bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Design sensitivity analysis in the kinematics of the 4SS-axle guiding mechanism in Chebyshev configuration
Authors: Alexandru C 
Published: October 2022

Abstract
This work deals with the design sensitivity analysis in the kinematics of the vehicle rear axle guided by four points - on four spheres (so called 4SS) in Chebyshev configuration. The study actually continues the research presented in a previous published article, which addressed the effect of variations in geometric parameters on the kinematic behavior of the 4SS guiding mechanism with Panhard bar (that is, one of the 4 bars of the mechanism was arranged transversely, while now all the guide bars of the rear axle are arranged longitudinally). The aim of the research is to identify the geometric parameters with significant influence on the kinematics of the guiding mechanism, in order to simplify the subsequent effective optimization process.
Modelling and simulation of a single-motor bi-axial sun tracking mechanism
Authors: Alexandru C 
Published: October 2022

Abstract
This work deals with the modelling and simulation in a virtual environment of an innovative bi-axial solar tracker, with two degrees of freedom (DOF), at which the both movements (diurnal and elevation/altitudinal) are driven by a single motor (which is a linear actuator). The tracking mechanism is used for increasing the energetic efficiency of a photovoltaic (PV) platform. The proposed solution allows to reduce the cost of the PV system by minimizing the number of motors, but still preserving the tracking accuracy of the platform. The tracking system in study is one of azimuthal type, at which the main revolute axis, that of the diurnal movement, is positioned vertically. The linear actuator used as motor source directly drives the diurnal movement, and also generates the elevation movement by intercalating a mechanical transmission that contains a bevel gear planetary mechanism and a planar rotary cam-follower mechanism. The virtual prototyping package ADAMS of MSC.Software was used for modeling and simulating the proposed tracking mechanism.
Self-Driving robotic car utilizing image processing and machine learning
Authors: Almusawi Husam A , Al-Jabali Mohammed , Khaled Amro M , Péter Korondi , Géza Husi 
Published: October 2022

Abstract
The major goal of this paper is to build and represent a prototype of a fully autonomous car that employs computer vision to detect lanes and traffic signs without human intervention using limited computing capacity. The project contains an embedded system represented by a Raspberry Pi 3 which serves as the image processing and machine learning unit. This method requires a stream of images as input for the computer vision using OpenCV2 library with C++ programming language along with Haar Cascade Classifier for the detection of traffic signs. The Raspberry Pi will send binary signals to the Arduino UNO which is responsible for merging those signals with the ones from the ultrasonic sensor and producing new signals which are sent to the motor driver to control the direction and speed of the dc motors. The system was able to detect the lane and respond to changes in lane direction, as well as to detect traffic signs and give appropriate responses.
Realization of the experimental stand for the identification of angular velocities at the lower limbs
Authors: Alexandru-Constantin Tulică , Ileana-Constanţa Roşca 
Published: October 2022

Abstract
In this paper, we will see how an experimental stand was made to identify biomechanical parameters in human limbs. This experimental stand features two data acquisition boards, namely the Arduino Uno and the orientation (motion) board. The source code is written in the Arduino IDE program, and the data acquisition can be done using the MS Ofice program - the Data Streamer module.
Analysis and evaluation of the risk of non-competitiveness
Authors: Stoenoiu C E , Cristea C , Serban F M 
Published: October 2022

Abstract
The risk of non-competitiveness is a problem that companies face because anticipating changes can improve their market position. The characteristics of the branch often determine particularities at the level of technology evolution, and later, through the appropriate combination of factors, sources, and the effect of progressive changes in technology, there are possibilities to improve the company’s position in the market. The research carried out allowed us to determine an analysis of the risk of non-competitiveness through the evolution of indicators that measure this risk compared to the main competitor and the market average.
Employee competencies in line with Industry 4.0
Authors: Praj Filip , Horváthová Martina , Čambál Miloš 
Published: October 2022

Abstract
This paper deals with determining the necessary competencies of employees in industrial enterprises by the requirements of Industry 4.0. The term Industrial Revolution 4.0 is very frequent and somewhat mysterious for most people, and its content is unknown. It can be said with great certainty that it is already affecting and will affect both production processes, radical changes in their structure, and the advent of groundbreaking technology and communication equipment, but it will undoubtedly affect labour relations. The growth of new forms and methods of work based on automation, and digitisation, also applied in new models of labour relations, is already slowly beginning to threaten jobs in some segments of the economy. There are increasing demands for specific qualifications and skills, particularly in information technology, emphasising digitising processes, data processing and creating communication networks linking objects and people.
Implementation of a global trailer tracking system using a microcontroller
Authors: Niga G A , Moldovanu D , Sîrca Andreea Anamaria , Cărăuşan H 
Published: October 2022

Abstract
This paper underlines the importance of goods transport and mostly, the importance of knowing at all times where the trailers and trucks of a fleet are, in order to manage the fleet properly. The authors have proposed a prototype that connects to the 24 volt power supply of the truck and charges the lithium rechargeable batteries. After disconnecting the trailer, the tracking prototype can be located via SMS on any national or international route, depending on the GSM mounted in the device. The proposed prototype will be tested further and several directions of improvement have been proposed.
The assessment of pedestrian’s head injury risk at the impact with the vehicle’s windshield
Authors: Tolea B A , Beles H , Radu A I , Scurt F , Dragomir G. 
Published: October 2022

Abstract
The goal of this paper, is to establish a pedestrian’s head injury risk, when it impacts a vehicle’s windshield. Hence, three experimental tests were performed, on an experimental test bench. Therefore, we want to determine which area of the windscreen is the most „friendly” in case of car to pedestrian accidents.
Invited Commentary: Use of Epidemiologic Methods to Guide Comprehensive and Equitable Approaches to Policy
Authors: Widome Rachel 
Published: October 2022

Abstract
Despite a dramatic reduction in the prevalence of commercial cigarette smoking in the United States, children are still commonly exposed to secondhand smoke (SHS), which is a cause of various pediatric health problems. Further, SHS exposure is patterned by race and class, exacting an inequitable toll on children from families with lesser social and economic advantage. In this issue of the Journal, Titus et al. (Am J Epidemiol. 2023;192(1):25–33) use natural experiment evaluation methods (difference-in-differences) to test whether the recently implemented US Department of Housing and Urban Development policy that forbade smoking in and around New York City Housing Authority buildings affected child respiratory health. The results from their work remind us that policies do not always impact outcomes as we might expect. Given that policy is one of the most potent tools for population health promotion, this work underlines the need for epidemiologists to engage in policy evaluation at all stages of the policy life cycle, in order to discover comprehensive approaches to policy development and implementation that prioritize equity and address structural racism.
Exposure, Susceptibility, and Recovery: A Framework for Examining the Intersection of the Social and Physical Environments and Infectious Disease Risk
Authors: Noppert Grace A , Hegde Sonia T , Kubale John T 
Published: October 2022

Abstract
Despite well-documented evidence that structurally disadvantaged populations are disproportionately affected by infectious diseases, our understanding of the pathways that connect structural disadvantage to the burden of infectious diseases is limited. We propose a conceptual framework to facilitate more rigorous examination and testing of hypothesized mechanisms through which social and environmental factors shape the burden of infectious diseases and lead to persistent inequities. Drawing upon the principles laid out by Link and Phelan in their landmark paper on social conditions (J Health Soc Behav. 1995;(spec no.):80–94), we offer an explication of potential pathways through which structural disadvantage (e.g., racism, sexism, and economic deprivation) operates to produce infectious disease inequities. Specifically, we describe how the social environment affects an individual’s risk of infectious disease by 1) increasing exposure to infectious pathogens and 2) increasing susceptibility to infection. This framework will facilitate both the systematic examination of the ways in which structural disadvantage shapes the burden of infectious disease and the design of interventions that can disrupt these pathways.
Our Experience Using Round Nano-Surface Ergonomix Implants for Breast Reconstruction: A Single-Center Retrospective Study
Authors: Adelson Dana , Singolda Roei , Haran Oriana , Madah Ehab , Barsuk Daphna , Barnea Yoav 
Published: October 2022

Abstract

Background
Round nano-surface Ergonomix (Motiva, Establishment Labs; Alajuela, Costa Rica) implants were developed to address concerns regarding capsular contracture and textured anatomical breasts implants.

Objectives
The authors describe their early experience with Ergonomix implants in breast reconstruction.

Methods
The authors retrospectively reviewed the charts of 212 patients (321 breasts) who underwent breast reconstruction employing round nano-surface Ergonomix implants between June 2017 and December 2020. Patients were followed for at least 12 months postoperatively. Demographics, surgical data, and postoperative surgical outcomes were recorded. Postoperative physical well-being and satisfaction with the breasts and implant were evaluated with Breast-Q questionnaires.

Results
Of 211 patients, 75.4% had surgery due to cancer, and 24.6% underwent prophylactic surgery. Major complications occurred in 21 breasts (6.5%), of which 20 underwent revision operations. Reconstruction failed in 1 case (0.3%). Eleven breasts (3.4%) had minor complications. Immediate breast reconstruction, irradiated breasts, and smokers had higher rates of complications (P = 0.009, 0.02, 0.022, respectively). Rippling was more common in the pre-pectoral implant plane compared with sub-pectoral reconstruction (9% vs 1.2%, P = 0.001). Capsular contracture rate was 0.9% and occurred only in irradiated breasts. Implant malposition (inferiorly and laterally) occurred in 6.5% of the breasts, with no association between implant malposition and implant plane. Early follow-up demonstrated high patient satisfaction with the implant and breasts, and high scores in terms of patients’ physical well-being.

Conclusions
Breast reconstruction employing the round nano-surface Ergonomix implant yielded low complication rates and high patient satisfaction. The transition from macro-textured to nano-surface implants has operative implications requiring a learning curve and surgical adjustments.

Level of Evidence: 4
Analysis of the solution structure parameter α in the relationship between the molar fraction and the freezing points, and hydration parameter h determined from viscosity and density measurements, for sugar alcohols and related sugars in water
Authors: Sato Yukinori 
Published: October 2022

ABSTRACT
The parameter α was obtained from the molar fraction of solute and the freezing points of sugar alcohols and their related sugars in water. For comparison with this parameter, simple measurement of the hydration parameter h was performed using a capillary viscometer and a density meter. This parameter was calculated from the viscosity B coefficient and the partial molar volume of solute. The viscosity B coefficient was more suitable than the partial molar volume for h calculation, as indicated by the determination coefficients of the linear regression lines. h correlated well with α for various compounds, including sugar alcohols in water, supporting the parameters’ theoretical correspondence (α =−h). In addition, the activation energy required for hydration implies that the thermal stability increases with the saccharide molecular weight.
Resting-state functional connectivity in adults with 47,XXX: a 7 Tesla MRI study
Authors: Serrarens Chaira , Kashyap Sriranga , Riveiro-Lago Laura , Otter Maarten , Campforts Bea C M , Stumpel Constance T R M , Jansma Henk , Linden David E J , van Amelsvoort Thérèse A M J , Vingerhoets Claudia 
Published: October 2022

Abstract
Triple X syndrome is a sex chromosomal aneuploidy characterized by the presence of a supernumerary X chromosome, resulting in a karyotype of 47,XXX in affected females. It has been associated with a variable cognitive, behavioral, and psychiatric phenotype, but little is known about its effects on brain function. We therefore conducted 7 T resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging and compared data of 19 adult individuals with 47,XXX and 21 age-matched healthy control women using independent component analysis and dual regression. Additionally, we examined potential relationships between social cognition and social functioning scores, and IQ, and mean functional connectivity values. The 47,XXX group showed significantly increased functional connectivity of the fronto-parietal resting-state network with the right postcentral gyrus. Resting-state functional connectivity (rsFC) variability was not associated with IQ and social cognition and social functioning deficits in the participants with 47,XXX. We thus observed an effect of a supernumerary X chromosome in adult women on fronto-parietal rsFC. These findings provide additional insight into the role of the X chromosome on functional connectivity of the brain. Further research is needed to understand the clinical implications of altered rsFC in 47,XXX.
Arbitral Activism and Choice of Law under the ICSID Convention
Authors: Clover Alcolea Lucas 
Published: October 2022

Abstract
One of the most controversial debates in international investment law concerns the extent to which investment disputes should be internationalized or localized, that is to say, the extent to which international law or local (domestic) law should be applied to decide a dispute. An additional issue is the extent to which international law prevails over domestic law in the investment law context. The ICSID Convention represents a unique entry point into this dispute given that it explicitly regulates the law applicable in ICSID arbitrations through Article 42. In order to determine the role of international and local law under Article 42 of the ICSID convention, this article adopts a quasi-originalist approach focusing on the intention and understanding of the drafters as its lodestone and looking at the travaux préparatoires of the Convention, as well as other contemporaneous or near-contemporaneous sources in order to establish this. It also notes that the oft-overlooked doctrines of the New International Economic Order are an important part of the context of the ICSID Convention and failure to realize this has led to significant misinterpretation of the Convention. It finds that the dominant view of discarding host State law under Article 42 in favor of international law was neither intended by the drafters of the ICSID Convention nor was it their understanding of it. Instead, it finds that the drafters intended, and understood the ICSID Convention to require, the default application of host state law as part of a complex and nuanced interpretative process which would usually result in an outcome that respected both international and host State law.
Thiazides in chronic kidney disease: “back to the future”
Authors: de la Espriella Rafael , Cobo Marta , Núñez Julio 
Published: October 2022

ABSTRACTThe thiazide class diuretics are first-line agents for managing hypertension either as monotherapy or as a fixed-dose combination with other antihypertensive drugs. However, despite the extensive experience with these drugs for &gt;60 years, there is general reluctance to use these agents in patients with advanced chronic kidney disease (CKD) because of concerns about their efficacy and safety as kidney function declines. In this issue of Clinical Kidney Journal, Minutolo et al. performed an updated review of the pharmacological properties, efficacy and side effects and randomized controlled trials that tested these drugs in patients with CKD.
Not everything is changing: on the relative neglect and meanings of continuity in communication and social change research
Authors: Driessens Olivier 
Published: October 2022

Abstract
One of the central interests of media and communication research is how technologies and communication media are involved in social and cultural change. Often such studies are rather one-sided because they disregard questions of continuity, which can lead to inadequate analyses and exaggerated claims of change. Three categories of reasons for this bias towards change are identified through a literature review. Crucially, since continuity remains an undervalued concern, we lack sophisticated theorizations and analytical approaches to study it adequately. In response, this article presents a taxonomy of continuity based on a thematic analysis of 74 articles in leading communication journals. The five observed dimensions of continuity offer scholars the vocabulary and a conceptual framework to study continuity more systematically as a complex and multi-dimensional issue. This contribution serves as a starting point towards building a theory of change and continuity, and suggestions for necessary future work are given.
Differences in patterns of progression of secondary mitral regurgitation
Authors: Layoun Habib , Mentias Amgad , Kanaan Christopher , Badwan Osamah , Matta Milad , Kassab Joseph , Gillinov Marc A , Hodges Kevin , Griffin Brian P , Kapadia Samir R , Harb Serge C 
Published: October 2022

Abstract

Aims
Little data exist about the natural history and disease progression of secondary mitral regurgitation (SMR). We sought to study the temporal progression of left-sided volumes and functions in patients who progress to develop severe SMR.

Methods and results
We screened patients with chronic severe SMR who had at least one previous transthoracic echocardiography showing non-severe MR. Unsupervised phenotypic clustering based on baseline and rate of change in left ventricular (LV) and left atrial (LA) volumes, ejection fraction (EF), and MR severity progression identified two different phenotypes. We then compared them in terms of clinical characteristics, mechanistic and anatomical features, management, and outcomes. A total of 257 patients were included. Cluster 1 started with lower EF and LA strain and higher LV and LA volumes compared with Cluster 2, with a slower progression into severe SMR. At the onset of severe MR, Cluster 2 still had higher EF, lower LV volumes, but similar LA volumes and strain, and less proportionate SMR, compared with Cluster 1. They also had higher tenting height and more compensatory leaflet growth. On follow-up, Cluster 1 had more ventricular-directed therapies, whereas Cluster 2 received more mitral valve interventions. While the heart failure burden was higher in Cluster 1, there was no difference in mortality rates.

Conclusion
Based on disease progression, two distinct progression patterns of SMR exist, having different anatomical and mechanistic features with variation in management and outcomes.
Trichinella spiralis-derived extracellular vesicles induce a protective immunity against larval challenge in mice
Authors: Ashour Dalia S , Ibrahim Fatma M Kh , Elshamy Amira M , Zoghroban Hager S 
Published: October 2022

Abstract
Human trichinellosis is a serious disease with no effective treatment till now. Recently, the protective immunity induced by parasite-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) are studied for some parasites such as Echinostoma caproni. The current study aimed to investigate the novel Trichinella spiralis-derived EVs as a potential vaccine candidate for the first time in a mouse model. Trichinella spiralis EVs were isolated and identified using transmission electron microscopy, gel electrophoresis, protein content measurements, and beads-based flow cytometry. Vaccination was done by subcutaneous injection of two doses of 3.5 μg T. spiralis-derived EVs. We observed a significant reduction in T. spiralis adult worm and muscle larval counts in mice immunized with T. spiralis-derived EVs (EVs-Ts group) and controlled inflammatory changes in the intestine and muscles. The EVs-Ts group showed a higher level of IFN- γ, whereas the IL-4 secretion was elevated more in the EVs group (EVs group) and showed a lower level after challenge with T. spiralis infection (EVs-Ts group). This implies a mixed Th1/Th2 immune response with obvious Th1 polarization. Moreover, elevation of serum T. spiralis-specific IgG was reported. In conclusion, this preliminary study provides T. spiralis EVs as a promising candidate for future development of anti-Trichinella vaccine.
Research on performance evaluation of urban low-carbon management: a case study in Foshan
Authors: Shun Lyu 
Published: October 2022

Abstract
For the sustainable development of the Earth and the improvement of human living environment, it is of great importance to establish a scientific urban low-carbon management performance evaluation index system and provide scientific methods for better urban low-carbon management. Based on literature research and questionnaire, this paper establishes the performance evaluation system of urban low-carbon management. Based on the premise of evaluating low-carbon cities, this system measures the management level of low-carbon cities, clarifies the realistic content of urban low-carbon management performance and puts forward some constructive suggestions for improving the performance of urban low-carbon management. This paper makes statistical analysis of the evaluation indicators by issuing questionnaires to professional groups, focuses on the investigation and analysis of the public’s concept of low-carbon city and environmental awareness and then uses scientific entropy method to calculate and draw feasible conclusions and countermeasures, which has innovative significance. In the case study in Foshan, the performance evaluation system indicated that from 2017 to 2021, the performance of urban low-carbon management in Foshan has increased by ~30%.