bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Review of Polarized Light‐Spin/Dipole Interactions: Fundamental Physics and Application in Circularly Polarized Detecting
Authors: Hu Renjie , Qin Wei
Published: September 2024

Circularly polarized light (CPL) has attracted great attention due to its unique electromagnetic vector, which possesses potential practical applications in optical imaging, biometrics, and other interdisciplinary areas. At present, many materials with spontaneous CPL emitting have been extensively studied and reviewed for the generation of CPL. For the detection of CPL, mainly concentrate on the technical problems, that is, how to combine circularly polarized optical active materials with device structures to meet detection needs. Essentially, the resolution of CPL depends on the interaction between CPL and matter, Herein, the interactive modes including polarized light‐spin and light‐dipole (or charge) interactions in devices are summarized. Also, direct and indirect interactions of polarized light‐spin are presented. Meanwhile, the progress of light‐spin/dipole interaction dependence of CPL detectors is analyzed based on artificial structures of photoconductors, photodiodes, and photo field effect transistors. It is hoped that the review can broaden the bridge between the fundamental photon‐spin‐dipole interaction and CPL detectors with high performance, and then deepen the understanding of CPL detection and promote the development of CPL detectors.
Development and Testing of the Spinal Cord Injury Bladder and Bowel Control Questionnaire (SCI‐BBC‐Q)
Authors: Bryce Thomas N. , Tsai Chung‐ying , Wecht Jill M. , Spielman Lisa
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Recovery of lower urinary tract (LUT) and lower gastrointestinal tract (LGIT) is a high priority for people with lived experience following spinal cord injury (SCI). A universally accepted validated patient‐reported outcome (PRO) measure of the individual sensory and motor components of LGIT and LUT function, which allows tracking of recovery is lacking. To address this literature gap, the SCI Bladder and Bowel Control Questionnaire (SCI‐BBC‐Q) was developed.

Methods

The SCI‐BBC‐Q was developed as a direct assessment of the micturition and defecation experiences of an individual with SCI with possible neurogenic LUT and LGIT dysfunction. The SCI‐BBC‐Q development process consisted of two phases, measure development and evaluation. Measure development was guided by a conceptual framework, review of existing instruments and literature, and an iterative process of item incorporation, review, feedback, and consensus revision. Evaluation included cognitive interviewing, and assessments of feasibility, reliability, and content validity.

Results

The final 6‐item SCI‐BBC‐Q is a PRO, which assesses motor and sensory function related to micturition and defecation, requiring ~5 min to complete. Assessments of clarity of the instrument components with regard to understanding of what is being asked in the questionnaire, feasibility of administration, reliability, internal consistency, and agreement with proxy measures have demonstrated that the SCI‐BBC‐Q provides consistent, stable, and reproducible data. Significant correlations were found between SCI‐BBC‐Q scores and the anorectal motor and sensory components of the International Standards for the Neurological Classification of SCI.

Conclusion

The SCI‐BBC‐Q is a practical and reliable method for baseline and ongoing evaluation of patients with neurogenic LUT and LGIT dysfunction, especially in the acute and subacute period when function is changing due to neurological plasticity. It is also appropriate for use in monitoring response to treatments related to neurological recovery.
Two birds with one stone: Multifunctional controlled‐release formulations of pesticides
Authors: Xu Chunli , Chen Huiping , Shangguan Wenjie , Yu Manli , Zhao Pengyue , Cao Chong , Yin Mingming , Huang Qiliang , Cao Lidong
Published: September 2024

Controlled release and nanotechnology techniques hold promising potential for propelling the pesticide industry toward the goals of green revolution. This study introduces the concept of atom economy into the multifunctionality of controlled‐release formulations (CRFs) of pesticides from both economic and sustainable perspectives. In addition to their core function of controlling the release of active ingredient, carriers also provide additional benefits, including enhanced foliar adhesion and pesticide translocation, nutritional function, synergistic bioactivity, safety for nontarget organisms, crop stress alleviation, reduced soil leaching, soil remediation, and fluorescence visualization. These additional functions are highlighted and taken seriously. Through ingenious excogitation, the multifunctional CRFs of pesticides can achieve multiple objectives, enhancing input efficiency while minimizing environmental impacts. We tentatively blazed a trail by reviewing the recent advances in multifunctional CRFs of pesticides from the perspective of green chemistry. Additionally, potential development and implementation barriers of CRFs were discussed, emphasizing the necessity for robust field trials and comprehensive systems‐level efficacy/biosafety evaluations to substantially boost the technical readiness and performance of multifunctional CRFs of pesticides. Our goal is to expand the multifunctional concept for pesticide formulations, thereby accelerating the development of global sustainable agrochemical products.
Enantioselective differentiation of chiral succinate dehydrogenase inhibitor fungicides
Authors: Guo Peilin , Pan Xinglu , Xu Jun , Wu Xiaohu , Zheng Yongquan , Dong Fengshou
Published: September 2024

Chiral succinate dehydrogenase inhibitor (SDHI) fungicides have undergone rapid development and extensive application in plant protection. Due to the common existing differences in bioactivity, toxicity, and environmental behavior between the enantiomers of chiral pesticides, a comprehensive evaluation of chiral SDHI fungicides at the enantiomeric level is crucial for gaining a deeper understanding of the behavior of chiral pesticides and facilitating their rational application. This review summarizes the research advancements in analytical methods for chiral SDHI fungicides, and explores enantioselective differences in their bioactivity, toxicity, and enantioselective environmental behavior. These insights are intended to enhance the efficient utilization and risk management of these chiral fungicides.
Atypical presentations of RECQL4‐related syndromes
Authors: Grossman Liron D. , Baldino Sarah , Zelley Kristin , Balis Frank , Bagatell Rochelle , Kalish Jennifer M. , MacFarland Suzanne P.
Published: September 2024

RECQL4‐related syndromes are a group of rare cancer‐predisposition syndromes caused by biallelic pathogenic/likely pathogenic variants (PV/LPV) in the DNA helicase gene, RECQL4. Genetic testing is typically prompted by the presence of one or more hallmark clinical features, and in the absence of such manifestations, diagnosis may be delayed or even missed. We describe five patients with biallelic germline mutations in RECQL4 who presented atypically, without the hallmark clinical manifestations of this syndrome. Three of these patients developed osteosarcoma, underscoring the importance of recognizing atypical presentations of Rothmund–Thomson syndrome (RTS) to allow for early awareness and surveillance for cancer.
An X‐Ray Absorption Spectroscopy Investigation into the Fundamental Structure of Liquid Metal Alloys
Authors: Meilak Jaydon A. , Zuraiqi Karma , Mitchell Valerie , Johannessen Bernt , Kerr Brittany V. , Vaillant Pierre H. A. , Lamb Krystina , Aukarasereenont Patjaree , Parker Caiden , Cataldo Taren , Malherbe Francois , Christofferson Andrew J. , Daeneke Torben , Hocking Rosalie K.
Published: September 2024

Gallium and gallium alloys have gained significant interest due to gallium's low melting point. This property allows for gallium‐based catalysts to take advantage of the unique reaction environments only available in the liquid state. While understanding of the catalytic properties of liquid metals is emerging, a comprehensive investigation into the fundamental structures of these materials has yet to be undertaken. Herein, the structure of liquid gallium, along with related liquid alloys EGaIn, EGaSn, and Galinstan are explored using X‐ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS). In contrast to some other studies that show dimers, analysis of the XAS data both in X‐ray absorption near edge structure and extended X‐ray absorption fine structure shows that when fully dissolved the materials are largely homogenous with no obvious signs of local structures. Ga shows a bond contraction when melted which is consistent with its increase in density; however, an expansion in bond length is observed when alloyed with In and Sn. XAS data indicate that the effective nuclear charge (Zeff) of In and Sn follows the trend expected based on electronegativity. Molecular dynamic (MD) simulations are performed to simulate the structure and trends between MD and XAS; the trends agree well but MD overestimates bond lengths.
Functionalized Amyloid‐Like Protein Nanofilm‐Mediated Synergistic Disulfidptosis and Photodynamic Therapy for Preventing Postoperative Recurrence of Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Zhang Man , Li Ke , Kou Junhao , Lu Guozhi , Qiu Ling , Yang Chunzhao , Liu Yongchun , Xue Qi , Yang Peng
Published: September 2024

Colorectal cancer (CRC) has a postoperative recurrence rate of up to 50%. Local treatment at the surgical site offers a new strategy to prevent recurrence, minimizing systemic side effects. However, these treatments often face issues like poor stability, insufficient targeting, and significant local side effects. Research shows glucose starvation can induce disulfidptosis, a novel cell death pathway, in CRC cells, suitable for precise intervention in residual tumor cells postsurgery. This study develops a biocompatible 2D therapeutic platform using amyloid‐like protein nanofilm technology for precise local synergistic intervention in disulfidptosis and photodynamic therapy (PDT) after CRC surgery. The nanofilm boasts excellent drug‐loading capacity, enzyme activity retention, ultrathin dimensions, wet adhesion, and biocompatibility. A model simulating incomplete tumor resection post‐CRC surgery shows that the GCI@nanofilm effectively inhibits recurrence through an enzyme‐catalyzed cascade reaction inducing disulfidptosis and synergizing with PDT. In summary, GCI@nanofilm overcomes multiple challenges in local postsurgical intervention, providing a foundation for precise and efficient treatment of residual tumors.
Mathematical Modeling on the Multiphase Flow during Top–Bottom Combined Blowing Basic Oxygen Furnace Steelmaking Process
Authors: Cai Xinyu , Duan Haojian , Xu Anjun , Chen Wei , Zhang Lifeng
Published: September 2024

A 3D mathematical model on the multiphase flow and splashing phenomenon in a 210 t Basic oxygen furnace converter is established. The turbulent multiphase flow of the molten steel, slag, and oxygen is simulated by the combined realizable k−ε model and volume of fluid model. The trajectory of argon bubbles and the interaction between the molten steel and argon is simulated by the two‐way coupled Lagrangian discrete phase model. Effects of the lance height and bottom‐blowing gas flow rate on the multiphase flow and splashing phenomenon are investigated. The results indicated that the cavity depth is decreased from 0.45 to 0.36 m when the lance height increases from 1700 to 2300 mm. The cavity depth is not significantly affected by the bottom‐blowing argon flow rate with the 44 000 m3 h−1 top‐blowing oxygen flow rate and 1700 mm lance height. The increased lance height resulted in a decrease in splashing. When the oxygen lance height increases from 1700 to 2300 mm, the amount of the splashed molten steel decreases from 3774.3 to 1953.0 kg.
Effect of Cerium on the Cleanliness and Properties of an Al‐Killed Low‐Sulfur Steel
Authors: Jia Jun , Liu Yubao , Ren Ying , Zhang Lifeng
Published: September 2024

Effects of the cerium content on inclusions, microstructure, and performance of an Al‐killed low‐sulfur steel are studied. As the cerium content in the steel increases from 0 to 190 ppm, the evolution path of the inclusion composition is Al2O3→CeAlO3→Ce2O2S + Ce2O3, and the inclusion size first decreases and then increases. When the cerium content is 76 ppm, the inclusion size reaches the minimum value. The addition of the ferrocerium is beneficial to the grain refinement of the Al‐killed low‐sulfur steel due to the low disregistry between inclusions and the steel matrix. The grain size of the steel decreases first, and it changes little after the cerium content reaching 76 ppm. The grain refinement is beneficial to increase steel properties. However, excessive inclusions in steel with a high cerium content reduce the tensile strength and the plasticity of the Al‐killed low‐sulfur steel.
More problems sampling wildlife with baits: Environmental food resources influence trapping rates
Authors: Dehaudt Bastien , Moore Jonathan , Gibson Luke , Luskin Matthew S.
Published: September 2024

Baits are often used to increase wildlife capture rates; however, there has been little work exploring the effect of varying environmental conditions on bait effectiveness. Here we show that environmental food availability influences wildlife detection probability when using food baits. We sampled small mammals in Borneo with live traps baited with fruit before, during and after the rainforest experienced a mast fruiting event, which drastically altered environmental food availability. Compared to sampling before the mast, community‐wide trap success plummeted by 94% during the mast when fruit resources were abundant then increased back 10‐fold the month following peak masting. We conclude that environmental food availability can strongly influence bait effectiveness and thus detectability. Therefore, researchers using food baits should control for background food conditions when sampling. Alternatively, population models need to account for these variations in detection probability. These methodological insights are especially important in ecosystems where resources strongly fluctuate.
MRI-based Quantitative Collateral Assessment in Acute Stroke
Authors: Polkowski Christoph , Helwig Niklas , Wagner Marlies , Seiler Alexander
Published: September 2024

Purpose

In acute ischemic stroke with large-vessel occlusion (LVO), collateral assessment with single-phase computed tomography angiography (CTA) might underestimate pial collateral supply in a considerable proportion of patients. We aimed to compare time-resolved magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-based quantitative collateral mapping to conventional collateral imaging with CTA.

Methods

This retrospective single-center study covering a period of 6 years (2012–2018) included drip-and-ship LVO patients who underwent MR imaging after initial imaging evaluation with CT. For MRI-based collateral assessment, T2*-weighted time series from perfusion-weighted imaging (PWI) were processed to compute a quantitative collateral vessel index (CVIPWI) based on the magnitude of signal variance across the entire acquisition time. CTA-based collateral scores (Tan and Maas) and CVIPWI were investigated in terms of inter-modality associations between collateral measures, as well as their relationships with stroke severity, infarct volume and early functional outcome.

Results

The final analysis included n = 56 patients (n = 31 female, mean age 69.9 ± 14.21 years). No significant relationship was found between MR-based quantitative collateral supply (CVIPWI) and CT-based collateral scores (r = −0.00057, p = 0.502 and r = −0.124, p = 0.797). In contrast to CVIPWI, CTA-based collateral scores showed no significant relationship with clinical stroke severity and infarct volume. While MR-based CVIPWI was independently associated with favorable early functional outcome in multivariate analysis (OR 1.075, 95% CI 1.001–1.153, p = 0.046), CTA-based collateral scores were not significantly associated with outcome.

Conclusions

Since collateral scores based on single-phase CTA do not accurately reflect infarct progression and might underestimate pial collateralization in a relevant proportion of patients, they are not associated with early functional outcome in LVO patients. In contrast, CVIPWI represents a robust imaging parameter of collateral supply and is independently associated with functional outcome.
Non-contrast-enhanced MR-angiography of Extracranial Arteries in Acute Ischemic Stroke at 1.5 Tesla Using Relaxation-Enhanced Angiography Without Contrast and Triggering (REACT)
Authors: Janssen Jan P. , Rose Sarah , Kaya Kenan , Terzis Robert , Hahnfeldt Robert , Gertz Roman J. , Goertz Lukas , Iuga Andra-Iza , Grunz Jan-Peter , Kabbasch Christoph , Rauen Philip , Persigehl Thorsten , Weiss Kilian , Borggrefe Jan , Pennig Lenhard , Gietzen Carsten
Published: September 2024

Purpose

To evaluate a novel flow-independent sequence (Relaxation-Enhanced Angiography without Contrast and Triggering (REACT)) for imaging of the extracranial arteries in acute ischemic stroke (AIS) at 1.5 T.

Methods

This retrospective single-center study included 47 AIS patients who received REACT (scan time: 3:01 min) and contrast-enhanced MRA (CE-MRA) of the extracranial arteries at 1.5 T in clinical routine. Two radiologists assessed scans for proximal internal carotid artery (ICA) stenosis, stated their diagnostic confidence and rated the image quality of cervical arteries, impact of artifacts and image noise. Apparent signal- and contrast-to-noise ratios (aSNR/aCNR) were measured for the common carotid artery and ICA.

Results

REACT achieved a sensitivity of 95.0% and a specificity of 97.3% for ICA stenoses in high agreement with CE-MRA (κ = 0.83) with equal diagnostic confidence (p = 0.22). Image quality was rated higher for CE-MRA at the aortic arch (p = 0.002) and vertebral arteries (p < 0.001), whereas REACT provided superior results for the extracranial ICA (p = 0.008). Both sequences were only slightly affected by artifacts (p = 0.60), while image noise was more pronounced in CE-MRA (p < 0.001) in line with higher aSNR (p < 0.001) and aCNR (p < 0.001) values in REACT for all vessels.

Conclusion

Given its good diagnostic performance while yielding comparable image quality and scan time to CE-MRA, REACT may be suitable for the imaging of the extracranial arteries in acute ischemic stroke at 1.5 T.
Radiotherapy for painful shoulder syndrome: a retrospective evaluation
Authors: Leist Ronny , Micke Oliver , Seegenschmiedt M. Heinrich , Adamietz Irenaeus A. , Fakhrian Kashyar , Muecke Ralph
Published: September 2024

Purpose

We evaluated the efficacy of low-dose radiotherapy for painful shoulder syndrome from an orthopedic perspective.

Methods

Patients with painful shoulder syndrome were recruited for this retrospective clinical quality assessment from January 2011 to December 2017. Patients were treated with a linear accelerator or an orthovoltage device at individual doses of 0.5–1.0 Gy and total doses of 3.0–6.0 Gy. To assess response, we used the von Pannewitz score with five levels: “worsened,” “unaffected,” “improved,” “significantly improved,” and “symptom free.” “Good treatment success” was defined as “significantly improved” and “symptom free.” Within-group and between-group differences were statistically evaluated.

Results

Of 236 recruited patients (150 women, 86 men; mean age 66.3 [range 31–96] years), 180 patients underwent radiotherapy with a linear accelerator and 56 with an orthovoltage device. Fractionation was 12 × 0.5 Gy in 120 patients, 6 × 0.5 Gy in 74, and 6 × 1 Gy in 42 patients. Treatments were completed in one series for 223 and in two series at least 6 weeks apart for 13 patients. Of the 236 patients, 163 patients (69.1%) agreed to be re-interviewed at a median of 10.5 (range 4–60) months after radiotherapy completion. Directly after radiotherapy, 30.9% (73 patients) had “good treatment success,” which had increased to 55.2% (90 patients) at follow-up.

Conclusion

Protracted pain improvement with low-dose radiotherapy is possible in painful shoulder syndrome. Patients with refractory pain because of subacromial syndrome or shoulder osteoarthritis should also be evaluated for radiotherapy.
Ethische Grenzentscheidungen in der Intensivmedizin
Authors: Scherr Benedikt Florian , Buehler Philipp Karl
Published: September 2024

Hintergrund

Ethische Grenzentscheidungen sind ein wesentlicher Bestandteil der Intensiv- und Notfallmedizin. In Akutsituationen müssen oft unter Zeitdruck und mit unvollständigen Informationen rasche Entscheidungen getroffen werden. Diese Entscheidungen werden durch Faktoren wie Ökonomisierung, Ressourcenmangel und zunehmende technische Möglichkeiten erschwert.

Fragestellung

Welche Entscheidungshilfen und Faktoren können bei ethischen Grenzfällen in der Intensivmedizin herangezogen werden?

Ergebnisse

Grundlegende ethische Prinzipien wie Patientenautonomie, Benefizienz, Nichtschaden und Gerechtigkeit bilden die Basis für medizinische Therapieentscheidungen. Die Evaluation des Patientenwillens durch Patientenverfügungen oder Stellvertreterkonsens ist entscheidend, wobei Patientenverfügungen oft unklar sind. Die Abschätzung der Lebensqualität gewinnt zunehmend an Bedeutung, wobei Instrumente wie die Clinical Frailty Scale (CFS) zur Anwendung kommen. Bei älteren Patienten sollte eine ganzheitliche Betrachtung erfolgen und nicht nur das chronologische Alter berücksichtigt werden. Bei Patienten mit fortgeschrittenen Grunderkrankungen ist ein multidisziplinärer Austausch besonders wichtig.

Schlussfolgerung

Die Entscheidungsfindung in der Intensivmedizin erfordert eine sorgfältige Abwägung medizinischer, ethischer und individueller Faktoren. Trotz Fortschritten in der künstlichen Intelligenz und Prognosemodellen bleibt die menschliche Beurteilung unerlässlich. In Zeiten knapper Ressourcen sind ethisch vertretbare Triageprotokolle notwendig. Die Herausforderung besteht darin, diese Prinzipien und Faktoren in der klinischen Praxis anzuwenden und dabei die Individualität jedes Patienten zu berücksichtigen.
Medizinischer Kinderschutz zwischen Elternrecht, Selbstbestimmungsrecht und Schutzverantwortung. Teil 1 – rechtliche Grundlagen
Authors: Kliemann Andrea , Winter Sibylle M. , Fegert Jörg M. , Berthold Oliver
Published: September 2024

Besteht der Verdacht auf Vernachlässigung oder emotionale, körperliche oder sexualisierte Gewalt gegen ein Kind, entstehen in der Versorgung häufig Unsicherheiten. Die rechtlichen Rahmenbedingungen sind den beteiligten Ärzt*innen meist nicht vollständig bekannt. Dabei ist ihre Beachtung wichtig, um auch alle Interessen der betroffenen Kinder zu berücksichtigen. Der Beitrag stellt die geltenden rechtlichen Grundlagen dar und bietet mögliche Handlungsoptionen.
A review on optimization of autonomous welding parameters for robotics applications
Authors: Ali Radwa , El-Betar Ahmed , Magdy Mahmoud
Published: September 2024

In order to withstand the competitive nature of the industrial market and maintain the longevity of products, researchers try to enhance current technologies and create cost-effective solutions. Aside from acquiring new machinery, it also involves successfully managing actual process variables. To get the desired and financially advantageous results, it is necessary to measure, control, and optimize these process variables. The welding process is significantly influenced by its characteristics, which play a major role in assessing the weld quality and reducing the welding time while ensuring the elimination of defects. This study provides a comprehensive overview of the research findings, developments, and remarkable techniques. First, the effective old-trade techniques applied for welding optimization are discussed. Then, the sophisticated methods depending on AI are handled for adaptive welding control, such as ANN in tandem with GA models, ant colony optimization technique, and the NSGA-III algorithm. After that, summarize the relevant research related to building models with supportive vision sensing elements for seam tracking, monitoring the weld pool, and handling feedback control. Finally, the future research difficulties and directions toward real-time intelligent monitoring are highlighted. This review will help aspiring and ambitious researchers gain a comprehensive understanding of welding optimization for robotics applications.
Investigating the performance of the pressurized injection lubrication technique in the turning process
Authors: Elsadek Ahmed A.
Published: September 2024

Efficient lubrication and cooling are crucial in machining operations to enhance tool life and workpiece quality. Sustainable methods like minimum quantity lubrication (MQL) and dry cutting often face limitations in cooling efficiency and chip evacuation, especially under high-speed conditions or when machining difficult-to-cut materials such as stainless steel. This study introduces the novel pressurized injection lubrication (PIL) technique designed to address these challenges by optimizing lubrication, cooling, and chip evacuation during the turning operations of stainless steel 304. Using flaxseed oil as the lubricant, the PIL system employs a 0.26 mm stream diameter at a pressure of 16 bar to provide the necessary cooling and lubrication to the cutting zone. Cutting temperature and surface roughness were selected as the primary responses. Experimental runs were designed using the Taguchi L9 method. Analysis of variance showed that the lubrication method significantly affected the cutting temperature, with a contribution percentage approaching 94%. The experimental results demonstrated that PIL reduced the cutting temperature by up to 55%, while MQL reduced it by about 48%, both compared to dry cutting at the highest utilized speed. The lubrication method was also found to be the most significant factor affecting surface roughness, with a contribution percentage of 72.8%. Experimentally, PIL improved surface roughness by a maximum of 16.2% compared to MQL. Additionally, PIL maintained low oil consumption (0.9 l/h) and energy usage (< 0.017 kWh). The cost-effective PIL setup, priced under 65 USD, underscores its potential as a sustainable and efficient alternative for machining processes. The system’s components are readily available, facilitating easy integration into existing metal-cutting machines. Finite element analysis (FEA) modeling was used to predict residual stresses under different lubrication methods. The FEA model indicated that PIL and MQL reduced residual stresses by about 81.2% and 76.6%, respectively, compared to dry cutting at a speed of 500 rpm. These findings suggest that PIL can significantly enhance machining performance and sustainability, offering a viable solution to modern manufacturing challenges.
Machinability analysis of Albromet W130 copper alloy by WEDM
Authors: Mouralova Katerina , Bednar Josef , Benes Libor , Zahradnicek Radim , Fries Jiri
Published: September 2024

The unconventional wire electrical discharge machining (WEDM) technology represents a vital manufacturing technology in different industrial branches, such as aviation, military, automotive or energy industry. The WEDM energy demand is considerable and it is, therefore, desirable to reduce the machining time by optimising the machining parameters. In the study, the chosen parameters were Pulse off time, Gap voltage, Discharge current, Pulse on time, and Wire feed. Another factor we investigated in our Box-Behnken design of the experiment was the workpiece thickness. The cutting speed, topography, and surface morphology were analysed in the samples produced for the design of the experiment. This investigation was carried out using electron microscopy. The chemical composition of individual spots was analysed as well. The samples were found not to have significant differences in the appearance of craters on the edge and in the centre. Similarly, there was no significant difference observed between thicknesses and different parameter settings. The surfaces also show a large number of small bubbles. There were, however, no cracks or other defects found, even in the cross-sections of all samples.
Histomorphometric and developmental analysis of human fetal caecum and appendix with its embryological significance
Authors: Nehra Abhinav , Gupta Chirag , Palimar Vikram , Kalthur Sneha Guruprasad , Gupta Chandni
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The variable positions of the appendix can mislead surgeons and physicians to a wrong diagnosis. When appendicitis happens in subhepatic caecum, it can be misdiagnosed and can lead to severe complications during surgical procedures. Therefore, this study aimed to understand the histomorphometric development of the appendix and caecum and to identify when lymphoid follicles appear in the appendix during fetal life.

Methods

The study was conducted on a total of 50 fetuses. The caecum and appendix were carefully dissected. Their position and various measurements were observed. Afterwards, the appendix was taken out for histological processing. All three layers, mucosa, submucosa, and muscularis externa were measured using Image Analyzer Software Image Pro Premiere 9.1, and the appearance of lymphoid follicles was also examined. Results were analyzed using SPSS statistical software.

Results

During the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd trimesters the most common caecum type was type 1: as a lengthy tube, type 3: The lateral wall expanded more, thus it has an asymmetric saccule, and type 4: adult-like caecum. The caecum was mostly situated in the right lumbar region in the 2nd and 3rd trimesters. In the 1st trimester, it was subhepatic in position. The most common position of the appendix was 11 o’clock in 1st and 3rd trimesters. 2nd trimester’s most common position of the appendix was 12 o’clock. The thickness of the mucosa, submucosa, and the muscularis externa increases as the trimester increases. The lymphoid follicles have appeared during the 2nd trimester.

Conclusion

The knowledge from this study will be useful in the diagnosis and treatment of malformations, pathology, and anomalies of the caecum and appendix due to congenital causes.
Revisiting the Chadwick and Lu & Pister models of finite thermoelasticity for isotropic materials
Authors: Govindjee Sanjay , Carlson Timothy
Published: September 2024

This note reviews and presents the two dominant models of thermoelasticity developed by (1) Peter Chadwick and (2) S.C.H Lu and Karl S. Pister. Both models are widely used and cited in the literature but their differences are not well delineated in a clear and accessible way. Here we briefly review the two models using a unified notation and discuss and compare their basic properties and behavior. We show that all Lu and Pister models can be written as a Chadwick model. However a Chadwick model does not fully specify a Lu and Pister model. Additional (mild) assumptions must be made to convert a Chadwick model into a Lu and Pister model. A model due to L. Anand is also presented to show its conformity to both frameworks and to highlight its usefulness.
Renal sympathetic denervation 2024 in Austria: recommendations from the Austrian Society of Hypertension
Authors: Zweiker David , Koppelstätter Christian , Hohenstein Katharina , Lang Irene , Perl Sabine , Bugger Heiko , Brandt Mathias-Christoph , Horn Sabine , Binder Ronald K. , Watschinger Bruno , Frick Matthias , Niessner Alexander , Weber Thomas
Published: September 2024

Renal sympathetic denervation (RDN) is an interventional supplement to medical treatment in patients with arterial hypertension. While the first sham-controlled trial, SYMPLICITY HTN‑3 was neutral, with improved procedural details, patient selection and follow-up, recent randomized sham-controlled trials of second-generation devices show a consistent blood pressure lowering effect of RDN, as compared to sham controls. These new data and the recent U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) premarket approval of two RDN devices are the basis for the present recommendations update.

This joint position paper from the Austrian Society of Hypertension, together with the Austrian Society of Nephrology and the Working Group of Interventional Cardiology from the Austrian Society of Cardiology includes an overview about the available evidence on RDN and gives specific recommendations for the work-up, patient selection, pretreatment, procedural management and follow-up in patients undergoing RDN in Austria. Specifically, RDN may be used in clinical routine care, together with lifestyle measures and antihypertensive drugs, in patients with resistant hypertension (i.e. uncontrolled blood pressure on 3 antihypertensive drugs) and in those with uncontrolled hypertension, after adequate work-up, if institutional, patient-related and procedural conditions are fulfilled.
A new high-resolution Coastal Ice-Ocean Prediction System for the East Coast of Canada
Authors: Paquin Jean-Philippe , Roy François , Smith Gregory C. , MacDermid Sarah , Lei Ji , Dupont Frédéric , Lu Youyu , Taylor Stephanne , St-Onge-Drouin Simon , Blanken Hauke , Dunphy Michael , Soontiens Nancy
Published: September 2024

The Coastal Ice Ocean Prediction System for the East Coast of Canada (CIOPS-E) was developed and implemented operationally at Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) to support a variety of critical marine applications. These include support for ice services, search and rescue, environmental emergency response and maritime safety. CIOPS-E uses a 1/36° horizontal grid (~ 2 km) to simulate sea ice and ocean conditions over the northwest Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of St. Lawrence (GSL). Forcing at lateral open boundaries is taken from ECCC’s data assimilative Regional Ice-Ocean Prediction System (RIOPS). A spectral nudging method is applied offshore to keep mesoscale features consistent with RIOPS. Over the continental shelf and GSL, the CIOPS-E solution is free to evolve according to the model dynamics. Overall, CIOPS-E significantly improves the representation of tidal and sub-tidal water levels compared to ECCC’s lower resolution systems: RIOPS (~ 6 km) and the Regional Marine Prediction System – GSL (RMPS-GSL, 5 km). Improvements in the GSL are due to the higher resolution and a better representation of bathymetry, boundary forcing and dynamics in the upper St. Lawrence Estuary. Sea surface temperatures show persistent summertime cold bias, larger in CIOPS-E than in RIOPS, as the latter is constrained by observations. The seasonal cycle of sea ice extent and volume, unconstrained in CIOPS-E, compares well with observational estimates, RIOPS and RMPS-GSL. A greater number of fine-scale features are found in CIOPS-E with narrow leads and more intense ice convergence zones, compared to both RIOPS and RMPS-GSL.
A generalized ASIP with arrivals to all sites and particle movements in all directions
Authors: Yeger Yaron , Yechiali Uri
Published: September 2024

A generalized n-site Asymmetric Simple Inclusion Process (ASIP) network is studied, where gate-opening instants are determined by a renewal process and arrivals occur to all sites. Various types of batch particle movements between sites are analyzed: (i) unidirectional probabilistic forward movements; (ii) probabilistic forward movements combined with feedback to the first site; and (iii) general probabilistic multidirectional movements. In contrast to the tedious successive substitution method used in previous ASIP studies, an efficient matrix approach is applied to derive the multidimensional probability generating function (PGF) of site occupancies right after gate opening instants. The complexity of the ASIP processes allows us to obtain explicit PGF results for small-size networks only, while for larger networks, a formula to calculate the mean site occupancies is derived for all types of movements. In movement case (i) the means are directly and explicitly calculated. For movement case (ii), where the network is homogeneous with equal probabilities of forward movements from site i to downstream sites $$j \ge i$$

j
≥
i

, we show that the ratio between the mean occupancies of consecutive sites approaches a constant when the network becomes large, and calculate this ratio. Finally, we investigate an n-site network where at gate opening instants all gates open simultaneously, and particles move in all directions. Numerical examples are presented.
Vaccination strategies for different contact patterns: weighing epidemiological against economic outcomes
Authors: Forslid Rikard , Herzing Mathias
Published: September 2024

The aim of this paper is to shed light on the economic and epidemiological trade-offs that emerge when choosing between different vaccination strategies. For that purpose we employ a setting with three age groups that differ with respect to their fatality rates. The model also accounts for heterogeneity in the transmission rates between and within these age groups. We compare the results for two different contact patterns, in terms of the total number of deceased, the total number of infected, the peak infection rate and the economic gains from different vaccination strategies. We find that fatalities are minimized by first vaccinating the elderly, except when vaccination is slow and the general transmission rate is relatively low. In this case deaths are minimized by first vaccinating the group that is mainly responsible for spreading of the virus. With regard to the other outcome variables it is best to vaccinate the group that drives the pandemic first. A trade-off may therefore emerge between reducing fatalities on the one hand and lowering the number of infected as well as maximizing the economic gains from vaccinations on the other hand.
Nirdizati: an advanced predictive process monitoring toolkit
Authors: Rizzi Williams , Di Francescomarino Chiara , Ghidini Chiara , Maggi Fabrizio Maria
Published: September 2024

Predictive Process Monitoring (PPM) is a field of Process Mining that aims at predicting how an ongoing execution of a business process will develop in the future using past process executions recorded in event logs. The recent stream of publications in this field shows the need for tools able to support researchers and users in comparing and selecting the techniques that are the most suitable for them. In this paper, we present  , a dedicated tool for supporting users in building, comparing and explaining the PPM models that can then be used to perform predictions on the future of an ongoing case.  has been constructed by carefully considering the necessary capabilities of a PPM tool and by implementing them in a client-server architecture able to support modularity and scalability. The features of  support researchers and practitioners within the entire pipeline for constructing reliable PPM models. The assessment using reactive design patterns and load tests provides an evaluation of the interaction among the architectural elements, and of the scalability with multiple users accessing the prototype in a concurrent manner, respectively. By providing a rich set of different state-of-the-art approaches,  offers to Process Mining researchers and practitioners a useful and flexible instrument for comparing and selecting PPM techniques.
Computation of 2D Continuous Geometric Moments Through Inclusion–Exclusion
Authors: Magillo Paola , Čomić Lidija
Published: September 2024

We propose a method for computing continuous (exact) geometric moments on 2D binary images, based on a decomposition into overlapping rectangles and on the inclusion–exclusion principle. The approach assumes that the input is given as a chain code describing the contour of the represented object (black pixels) and reduces the number of pixels where calculations are to be performed, especially when the contours have long axis-parallel sides.
Pt Effect on the Bond-Coating/Superalloy Interdiffusion: Case of a Pt-Modified NiCoCrAlYTa Coating
Authors: Vande Put Aurélie , Epifano Enrica , Crabos Fabrice , Monceau Daniel
Published: September 2024

Heat treatments and oxidation tests were performed on systems composed of a single-crystal AM3 superalloy with a NiCoCrAlYTa+Pt coating to investigate the effect of Pt on Ta and Ti diffusion at high temperature. Experimental results were compared to an AM3 superalloy directly coated with Pt. For all the studied systems, the effect of Pt on elemental activities was evaluated through thermodynamic calculations. Pt diffusion was found to be faster in the NiCoCrAlYTa coating than in AM3. High Ta contents were measured in the Pt-rich γ′ phase below the surface and significant Al and Cr transport toward the surface was observed, in agreement with thermodynamic calculations which predicted an important decrease in their activities in the presence of Pt. An outward diffusion of Ti was also noticed, whereas calculations did not show a decrease in Ti activity due to Pt. Other discrepancies between experiments and thermodynamic calculations were noted and are discussed in this work.
Sabotage-proof social ranking solutions
Authors: Suzuki Takahiro , Horita Masahide
Published: September 2024

Robustness against strategic manipulation is a crucial topic in social choice theory. Under some social ranking solutions (SRSs), namely mappings that yield candidates’ ranking from their coalitions’ ranking, candidates can sometimes improve their own social ranking by strategically degrading the coalitions to which they belong (e.g., sabotaging the coalitions to which the candidates and their competitors both belong could damage their competitors’ social rankings). This study investigates SRSs that can prevent such sabotage and promote sincere cooperation between candidates. To this end, we introduce two axioms of SRSs by modifying the non-manipulability (NM) in the literature. An SRS is sabotage-proof (SP) if no candidate can improve their social ranking against anyone else through sabotage, and it is strongly sabotage-proof (SSP) if it is SP and is endowed with a sanction system against specific sabotage. We first demonstrate that the ceteris paribus majority (when there are at least four candidates) and lexicographic excellence solutions are SP but not SSP. We then propose a new characterization of dual lexicographic excellence solution as the unique linear SRS satisfying SSP and coalitional anonymity. Our axiomatic study provides a theoretical ground that lexicographic evaluation of coalitional performances is highly robust against strategic sabotage.
Recent developments in the field of radiotherapy for the management of lung cancer
Authors: Shirai Katsuyuki , Aoki Shuri , Endo Masashi , Takahashi Yuta , Fukuda Yukiko , Akahane Keiko , Musha Atsushi , Sato Harutoshi , Wakatsuki Masaru , Ishikawa Hitoshi , Sasaki Ryohei
Published: September 2024

Lung cancer has a poor prognosis, and further improvements in outcomes are needed. Radiotherapy plays an important role in the treatment of unresectable lung cancer, and there have been recent developments in the field of radiotherapy for the management of lung cancer. However, to date, there have been few reviews on the improvement in treatment outcomes associated with high precision radiotherapy for lung cancer. Thus, this review aimed to summarize the recent developments in radiotherapy techniques and indicate the future directions in the use of radiotherapy for lung cancer. Stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) for unresectable stage I lung cancer has been reported to improve local control rates without severe adverse events, such as radiation pneumonitis. For locally advanced lung cancer, a combination of chemoradiotherapy and adjuvant immune checkpoint inhibitors dramatically improves treatment outcomes, and intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) enables safer radiation therapy with less frequent pneumonitis. Particle beam therapy, such as carbon-ion radiotherapy and proton beam therapy, has been administered as advanced medical care for patients with lung cancer. Since 2024, it has been covered under insurance for early stage lung cancer with tumors ≤ 5 cm in size in Japan. In addition to chemotherapy, local ablative radiotherapy improves treatment outcomes in patients with oligometastatic stage IV lung cancer. A particular problem with radiotherapy for lung cancer is that the target location changes with respiratory motion, and various physical methods have been used to control respiratory motion. Recently, coronavirus disease has had a major impact on lung cancer treatment, and cancer treatment during situations, such as the coronavirus pandemic, must be performed carefully. To improve treatment outcomes for lung cancer, it is necessary to fully utilize evolving radiotherapy modalities, and the role of radiotherapy in lung cancer treatment is expected to increase.
Optimizing Cold Spray Parameters for High Entropy Alloy Coatings Using Taguchi and Box–Behnken Design Approaches for Mechanically Alloyed Powder
Authors: Sharma Deepak , Boruah Dibakor , Ameen Ahamed , Bakir Ali Alperen , Paul Shiladitya
Published: September 2024

The present study focused on optimizing the cold spray (CS) process parameters for depositing Fe20Cr20Mn20Ni20Co20 (Cantor alloy) coatings using mechanically alloyed (MA) powder. A two-step design of experiments approach was employed, beginning with the initial screening of input variables using the L8 Taguchi method, followed by the refinement of process parameters through the Box–Behnken design of experiments. Key performance indicators included deposition efficiency (DE), coating thickness per pass, and microstructural parameters including porosity, cracks, and interfacial defects/delamination. The study identified process gas temperature as the primary factor influencing both DE and thickness per pass. Higher gas temperature and pressure, combined with increased scanning speed, resulted in higher DE. The DE of the MA Cantor alloy powder peaked at around 14-15%, with a deposit density greater than 99% achieved at the highest process gas temperature and pressure (1000 °C and 60 bar, respectively). The average hardness of the optimal CS coating deposited using MA powder was found to be 679 ± 17 HV0.1, which is approximately 90% greater than the average hardness reported for CS coatings deposited using atomized powder.
Wat is een gezond sociaal netwerk? Reflecties bij het sociaal-netwerkadvies
Authors: Machielse Anja , van Campen Crétien , Schoenmakers Eric , van Tilburg Theo
Published: September 2024

Samenvatting

Eind 2023 lanceerde het ministerie van Volksgezondheid, Welzijn en Sport een advies over het sociaal netwerk dat mensen nodig hebben om zich niet eenzaam te voelen en gezond te blijven. Het advies benadrukt het belang van het sociaal netwerk voor de gezondheid en bevat suggesties om dit te versterken. In deze bijdrage wordt het sociaal-netwerkadvies gepresenteerd. Omdat er geen eenduidige kwantitatieve drempelwaarde voor een gezond sociaal netwerk is, is gekozen voor een kwalitatieve formulering. Het sociaal-netwerkadvies is geformuleerd door de Wetenschappelijke Adviescommissie (WAC) van het programma ‘Eén tegen Eenzaamheid’. De auteurs van dit artikel zijn lid van de WAC.