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In this study, Ti-48Al-3Nb-1.5Ta powders were manufactured from cast bars by the supreme-speed plasma rotating electrode process (SS-PREP) and used to prepare hot isostatically pressed (HIPed) material at 1050–1260 °C with 150 MPa for 4 h. The phase, microstructure and mechanical performance were analyzed by XRD, SEM, electrical universal material testing machine and other methods. The results revealed that the phase constitution changed from γ phase to α2 phase and then to γ phase with the material changing from as-cast to powders and then to as-HIPed. Compared with the as-cast material, the grain size and element segregation were significantly reduced for both powders and as-HIPed. When the hot isostatic pressing (HIP) temperature was low, the genetic characteristics of the powder microstructure were evident. With the HIP temperature increasing, the homogeneity of the composition and microstructure increased, and the prior particle boundaries (PPBs) gradually disappeared. The elastic moduli of powder and as-HIPed were superior to those of as-cast, which increased with the HIP temperature increasing. The hardness of as-HIPed was lower than that of the powder. The compressive strength, compressive strain, bending strength, and tensile strength of as-HIPed were higher than those of as-cast. With an increase in the HIP temperature, the compressive strength decreased gradually, and the compressive strain first decreased and then increased.

Given the national goal of “emission peaking and carbon neutralization”, China has become the largest country in the world for offshore wind farm construction. At the same time, navigational safety problems in offshore wind farm waters have become increasingly frequent. Owing to the complexity of offshore wind farm waters and the small number of accident data samples available for reference, the system theory method is more suitable for selection than the traditional method. Based on causal analysis based on system theory (CAST) and a complex network (CN), in this study, a qualitative and quantitative accident analysis model, CAST-CN, is constructed to analyze a complete case of vessel and wind turbine allision in offshore wind farm waters. The results show that, at the micro level, in addition to the master, crew, shipping company, and typhoon Hato, the maritime safety administration and the wind farm operation management department have a certain impact on the development of the accident discussed in this study. At the macro level, internal and external factors leading to the lack of system safety are identified, and measures and suggestions for system safety improvement are proposed based on analysis. This study can fill the research gap in the systematic analysis of traffic accidents in offshore wind farm waters and provide support for the safety assessment and decision-making of government management departments and research institutes.

A complete ostrich femur from the Late Pleistocene deposits of the Upper Cave at Zhoukoudian (China) was referred by Shaw to Struthio anderssoni in the 1930s, but its present whereabouts are unknown. A good quality plaster cast of the missing specimen has been found in the collections of the Natural History Museum (London). This cast provides interesting information about the morphology of this large ostrich femur, which had previously been only summarily described and not illustrated. Although smaller than the femora of the Early Pleistocene giant ostrich Pachystruthio, the robust femur from Zhoukoudian shows morphological similarities with them, and it is suggested that ‘Struthio’ anderssoni should be placed in the genus Pachystruthio. The importance of old palaeontological casts is emphasized, as well as the need to preserve and curate them properly.

Studies have reported a high percentage of ankle fracture dislocations with secondary loss of reduction during primary treatment with a splint or cast. This study aimed to assess the rate of secondary loss of reduction in unimalleolar ankle fracture dislocations treated primarily with a cast or external fixator, identify the potential influence of fracture morphology, and investigate the potential implications. Unimalleolar ankle fracture dislocations with and without posterior malleolar fracture between 2011 and 2020 were included. Patients were categorized into two groups, depending on the method of temporary treatment. Fracture morphology, time to definitive surgery, and soft-tissue complications were compared. Of 102 patients, loss of reduction tended to occur more often in the cast group (17.3%) than in the external fixator group (6.0%). The presence of a posterior malleolar fracture did not have a significant influence on loss of reduction in cast immobilization; however, the fragment proved to be significantly bigger in cases with loss of reduction. No statistically significant differences in soft tissue complications or time to definitive surgery were found. Surgeons should consider the application of interval external fixation in the primary treatment of unimalleolar ankle fracture dislocations with additional posterior malleolar fractures.

OBJECTIVE: There is limited evidence about the cross-cultural validity of autistic symptoms in school-aged children in Brazil. We used data from a large school survey to evaluate the factor structure of autism symptoms in community-dwelling children and adolescents. METHODS: We translated the Childhood Autism Spectrum Test to Brazilian Portuguese and performed factor analyses to investigate the factor structure of parent-reported autistic symptoms in a large sample (n=8,571) of children/adolescents from a school survey in the metropolitan area of São Paulo. RESULTS: Autistic symptoms were best conceptualized under a correlated-factors model with two factors: one predominantly characterized by social-communication symptoms and the other by symptoms of inflexible/restricted language, behaviors, and interests. CONCLUSIONS: These findings provide evidence that the structure of autistic symptoms in Brazil is similar to that described in other countries, indicating the cross-cultural validity of autism in Brazil.

[ES] El presente proyecto tiene como objetivo principal el diseño y desarrollo de un molde de inyección de plásticos para la fabricación de carcasas de ratones de ordenador. El diseño de la pieza a inyectar será realizado mediante el programa 3D Solidworks®. El producto será utilizado de forma habitual por el usuario, lo que requerirá un diseño ergonómico. Además, se considerarán aspectos medioambientales buscando materiales que sean fácilmente reciclables. Conocidos los requisitos de diseño de la pieza nos centraremos en el molde, en primer lugar, la geometría de la pieza definirá las cavidades del molde facilitando su inyección y expulsión. Posteriormente, se definirá su ciclo de fabricación, desde el material empleado hasta posibles procesos de fabricación adicionales. Por último, se seleccionará la máquina inyectora capaz de cumplir los requerimientos para la correcta fabricación del producto. Como apoyo al diseño se emplearán softwares CAE como Moldflow® y ANSYS®. Finalizando el proyecto se realizará un análisis económico para conocer la viabilidad económica del producto., [EN] The main objective of this project is the design and development of a plastic injection mold for the manufacture of computer mouse cases. The design of the piece to be injected will be done through 3D Solidworks®. The product will be used on a regular basis by the user, which will require an ergonomic design. In addition, environmental aspects will be considered looking for material that are easily recyclable. Once the design requirements of the part are known, we will focus on the mold. First, the geometry of the piece will define the cavities of the mold, facilitating the injection and ejection of the product. Later, it¿s manufacturing cycle will be defined, from the material used to possible additional manufacturing processes. Finally, the injection machine capable of meeting the requirements for the correct manufacture of the product will be selected. As support for the design, CAE software as Moldflow® and ANSYS® will be used. At the end of the project, an economic analysis will be done to determine the economic viability of the product., [CA] El present projecte té com objectiu principal el disseny i desenvolupament d’un motle d’injecció per a carcasses de ratolins d’ordinador. El disseny de la peça a injectar serà realitzat mitjançant el programa 3D Solidworks®. El producte serà utilitzat de forma habitual per l’usuari, cosa que requerirà un disseny ergonòmic. A més, es consideren aspectes mediambientals cercant materials que siguin fàcilment reciclables. Coneguts els requisits de disseny de la peça ens centrarem en el motle; en primer lloc, la geometria de la peça definirà les cavitats del motle facilitant la seva injecció i expulsió. Posteriorment, se’n definirà el cicle de fabricación, des del material emprat fins a possibles processos de fabricación addicionals. Finalment, se seleccionarà la máquina injectora capç de cumplir el requeriments per a la fabricación correcta del producte. Com a suport al disseny es faran servir programes CAE com Moldflow® i ANSYS®. Finalitzant el projecte es farà una anàlisi econòmica per conèixer la viabilitat económica del producte.

Aims: Offloading mechanical tissue stress is arguably the most important of multiple interventions needed to heal diabetes-related foot ulcers. This is the 2023 International Working Group on the Diabetic Foot (IWGDF) evidence-based guideline on offloading interventions to promote healing of foot ulcers in persons with diabetes. It serves as an update of the 2019 IWGDF guideline. Materials and Methods: We followed the GRADE approach by devising clinical questions and important outcomes in the PICO (Patient-Intervention-Control-Outcome) format, undertaking a systematic review and meta-analyses, developing summary of judgement tables and writing recommendations and rationales for each question. Each recommendation is based on the evidence found in the systematic review, expert opinion where evidence was not available, and a careful weighing of GRADE summary of judgement items including desirable and undesirable effects, certainty of evidence, patient values, resources required, cost effectiveness, equity, feasibility, and acceptability. Results: For healing a neuropathic plantar forefoot or midfoot ulcer in a person with diabetes, use a non-removable knee-high offloading device as the first-choice offloading intervention. If contraindications or patient intolerance to non-removable offloading exist, consider using a removable knee-high or ankle-high offloading device as the second-choice offloading intervention. If no offloading devices are available, consider using appropriately fitting footwear combined with felted foam as the third-choice offloading intervention. If such a non-surgical offloading treatment fails to heal a plantar forefoot ulcer, consider an Achilles tendon lengthening, metatarsal head resection, joint arthroplasty, or metatarsal osteotomy. For healing a neuropathic plantar or apex lesser digit ulcer secondary to flexibile toe deformity, use digital flexor tendon tenotomy. For healing rearfoot, non-plantar or ulcers complicated with infection or ischaemia, further recommendations have been outlined. All recommendations have been summarised in an offloading clinical pathway to help facilitate the implementation of this guideline into clinical practice. Conclusion: These offloading guideline recommendations should help healthcare professionals provide the best care and outcomes for persons with diabetes-related foot ulcers and reduce the person's risk of infection, hospitalisation and amputation.

BACKGROUND: The best choice of orthosis in the treatment of acute Achilles tendon rupture is still under debate.OBJECTIVE: To investigate if choice of orthosis in the first 3 weeks of treatment affected patient reported outcome (Achilles tendon Total Rupture Score (ATRS)), tendon elongation (Achilles Tendon Resting Angle (ATRA) and Heel Rise Height (HRH)) and re-rupture.METHODS: Registry study in the Danish Achilles tendon Database. Patients treated with cast and patients treated with walker in the first 3 weeks of treatment were compared using a linear mixed-effects model adjusted for potential confounders.RESULTS: 1304 patients were included in the study. No clinically relevant difference was found: Adjusted mean difference (using walker the whole period as reference)(95% CI) ATRS after 1 year = 0.1(-3.0; 4.1), ATRS after 6 months = 2.0(-4.5; 5.8), ATRS after 2 years = 3.0(-0.7; 7.0), HRH difference = 0.6(-6.6; 8.2), ATRA difference = 0.03°(-1.5; 1.6), re-rupture(odds ratio) = 0.812(0.4; 1.61).CONCLUSION: Patients treated with cast the first 3 weeks after acute Achilles tendon rupture did not have better treatment outcome than patients treated with walker.

The article reports on the new technology and equipment of vertical‑stack molding (VSM), created by OJSC “BELNIILIT” for the manufacture of vertical‑stack molds. The development is intended for the production of molds and cast blanks of oil, which are later used for the manufacture of piston rings of internal combustion engines.The difference between the above‑mentioned technology and traditional methods of VSM is the use of models without drafts. The development is export‑oriented and has a great economic effect for ring manufacturers due to the absence of drafts on castings, since part of the mechanical operations for their processing is excluded, the metal consumption of blanks is reduced, the production spaces required in this regard are reduced, the necessary labor supply is reduced, etc.OJSC “BELNIILIT” has successfully carried out experimental design and technological work on the new scientific and technical products creation, which are of great interest to the world manufacturers of piston rings. An industrial sample of a molding machine and a mold manipulator were manufactured.

The transformation-induced plasticity (TRIP) Fe50Mn30Co10Cr10 high entropy alloy (HEA) with 2 at% C and 1 at% Mo microalloying was prepared by non-consumable vacuum arc melting furnace. The as-casted alloy was then rolled at 70% and then annealed at 1000 °C for different times. The microstructure evolution and mechanical properties of the C and Mo alloyed TRIP-HEA were systematically investigated. The results showed that with the increase of annealing time, the strength of the C2Mo1 HEA increases, but the plasticity increases first and then decreases. Spuriously, when C2Mo1 HEA was annealed for 5 min at 1000 °C after 70% cold rolling, the total elongation was 121%, the tensile strength was 816 MPa, and its product of tensile strength and plasticity was 99.23 GPa, which is much better than the majority of HEAs. In the process of tensile deformation, + //TD double texture are formed, and dislocation slip and twin mechanism competed by each other, which affect the microstructure evolution in the process of plastic deformation, and finally as the great contribution to the product of tensile strength and plasticity.

Introduction: As the prevalence of ASD (autism spectrum disorder) continues to rise, so does the need to evaluate the impact of associated difficulties on both the diagnosed child and the immediate family. Objectives: The aim of the present study was to assess reports of sleep disturbance or abnormal sleep behaviours (sleep profiles) in the siblings of diagnosed autistic children (referred to throughout this study as high-risk siblings, or HR-sibs) and to determine if these sleep patterns correlated with evidence of disturbed sleep among their siblings who had full symptoms of autistic spectrum disorder. Material and Methods: This case control cross-sectional study investigated 64 autistic children, 80 HR-sibs, and 80 typically developing children. Each study subject was assessed for sleep problems and autistic traits through the use of a sleep-wake diary, a school sleep habit survey, and a childhood autism spectrum test. Results: Children with autism spectrum disorders and their HR-sibs showed no significant differences regarding their sleep profiles. Typically, developing children had more middle insomnia than HR-sibs and had more wake latency. Conclusion: Increased risks for sleep problems in children with autism and their HR-sibs emphasized the importance of early screening for sleep problems in children with autism and their siblings.

Purpose There is currently no consensus on nonoperative management in adult patients after a stable type B ankle fracture. The aim of this review is to compare a removable orthosis versus a cast regarding safety and functional outcome in the NOM of stable type B ankle fractures. Methods A systematic review and meta-analysis were performed using randomized clinical trials and observational studies. The methodological quality of the included studies was assessed with the methodological index for non-randomized studies instrument. Nonoperative management was compared using the number of complications and functional outcome measured using the Olerud and Molander Score (OMAS) or the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons Ankle Score. Results Five studies were included. Two were randomized clinical trials, and three were observational studies, including a total of 516 patients. A meta-analysis showed statistically significant higher odds of developing complications in the cast group [odds ratio (OR), 4.67 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.52–14.35)]. Functional outcome in OMAS did not vary significantly at 6 weeks, mean difference (MD) − 6.64 (95% CI − 13.72 to + 0.45), and at 12 weeks, MD − 6.91 (95% CI − 18.73 to + 4.91). The mean difference of functional outcome in OMAS at 26 weeks or longer was significantly better in the removable orthosis group; MD − 2.63 (95% CI − 5.01 to − 0.25). Conclusion Results of this systematic review and meta-analysis show that a removable orthosis is a safe alternative type of NOM, as complication numbers are significantly lower in the orthosis group. In addition, no statistically significant differences were found in terms of functional outcome between a removable orthosis and a cast at 6 and 12 weeks. The 6-week and the 26-week OMAS results show that in patients with stable type B ankle fractures, a removable orthosis is non-inferior to a cast in terms of functional outcome.

Objective: There is limited evidence about the cross-cultural validity of autistic symptoms in school-aged children in Brazil. We used data from a large school survey to evaluate the factor structure of autism symptoms in community-dwelling children and adolescents. Methods: We translated the Childhood Autism Spectrum Test to Brazilian Portuguese and performed factor analyses to investigate the factor structure of parent-reported autistic symptoms in a large sample (n=8,571) of children/adolescents from a school survey in the metropolitan area of São Paulo. Results: Autistic symptoms were best conceptualized under a correlated-factors model with two factors: one predominantly characterized by social-communication symptoms and the other by symptoms of inflexible/restricted language, behaviors, and interests. Conclusions: These findings provide evidence that the structure of autistic symptoms in Brazil is similar to that described in other countries, indicating the cross-cultural validity of autism in Brazil.

In this case report, a 1-week-old female red fawn (Cervus elaphus), one of the largest deer species in the world, constituted the study material. In the clinical examination, posture disorder, severe lameness and malnutrition in young deer were determined in the anterior left and right feet. Radiographic examination of the case revealed a distal diaphyseal transversal fracture in the left metacarpal bone, and a fracture in the lateral 1st and medial 2nd phalanx distal in the right anterior extremity. General anesthesia was not preferred due to the lack of complicated fracture types and malnutrition in the young deer, and the treatment of the extremities, which were placed in a plaster bandage with mild sedation, was kept under follow-up. After the first week of 21-day plaster application, open wound formation on the foot was noticed and wound treatment was performed by opening a window on the plaster. It was aimed to inform our colleagues and other readers about the red deer phenomenon, which has been taken under protection because its population has decreased in Turkey, and to raise awareness., Bu olgu sunumunda, Dünyanın en büyük geyik türlerinden olan, 1 haftalık yaşta bir dişi kızıl geyik yavrusu (Cervus elaphus) çalışma materyalini oluşturdu. Yapılan klinik muayenede ön sol ve sağ ayaklarda duruş bozukluğu, ağır derece topallık ve yavru geyikte malnütrisyon belirlendi. Olgunun radyografik muayenesinde sol metakarpal kemikte distal diafizer transversal kırık, sağ ön ekstremitede ise lateral 1. ve medial 2. phalanx distalinde kırık tespit edildi. Kırık tiplerinin komplike kırık olmaması ve yavru geyikteki malnütrisyon sebebiyle genel anestezi tercih edilmedi ve hafif sedasyonla alçılı bandaja alınan ekstremitelerin tedavisi takip altında tutuldu. 21 günlük alçı uygulamasında ilk haftadan sonra ayağa dair açık yara oluşumu fark edilip alçıya pencere açılarak yara tedavisi gerçekleştirildi. Türkiye’de populasyonu azaldığından koruma altına alınan kızıl geyik olgusunda, meslektaşlarımız ve diğer okuyucuları bilgilendirmek ve duyarlılık oluşturmak hedeflendi.

Purpose The decision to continue immobilization of a nondisplaced scaphoid waist fracture is often based on radiographic appearance (despite evidence that radiographs are unreliable and inaccurate for diagnosing scaphoid union 6–12 weeks after fracture) and fracture tenderness (even though it is influenced by cognitive biases on pain). This may result in unhelpful additional immobilization. We studied nondisplaced scaphoid waist fractures to determine the factors associated with (1) the surgeon’s decision to continue cast or splint immobilization at the first visit when cast removal was being considered; (2) greater pain on examination; and (3) the surgeon’s concern about radiographic consolidation. Methods We prospectively included 46 patients with a nondisplaced scaphoid waist fracture treated nonoperatively. At the first visit when cast removal was considered – after an average of 6 weeks of immobilization – patients rated pain during 4 examination maneuvers. The treating surgeon assessed union on radiographs and decided whether to continue or discontinue immobilization. Patients completed measures of the following: (1) the degree to which pain limits activities (Patient-Reported Outcome Measure Interactive System [PROMIS] Pain Interference Computer Adaptive Test [CAT], Pain Self-Efficacy Questionnaire-2); (2) symptoms of depression (PROMIS Depression CAT); and (3) upper extremity function (PROMIS Upper Extremity Function CAT). We used multivariable regression analysis to investigate the factors associated with each outcome. Results Perceived inadequate radiographic healing and greater symptoms of depression were independently associated with continued immobilization. Pain during the examination was not associated with continued immobilization. Patient age was associated with pain on examination. Shorter immobilization duration was the only factor associated with the surgeon’s perception of inadequate radiographic consolidation. Conclusions Inadequate radiographic healing and greater symptoms of depression are associated with a surgeon’s decision to continue cast or splint immobilization of a nondisplaced scaphoid waist fracture. Clinical relevance Overreliance on radiographs and inadequate accounting for psychological distress may hinder the adoption of shorter immobilization times for nondisplaced waist fractures.

Aim. To study the polymorphism of the genes calpastatin (CAST), somatotropin (GH) and differential growth factor (GDF9) of sheep of the Dagestan mountain breed.Material and Methods. Studies on the genetic typing of Dagestan mountain sheep according to CAST, GH and GDF9 genes were carried out in conditions of distant pasture farming in the Republic of Dagestan by the Genetics and Breeding Laboratory of the Federal Agrarian Scientific Centre of the Republic of Dagestan, an accredited laboratory of immunogenetics and DNA technologies of the All-Russian Research Institute of Sheep and Goat Breeding and a branch of the North Caucasus Federal Scientific Agrarian Centre. These investigations were undertaken by the PCR-RFLP method (polymyrase chain reaction - restriction fragment length polymorphism) on a Tersik four-channel programmable thermal cycler from DNA-Technologia (Russia) using specific primers synthesized in the SYNTHOL research and production laboratory (Moscow).Results. Carrying out PCR-RFLP revealed breed-specific alleles with different frequency of occurrence, which was: in the locus of the CAST gene - allele CASTN - 0.03; allele CASTM - 0.97; at the GH gene locus - GHA allele - 100.0, GHB allele - 0; in the locus of the GDF9 gene - the GDF9A allele - 0.25, the GDF9G allele - 0.75, which determined the frequency of occurrence of the homo- and heterozygous genotypes: CASTNN, CASTMM and CASTNM - 93.0; 0 and 7.0%; GHAA, GHBB and GHAB - 100.0 and 0%; GDF9AA, GDF9GG and GDF9АG- 16.0, 66.0 and 19.0%, respectively.Conclusion. The regularity revealed can be considered as an ecological factor that optimizes the adaptive functions of the sheep's organism, on the one hand, an evolutionary selection process that contributes to the creation of a specific way of genetic structures in the population, on the other. The assumption is made that the information obtained can serve as the beginning of a more in-depth study of the unique gene pool of sheep of the Dagestan rock breed for its further improvement. Variants of genetic marker profiles of parental pairs are proposed for accumulation in breeding herds bred in different ecological-geographical zones and genotypes of carriers of selection-significant genetic structures.

UVOD: Imobilizacija je ključan dio konzervativnih metoda liječenja ozljeda lokomotornog sustava, najčešće prijeloma ili rekonstruiranih ligamenata ili tetiva, a definira se kao djelomično ili potpuno rasterećenje i ograničenje pokreta ozlijeđenog segmenta. Imobilizacija ozljeda lokomotornog sustava se najčešće provodi uz pomoć udlaga ili gipsa, a odabirimobilizacijeprovodiliječnikkoji procjenjuje stadij i težinu ozljede, stupanj nestabilnosti, rizik od komplikacija i funkcionalne zahtjeve pacijenta. CILJ: Cilj istraživanja bio je ispitati poznavanje tehnika imobilizacije lokomotornog sustava kod medicinskih sestara i tehničara. Specifični ciljevi istraživanja bili su analizirati i usporediti poznavanje tehnika imobilizacije lokomotornog sustava kod medicinskih sestara i tehničara s obzirom na stupanj obrazovanja, na godine radnog staža i odjel na kojem su zaposlene/i. METODE: U istraživanju su sudjelovale medicinske sestre i tehničari koji su svojevoljno odlučili sudjelovati u istraživanju. Istraživanje je provedeno putem anketnog upitnika izrađenog od strane autora, a sastojao se od 5 pitanja kojima su se prikupljali sociodemografski podaci, 2 pitanja koja su procjenjivala iskustvo te 20 pitanja kojima se procjenjivala upoznatost ispitanika s tehnikama imobilizacije. Poznavanje tehnika imobilizacije lokomotornog sustava kod medicinskih sestara i tehničara obrađeno je metodama deskriptivne statistike, a razlike u poznavanju tehnika s obzirom na stupanj obrazovanja, godine radnog staža i odjel zaposlenja testirane su Hi-kvadrat testom na razini statističke značajnosti od p, INTRODUCTION: Immobilization is a key part of conservative methods of treating loco motor system injuries, most commonly fractures or reconstructed ligaments or tendons, and is defined as partial or complete relief and restriction of movement of the injured segment. Immobilization of injuries of the loco motor system is most often carried out with the help of splints or casts, and the choice of immobilization is carried out by a doctor who assesses the stage and severity of the injury, the degree of instability, the risk of complications and the functional requirements of the patient. OBJECTIVE: The aim of the research was to examine knowledge of loco motor system immobilization techniques among nurses and technicians. The specific objectives of the research were to analyze and compare the knowledge of loco motor system immobilization techniques among nurses and technicians regarding the level of education, years of service and the department where they are employed. METHODS: Nurses and technicians who voluntarily decided to participate in the research participated in the research. The research was conducted through a questionnaire created by the author, and consisted of 5 questions that collected socio demographic data, 2 questions that assessed experience, and 20 questions that assessed the subject's familiarity with immobilization techniques. Knowledge of loco motor system immobilization techniques among nurses and technicians was processed using descriptive statistics methods, and differences in knowledge of techniques regarding level of education, years of service and department of employment were tested with the Chi-square test at the level of statistical significance of p

© 2022In this research theoretical and practical studies have been highlighted about alloy design, casting and steel-slag interaction. The use of a protective slag layer was identified as an advantageous method in the production of low-density steels. For the first time in this study, a unique synthetic steelmaking (CaO/Al2O3:1.57) slag was implemented in an induction furnace with no vacuum chamber to produce high aluminum in steel. This study showed that manganese and aluminum directly influence the solidification structure and carbide formation. Coarser k-carbides have been detected at grain boundaries in austenite as-cast matrix when the Aluminum increases in the low-density steel.

The effects of volume fraction, size, and type of reinforcement particles on the microstructure and mechanical properties of Al–Si–Cu–(Fe) alloy matrix composites were investigated and an analytical model was modified to predict the yield strength of the particle-reinforced nanocomposites. Nano- and micro-particle-reinforced Al–Si–Cu-(Fe) matrix composites (N-AMCs and M-AMCs) were manufactured by adding two different types and sizes of reinforcement particles to Al–Si–Cu–(Fe) alloys at different volume fractions using a two-step stir casting method combined with a high-energy ball milling process and a high-pressure die-casting method. Microstructural analyzes of N-AMCs and M-AMCs were performed using SEM, EDX, and XRD. The Brinell hardness test and the tensile test were carried out to determine the mechanical properties of the N-AMCs and M-AMCs. The hardness of the N-AMCs and M-AMCs was continuously enhanced by increasing the volume fraction of the reinforcement particles, while the yield strength and ultimate tensile strength of the N-AMCs and M-AMCs were improved up to 1.5 vol.% and 4 vol.% of nano-particles and micro-particles, respectively. An analytical model was modified to predict the yield strength of N-AMCs by integrating the effective volume ratio of nano-particles into each strengthening mechanism. The results predicted by the modified model reached nearly 98% agreement with the experimental results up to 1.5 vol.% of the reinforcement particles. Nano-particles had a much greater effect on strengthening mechanisms compared to micro-particles.

Background and objective: The accelerated protocol of Ponseti method was suggested to shorten the period of treatment of the conventional one for the cases of talipes equinovarus deformity. This study aimed to compare the accelerated protocol of Ponseti method in the treatment of clubfoot deformity with the conventional one. Methods: A prospective comparative study was conducted for infants less than six months with congenital talipes equinovarus deformity. The patients were randomized to either Group 1 (casts changed every week, conventional protocol of Ponseti method) or Group 2 (twice weekly, accelerated one). Pirani score was used to assess the severity of the deformity at presentation, at time of last cast removal, and at the last follow up visit (6th months). Results: The patients included were 48 cases with 79 feet. Group 1 (39 clubfeet) had a mean Pirani score of 5.6 (± 1.15) at presentation, which dropped to 0.47 (± 0.41) when the last cast was removed. In Group 2 (40 clubfeet), it dropped from 5.57 (± 0.83) to 0.77 (± 0.01). The result of each treatment protocol was significant, but the difference between them was not significant. Five cases (three patients aged more than three months) of Group 2 needed eight casts to reach an acceptable position of correction. The difference between the mean number of casts applied in Group 1 (5.09) and Group 2 (5.82) was statistically not significant. However, the difference between the mean number of days spent in the cast was significant. The complications occurred in 12 out of 79 feet, with no statistically significant difference between both groups. Conclusion: The accelerated protocol of Ponseti method for treating clubfoot deformity is as effective and as safe as the conventional one. It shortens the time required to complete the treatment program. Those who present lately (beyond the age of three months) may require an additional number of casts. Keywords: Clubfoot; Congenital talipes equinovarus; Ponseti; Accelerated; Cast.

During the past decades, with the increasing demands in lightweight structural materials, Mg alloys with low density and high performance have been extensively investigated and partly applied in some industries. Especially when rare earth (RE) elements are added as major alloying elements to Mg alloys, the alloy strength and creep resistance are greatly improved, which have promoted several series of Mg-RE alloys. This paper reviews the progress and developments of high-performance Mg-RE alloys in recent years with emphasis on cast alloys. The main contents include the alloy design, melt purification, grain refinement, castability, novel liquid casting and semisolid forming approaches, and the industrial applications or trials made of Mg-RE alloys. The review will provide insights for future developments of new alloys, techniques and applications of Mg alloys.

Air transport is considered to be the safest means of transport. However, if an accident occurs, it often ends in catastrophe. Thus, significant efforts have been paid to sustain successful operations in aviation. Several studies have been carried out to understand the underlying reasons for accidents. This study used Fault Tree Analysis (FTA), Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA) and Causal Analysis based on Systems Theory (CAST) methods to analyse Tenerife aircraft accident and to compare the findings of different methods. The findings showed that while all three methods provided some overlapping findings, the CAST method led to the identification of all causes that were identified by other methods. Considering the nature of the causal factors, FMEA provided more causal factors that are related to organisation and technology than FTA. This study indicates that CAST has a significant value to identify all causes that can be identified by the use of traditional methods.

Background: Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the leading malignant diseases worldwide, especially in Asia. CAST is a potential oncogene in GC carcinogenesis. The character of macrophage infiltration in the GC microenvironment also remains unaddressed. Methods: We first applied machine searching to evaluate gene candidates for GC. CAST expression and pan-cancer surveyance were analyzed using the Human Protein Atlas (HPA) and Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis 2 (GEPIA2) database. The protein–protein interaction (PPI) network was downloaded from STRING. We investigated the impact of CAST on clinical prognosis using a Kaplan–Meier plotter. The correlations between CAST and Lgr5 and macrophage infiltration in GC were determined using TIMER 2.0. Finally, GeneMANIA was also used to evaluate the possible functional linkages between genes. Results: After the machine-assisted search, CAST expression was found to significantly influence the overall survival of GC patients. STRING revealed CAST-related proteomic and transcriptomic associations, mainly concerning the CAPN family. Moreover, CAST significantly impacts the prognosis of GC based on the validation of other datasets. Notably, high CAST expression was correlated with worse overall survival in GC patients (hazard ratio = 1.59; log-rank P = 9.4 × 10−8). CAST and Lgr5 expression were both positively correlated with WNT 2 and WNT 2B. Among the GC patients in several datasets, CAST and macrophage infiltration, evaluated together, showed no obvious association with poor clinical overall survival. Conclusions: CAST plays an important role in the clinical prognosis of GC and is associated with WNT 2/WNT 2B/Lgr5. Our study demonstrates that CAST’s influence on overall survival in GC is regulated by macrophage infiltration.

Background Pressure offloading treatment is critical for healing diabetes-related foot ulcers (DFU). Yet the 2011 Australian DFU guidelines regarding offloading treatment are outdated. A national expert panel aimed to develop a new Australian guideline on offloading treatment for people with DFU by adapting international guidelines that have been assessed as suitable to adapt to the Australian context. Methods National Health and Medical Research Council procedures were used to adapt suitable International Working Group on the Diabetic Foot (IWGDF) guidelines to the Australian context. We systematically screened, assessed and judged all IWGDF offloading recommendations using best practice ADAPTE and GRADE frameworks to decide which recommendations should be adopted, adapted or excluded in the Australian context. For each recommendation, we re-evaluated the wording, quality of evidence, strength of recommendation, and provided rationale, justifications and implementation considerations, including for geographically remote and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. This guideline, along with five accompanying Australian DFU guidelines, underwent public consultation, further revision and approval by ten national peak bodies (professional organisations). Results Of the 13 original IWGDF offloading treatment recommendations, we adopted four and adapted nine. The main reasons for adapting the IWGDF recommendations included differences in quality of evidence ratings and clarification of the intervention(s) and control treatment(s) in the recommendations for the Australian context. For Australians with plantar DFU, we recommend a step-down offloading treatment approach based on their contraindications and tolerance. We strongly recommend non-removable knee-high offloading devices as first-line treatment, removable knee-high offloading devices as second-line, removable ankle-high offloading devices third-line, and medical grade footwear as last-line. We recommend considering using felted foam in combination with the chosen offloading device or footwear to further reduce plantar pressure. If offloading device options fail to heal a person with plantar DFU, we recommend considering various surgical offloading procedures. For people with non-plantar DFU, depending on the type and location of the DFU, we recommend using a removable offloading device, felted foam, toe spacers or orthoses, or medical grade footwear. The six new guidelines and the full protocol can be found at: https://diabetesfeetaustralia.org/new-guidelines/. Conclusions We have developed a new Australian evidence-based guideline on offloading treatment for people with DFU that has been endorsed by ten key national peak bodies. Health professionals implementing these offloading recommendations in Australia should produce better DFU healing outcomes for their patients, communities, and country.

The effect of Sc and Zr on the fluidity of A357 alloy was investigated using spiral fluidity resin sand molds. The results showed that the order of the fluidity was A357+Zr > A357+Sc > A357 > A357+Zr+Sc. The TDCP and the solidification temperature range were also discussed. With Sc and Zr addition, the TDCP and the solidification temperature range of the alloy were changed, which led to the changes of the fluidity. The order of TDCP was A357+Zr < A357+Sc < A357 < A357+Zr+Sc and the order of the solidification temperature range was A357+Zr < A357+Sc < A357 < A357+Zr +Sc. What’s more, △T2 (△T2=TP-TDCP, TP was pouring temperature) and △T1 (△T1=TN-TDCP, TN was α-Al nucleation temperature) were compared, and △T2 was better suited for fluidity investigation than △T1.

Purpose Forearm and distal radius fractures are among the most common fractures in children. Many fractures are definitively treated with closed reduction and casting, however, the risk for re-displacement is high (7% to 39%). Proper cast application and the three-point moulding technique are modifiable factors that improve the ability of a cast to maintain the fracture reduction. Many providers univalve the cast to accommodate swelling. This study describes how the location of the univalve cut impacts the pressure at three-point mould sites for a typical dorsally displaced distal radius fracture. Methods We placed nine force-sensing resistors on an arm model to collect pressure data at the three-point mould sites. Sensory inputs were sampled at 15 Hz. Cast padding and a three-point moulded short arm fibreglass cast was applied. The cast was then univalved on the dorsal, volar, radial or ulnar aspect. Pressure recordings were obtained throughout the procedure. Results A total of 24 casts were analyzed. Casts univalved in the sagittal plane (dorsal or volar surface) retained up to 16% more pressure across the three moulding sites compared with casts univalved in the coronal plane (radial or ulnar border). Conclusion Maintaining pressure at the three-point mould prevents loss of reduction at the fracture site. This study shows that univalving the cast dorsally or volarly results in less pressure loss at moulding sites. This should improve the chances of maintaining fracture reductions when compared with radial or ulnar cuts in the cast. Sagittal plane univalving of forearm casts is recommended.

Unconventional materials such as composite, ceramic and mineral materials can be used, along with other technical materials, in various fields of technology. The most diverse processes and technologies can be applied to them in order to obtain finished parts, thus reducing the consumption of expensive and deficient materials. Basalt, which belongs to the category of mineral materials, can be processed by melting and recrystallization, sintering or basaltization. As a result of these processes and processing technologies, basalt improves its main mechanical, physical and chemical characteristics, becoming resistant to temperatures between 4000 ... 6000C, mechanical shocks and corrosion. Under these conditions, basalt can also be used advantageously in the construction of the resistance structures of certain engines, especially for combustion chambers and nozzles, along with other materials already used.

Background: Unripe green betel nuts (Areca catechu) are usually consumed as herbal medicines by some inhabitants in several regions of Indonesia. It is considered that the nuts contain Arecoline hydrobromide that can cause damages in a kidney tubule, although it needs further studies about effects of the nuts. Objective: This study aims to determine the effects of the unripe green betel nuts on kidney tissues of rats in a long-term treatment. Methods: Twenty rats used in this study were Sprague-Dawley strain, male, 2-3 months old, and 150-200 gram of weight. They were randomly divided into four groups. Group I was control group, given distilled water once a day; group II, III, and IV were served by juice of the unripe green betel nuts with a dose of 250 mg/kgBW, 1,000 mg/kgBW, and 10,000 mg/kgBW, respectively. Histopathology examination by staining of Haematoxylin Eosin was conducted by an anatomic pathologist using blind methods including glomerulus, tubulus, and interstitial tissues. Result: The tested kidney tissues showed mild interstitial congestion, tubular cast, and tubular degeneration in groups that received unripe green betel nuts. There were no glomerulus abnormality and interstitial inflammation. The highest percentage of rats suffering injury in their kidney was the group IV, with p value

Background: Forearm diaphyseal fractures constitute around 6% of all other children's fractures. Despite conservative management is proven and gold standard but still operative management is on rise. Aims and Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the outcome in conservative and surgical management of both-bone forearm fractures in children. Materials and Methods: This prospective study was conducted in children aged 3–12 years. Clinical and radiological features, time for union, angular correction over a period of management, and functional outcome were assessed. Data were entered and analyzed with Epi Info software. Results: There were 48 males (72.7%) and 18 (27.3%) females, with a mean age of 85 months (±29.7). In the present study, 34 (51.2%) at middle third was the most common site of diaphyseal fracture followed by distal third 28 (42.2) and proximal one-third. Conclusion: Fractures treated conservatively had greater healing potential and faster healing, whereas functional outcome was comparable in both conservatively and surgically treated patients.

Background: The elevation of the plantar loading has been implicated in the etiology of plantar foot ulceration in individuals with diabetes mellitus (DM) and peripheral neuropathy. Many strategies are used to reduce this load which are regarded as critical for ulceration healing and commonly called offloading. Objective: The objective was to evaluate the effectiveness of the use of a removable cast walker (RCW) in the healing of diabetic neuropathic planter foot ulcerations. Materials and Methods: Twenty-nine adult diabetic patients attending Al-Faiyha General Hospital, Basrah city in Iraq, participated in this cross-sectional (randomized selection) prospective study between August 2014 and September 2015. We relied on clinical features for survey a diabetic neuropathy of affected foot and we proved the diagnosis by nerve conduction study. Assessment of vascularity was done clinically and by Doppler ultrasound study. Surgical debridement was done, and the participants were instructed to wear a RCW on the 2nd day post operation. Follow-up was performed weekly, and the outcome was assessed by complete wound healing. Results: Twenty-nine patients were included in our study and follow-up program. The mean duration of the neuropathic nonischemic ulcers was 7.1 ± 4.3 months. The healing rate was 62.5%, and we found that the total percentage of healing of the ulcers with 1A and 2A classes was 69.0% with a mean duration of 8.45 ± 2.2 weeks. In addition, we observed that the percentage of patients with diabetic neuropathic foot ulceration with an obvious forefoot deformity was 56.5% of all forefoot ulcers, with a healing rate of 76.9%, whereas those without an obvious foot deformity was 43.5% with a healing rate of 80%. Conclusion: RCW is an effective method in the treatment of diabetic neuropathic nonischemic foot ulceration. The healing rate of the ulceration by using this method of offloading mainly depends on the site of planter foot ulcer.

International audience; In this paper we present a full free addressable 4kb EEPROM memory array. This test structure based on CAST vehicle has been upgraded with flexible addressing logic to select any numbers of cells on single or multiple word lines. To this aim, column/row shift registers, to enable an easy cell biasing, have been implemented in an embedded non-volatile memory environment. High voltage circuits, driven by low voltage shift registers, are used to bias selected cells for electrical characterizations and reliability tests purposes. This kind of structure has been developed to improve the efficiency of electrical characterization laboratory, resulting in an enhanced acquisition with respect to standard CAST test techniques, opening the path to fine statistical analysis.

Distal radius fractures represent one of the most fre-quent injuries in children. The treatment of choice is a closed reduction followed by immobilisation in plaster cast; the immediate recourse to osteosynthesis with Kirschner wires is only reserved for certain cases. The displacement rate reported in the literature is 21-39%. The aim of this study is to retrospectively evaluate the risk factors for a secondary displacement of metaphyseal radius fractures in a paediatric population treated in three different centres.The initial treatment for all 360 patients examined was a closed reduction under general anaesthesia and im-mobilisation in an above elbow cast for 4 weeks. The pre-operative displacement, residual post-reduction displacement and possible di-splacement at 7 and 14 days of follow-up were all assessed clinically and radiographically.A loss of reduction was reported in 102 cases; 51 under-went an additional reduction procedure - some followed by osteo-synthesis - while in the remaining 51 cases, the loss of reduction was acceptable in relation to the expectation of remodelling. The most statistically significant variable for the occurrence of a secondary displacement is a severe primary displacement. The association with the ulna fracture is not significantly correlated. The quality of the plaster cast is important for maintaining the reduction. There are a few things to consider as indicators for a second procedure: age, time elapsed from moment of fracture, fracture site and the absence of an acceptable reduction.In our experience, a reduction followed by osteo-synthesis with Kirschner wires should be considered the treatment of choice in fractures with a high risk of secondary displacement, namely those with severe initial displacement or unsatisfactory reduction.

In this paper, we introduce a new framework for generating synthetic vascular trees, based on rigorous model-based mathematical optimization. Our main contribution is the reformulation of finding the optimal global tree geometry into a nonlinear optimization problem (NLP). This rigorous mathematical formulation accommodates efficient solution algorithms such as the interior point method and allows us to easily change boundary conditions and constraints applied to the tree. Moreover, it creates trifurcations in addition to bifurcations. A second contribution is the addition of an optimization stage for the tree topology. Here, we combine constrained constructive optimization (CCO) with a heuristic approach to search among possible tree topologies. We combine the NLP formulation and the topology optimization into a single algorithmic approach. Finally, we attempt the validation of our new model-based optimization framework using a detailed corrosion cast of a human liver, which allows a quantitative comparison of the synthetic tree structure to the tree structure determined experimentally down to the fifth generation. The results show that our new framework is capable of generating asymmetric synthetic trees that match the available physiological corrosion cast data better than trees generated by the standard CCO approach., 25 pages, 16 figures, 3 tables

The objective of this study was to examine the effect of short term transportation and lairage time on meat quality, myofibrillary structure and calpastatin (CAST), µ-calpain (CAPN1), calpain 3 (CAPN3) and heat shock protein 70 (HSPA1A) expression levels of longissimus dorsi of Kıvırcık breed sheep (n=40). Meat quality was evaluated by muscle glycogen amounts, pH, temperature, cooking loss, water holding capacity, shear force, instrumental color, sarcomere length and organoleptic properties. Cellular changes in the muscle during the ageing process was scanned by electron microscopy and CAST, CAPN1, CAPN3, HSPA1A expression levels were measured to reveal the association on meat tenderness. As a result, positive effect of long lairage time groups was observed in the pH, glycogen, SF values and organoleptic evaluation. CAST, CAPN1, CAPN3 expression showed no difference, however, HSPA1A showed significant difference in aging process. In conclusion, genotypic differences, their effect on gene expression and protein level on meat quality should be further investigated.

[ES] Dentro de los materiales utilizados para usos biomédicos, el titanio y sus aleaciones son los más utilizados. Esto se debe a su buena resistencia a la corrosión y su excelente biocompatibilidad. Sin embargo, la aleación hasta ahora más utilizada en este ámbito, Ti6Al4V, presenta unos niveles de citotoxicidad a largo plazo preocupantes para la salud humana. Esta situación obliga a los investigadores a estudiar las características físico-químicas de otros elementos como refuerzos del titanio para encontrar una aleación sustitutiva del Ti6Al4V que mejore sus propiedades electroquímicas. Las aleaciones TNZT están mostrando por su parte, un alto grado de biocompatibilidad y muy buenos resultados mecánicos. Pero existe un problema con estas aleaciones, y es la alta refractariedad de sus elementos, lo que hace que su obtención sea complicada. Se han obtenido las aleaciones Ti-24Nb-6Zr-10Ta y Ti-35Nb-6Zr-10Ta mediante tres métodos distintos, mediante colada, método convencional muy utilizado, y mediante mezcla elemental y aleado mecánico, métodos de pulvimetalurgia convencional. Estas aleaciones se han sometido a distintos ensayos para obtener y poder analizar las propiedades mecánicas, químicas y microestructurales. Para las propiedades mecánicas se han utilizado los ensayos de flexión a tres puntos, small punch test y excitación por impulso para obtener el módulo elástico. Para la caracterización microestructural se ha realizado un estudio mediante microscopía electrónica de barrido. Y, por último, para la caracterización química se realizaron ensayos de liberación de iones y resistencia a la corrosión. Los resultados muestran que la obtención de las aleaciones TNZT por medios pulvimetalurgicos es viable, mostrando valores muy cercanos a los obtenidos para la aleación TNZT por colada. Por otra parte, se ha de revisar el ciclo de sinterización para ayudar a la correcta difusión de los elementos en las aleaciones, ya que se ha observado acumulación de niobio en ciertas muestras obtenidas mediante mezcla elemental., [CAT] Dins dels materials utilitzats per a usos biomèdics, el titani i els seus aliatges són els més utilitzats. Això es deu a la seua bona resistència a la corrosió i la seua excel·lent biocompatibilitat. No obstant això, l'aliatge fins ara més utilitzada en aquest àmbit, Ti6Al4V, presenta uns nivells de citotoxicitat a llarg termini preocupants per a la salut humana. Aquesta situació obliga els investigadors a estudiar les característiques físic-químiques d'altres elements com a reforços del titani per a trobar un aliatge substitutiu del Ti6Al4V que millore les seues propietats electroquímiques. Els aliatges TNZT estan mostrant per part seua, un alt grau de biocompatibilitat i molt bons resultats mecànics. Però existeix un problema amb aquests aliatges, i és l'alta *refractariedad dels seus elements, la qual cosa fa que la seua obtenció siga complicada. S'han obtingut els aliatges Tu-24Nb-6Zr-10Ta i Ti-35Nb-6Zr-10Ta mitjançant tres mètodes diferents, mitjançant bugada, mètode convencional molt utilitzat, i mitjançant mescla elemental i aliat mecànic, mètodes de pulvimetalurgia convencional. Aquests aliatges s'han sotmés a diferents assajos per a obtindre i poder analitzar les propietats mecàniques, químiques i microestructurals. Per a les propietats mecàniques s'han utilitzat els assajos de flexió a tres punts, small punch test i excitació per impuls per a obtindre el mòdul elàstic. Per a la caracterització microestructural s'ha realitzat un estudi mitjançant microscòpia electrònica d'escombratge. I, finalment, per a la caracterització química es van realitzar assajos d'alliberament d'ions i resistència a la corrosió. Els resultats mostren que l'obtenció dels aliatges TNZT per mitjans pulvimetalurgicos és viable, mostrant valors molt pròxims als obtinguts per a l'aliatge TNZT per bugada. D'altra banda, s'ha de revisar el cicle de sinterització per a ajudar a la correcta difusió dels elements en els aliatges, ja que s'ha observat acumulació de niobi en unes certes mostres obtingudes mitjançant mescla elemental., [EN] Among the materials used for biomedical uses, titanium and its alloys are the most used. This is due to its good corrosion resistance and excellent biocompatibility. However, the alloy used so far in this area, Ti6Al4V, has long-term cytotoxicity levels of concern to human health. This situation forces researchers to study the physical-chemical characteristics of other elements such as titanium reinforcements to find a Ti6Al4V replacement alloy that improves its electrochemical properties. TNZT alloys are showing a high degree of biocompatibility and very good mechanical results. But there is a problem with these alloys, and it is the high refractoriness of its elements, which makes it difficult to obtain. The Ti-24Nb-6Zr-10Ta and Ti-35Nb-6Zr-10Ta alloys have been obtained by three different methods, by casting, a widely used conventional method, and by elemental mixing and mechanical alloying, conventional powder metallurgy methods. These alloys have been subjected to different tests to obtain and be able to analyze the mechanical, chemical and microstructural properties. For the mechanical properties, three-point bending tests, small punch tests and impulse excitation have been used to obtain the elastic modulus. For the microstructural characterization, a study was carried out using scanning electron microscopy. And, finally, for the chemical characterization, ion release and corrosion resistance tests were carried out. The results show that obtaining TNZT alloys by powder metallurgical means is feasible, showing values very close to those obtained for the TNZT alloy by casting. On the other hand, the sintering cycle must be reviewed to help the correct diffusion of the elements in the alloys, since niobium accumulation has been observed in certain samples obtained by elemental mixing.

Applied Sciences 12(5), 2619 (2022). doi:10.3390/app12052619 special issue: "Special Issue "Advances in Dental Materials: A Look inside Digital Workflows" / Special Issue Editor: Dr. Nicola Scotti, Guest Editor", Published by MDPI, Basel

Targeting the analysis of socio-technical complexity, the System-Theoretic Accident Model and Processes (STAMP) was developed to engineer safer systems. Since its inception in the early 2000s, STAMP and its associated techniques, namely the System-Theoretic Process Analysis (STPA) and the Causal Analysis based on System Theory (CAST), have attracted increasing interest as suitable approaches for safety studies. Nonetheless, a literature review on their applications is lacking. This paper fills this gap via a scoping literature survey on contributions indexed in academic journals and conference proceedings. Through a systematic analysis of 321 eligible documents, this research presents a comprehensive examination of relevant features for STAMP, STPA and CAST since 2003, such as the system type and domain of analysis, coverage and completeness of the analytical and methodological steps, respectively, as well as alterations and/or enrichments of their original versions. The bibliometric findings from primary, secondary and non-empirical research contributions are discussed to critically reflect on the past and present of STAMP and its associated techniques, and possible future directions are highlighted.

Anxiety sensitivity (AS) refers to an individual’s tendency to be fearful of anxiety-related bodily sensations (the symptoms that accompany feelings of anxiety)(Reiss et al., 1986). These symptoms can be cognitive (i.e., fear of losing control of mental processes), physical (i.e., fear of catastrophic physiological outcomes such as heart attack or stroke), or social (i.e., concern about negative social judgment and subsequent observable symptoms of anxiety). AS is a well-understood risk factor for Internalizing psychopathology (INT). Cognitive Anxiety Sensitivity Treatment (CAST) (Schmidt et al., 2014) is a technology-based intervention shown to be efficacious in reducing AS, as well as INT. CAST is a fully-computerized brief intervention with two core components: psychoeducation and interoceptive exposure (Craske et al., 1997). In recent work by Schmidt, nontreatment seeking participants with elevated AS cognitive concerns participated in one session of CAST, which produced significant reductions in AS at posttreatment, relative to controls (d=0.57). The primary purpose of this study is to assess the late positive potential (LPP) event-related potential (ERP) component as an index of baseline AS, as well as treatment-related change in AS in response to CAST. In this study 263 participants (with complete EEG data at 1-month follow-up) received either an anxiety reduction intervention (Anxiety; CAST + cognitive bias modification interpretation [CBM-I] with an anxiety focus; N = 65), a mood intervention (Mood; mood psychoeducation + CBM-I with a mood focus; N = 66), or combined ANX and MOOD interventions (Combined; N = 68), as well a repeated contact control group (RCC; N= 64). Prior to the intervention, baseline LPP was measured via exposure to unpleasant, and baseline AS recorded using the ASI-3. Increased LPP amplitude was associated with higher baseline AS (r=.184, p

The high prevalence rates of cannabis use in adolescents and its early onset constitutes a major public health problem, raising the need for its early detection. The availability of validated tools to analyze early cannabis use is essential to detect problematic use at an early age. The Cannabis Abuse Screening Test (CAST) (Legleye et al., 2007) is widely applied in Europe; however, the CAST cut-off scores vary according to the setting, the screening objective, and the correction version (CAST-f or CAST-b), creating therefore confusion in its application. Moreover, the psychometric properties of the CAST as a tool for detecting problematic cannabis use are understudied. To fill this gap, such psychometric properties have been analyzed in a sample of Spanish adolescents while using different cut-off scores for CAST-f and CAST-b. Based on our findings, the optimal cut-off scores are 2 points for CAST-b and 4 points for CAST-f. The internal reliability of CAST-f (α = 0.83) and CAST-b (KR-20 = 0.80) are satisfactory. Factorial analysis suggested the assumption of a one-dimension model. The CAST seems to be a valid and reliable tool for early screening of problematic cannabis use in Spanish adolescents SI

The purpose of the article is to identify the main audiovisual means in the process of production of Darryl Zanuck’s docudrama The Longest Day. The role of combat films in culture has always been special, these films have shaped the consciousness of generations. Given the development of the domestic film industry in modern social and political realities, they are in demand in our society, the analysis of the features of making the classical examples of this film genre with theoretical generalisation contributes to the understanding of its dramatic logic. Research methodology. In pursuing the objective of the study, the authors of the article use a historical approach to reveal the features of the organisation of the filming process and a culturological approach to identify the factors of influence of socio-cultural processes on the docudrama’s production in general, and complex episodes in particular. General scientific and specific scientific methods are applied, in particular: the method of art studies analysis (to identify the role of audiovisual content in the dramaturgy of the script and its influence on the degree of emotional perception of the film) and the method of theoretical generalisation (to summarise the results of the study). The scientific novelty lies in the fact that the features of the filming process of Zanuck's docudrama regarding the choice of artistic means and practical implementation of the artistic idea are examined for the first time in Ukrainian art studies. Conclusions. D. Zanuck's docudrama The Longest Day is a unique film project that covers the events of the fateful day of World War II – June 6, 1944. The producer's decision to make a black-and-white film affected the future of the film industry. Scenes of special operations (capture of the Pegasus Bridge, landing of paratroopers, mining of the railway by members of the French resistance) were filmed at night using hard light to enhance contrast. The verbal content of the film in different languages is experimental, and the use of everyday vocabulary has changed the perception of the script. The film’s release accelerated the decline of the Hays Code and its subsequent abandonment in the late 1960s. The practical significance of this research is that the experience of Zanuck described in the article can be useful to contemporary directors who make war films., Цель статьи — определить основные аудиовизуальные средства в процессе кинопроизводства докудрамы Дэррила Занука «Самый длинный день». Роль батального кино в культуре всегда была особенной, эти фильмы формировали сознание поколений. Учитывая развитие отечественной киноиндустрии в современных социальных и политических реалиях, они востребованы в нашем обществе, анализ особенностей съемочного процесса классических образцов этого жанра с теоретическим обобщением способствует пониманию его драматургической логики. Методы исследования. Для достижения поставленной цели использован исторический подход (для раскрытия особенностей организации съемочного процесса) и культурологический подход (способствовал выявлению факторов влияния социокультурных процессов на кинопроизводство докудрамы в целом, и особенно сложных ее эпизодов в частности). Применены общенаучные и конкретно научные методы, в частности метод искусствоведческого анализа (для выявления роли аудиовизуального контента в драматургии сценария и его влияния на степень эмоционального восприятия фильма) и метод теоретического обобщения (для подведения итогов исследования). Научная новизна в том, что впервые в украинском искусствоведении анализируются особенности съемочного процесса докудрамы Д. Занука в выборе художественных средств и практической реализации художественного замысла. Выводы. Докудрама Д. Занука «Самый длинный день» — это уникальный кинопроект, освещающий события рокового дня Второй мировой войны — 6 июня 1944 г. Решение продюсера снять черно-белый фильм повлияло на будущее киноиндустрии. Сцены специальных операций (захват моста Пегас, высадка парашютистов, подрыв железной дороги участниками французского сопротивления) снимали ночью с использованием жесткого света для усиления контраста. Вербальное наполнение фильма разными языками является экспериментальным, а привлечение повседневной лексики изменило восприятие сценарной работы. Выпуск фильма ускорил упадок Кодекса Гейза и последующий отказ от него в конце 1960-х годов. Практическое значение этого исследования заключается в том, что опыт Д. Занука, описанный в статье, может быть полезен современным режиссерам, снимающим фильмы о войне., Мета статті — визначити основні аудіовізуальні засоби в процесі кіновиробництва докудрами Дерріла Занука «Найдовший день». Роль батального кіно в культурі завжди була особливою, ці фільми формували свідомість поколінь. З огляду на розвиток вітчизняної кіноіндустрії в сучасних соціальних і політичних реаліях вони затребувані в нашому суспільстві, аналіз особливостей знімального процесу класичних зразків цього жанру з теоретичним узагальненням сприяє розумінню його драматургічної логіки. Методи дослідження. Для досягнення поставленої мети використано історичний підхід (для розкриття особливостей організації знімального процесу) та культурологічний підхід (посприяв виявленню чинників впливу соціокультурних процесів на кіновиробництво докудрами загалом, так і особливо складних її епізодів зокрема). Застосовано загальнонаукові та конкретнонаукові методи, зокрема: метод мистецтвознавчого аналізу (для виявлення ролі аудіовізуального контенту в драматургії сценарію та його впливу на ступінь емоційного сприйняття фільму) та метод теоретичного узагальнення (для підбиття підсумків дослідження). Наукова новизна полягає в тому, що вперше в українському мистецтвознавстві аналізуються особливості знімального процесу докудрами Д. Занука у виборі художніх засобів і практичній реалізації художнього задуму. Висновки. Докудрама Д. Занука «Найдовший день» — це унікальний кінопроєкт, який висвітлює події фатального дня Другої світової війни — 6 червня 1944 р. Рішення продюсера зняти чорно-білий фільм вплинуло на майбутнє кіноіндустрії. Сцени спеціальних операцій (захоплення мосту Пегас, висадка парашутистів, підрив залізниці учасниками французького опору) знімали вночі з використанням жорсткого світла для посилення контрасту. Вербальне наповнення фільму різними мовами є експериментальним, а залучення повсякденної лексики змінило сприйняття сценарної роботи. Випуск фільму прискорив занепад «Кодексу Гейза» та подальшу відмову від нього наприкінці 1960-х років. Практичне значення цього дослідження полягає в тому, що досвід Занука, описаний у статті, може бути корисним для сучасних режисерів, які знімають фільми про війну.

The purpose of the article is to identify the main audiovisual means in the process of production of Darryl Zanuck’s docudrama The Longest Day. The role of combat films in culture has always been special, these films have shaped the consciousness of generations. Given the development of the domestic film industry in modern social and political realities, they are in demand in our society, the analysis of the features of making the classical examples of this film genre with theoretical generalisation contributes to the understanding of its dramatic logic. Research methodology. In pursuing the objective of the study, the authors of the article use a historical approach to reveal the features of the organisation of the filming process and a culturological approach to identify the factors of influence of socio-cultural processes on the docudrama’s production in general, and complex episodes in particular. General scientific and specific scientific methods are applied, in particular: the method of art studies analysis (to identify the role of audiovisual content in the dramaturgy of the script and its influence on the degree of emotional perception of the film) and the method of theoretical generalisation (to summarise the results of the study). The scientific novelty lies in the fact that the features of the filming process of Zanuck's docudrama regarding the choice of artistic means and practical implementation of the artistic idea are examined for the first time in Ukrainian art studies. Conclusions. D. Zanuck's docudrama The Longest Day is a unique film project that covers the events of the fateful day of World War II – June 6, 1944. The producer's decision to make a black-and-white film affected the future of the film industry. Scenes of special operations (capture of the Pegasus Bridge, landing of paratroopers, mining of the railway by members of the French resistance) were filmed at night using hard light to enhance contrast. The verbal content of the film in different languages is experimental, and the use of everyday vocabulary has changed the perception of the script. The film’s release accelerated the decline of the Hays Code and its subsequent abandonment in the late 1960s. The practical significance of this research is that the experience of Zanuck described in the article can be useful to contemporary directors who make war films.

This study focused on the role of Cu in the microstructure characteristics and tensile properties of novel L12-strengthened multicomponent high-entropy alloys (HEAs). A series of as-cast (Al7.5Co21.9Cr10.9Ti5.0Fe21.9Ni32.8)100-xCux (x = 0.5, 2.5, 5.0) high-entropy alloys (HEAs) were prepared. The microstructures and mechanical properties of HEAs were investigated using X-ray diffraction, a scanning electron microscope, a transmission electron microscope, and atom probe tomography. The XRD patterns of HEAs confirmed that all HEAs consisted of the FCC phase and the L12 phase. As Cu content increased, the dendritic was gradually coarsened. The spherical L12 size decreased, and number density increased in the interdendritic regions (ID). The L12 mainly contained Ni, Ti, Al, and Cu. The acicular L12 size increased and was continuously distributed in the dendritic regions (DR) as the Cu content increased gradually. The ultimate strength and elongation decreased from 1,002 MPa, 20.0% to 906 MPa, 13.1%, respectively. The segregation rates of Ti, Cu, and Al increased in the DR and ID. The L12 nano-precipitates in the DR become denser and finer, while the L12 islets in the ID region increase and elongate. Large lattice distortion caused by Cu addition weakens the strength of the L12-FCC phase boundary, leading to the premature fracture of the three HEAs, which were the main reasons for the decreases in strength and ductility as Cu content increased.

The increasing of ships complexity is an everyday evidence and more and more tasks, traditionally carried out by crew members, are now managed and executed by the on board automation systems. This research has the aim of modeling the relation among human operators and automation system in order to enhance the whole ship safety. In particular, a methodology will be selected and its suitability for the purpose will be assessed to provide a tool for the ship design decision making process. When addressing safety of very complex systems the cause-effect principle and the linear propagation of failures are not appropriate neither exhaustive inferring models anymore, since safety needs to be necessarily addressed considering its real essence, i.e. an emergent property of the system. In fact, complex systems have the characteristic of being intractable in the sense that not all their behaviours can be easily predicted. This is due to the dichotomy between the so called blunt end and sharp end domains, inherently more pronounced in complex systems and due to the unknowns that are not predictable neither evident during the design stage. In this perspective, an appropriate and innovative safety paradigm is necessary in order to take into consideration, among other aspects, the new human operators? role in complex systems. In fact, the intense presence of automation on board ships has radically changed the traditional tasks allocation and the way of performing them. Even if many simple and repetitive tasks are more and more in charge of automation, the complex tasks and the related higher responsibilities remain very often assigned to human operators. Designers should be able to consider this relevant change of human operators? role in the system since the preliminary design phase, investing their resources on the development of a human-centered design. Complex ship design needs to rely on a systemic and systematic approach. Then, in this research System-Theoretic Accident Model Process (STAMP) has been selected and investigated as a suitable methodology that can allow design teams to effectively integrate the so called Human Factors into the ship design process. It has been already used in other complex technology fields, such as aviation, defense, healthcare with successful results. It is a causality model based on Systems Theory and it considers accidents as the result of an inadequate enforcement of safety constraints. The systemic and systematic approach is supported by the Safety Control Structure, that is a hierarchical system model where also the social and organizational layers can be represented. The STAMP accident model has four tools: one is reactive, the others are proactive. The reactive one is called CAST (Causal Analysis based on STAMP), while the second category is composed of STECA (Systems-Theoretic Early Concept Analysis), STPA (System-Theoretic Process Analysis) and STPA-Sec (Systems-Theoretic Early Concept Analysis - Security). CAST and STPA applications have been carried out in the maritime context in order to verify that STAMP approach is applicable for ship design. CAST has been applied to two ship accidents: the Herald of Free Enterprise and the Costa Concordia. It provides a framework to understand the entire accident process and identifies systemic causal factors related to both the organizational and technical system elements, spotting weakness in the existing safety control structure. In this perspective, the application of CAST to the above mentioned ship accidents has proven its effectiveness also in the maritime field to assess the complex influence of human factors into the ship safety control structure. CAST analysis output is the generation of recommendations with the aim of avoiding similar accidents in the future. Then, the focus has been shifted towards the proactive tool STPA. It consists of the following steps: identify system hazards; draw functional control structure; identify unsafe control actions; identify accident scenarios; formulate decisions and recommendations. In this research, an application case has been developed considering a large passenger ship and the specific hazard of dead ship condition (energy blackout). In fact, in case of navigation close to the shore or to another vessel and/or of heavy weather condition, this situation might rapidly evolve into a ship loss. In order to better characterize the human operator?s features and peculiarities, an innovative human mental model (improvement of a mental model already existing in literature) has been implemented in the safety control structure. It has proven to be useful to consider the concept of human performance variation in the design phases. Considering that performance variation could reveal both as a hazard or as a resilience strengthening element, the outcome of this STPA application consists of a set of recommendations focused on adding value to the on board humans operators? role for enhancing the whole system resilience. In this perspective, specific recommendations have been identified as outcomes of the application case, focused on the improvement of human operator-automation interaction, aimed to the ship blackout avoidance.

Numéro spécial de la revue, à l'occasion de l'exposition du Louvre; International audience

In 2019, aviation was responsible for 2.6% of the world CO2 emissions as well as additional climate impacts such as contrails. Like all industrial sectors, the aviation sector must implement measures to reduce its climate impact. This paper focuses on the simulation and the evaluation of climatic scenarios for the aviation industry. For this purpose, a specific tool (CAST for "Climate and Aviation - Sustainable Trajectories") has been developed. This tool follows a methodology adapted to aviation using the concept of carbon budget and models of the main levers of action such as the level of air traffic, reduction of aircraft energy consumption or energy decarbonisation. These models are based on trend projections from historical data or assumptions from the literature. Several scenario analyses are performed in this paper using CAST and allow several conclusions to be drawn. For instance, the modelling of the scenarios based on the ATAG (Air Transport Action Group) commitments shows that aviation would consume between 2.9% and 3.5% of the world carbon budget to limit global warming to 2{\deg}C and between 6.5% and 8.1% for 1.5{\deg}C. Also, some illustrative scenarios are proposed. By allocating 2.6% of the carbon budget to aviation, it is shown that air transport is compatible with a +2{\deg}C trajectory when the annual growth rate of air traffic varies between -1.8% and +2.6%, depending on the considered technological improvements. However, in the case of a +1.5{\deg}C trajectory, the growth rate would have to be reduced drastically. Finally, analyses including non-CO2 effects compel to emphasize the implementation of specific strategies for mitigating contrails., Comment: 41 pages, 14 figures, 4 tables, Research paper

Vehicle emission regulations in Europe and many Asian countries include a particle number limit. The number concentration is measured, typically, with condensation particle counters (CPCs). For research purposes, the size distributions provide useful information. Scanning mobility particle sizers (SMPSs) accurately provide the size distribution but are not suitable for transient aerosol. Engine (fast) exhaust particle sizers (EEPSs) cover this gap, but with less accuracy. Fast size distribution instruments are commonly used in the research and development of engines. In the last few years, instrument algorithms have been improved, but studies assessing the improvements are limited, in particular in their lower size range, around 10–20 nm, and for soot-like aerosol. In this paper, we compared the three instruments using salt, silver, diffusion flame soot (CAST), and spark discharge graphite particles. Moreover, vehicle exhaust number concentration measurements with EEPSs over a seven-year period were presented. In terms of particle concentration, EEPS overestimated, on average, 25% compared to CPC, in agreement with previous studies. Its accuracy for mean particle size determination was better than 5 nm compared to SMPS. The agreement between the instruments was satisfactory but the uncertainty increased at low concentrations and larger particle sizes, showing that there is still room for further improvements. Experimental challenges, such as low concentration levels of modern vehicles, losses in the diluters, use of photometric mode by the CPCs, and the material impact, are also discussed.

Pri obdelavi pokrova elektromotorja, ki se je vpeljeval v serijsko proizvodnjo, smo imeli problem z navijanjem odrezkov na orodje, zaradi česar se je stroj ustavljal. Pokrov je aluminijast ulitek okoli jeklene puše in v našem interesu je bilo, da ga obdelamo na enem stroju s čim manj različnimi orodji. Problem je nastal, ker smo zaradi različnosti materialov dobili neugodne odrezke pri obdelavi puše. Zato smo za problematično obdelavo testirali orodja različnih dobaviteljev pri različnih parametrih obdelave. Po testiranju smo vse vzorce pregledali in premerili, če so dosegli zadovoljiv nivo kakovosti obdelane površine po zahtevah kupca. Pod povečavo smo pregledali njihove rezalne ploščice, če je med testiranjem prišlo do obrabe. Analizirali smo stroške in čase obdelave za celotno naročilo kupca za vsako orodje posebej, nato pa jih razvrstili od najbolj do najmanj primernega. Ocenjevali smo jih glede na obliko odrezkov, kakovost obdelane površine, produktivnost, stroške obdelave, ceno in obrabo njihovih rezalnih ploščic po testiranju. We had a problem with chip formation when machining electromotor housing, because of which machine stopped working. Housing is made out of aluminium alloy surrounding a steel sleeve. It was in our best interest to machine the whole housing at one machine with minimal diffirent tools. But there was a problem because of difference between materials with chip formation when machining steel sleeve. We tried to solve this problem by testing different cutting tools by different suppliers at different machining parameters. After testing we checked and measured all test subjects to see if their surface quality suits buyers demands. We checked tools indexable inserts under magnifier to see if there were any signs of usage. We analysed the cost and time of machining for the whole order of products for every tool. At the end we arranged tools from best to worst fit based on chip formation, quality of machined surface, productivity, machining cost, tool cost and usage of indexable inserts after testing.

Brain functions rely on synapses that are highly specialized cellular junctions connecting neurons. Synaptic scaffold proteins (e.g. liprin-α, ELKS, RIM and RIM-BP) orchestrate ion channels, receptors and enzymes at presynaptic terminals to form active zones for neurotransmitter release. However, the underlying mechanism of the active zone assembly remains elusive. Here, we reported that liprin-α proteins, core organizers at the active zone, have a potential to be oligomerized through the N-terminal coiled-coil region. Our structural and biochemical characterizations revealed that a genetically identified gain-of-function mutation highly promotes the self-assembly of the coiled-coils in liprin-α2 via disrupting the intramolecular interactions and promoting the intermolecular interactions. By providing multivalent interactions with ELKS proteins, oligomerized liprin-α2 enhances the liquid-liquid phase separation of ELKS and alters the assembly mode of ELKS in the condensed phase. We further showed that liprin-α2, by regulating the interplays between the two different phase separations of ELKS and RIM/RIM-BP, controls the distributions of RIM proteins and its binding proteins. These results demonstrate that the complicated protein-protein interactions allow liprin-α to work with ELKS and other active zone scaffolds and compartmentalizes different protein assemblies for achieving comprehensive functions of the active zone.

The need to use a natural alternative for disinfecting dental impression materials, which should be biocompatible and effective, led us to evaluate the efficacy of Aloe vera as a disinfectant by immersion and spray method on alginate impression material and its effect on the dimensional stability of the resultant gypsum cast.The efficacy of the disinfection procedures against Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Candida albicans was evaluated by determining the number of colony-forming units (CFU) recovered after disinfection of alginate discs inoculated with 1x106 CFU for defined intervals with aloe vera solution (99.96%). Dimensional stability was determined from the mean percentage deviation of three measurements that were taken between the fixed points on the casts using a traveling microscope and compared with corresponding measurements from the master model and controls. Statistical analysis of data was determined by analysis of variance.We found out that there is a mean percentage reduction in colony count of S. aureus, P. aeruginosa, and C. albicans after 3 minutes of immersion in aloe vera and after 3 minutes spray disinfection. Complete elimination of all the microorganism cells after 7 min immersion and spray disinfection. There was a statistically significant difference in the increase of the mean anteroposterior (AP) and cross arch (CA) dimension after 3 and 7 minutes immersion in aloe vera.Spraying with aloe vera for 7 minutes was proved to be the most effective disinfection procedure without altering dimensional stability.