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The industry has embraced digitalisation leading to a greater reliance on models derived from data. Understanding and getting insights into the models generated by machine learning algorithms is a challenge due to their non-explicit nature. Explainable artificial intelligence (XAI) is to enhance understanding of the digital models and confidence in the results they produce. The paper makes two contributions. First, the XRule algorithm proposed in the paper generates explicit rules meeting user's preferences. A user may control the nature of the rules generated by the XRule algorithm, e.g. degree of redundancy among the rules. Second, in analogy to federated learning, the concept of federated explainable artificial intelligence (fXAI) is proposed. Besides providing insights into the models built from data and explaining the predicted decisions, the fXAI provides additional value. The user-centric knowledge generated in support of fXAI may lead to discovery of previously unknown parameters and subsequently models that may benefit the non-explicit and explicit perspectives. The insights from fXAI could translate into new ways of modelling the phenomena of interest. A numerical example and three industrial applications illustrate the concepts presented in the paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

(1) Background: Language represents a crucial ability of humans, enabling communication and collaboration. ChatGPT is an AI chatbot utilizing the GPT (Generative Pretrained Transformer) language model architecture, enabling the generation of human-like text. The aim of the research was to assess the effectiveness of ChatGPT-3.5 and the latest version, ChatGPT-4, in responding to questions posed within the scope of a periodontology specialization exam. (2) Methods: Two certification examinations in periodontology, available in both English and Polish, comprising 120 multiple-choice questions, each in a single-best-answer format. The questions were additionally assigned to five types in accordance with the subject covered. These exams were utilized to evaluate the performance of ChatGPT-3.5 and ChatGPT-4. Logistic regression models were used to estimate the chances of correct answers regarding the type of question, exam session, AI model, and difficulty index. (3) Results: The percentages of correct answers obtained by ChatGPT-3.5 and ChatGPT-4 in the Spring 2023 session in Polish and English were 40.3% vs. 55.5% and 45.4% vs. 68.9%, respectively. The periodontology specialty examination test accuracy of ChatGPT-4 was significantly better than that of ChatGPT-3.5 for both sessions (p < 0.05). For the ChatGPT-4 spring session, it was significantly more effective in the English language (p = 0.0325) due to the lack of statistically significant differences for ChatGPT-3.5. In the case of ChatGPT-3.5 and ChatGPT-4, incorrect responses showed notably lower difficulty index values during the Spring 2023 session in English and Polish (p < 0.05). (4) Conclusions: ChatGPT-4 exceeded the 60% threshold and passed the examination in the Spring 2023 session in the English version. In general, ChatGPT-4 performed better than ChatGPT-3.5, achieving significantly better results in the Spring 2023 test in the Polish and English versions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The photocatalytic reduction of CO2 to useful products is an area of active research because it shows a potential to be an efficient tool for mitigating climate change. This work investigated the modification of titania with copper(II) nitrate and its impact on improving the CO2 reduction efficiency in a gas-phase batch photoreactor under UV–Vis irradiation. The investigated photocatalysts were prepared by treating P25-copper(II) nitrate suspensions (with various Cu2+ concentrations), alkalized with ammonia water, in a microwave-assisted solvothermal reactor. The titania-based photocatalysts were characterized by SEM, EDS, ICP-OES, XRD and UV-Vis/DR methods. Textural properties were measured by the low-temperature nitrogen adsorption/desorption studies at 77 K. P25 photocatalysts modified with copper(II) nitrate used in the process of carbon dioxide reduction allowed for a higher efficiency both for the photocatalytic reduction of CO2 to CH4 and for the photocatalytic water decomposition to hydrogen as compared to a reference. Similarly, modified samples showed significantly higher selectivity towards methane in the CO2 conversion process than the unmodified sample (a change from 30% for a reference sample to 82% for the P25-R-Cu-0.1 sample after the 6 h process). It was found that smaller loadings of Cu are more beneficial for increasing the photocatalytic activity of a sample. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wireless communication very often causes problems due to its quality. Problems with the network are very important when installing wireless networks inside buildings. The reason is the effects created during the propagation of electromagnetic waves inside rooms due to, among other factors, the construction of the walls and the building materials used. At the stage of network design, it is possible to use numerical methods, which allow for multivariate and fast analysis. This article presents a multivariate analysis of the impact of the variability in the electrical parameters of concrete and reinforced concrete on the propagation of electromagnetic waves and the value of the electric field intensity. The subject of the analysis was a wall composed of a homogeneous material (concrete) or non-homogeneous material (concrete with reinforcement). In the case of the homogeneous wall, the analysis was performed taking into account four electric permittivity values and a wide range of conductivity values. The analysis was performed at two frequencies used in wireless communication (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz). The analysis was performed using the time method based on Maxwell's equations—the finite difference time domain method (FDTD). The results of the numerical analysis were compared with the results obtained from the presented analytical relationships. In the next step, four models and calculations were obtained for systems with a reinforced concrete wall, taking into account the variability in the spacing between the bars, the diameter of the reinforcement and the number of rows of reinforcement. The analysis of complex systems was performed at a frequency of 2.4 GHz. The aim of the presented analysis was to check how the change in the value of the electric permittivity of concrete affects the values of the field intensity and its effect on the analysis of systems composed of concrete with reinforcement. In the case of concrete, it was observed that, for conductivity above 0.9 S/m, regardless of the electric permittivity, all characteristics had a similar course. For low concrete loss, the greatest differences in the electric field intensity were observed at a frequency of 2.4 GHz rather than at 5 GHz. On the other hand, the analysis of systems with reinforced concrete showed, among other aspects, that models with two rows of bars and spacing of 0.15 m, regardless of the reinforcement diameter, were characterized by lower values of the electric field intensity compared to the variants with one row of bars. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The motivation for this research was the need for a reliable prediction of the distribution of microstructural parameters in steels during thermomechanical processing. The stochastic model describing the evolution of dislocation populations and grain size, which considers the random phenomena occurring during the hot forming of metallic alloys, was extended by including phase transformations during cooling. Accounting for a stochastic character of the nucleation of the new phase is the main feature of the model. Steel was selected as an example of the metallic alloy and equations describing the nucleation probability were proposed for ferrite, pearlite and bainite. The accuracy and reliability of the model depends on the correctness of the determination of the coefficients corresponding to the specific material. In the present paper these coefficients were identified using the inverse analysis for the experimental data. Experiments composed constant cooling rate tests for cooling rates in the range 0.1-20 °C/s. The inverse approach to a nonlinear model is ill-conditioned and must be transferred into an optimization problem, which requires formulating the appropriate objective function. Since the model is stochastic, it was a crucial, yet demanding task. The objective function based on a metric of the distance between measured and calculated histograms was proposed to achieve this goal. The original stochastic approach to identifying the phase transformation model for steels was tested, and an appropriate optimization strategy was proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: Electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) are commonly used by former smokers as an alternative product to conventional cigarettes and also by young adults and adolescents to deliver nicotine. E-cigarettes are thought to be a less harmful and more socially acceptable alternative to tobacco smoking; however, their long-term effects on health, including oral health, are currently unknown. Methods: A literature search for relevant papers indexed in the literature from 2016 to 2023 was conducted using the PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases. In our paper, we included clinical trials and both in vivo and in vitro research concerning the impact of e-cigarettes on oral health. Results: E-cigarettes impact the oral cavity, which is directly exposed to inhaled chemicals present in e-cigarette aerosols. The use of e-cigarettes has been linked to teeth discoloration and dental caries, promoting the development of periodontal diseases and causing oral mucosa lesions, including oral cancer. E-cigarette aerosols might also negatively affect the oral microbiome by suppressing the growth of commensal bacteria and increasing the population of bacteria responsible for developing numerous oral disorders. E-cigarettes also impact saliva composition and its properties, including reducing saliva's antibacterial and antioxidant properties, which may subsequently lead to the promotion of oral diseases. Conclusions: The outcomes suggest that e-cigarette usage may cause the development of oral diseases, however further longitudinal studies of a larger and homogenous group of e-cigarette users are required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inverse problems are commonly used in many fields as they enable the estimation of parameters that cannot be experimentally measured. However, the complex nature of inverse problems requires a strong background in data and signal processing. Moreover, ill-posed problems yield parameters that have a strong linear dependence on the problem. The ill-posed nature of these problems lead to many errors in numerical computations that can make parameter identification nearly impossible. In this paper, a new data processing tool is proposed to maximize the sensitivity of the model to the parameters of interest, while reducing the correlation between them. The effectiveness of the toll is demonstrated through a given inverse problem example using Periodically Pulsed Photothermal Radiometry (PPTR). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents an analysis of the influence of building materials on the propagation of an electromagnetic wave and the values of the electric field intensity. The topics of the analysis were two types of walls (partition and load bearing) built of different building materials. Different variants of walls were considered due to the building material used: concrete, aerated concrete, solid brick, clinker bricks, and three types of hollow bricks. The requirements for structures in terms of wall thickness were taken into account. The article, using concrete as an example, also describes the influence of changes in the electrical parameters of the building material on wave propagation and the values of the field. The results concerning the influence of complex materials, such as hollow bricks, on the non-uniform distribution of the electric field were also included. Due to the different percentage share of ceramic mass in hollow bricks, the article discusses its influence on the values of the field, taking into account the variability of conductivity. The analysis was performed using the Finite Difference Time Domain (FDTD) method. The results were compared with the analytical solution. The analysis, among others, showed that with the increase in the ceramic mass in bricks, the electric field values are higher but result in an uneven distribution of the field. Using the example of hollow bricks used to build load-bearing walls, it was observed that a small modification of the hollows practically does not affect the field intensity (the difference is approx. 2%). When planning the installation of wireless networks, the best solution is walls made of ceramics with a large number of hollows, where the ceramic mass constitutes only approx. 30%. A multivariate analysis allows for a better understanding of field phenomena inside single-family homes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Data has become a high-value commodity in manufacturing. There is a growing realisation that the data-driven applications could become strong differentiators of manufacturing enterprises. To guide the developments in digitisation, a widely accepted framework is needed. In the absence of the universal framework, the components making a digital enterprise are captured in an example framework that is introduced in the paper. The adoption of new technology and software solutions has increased complexity of manufacturing systems. In addition, new product introductions have become more frequent and the demand more variable. A digital space enables optimisation and simulation of decisions before their realisation in the physical space. Predictive modelling with its time dimension is a valuable actor in the digital space. Three challenges of predictive modelling such as model complexity, model interpretability, and model reuse are identified in this paper. The coverage of each challenge in the literature is illustrated with the recently published papers. The main aspects of these challenges and the synthesis of the developments in digital manufacturing are articulated in the form of eight observations that could guide the future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the domain of phase change memories (PCMs), intensive research is conducted to reduce the programming cycle cost. The RESET operation is done by melting the PCM and then quenching the liquid phase to put it back to the amorphous state. In most of the devices, the heating is realized by the Joule effect with a titanium nitride (TiN) component put in contact with the PCM itself. One of the crucial points to improve the efficiency of this technology is to characterize the thermal contact between TiN and PCM. Having a low thermal resistance between the heater and the PCM ensures the heat transfer between the two is as efficient as possible. In this work, the interfacial thermal resistance between Ge-doped G 2 Sb 2 Te 5 (GeGST)/TiN in multilayer systems has been characterized, and the influence of the compressive stress exerted by the TiN layers on the GeGST crystallization has been highlighted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article contains a numerical analysis of the effects of electromagnetic wave propagation in an area containing a non-ideal, non-uniform, and absorbing dielectric. The analysis concerned the influence of the structure of the building material and its electrical parameters on the electric field intensity. The analysis took into account the variability of the number of hollows in the brick, the width of hollows, as well as the arrangement of these hollows relative to each other using the example of two types of bricks. The article also provides the most commonly used values of electrical parameters for building materials (brick, plaster). For this reason, the article includes results for different values of conductivity (0–0.2 S/m). The FDTD (Finite Difference Time Domain) method was used for multivariate analysis. The aim was to verify the correctness of the numerical assumptions adopted. Using the example of the most commonly used wall structure in construction, the results obtained using the FDTD method were compared with values obtained using another numerical method, the finite element method (FEM). The influence of an additional layer of plaster on the considered wall on the electric field was also checked. The analysis showed that a symmetrical arrangement of bricks results in higher values of the electric field by an average of 20%. Of course, this depends on the length of the hollows and the number of holes. The highest field values occur at low conductivities (0–0.04 S/m). A brick wall with a larger number of hollows and a symmetrical brick arrangement shows the highest electric field intensity, especially for hollow sizes (0.009–0.015 m). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents a numerical analysis of the effects related to the propagation of electromagnetic waves in an area containing a non-ideal, non-uniform, and absorbing dielectric. The analysis concerns the influence of electrical parameters, the structure of the building material, and the layering of the wall on the values of the electric field intensity. A multivariate analysis was carried out with different conductivity values. Homogeneous materials (e.g., solid brick) can be analyzed using the analytical method. In the case of complex materials containing, e.g., hollows (brick with hollows, hollow block), it is necessary to use the numerical method. The FDTD (finite difference time domain) method was used to assess the dependence of the electric field intensity on the layering, the length of hollows in bricks, and the material loss. In order to check the correctness of the adopted numerical assumptions, a series of tests related to the discretization of the model was carried out. The article also presents the influence of changing the length of hollows in bricks on the values of the electric field intensity at a frequency of 2.4 GHz. The instantaneous field distributions and maximum values of the electric field intensity are presented. In the model with a two-layer wall, regardless of the conductivity, the field values were the same for the two models, where the difference in the percentage of ceramic mass in the brick was 8%. A 12% decrease in the percentage of ceramic mass in the brick resulted in a 15% increase in the value of the area between a single-layer and a double-layer wall made of clinker bricks. At a conductivity of 0.04 S/m for a single-layer wall, the field values were similar for all brick variants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, scanning photothermal radiometry is used for imaging and to characterize a submicron crack. From the thermal images, the evolution of the crack is mapped in the space with micrometer resolution. A vertical contact interface at the steel–steel junction is used to represent a micro-crack with a thickness less than 0.5 μm. The thermal quadrupole approach is used to model the heat transfer within the semi-infinite vertical crack. Then, using the phase mapping and that calculated from the model, the estimation of both the equivalent thermal boundary resistance of the interface and the average interface thickness was done. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a new way to obtain photoactive cements was presented. In this method amorphous TiO2 is added to a cooler during the cooling of the cement clinker (Górażdże company) during cement production. Amorphous TiO2 was taken from the installation for obtaining titanium dioxide using the sulphate method. During the study, amorphous TiO2 was added to the clinker at 300, 600, 700, and 800 °C. The properties of the obtained cement were tested during the bending and compressive strength. The initial and the end of setting time was also measured. The adhesion of the obtained materials to concrete block, ceramic brick, and plasterboard were also evaluated. The photocatalytic activity of the obtained materials was studied during NO and BTEX (benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, p-, m-, o-xylenes decomposition) decomposition. Cement with 5 wt% TiO2 added to the clinker at 700 °C had the highest photocatalytic activity and the best mechanical properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The modern work environment is constantly evolving, and with it, the emphasis on employee health and well-being is increasing. Background: Nutritional education has become a key component of health promotion strategies in many companies that recognize the benefits of healthy eating habits for enhancing efficiency and job satisfaction. Objectives: The aim of this study was to understand employees' nutritional needs at work, and to assess the support provided by employers. The analysis focused on employees' eating habits and their attitudes towards eating at work, motives and barriers to healthy eating. Methods: The study was conducted using an anonymous survey completed by 1.056 individuals from across Poland. A discriminant function was selected for data analysis, which examined the differences between groups. Results/Conclusions: The larger enterprises are more inclined to establish meal consumption spaces, which contributes to a more organised work culture. The larger the business, the more time employees spend eating meals, it being influenced by better-developed eating facilities, which undoubtedly encourages the workers to take longer breaks. The people with obesity were found to place the highest value on healthy food options and the people with a normal BMI are more responsive to healthy food subsidies, nutritional advice provided by a dietitian, and access to fitness facilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents selected results of theoretical and experimental research into the manufacture of axisymmetric bimetallic components using three-tool skew rolling technology. In the tests, it was assumed that the outer layer would be a material intended for heat treatment. However, low-carbon steel was used for the core. Experimental investigations were carried out in an innovative CNC skew rolling mill. Tests were carried out at different technological parameters of the process. In addition, the geometric parameters of the billet and the way it was heated were analyzed in relation to the quality of the resulting weld between the two materials. The quality of the weld was assessed based on metallographic observation and on strength tests (shear method). On the other hand, theoretical studies were based on numerical modeling (FEM). The numerical analysis made it possible to determine the distribution of temperature, deformation and stress in the rolling bimetallic component. The results obtained indicated that it is possible to produce bimetallic materials from the proposed steel grades. In addition, a significant effect of the method of heating the billet in the chamber furnace on the microstructure in the joining zone and the shear strength was found. There was an increase in Rc strength of about 35% when using oxidation protection. The results indicated better strength when the billet is rolling with a smaller outer layer thickness (about 50 MPa). This was confirmed by the results obtained from the FEM analysis, which indicated higher values of plastic strain and the occurrence of higher compressive stresses in the near-surface zones of the rolled bimetallic forging, both of which facilitate the welding process. From the temperature distribution (in the range of (600–1200) °C) obtained during the rolling of the bimetal forging, it can be seen that contact with cold tools does not affect the temperature in the welding zone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Modification of titanium dioxide using ethylenediamine (EDA), diethylamine (DEA), and triethylamine (TEA) has been studied. As the reference material, titanium dioxide prepared by the sol–gel method using titanium(IV) isopropoxide as a precursor was applied. The preparation procedure involved heat treatment in the microwave reactor or in the high-temperature furnace. The obtained samples have been characterized in detail. The phase composition was determined through the X-ray diffraction method, and the average crystallite size was calculated based on it. Values for specific surface areas and the total pore volumes were calculated based on the isotherms obtained through the low-temperature nitrogen adsorption method. The bang gap energy was estimated based on Tauc's plots. The influence of the type and content of amine, as well as heat treatment on the photocatalytic activity of modified titanium dioxide in the photocatalytic reduction of carbon dioxide, was determined and discussed. It was clear that, regardless of the amount and content of amine introduced, the higher photoactivity characterized the samples prepared in the microwave reactor. The highest amounts of hydrogen, carbon monoxide, and methane have been achieved using triethylamine-modified titanium dioxide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mature, vital, and motile spermatozoa are essential for reaching the oocyte and binding to hyaluronic acid (HA) in the cumulus oophorus matrix. This study aims to determine the relationship between sperm-migration ability and HA-binding potential, as well as the relationship between sperm concentration and motility. Semen samples were collected from 702 men aged 20–56 years (median 34.8). We evaluated the sperm concentration and motility from basic semen analysis, the swim-up test (expressed as millions per mL and the migration efficiency percentage), and the hyaluronan-binding assay (HBA). A moderate positive correlation was found between the migration test results and HBA (R = 0.48). The highest correlation was observed between the concentration of motile spermatozoa and the migration test results (R = 0.85) and HBA (R = 0.4). The sperm migration efficiency strongly correlated with progressive motility (R = 0.6). Although significantly higher sperm migration was observed in patients with normal HBA results, the results of the functional tests were found to differ in some cases. For infertility treatment, the current diagnostic algorithm should be enhanced with more comprehensive seminological methods that assess the sperm-migration ability and HA-binding potential. We also recommend incorporating the swim-up method into the diagnostic protocol before planning assisted reproductive technology (ART) treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Titanium dioxide was synthesized via hydrolysis of titanium (IV) isopropoxide using a sol–gel method, under neutral or basic conditions, and heated in the microwave-assisted solvothermal reactor and/or high-temperature furnace. The phase composition of the prepared samples was determined using the X-ray diffraction method. The specific surface area and pore volumes were determined through low-temperature nitrogen adsorption/desorption studies. The photoactivity of the samples was tested through photocatalytic reduction of carbon dioxide. The composition of the gas phase was analyzed using gas chromatography, and hydrogen, carbon oxide, and methane were identified. The influence of pH and heat treatment on the physicochemical properties of titania-based materials during photoreduction of carbon dioxide have been studied. It was found that the photocatalysts prepared in neutral environment were shown to result in a higher content of hydrogen, carbon monoxide, and methane in the gas phase compared to photocatalysts obtained under basic conditions. The highest amounts of hydrogen were detected in the processes using photocatalysts heated in the microwave reactor, and double-heated photocatalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article "Generative artificial intelligence in smart manufacturing" explores the concept of generative AI, which aims to create novel content based on historical input. It discusses various types of generative AI models, such as GANs, VAEs, diffusion models, flow models, and transformers, and their applications in different fields. The impact of generative AI on smart manufacturing is also highlighted, including areas like generating training data, text, computer code, video clips, audio clips, planning, decision-making, and engineering design. The article emphasizes the importance of quality training data, generalization, and granularity of outcomes in generative AI models. [Extracted from the article]

We report the case of a 55-year-old man with multi-symptomatic transverse myelitis after vaccination against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The patient was diagnosed based on the course of the disease and the results of imaging and laboratory tests. We excluded other most probable causes of the disease. The quick start of diagnosis allowed for early treatment with intravenous steroids and then plasmapheresis and the implementation of modern rehabilitation methods using biofeedback platforms, among others, and an exoskeleton. The patient returned to work, but the rehabilitation process continues to this day due to persistent symptoms that impair the patient's quality of life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a new method of obtaining photoactive cements is presented. The goal was to obtain photoactive cements using a method that could reduce the production costs. In the study, an intermediate product from the production of titanium dioxide using the sulfate method, taken from the installation before the calcination process, was used to obtain photoactive cements. Laboratory conditions corresponding to introducing this amorphous TiO2 into cement clinker during its cooling were simulated. The study shows that the temperature from 300 to 800 °C and the time of amorphous TiO2 contact with the cement clinker within 30 min is sufficient to obtain a photoactive cement. The highest photocatalytic activity was obtained for the material with 5 wt.% TiO2 content, and the method used did not cause a significant decrease in the bending and compressive strength of the new photoactive cements. The obtained materials were characterized by determining the crystal size of the TiO2, the sulfur content and the photocatalytic activity during NO decomposition under UV radiation. The bending and compressive strength were measured. The influence of the addition of photocatalysts on the beginning and end of the setting time was also investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

States may allow vehicles to exceed US federal weight limits off the interstate system, but state-specific load rating vehicles are developed to ensure that bridges can carry such vehicles safely. However, if the load effects of state rating vehicles are not similar to those of the vehicles operating in the state, the load factors required for the safety of some bridges may be too large for others, resulting in unnecessary remediation that may include retrofitting, posting, or even closure. In this study, a quantifiable measure of load rating efficiency is used to analyze the load effects of rating and operating vehicles on a wide range of bridges. Using this measure of efficiency, a novel heuristic approach is used to identify nearly optimal rating loads that envelope the load effects of state operating vehicles, potentially reducing the need for remedial action. To illustrate, the approach is used to develop new rating loads proposed for the state of Indiana. This approach may be combined with further analyses to assess the potential economic impact of new rating vehicles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents and discusses the problem of determining and characterizing the cracking limits of cross-rolled specimens. The limit values were determined in accordance with the hybrid Pater criterion. For the study, the author’s test method was used, which allows the determination of the cracking moment, formed as a result of the Mannesmann effect during the compression of specimens in the channel. In order to determine the values needed to describe the cracking criterion, it was necessary to perform laboratory tests and numerical simulations of the process of compression in the channel of discs made of EA1T steel under hot forming conditions. Experimental tests were carried out for forming processes at 950 °C, 1050 °C and 1150 °C. The tested material had a disc shape with a diameter of 40 mm and a length of 20 mm, during the pressing process the diameter of the disc was reduced to a diameter of 38 mm. The increase in forming temperature caused a significant increase in the forming path until cracking occurred. Numerical tests were carried out in the finite element calculation environment Simufact.Forming 2021. The stress and strain distributions in the specimen axis were analysed during the tests, which were then used to calculate the hybrid cracking criterion limit according to Pater. After calculations according to the Pater criterion and after statistical analysis, the cracking criterion limits were obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The resilience of a production system is determined by its capability to respond to internal breakdowns and/or external disruptions and recover. In conventional production systems, internal disruptions such as machine breakdown are handled by parallel stations and storage buffers, which come at a cost. In this paper, we propose to use reconfigurable machines (RMs) and movable buffers (MBs) to increase the resilience of a production system. The production system is modelled using a modified Markov chain model. To reduce the computational effort, an iterative method is adopted for the production lines that have many RMs and MBs. The resilience of the production system is evaluated by a combination of production loss, steady production rate with threshold, work-in-process in Idle-area of MBs, process time of work-in-process in Idle-area of MB with threshold, and investment return. Two production systems are analysed, one with 3 operations and the other with 10 operations. The computer simulation results indicate that the resilience of a production system can be improved by more than 9% by RMs and MBs. Finally, a set of guidelines for design production systems with RMs and MBs are also given. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Globalisation of the manufacturing and service industry has increased complexity of the flow of materials and goods, magnified dependency on the underlying network, and made the industry more vulnerable to the changing market conditions. As manufacturing and service industry undergo transformation, an opportunity to rethink the design of future enterprises has emerged. Six enablers of miniversal manufacturing are discussed: digitisation, open manufacturing, service orientation, shared manufacturing, sustainability, and resilience. These enablers will form properties of universal manufacturing, with adaptability and affinity that are emerging. A universal manufacturing enterprise will be formed based on the distributed manufacturing facilities. The emerging standards for interoperability of systems needed for universal enterprises are discussed. The data and modelling standards will enable the synthesis of digital models into universal enterprises. Though there is no global standard for the representation of digital manufacturing models in a cloud, the existing process modelling methodologies and languages may offer the solutions needed. The evolution of production systems is illustrated with three snapshots, dedicated manufacturing, distributed manufacturing, and universal manufacturing. The modelling approach followed in this paper is bottom-up rather than top-down followed in the literature on modern manufacturing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents a study to estimate the possibility of determining the shape and size of a Mannesmann effect crack using the finite element method. Experimental tests were carried out to obtain reference specimens with a crack. A rotational compression test of cylindrical specimens in a channel was used for the experimental studies. Finite element tests were carried out using nine ductile fracture criteria. In the first stage of the study, using the rotational compression test and the finite element method, the limit values of the fracture criteria were determined. In the second stage, the development of a Mannesmann effect crack was simulated using the limit values of the fracture criteria using the finite element method. Based on the analysis, it was found that the greatest agreement in terms of void shape and size obtained in finite element method and experiment was obtained for the Ayada criterion. Analysis of the progression of the shape of the void formed using the Ayada criterion showed that crack initiation occurs as a result of maximum principal stress. The development of the resulting void is the result of the action of the maximum shear stress as well as the maximum principal stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We sought to understand age related differences in motivation for substance use disorder (SUD) treatment entry. It was hypothesized that the relative effect of physical health, social relationships and criminal justice involvement would be different when comparing emerging adults to other age groups. Using the 2019 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, we conducted a multivariate logistic regression on individuals that met criteria for needing SUD treatment with the dependent variable of receiving SUD treatment, and the independent variables of interest being an interaction between three age categories and three motivator categories. Emerging adults were least likely to receive needed treatment (over age 25 (OR 3.791, CI 2.498-5.755), adolescents (OR 2.840, CI 1.362-5.920)). Being arrested was the primary motivator for all age groups (OR 14.011, CI 7.780-25.232). Emerging adults resembled adolescents more than adults over age 25 on the effect of health and family as motivators for treatment. Arrest had a greater effect on treatment initiation for emerging adults than other age groups. Although older adults are more likely to have physical health complications due to a SUD, they are least likely to seek SUD treatment after experiencing physical health complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Open in new tab Download slide OBJECTIVES Spontaneous sternoclavicular joint infection (SSCJI) is a rare and poorly understood disease process. This study aims to identify factors guiding effective management strategies for SSCJI by using data mining. METHODS An Institutional Review Board-approved retrospective review of patients from 2 large hospitals (2010–2022) was conducted. SSCJI is defined as a joint infection without direct trauma or radiation, direct instrumentation or contiguous spread. An interdisciplinary team consisting of thoracic surgeons, radiologists, infectious disease specialists, orthopaedic surgeons, hospital information experts and systems engineers selected relevant variables. Small set data mining algorithms, utilizing systems engineering, were employed to assess the impact of variables on patient outcomes. RESULTS A total of 73 variables were chosen and 54 analysed against 11 different outcomes. Forty-seven patients [mean age 51 (22–82); 77% male] met criteria. Among them, 34 underwent early joint surgical resection (<14 days), 5 patients received delayed surgical intervention (>14 days) and 8 had antibiotic-only management. The antibiotic-only group had comparable outcomes. Indicators of poor outcomes were soft tissue fluid >4.5 cm, previous SSCJI, moderate/significant bony fragments, HgbA1c >13.9% and moderate/significant bony sclerosis. CONCLUSIONS This study suggests that targeted antibiotic-only therapy should be considered initially for SSCJI cases while concurrently managing comorbidities. Patients displaying indicators of poor outcomes or no symptomatic improvement after antibiotic-only therapy should be considered for surgical joint resection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Families Facing the Future (FFF) is an intervention designed specifically for families with a parent in methadone treatment. FFF is unique because it addresses prevention for children and recovery for parents in a single intervention. The primary goals of the program are to prevent parents' relapse, help them cope with relapse if it occurs, and teach parenting skills in order to reduce the likelihood of substance use among their children. FFF has been implemented as an adjunct to treatment in several Opioid Treatment Programs, but has not been widely adopted due to various implementation barriers. The aims of this study, therefore, were to (1) assess the perceived feasibility of implementing FFF and (2) identify/describe barriers to implementing FFF. An online survey was used to assess implementation feasibility, while individual qualitative interviews were conducted to explore specific barriers to implementation. Data collection from a total of 40 participants (20 patients and 20 providers) was conducted from August 2022 to October 2022 at two Opioid Treatment Programs in Florida. Analyses revealed high feasibility scores, indicating that FFF was viewed by both patients and providers as a practical intervention to implement. Despite strong perceived feasibility of the intervention, qualitative findings identified several implementation barriers with respect to difficulty attending parent training sessions, aversion to in-home visits, and lack of funding (inability to provide patient incentives/bill insurance). This study provides evidence that while patients and providers view FFF as having high feasibility, significant implementation barriers exist. This paper fills a void in the literature by informing if and which modifications might be necessary to facilitate wider adoption of FFF in real-world Opioid Treatment Program settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using the analytic method based on the Biot–Savart law for the electromagnetic field, the distribution of the magnetic field of a ribbon busbar of finite length was determined. The analytical formulas describing the magnetic field in all areas of the considered ribbon busbars were obtained. The Mathematica program was used to visualize the solutions obtained. The Mathematica programme is a good and convenient tool for analytical measurements using the integration function and conversion of the analytical solutions, for the determination of field quantities, and for the graphical visualisation of the obtained final solutions. This allowed for quick field analysis to be conducted after changes were made in the geometrical or electrical parameters of the systems under examination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a complex non-cellular three-dimensional macromolecular network present within all tissues and organs, forming the foundation on which cells sit, and composed of proteins (such as collagen), glycosaminoglycans, proteoglycans, minerals, and water. The ECM provides a fundamental framework for the cellular constituents of tissue and biochemical support to surrounding cells. The ECM is a highly dynamic structure that is constantly being remodeled. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are among the most important proteolytic enzymes of the ECM and are capable of degrading all ECM molecules. MMPs play a relevant role in physiological as well as pathological processes; MMPs participate in embryogenesis, morphogenesis, wound healing, and tissue remodeling, and therefore, their impaired activity may result in several problems. MMP activity is also associated with chronic inflammation, tissue breakdown, fibrosis, and cancer invasion and metastasis. The periodontium is a unique anatomical site, composed of a variety of connective tissues, created by the ECM. During periodontitis, a chronic inflammation affecting the periodontium, increased presence and activity of MMPs is observed, resulting in irreversible losses of periodontal tissues. MMP expression and activity may be controlled in various ways, one of which is the inhibition of their activity by an endogenous group of tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs), as well as reversion-inducing cysteine-rich protein with Kazal motifs (RECK). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Periodontitis is an inflammatory condition affecting the supporting structures of the teeth. Periodontal conditions may increase the susceptibility of individuals to various systemic illnesses, including Alzheimer's disease. Alzheimer's disease is a neurodegenerative condition characterized by a gradual onset and progressive deterioration, making it the primary cause of dementia, although the exact cause of the disease remains elusive. Both Alzheimer's disease and periodontitis share risk factors and clinical studies comparing the associations and occurrence of periodontitis among individuals with Alzheimer's disease have suggested a potential correlation between these conditions. Brains of individuals with Alzheimer's disease have substantiated the existence of microorganisms related to periodontitis, especially Porphyromonas gingivalis, which produces neurotoxic gingipains and may present the capability to breach the blood–brain barrier. Treponema denticola may induce tau hyperphosphorylation and lead to neuronal apoptosis. Lipopolysaccharides—components of bacterial cell membranes and mediators of inflammation—also have an impact on brain function. Further research could unveil therapeutic approaches targeting periodontal pathogens to potentially alleviate AD progression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The transformation of the manufacturing industry over the last two decades has been largely inspired by data. Digitisation has made its mark in different areas of manufacturing, from digital materials and processes to data science in decision-making. The digital manufacturing is evolving towards universal manufacturing that is highlighted in this paper. Different manufacturing initiatives are benchmarked and their relationship to universal manufacturing is demonstrated. The representation of enterprises in the universal manufacturing cloud is discussed. Product- and process-based specifications of digital enterprises are defined. Using these specifications, the enterprise configuration algorithm proposed in the paper is applied for the selection of component models. Two different representations, a node–node and an input–output matrix, of the digital component models are considered. The extended topological sorting algorithm is applied to construct an integrated digital model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid that is 50 times more powerful than heroin and has become ubiquitous in the illicit drug supply in the USA. Studies show that among people who use drugs, fentanyl is sometimes viewed as a desirable substance due to its high potency and low cost, while others have an unfavorable perception because of its association with overdose. Unfortunately, studies on the perceptions of fentanyl are relatively rare and existing studies tend to rely on samples with little African American representation. The objective of this study, therefore, was to identify and describe perceptions of fentanyl among African Americans who misuse opioids, while capturing their motivations for seeking out or avoiding fentanyl. Methods: In-depth interviews (n = 30) were conducted with a sample of African American adults who misuse opioids in Southwest Florida between August 2021 and February 2022. Audiotapes of interviews were transcribed, coded, and thematically analyzed. Results: Analyses revealed the presence of three subtypes of fentanyl-related perceptions: (1) fentanyl as an avoided adulterant, (2) fentanyl as a tolerated adulterant, and (3) fentanyl as a drug of choice. Conclusions: These findings show that African Americans' perceptions of fentanyl are not monolithic and suggest the distribution of fentanyl test strips and naloxone may be an effective risk reduction strategy. Given that most studies on fentanyl rely on quantitative data from drug seizures and death certificates, this study uniquely contributes to the literature by capturing the voices of African Americans who use drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this article is to look for the answer to the question of whether the applicable public law regulations contain adequate mechanisms enabling the realisation of the interests of local communities in the transboundary dimension. The background to the considerations will be an analysis of the spatial planning and environmental impact assessment procedures in connection with the planned expansion of the area of the open cast Turów lignite mine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phase change memories (PCRAM) are often made of chalcogenide alloys in the form of multilayer systems (MLS). The mostly used alloys are Ge2Sb2Te5 and Ge‐rich Ge2Sb2Te5. The current article reports on the thermal characterization of very thin (<5 nm) Ge‐rich Ge2Sb2Te5/Ge2Sb2Te5 MLS by modulated photothermal radiometry (MPTR). The MPTR method allows for the investigation of such samples by determining, with an inverse method, the total thermal resistance of the stack deposited on the substrate. With the measurement of the total thermal resistance, it is possible to determine the thermal conductivity of the deposit and the interfacial thermal resistances between layers. The interfacial thermal resistance between Ge‐rich Ge2Sb2Te5/Ge2Sb2Te5 is characterized, which is an important parameter to reduce the energy cost of the PCRAM functioning. It is also possible to highlight a decrease in interface quality inside the MLS after the beginning of the phase transition around 250 °C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The colonization of the oral cavity by potentially pathogenic antimicrobial-resistant bacteria in adolescents and its consequences is very poorly understood. The present study focused on the occurrence of oral colonization by Gram-negative bacilli (GNB) and their multidrug resistance, including the production of extended-spectrum β-lactamases (ESBLs) and carbapenemases, among healthy adolescents and risk factors associated with GNB colonization. Materials and methods: This study was conducted as part of "A program for the early detection of risk factors for lifestyle diseases SOPKARD-Junior" (SOPKARDJunior). Oral samples were collected from 182 adolescents from four public elementary schools in Sopot, Poland, aged 13-14 years. Bacterial strains were identified by the MALDI-TOF MS method. Screening of antimicrobial resistance was performed using a disk diffusion method. The NG-Test® CARBA-5 was used to detect and differentiate the five most widely distributed carbapenemases. Demographic and clinical data were collected and statistical analysis of risk factors was performed. Results: A total of 68 out of 182 (37.4%) healthy adolescents was documented oral colonization with Gram-negative bacilli, including 50/182 (27.5%) multidrug resistant (MDR-GNB) strains. Over 60% of oral carriage concerned three main genera Enterobacter spp., Pseudomonas spp., and Serratia spp., which were detected in 22.1%, 19.1%, and 19.1% of participants, respectively. Citrobacter spp., Escherichia coli, Klebsiella spp., Hafnia spp., Aeromonas spp., Acinetobacter spp., and Stenotrophomonas spp. were also isolated. The antimicrobial resistance to ampicillin (100%), ceftazidime (69.1%), meropenem (60.3%), gentamycin (60.3%), piperacillin/tazobactam (52.9%), and piperacillin (45.6%) were the most common. Among 73.5% GNB strains multidrug resistance was observed, including all Pseudomonas spp. strains. Among MDR-GNB, 30.4% were resistant to four groups of antibiotics, half of the MDR Pseudomonas spp. strains were resistant to 10 groups of antibiotics. Extended-spectrum β-lactamases were produced by Enterobacter cloacae, Klebsiella spp., and Serratia spp. (7.4%). Colonization by ESBLs-positive GNB strains was significantly associated with recurrent respiratory infections, nasal congestion, and bronchitis (p<0.05). Conclusion: Our study revealed high oral carriage of multi-drug resistant Gramnegative bacilli in healthy adolescents and the association of ESBL-producing strains with respiratory infections. Further studies on oral colonization with GNB are necessary due to the possibility of distinct infections and the acquisition of antibiotic resistance by resident microbiota. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The implementation of food safety management systems has a great influence on global food safety and security, especially for developing nations. The principles of the Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points are crucial for food safety and are the basis of food safety management systems. The purpose of this study was to assess the food safety management systems of a selected small-sized food company in India, both before and after certification of the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 22000 and the Foreign Supplier Verification Program (FSVP). This company manufactured traditional fried vegetable snacks using manual processing. The effectiveness of these certifications was assessed through direct audit. The integrated FSVP and ISO 22000 audit checklist were elaborated and applied in this study. It was shown that the certification significantly improved (97.14%) food safety system conformity in the company in question. Before certification, many non-compliances were found, especially for HACCP implementation. After certification, the only non-conformity concerned pest control. The integrated FSVP and ISO 22000 audit checklist used for the assessment enabled an evaluation of several factors: the food quality and safety compliance level, the effectiveness of certification, and the readiness of the small-sized Indian snack producer to develop the export of their products to the U.S. and other developed countries. It was shown that certification enabled a small-sized Indian food producer to meet the requirements of ISO 22000 and FSVP, which are the prerequisites for exporting to the U.S. and other developed countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In a one-step process, nanoscale magnetite was modified with 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane to introduce amino groups onto its surface. The resulting nanocomposite exhibited a particle size of approximately 13.6 nm, with agglomerates measuring 150 nm in size. The nanoparticles were densely packed, creating gaps (pores) between them of up to 13 nm and a specific surface area of 114 m2⋅g−1. The nanocomposite possessed approximately 0.8 mmol⋅g−1 of amino groups. Electrokinetic potential data confirmed the presence of basic groups, and the isoelectric point was observed at pH 10. The adsorption of human immunoglobulin in a 0.9% NaCl solution was investigated using the synthesized nanoparticles, with a maximum adsorption capacity reaching 40.5 mg⋅g−1. Infrared spectroscopy data of the Ig-loaded sample and the fitting of the adsorption isotherm using the Langmuir adsorption model indicated chemisorption of the immunoglobulin on the surface of the Fe3O4/≡Si(CH2)3NH2 particles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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In this paper, a non-linear programming method allowing for the optimization of the structure of high-current circuits that supply resistance-arc furnaces was presented. In the case of resistance-arc furnaces, two types of asymmetries most often occur: structural and operational ones. The structural asymmetry is related to the construction of a bifilar high-current busduct, which leads to the so-called short network. Knowing the parameters of the high-current busduct allows one to determine the operating characteristics of the arc furnace. It is also necessary to know the energy consumed in individual steps of the arc furnace operation. The method proposed in this paper makes it possible to establish guidelines for the modernization of a short network in order to eliminate asymmetry. The presented method was verified on a real object by conducting experimental tests on a furnace with a power of 12 MVA. Experimental tests were first carried out for a furnace with asymmetry, and then, by conducting simulation tests, guidelines for changing the design of the short network were determined. The measurements carried out after the modernization of the short network confirmed that the furnace was in a symmetrical operating condition and confirmed the correctness of the calculation method proposed in this paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Owing to society's growing ecological awareness, researchers and car manufacturers have increasingly been focusing on the adverse impact of transport on the environment. Many scientific publications have been published addressing the influence of a variety of factors on the exhaust emissions generated by vehicles and machinery. In this paper, the authors present an analysis of the exhaust emissions of components such as CO, THC, and NOx in relation to the type and condition of the road surface. The analysis was performed on a heavy-duty truck designed for carriage of timber. The investigations were carried out with the use of the PEMS equipment (portable emission measurement system) on bitumen-paved roads and unpaved forest access roads. The portable measurement system allowed for an accurate determination of the influence of the road conditions on the operating parameters of the vehicle powertrain and its exhaust emissions. Additionally, the authors present the influence of the type of road surface on the vehicle fuel consumption calculated based on the carbon balance method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]