Loss Measurements Research Articles

Periodontitis and pre-eclampsia among pregnant women in Rwanda: A case-control study.

Several studies have indicated that the presence of periodontitis during pregnancy could increase the risk of developing pre-eclampsia, thereby negatively influencing pregnancy outcomes for both the mother and child. Notably, despite the high prevalence of both periodontitis and adverse pregnancy outcomes in Rwanda, there exists a crucial evidence gap concerning the precise relationship between periodontitis and pre-eclampsia. The aim of this study was to assess the association between periodontitis and pre-eclampsia amongst pregnant women in Rwanda. Employing an unmatched 1:2 case-control design, we studied 52 pre-eclamptic and 104 non-pre-eclamptic pregnant women aged ≥18 years at two referral hospitals in Rwanda. Pre-eclampsia was defined as a systolic blood pressure ≥ 140 and diastolic blood pressure ≥ 90 mm Hg, diagnosed after 20 weeks of gestation and proteinuria of ≥300mL in 24 hours of urine collection. Periodontitis was defined as the presence of two or more teeth with one or more sites with a pocket depth ≥ 4mm and clinical attachment loss >3 mm at the same site, assessed through clinical attachment loss measurement. Bivariate analysis and logistic regression were used to estimate Odds ratio (ORs) and 95% confidence interval. The prevalence of periodontitis was significantly higher among women with pre-eclampsia, compared to pregnant women without pre-eclampsia, at 90.4% and 55.8%, respectively (p< 0.001). Pregnant Women with periodontitis were 3.85 times more likely to develop pre-eclampsia after controlling for relevant confounders (adjusted Odds Ratio [aOR] = 3.85, 95%CI = 1.14-12.97, p<0.05). This study results indicates that periodontitis is significantly associated with pre-eclampsia among pregnant women in Rwanda. These findings suggest that future research should explore whether enhancing periodontal health during pregnancy could contribute to reducing pre-eclampsia in this specific population.

Accurate loss measurement of optical bulk materials with pulsed cavity ring-down technique

Accurate loss measurement of optical bulk materials with pulsed cavity ring-down technique

Comparison of third-generation minimally invasive surgery, split-drill osteotomy, and triplanar chevron osteotomy for treating mild to moderate hallux valgus with metatarsalgia in middle-aged women: An observational study.

This retrospective study compared the clinical efficacy of third-generation minimally invasive surgery (3rd-MIS) split-drill osteotomy with soft tissue release to that of triplanar chevron osteotomy (TCO) for treating mild to moderate hallux valgus (HV) with metatarsalgia in middle-aged women. This study compared the efficacy of 3rd-MIS using split-drill osteotomy to that of TCO in treating mild to moderate HV with metatarsalgia in 52 middle-aged women from March 2022 to June 2023. Retrospectively analyzing a total of 52 patients (26 patients per group), we employed 2 distinct surgical methods across 2 groups in this study: the TCO group received a traditional TCO accompanied by soft tissue release, whereas the MIS group underwent a split-drill osteotomy with soft tissue release. The study compared the operation time, onset of weight-bearing, osteotomy healing, blood loss, pre- and postsurgery X-ray measurements, metatarsalgia, and foot function scores. In the TCO group, complications included peri-incisional numbness, elevation of the first metatarsal head with metatarsalgia, and bone hyperplasia with stiffness at the MTPJ in one patient each. In the MIS group, bunions were successfully corrected without significant complications like bone nonunion or avascular necrosis of the metatarsal head, and the metatarsal length was preserved. Significant differences in operation time, weight-bearing onset, healing, and blood loss were detected between groups (P < .05). Preoperatively, there were no significant differences in hallux valgus angle, 1-2 intermetatarsal angle, or distal metatarsal articular angle among the groups (P > .05). Nonetheless, notable postoperative differences were observed (P < .05). Foot function and pain scores, assessed by the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society and the Visual Analogue Scale, showed significant improvements in both groups following surgery. Both surgical techniques effectively corrected the HV angle without significant changes in the first metatarsal length. The MIS group experienced significantly less pain on the second day postsurgery, as indicated by lower Visual Analogue Scale scores (P < .05). Both techniques were similarly effective in treating metatarsalgia. 3rd-MIS split-drill osteotomy with soft tissue release offers several advantages over TCO techniques for treating mild to moderate HV with metatarsalgia in middle-aged women, such as reduced trauma, quicker healing, smaller scars, and less pain after surgery.

Automating bone loss measurement on periapical radiographs for predicting the periodontitis stage and grade

Automating bone loss measurement on periapical radiographs for predicting the periodontitis stage and grade

Single-use commercial bio-based plastics under environmental degradation conditions: Is their biodegradability and compostability a fact?

Evaluating compostability is increasingly essential for proving commercial bio-based cutlery or packaging since these materials must biodegrade under controlled conditions quickly. Utensils for eating represent Mexico's most popular consumer single-use materials, and Mexican regulations based on biodegradation or compostability are still vague and lack scientific evaluations. This study analyzed three bio-based polymeric materials (bags, dishes, and forks) from commercial brands following Mexican regulations and using various analytical techniques to verify their biodegradability and compostability. First, weight loss measurements, stress-strain tests, and topographic imaging were applied for preliminary observations at the macro scale up to 90 days of compostability. Besides, spectroscopy, microscopy, and thermal techniques indicate changes and behavior of the bio-based materials depending on the composition. The results suggest that bags exhibited the highest decomposition rate (80 %) compared to dishes and forks. Similarly, mechanical resistance indicates a reduction of 62 % for bags, 30 % for dishes, and almost none for forks. Texture image analysis revealed that the complexity and roughness of the materials increased over time, correlating with the physical changes observed. These results indicate minimal surface topography changes and higher stiffness for dishes and forks, indicating low biodegradability. SEM images supported these findings, showing surface degradation in bags and dishes but not in forks. FTIR and XRD analyses confirmed the presence of polyamide (bags) and polypropylene (dishes and forks). These results reduce biodegradation and differ from the claims made by manufacturers. The thermal analysis found similar results, indicating that the materials' thermal stability decreased after degradation, which is related to lower biodegradability and compostability. Overall, the study concluded only bags meet the criteria for compostability in national regulations. However, dishes and forks made of petroleum-derived polymers have higher resistance to natural and microbial degradation.

Towards the solution of coating loss measurements using thermoelastic-dominated substrates

Abstract The characterization of thin film parameters derives from the measurement difference between the coated and bare substrate. This method of comparison is based on the stationarity of the substrate: the characteristics of the substrate do not depend on the presence of the film. However, the thermoelastic loss of a coated substrate depends on the thermo-mechanical parameters of the film as well, which are generally unknown. When thermoelastic loss is dominant, the coating loss measurements are completely altered. In this paper, we propose a model that helps to understand the role of each material property in the thermoelasticity of layered plates, and with this we identified three possible cases in which any coating-substrate combination could be classified. In particular, we analyzed the IBS silica film deposited on silicon. Using the model, we were able to explain the experimental results and also selected a thinner substrate for future coating loss measurements. With this choice, cryogenic loss measurements on bare substrate confirm that thermoelastic loss becomes irrelevant for temperatures below 130 K-180 K, depending on the mode.

Assessing the Corrosive Effects of Unmelted Particles in Additively Manufactured Ti6Al4V: A Study in Simulated Body Fluid

This study investigates the corrosion behavior of Grade 23 Ti6Al4V alloys produced through laser powder bed fusion (L-PBF) when exposed to simulated body fluid at room temperature, focusing on the role of unmelted particles. This research aims to understand how these microstructural features, resulting from the additive manufacturing process, influence the corrosion resistance of the alloys. It was observed that unmelted particles serve as critical sites for initiating localized corrosion, including pitting, which significantly compromises the material’s overall durability. Electrochemical testing and detailed surface analysis revealed that these particles, alongside other defects such as voids, exacerbate the susceptibility to corrosion in biomedical environments where high material reliability is paramount. Weight loss measurements conducted over exposure periods of 48 h, 96 h, and 144 h demonstrated a progressive increase in corrosion, correlating with the presence of unmelted particles. These findings underscore the importance of optimizing L-PBF processing parameters to minimize the formation of unmelted particles, thereby enhancing corrosion resistance and extending the operational lifespan of Ti6Al4V implants in biomedical applications.

Electrochemical, surface, and theoretical investigations of palm kernel shell extract as an effective inhibitor for carbon-steel corrosion in 1M HCl solution.

Herein, we employed palm kernel shell extract (PKSE) as an eco-friendly inhibitor for carbon steel in acidic-induced corrosion. The corrosion inhibition of PKSE on carbon steel in 1M HCI solution was investigated by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, weight loss, and potentiodynamic polarization measurements. The surface was characterized by scanning electron microscopy equipped with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. Moreover, the elastic modulus and hardness tests were conducted. Weight loss measurements revealed that the optimum concentration of inhibitors is 500ppm with 95.3% inhibition efficiency in 1M HCl solution. Electrochemical results showed that the inhibitor could exhibit excellent corrosion inhibition performance and displayed mixed-type inhibition. The electrochemical impedance spectroscopy analysis shows that the inhibition performance increases by increasing the concentration of PKSE. The surface studies ensure the PKSE effectiveness in carbon steel surface damage reduction. Also, the adsorption of PKSE molecules on the carbon steel surface occurs according to the Langmuir isotherm model. The primary goal of this investigation was the utilization of palm kernel shell extract as corrosion inhibitor for 1018 low carbon steel in 1M HCl solution, which highlights its novelty. The present results will be helpful to uncover the versatile importance of palm kernel shell compounds in the corrosion inhibition process.

A comprehensive investigation of oxygen/graphite carbon nitride smart Nano coatings for sustainable maintenance and sacrificial anode protection of mild steel

AbstractBACKGROUNDThis study enhancing the corrosion resistance of mild steel (MS) by incorporating photo‐catalyst‐doped graphitic carbon nitride (g‐C₃N₄) nano‐sheets containing silver (Ag) and oxygen (O₂) into a solar light‐active photoelectrochemical anticorrosion paint with polyester (PE). The objective is to provide sacrificial anode protection through visible light activation.RESULTSThe developed paint forms a uniform film on the MS surface, effectively providing anodic protection under visible light. Characterization techniques, including energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDX), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and UV–Vis spectroscopy, confirm the molecular structure of the nano‐sheets. Corrosion resistance, assessed through weight loss measurements and open circuit potential (OCP) tests, shows significant improvement with the addition of Ag/g‐C₃N₄ and Ag‐O₂/g‐C₃N₄ nano‐sheets at an optimized concentration of 15 mg. The protection efficiency is ranked as follows: O₂‐g/C₃N₄ &gt; O‐g/C₃N₄ &gt; Ag‐O₂/g‐C₃N₄ &gt; Ag‐g/C₃N₄ &gt; g‐C₃N₄. After 28 days of immersion in seawater, MS coated with O₂/g‐C₃N₄ exhibited the least weight loss, with an inhibition efficiency of up to 99%. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) further demonstrated enhanced coating resistance for the O₂/g‐C₃N₄ coating (Rct = 3.76 kΩ.cm2, Rcoat = 1.69 kΩ.cm2) compared to pure PE (Rct = 0.005 kΩ.cm2, Rcoat = 0.096 kΩ.cm2).CONCLUSIONThe synthesized O₂/g‐C₃N₄ and Ag‐O₂/g‐C₃N₄ nano‐sheets exhibit high surface areas and enhanced water dispersibility, which contribute to significant corrosion protection of MS. The electrochemical performance, including weight loss and OCP measurements, highlights the potential of these nano‐sheet photo‐catalysts in advancing corrosion resistance technologies, with broad implications for materials science and engineering applications. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).

Estimation of random incidence sound transmission loss of panels based on normal incidence sound transmission loss measurements

The performance of building sound insulation is an important parameter for evaluating the quality of construction projects. So far, the sound insulation performance testing of building walls requires the installation of large-dimensioned wall samples in specialized sound insulation laboratories, which is time-consuming and costly. If small-dimensioned components of the wall panels can be applied and quickly tested at the project site, it could significantly improve efficiency and reduce costs. To address this issue, this paper investigates a method for estimating the random incidence sound transmission loss of wall panels based on the measurement of the normal incidence sound transmission loss of corresponding small samples. Initially, the sound transmission loss of single-layer and composite structures is theoretically analyzed based on the theories of Equivalent Single Layer method and Layer-Wise method. Subsequently, the random incidence sound transmission loss is estimated by the normal incidence sound transmission loss. The methodology for estimating the random incidence sound transmission loss of wall panels proposed in this study offers both a practical approach and theoretical support for the rapid assessment of the sound insulation performance of building walls. This study is of great significance for improving the quality of construction projects and inspection efficiency.

Development of a high current density, high temperature superconducting cable for pulsed magnets

Abstract A low AC loss Rare Earth Barium Copper Oxide (REBCO) cable, based on the VIPER cable technology has been developed by Commonwealth Fusion Systems for use in high field, REBCO based tokamaks. The new cable is composed of partitioned and transposed copper ‘petals’ shaped to fit together in a circular pattern with each petal containing a REBCO tape stack and insulated from each other to reduce AC losses. A stainless steel jacket adds mechanical robustness—also serving as a vessel for solder impregnation—while a tube runs through the middle for cooling purposes. Additionally, fiber optic sensors are placed under the tape stacks for quench detection. To qualify this design, a series of experiments were conducted as part of the SPARC tokamak Central Solenoid Model Coil program—to retire the risks associated with full scale, fast ramping, high flux HTS Central Solenoid (CS) and Poloidal Field (PF) coils for tokamak fusion power plants and net energy demonstrators. These risk study and risk reduction experiments include (1) AC loss measurement and model validation in the range of ~5 T/s, (2) an IxB electromagnetic loading of over 850 kN/m at the cable level and up to 300 kN/m at the stack level, (3) a transverse compression resilience of over 350 MPa, (4) manufacturability at tokamak relevant speeds and scales, (5) cable to cable joint performance, (6) fiber optic based quench detection speed, accuracy, and feasibility, and (7) overall winding pack integration and magnet assembly. The result is a cable technology, now referred to as PIT VIPER, with AC losses that measure fifteen times lower (at ~5 T/s) than its predecessor technology; a 2% or lower degradation of critical current (Ic) at high IxB electromagnetic loads; no detectable Ic degradation up to 570 MPa of transverse compression on the cable unit cell; end to end magnet manufacturing, consistently producing Ic values within 7% of the model prediction; cable to cable joint resistances at 20 K on the order of ~15 nΩ; and fast, functional quench detection capabilities that do not involve voltage taps. This cable technology will be tested comprehensively in a Central Solenoid Model Coil to prove its readiness for compact, high field tokamak operation.

Development of vibration isolation system for halls and report on sound insulation and vibration experiment

Rubber and polyurethane have been widely used as vibration isolation materials in halls and studios. In this project, we have developed a floor-mounted coil spring vibration isolator with improved vibration isolation and sound insulation characteristics, while keeping the installation height equivalent or lower than rubber and polyurethane. In this paper, we evaluate the vibration isolation performance of the developed device by measuring vibration transmission loss, and confirm that the device can suppress surging, which is a weak point of metal springs, while achieving a low natural frequency. The sound transmission loss measurement also confirmed that the floating slab incorporating the device has sufficient sound insulation performance, and these results indicate that the device can be applied to acoustic spaces such as concert halls, where quietness is required.

Optimization of a metal additively manufactured hydraulic silencer with array resonators

As mobile machines shift to electrification, hydraulic circuit noise, previously masked by combustion engine noise, has emerged as a significant concern. To address acoustic comfort issues, this paper investigates an innovative solution for high-performance noise reduction in hydraulic circuits. The proposed silencer design incorporates an optimized array of Helmholtz resonators, strategically arranged to broaden the narrow band characteristics of single resonators. The chosen configuration effectively reduces pressure pulsations across a broad mid-frequency spectrum. While this design is well-established in air medium, its application in a hydraulic oil medium is pioneering. Fabricated through metal additive manufacturing, the silencer undergoes testing on a dedicated bench. Transmission Loss measurements validate both the concept and the optimization methodology.

Implementation of an experimental set-up for insertion loss measurements of sonic crystal acoustic screens

The use of metamaterials for the implementation of noise control devices in the context of environmental acoustics is a topic that has gained more and more attention in recent years. The complex design of such devices and the difficulty of their construction in real-world applications complicates the acquisition of experimental data related to their acoustical performance. Numerical simulation tools are used to simulate the behaviour of these novel noise control devices in their design phase and help to validate the designs by comparing them with experimental data. This data, usually acquired under controlled conditions, holds significant importance in confirming the increasingly precise numerical models that have been developed over the years to simulate the behaviour of these physical systems. In this paper, an experimental set-up that enables acquisition of acoustical performance data for a particular metamaterial-based noise control device, consisting of networks of isolated scatterers, is presented. This prototype possesses several distinctive characteristics that render it particularly interesting, including its adaptability, ease of use, speed of obtaining results, and, particularly, its economic viability in relation to the tests that can be conducted in an anechoic chamber.

Investigation of light earth sound transmission loss at the wall scale

A fine understanding of the acoustic dissipation in walls made from biobased concrete is needed to predict and design properly their performances and to create comfortable spaces. This understanding is one of the objective of LOB+HIE (LOW BETON / HIGH EARTH) project, funded by Ademe, and focusing on the use of light earth (a biobased concrete resulting from the mix between clay and hemp shiv) to meet acoustic requirements in a public worksite. Acoustic data are already available in the literature at the material scale for this kind of solution. The aim of the present work is to provide experimental reference data at the wall scale for sound transmission on full-scale vertical walls, and then to extend it to other configurations by numerical simulations. The work is organised in three parts, including the transmission loss measurements on two different walls, the modelling of the walls with numerical simulations using a transfer matrix method approach, and finally the extension by simulation to other wall configurations, with a view to producing design aids for use by building professionals.

Basic examinations of the sound transmission loss measurement using two cardioid microphones

This paper reports results of an experiment on sound transmission loss measurement using the C-C method. This method is an inexpensive and stable method for measuring the sound pressure, the particle velocity, and the sound intensity. The measurements are carried out in accordance with JIS A 1441-1:2007 based on ISO 15186-1:2000, and the C-C method is applied for measuring the sound intensity. Comparing the measured results with those of the sound pressure level difference method, comparable results are obtained above 250 Hz. Naturally, the precision of the measurements depends on the microphone calibration used in the C-C method. In this report, we employ two calibration methods using an acoustic tube and an anechoic chamber, and also exhibit comparison of the results obtained by these methods.

Development of Fe-Mg alloys with intermediate degradation kinetics as potential biodegradable bone implants

This paper reports the production and characterizations of some Fe-xMg (x=3, 5, 7 wt.%) alloys. These Fe-Mg alloys were prepared using the mechanical alloying method followed by low-temperature sintering. The influence of the addition of various Mg contents on the microstructures, hardness, and degradation characteristics of these alloys were examined. The microstructure analyses demonstrated the homogeneous distribution of Fe and Mg in the alloys with a single-phase BCC structure. The inclusion of Mg was found to affect the alloys’ porosity, particle morphology, grain size, formation of corrosion products, and degradation behaviors. The corrosion products obtained from the alloys using the electrochemical and weight loss measurements indicated that their degradation rates (in the range of 3.13–4.7 mm/year) are in-between those of pure Fe and Mg. It was asserted that the Fe-Mg can be an appealing alternative for temporary medical implants. Furthermore, this study may establish an essential foundation for the degradation control of Fe-based implants by including more active elements.

High rates of probable PTSD among Ukrainian war refugees: the role of intolerance of uncertainty, loss of control and subsequent discrimination

ABSTRACT Background: Intolerance of uncertainty is a well-known predictor of post-traumatic stress symptoms following a traumatic event. At the same time, it is relatively unknown whether intolerance of uncertainty amplifies the effects of other adverse life events on PTSD symptoms among traumatized individuals. Objective: This article addresses this problem in a study of Ukrainian war refugees’ experiences with post-migration discrimination and powerlessness (loss of control). Method: 4972 forced immigrants from Ukraine took part in the study (90.2% women, Mage = 40.4, SD = 12.5) completing the PTSD-8 scale, measures of post-migration discrimination and loss of control experiences, and intolerance of uncertainty. Results: Almost half of respondents (47.5%) have probable PTSD. Regression analysis confirmed that war-related experiences, as well as intolerance of uncertainty, post-migration loss of control and experiences of discrimination were significant predictors of self-reported PTSD symptoms. Also, intolerance of uncertainty weakly moderated the effects of experienced discrimination and control deprivation on self-reported PTSD symptoms, so that the effects of adverse post-migration experiences were more pronounced among individuals high in intolerance of uncertainty. Conclusions: Understanding the effect of post-migration experiences on war refugees’ mental health is crucial for developing improved acculturation policies and fostering a supportive environment for forced migrants.

Comparison of Several Energy-Efficient Control Laws Using Energetic Macroscopic Representation for Electric Vehicles

Energy transition and decarbonization present significant challenges to transportation. Electric machines, such as motors and generators, are increasingly replacing internal combustion engines to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This study focuses on enhancing the energy efficiency of electric machines used in vehicles, which are predominantly powered by batteries with limited energy capacity. By investigating various control strategies, the aim is to minimize energy losses and improve overall vehicle performance. This research examines two types of electric motors: Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor (PMSM) and Induction Motor (IM). Real-time loss measurements were conducted during simulated driving cycles, including acceleration, constant speed, and braking phases, to mimic typical driving behavior. The simulation utilized characteristics from commercial vehicles, specifically the Renault Zoé and Bombardier eCommander, to assess the controls under different configurations. This study employed the Energetic Macroscopic Representation (EMR) formalism to standardize the analysis across different motors and controls. The results demonstrate significant loss reductions. The controls investigated in this study effectively reduce energy losses in electric motors, supporting their applicability in the automotive industry.

Natural Skin Care Regimen Improves Clinical Parameters and Quality of Life in Children with Atopic Dermatitis

Background: Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a prevalent, chronic inflammatory skin disorder, characterized by xerosis, itching and recurrent eczematous lesions. The condition also has major psychosocial implications for patients and their families. A daily skincare regimen of gentle cleansing and moisturization is an important part of atopic dermatitis therapy. Objective: This study evaluated the tolerability and efficacy of a nature-based shampoo/wash and moisturizer in children with mild to moderate atopic dermatitis Methods: This open-label study involved 23 children (6 months – 13 years) with atopic dermatitis. A daily skin care regimen of nature-based shampoo/wash and moisturizer was used for 4 weeks. The primary endpoint was tolerability assessed through clinical grading of erythema, dryness and roughness. The study pediatrician graded the eczema condition using the Eczema Area and Severity Index (EASI), and assessments of stratum corneum hydration and transepidermal water loss were performed before and after treatment. Parent/guardian completed two validated quality of life questionnaires. Results: Twenty children completed the study. Clinical evaluations showed significant improvement in subjects’ atopic disease with daily use of nature-based regimen. Significant reduction in dryness and roughness was observed, indicating that both products were well-tolerated. Moisture content and transepidermal water loss measurements showed directional improvements in skin barrier function. Parent/guardian reported significant improvements in quality-of-life assessments. Conclusions: The study demonstrated that nature-based skin care regimen was well tolerated and improved quality of life and skin condition in children with atopic dermatitis and can be used either alone or in adjunction with traditional treatment for disease control.