with a reduced risk of diabetes in a dose-dependent
manner. When extreme quintiles of niacin intake were compared, the
multivariable-adjusted odds ratio was 0.66 (95% confidence interval:
0.49, 0.88) for diabetes, and per ten-unit increment in dietary niacin intake
was associated with a 14% lower risk of diabetes. When niacin intake was
less than 15.01 mg/d, a ten-unit increment in niacin intake was
associated with a 24% higher risk of diabetes. However, the effect was
not statistically significant.

Conclusions Our results suggest that the consumption of adequate amounts
of niacin can reduce the risk of diabetes. Furthermore, this protective effect
disappeared when the niacin intake was insufficient (less than
15.01 mg/d).
Placement of a Catheter into the Transverse Sinus in Monitoring Intracranial Lesions: A Technical Note
Authors: Dai Xingping , Chen Yanyi , Xia Mingyue , Yi Min , Xu Xia , Wang Dongsheng , Nemoto Edwin M.
Published: February 2023

High intracranial pressure (ICP) can be induced by stroke, brain trauma, and brain tumor, and lead to cerebral injury. Monitoring the blood flow of a damaged brain is important for detecting intracranial lesions. Blood sampling is a better way to monitor changes in brain oxygen and blood flow than computed tomography perfusion and magnetic resonance imaging. This article describes how to take blood samples from the transverse sinus in a high ICP rat model. Also, it compares the blood samples from the transverse sinus and femoral artery/vein through blood gas analysis and neuronal cell staining. The findings may be of significance to the monitoring of the oxygen and blood flow of intracranial lesions.