Background: Current evidence has focused on the complications of female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C) types 2 and 3, and there is a gap in the knowledge of the complications of FGM/C types 1 and 4, which are ofte...Background: Current evidence has focused on the complications of female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C) types 2 and 3, and there is a gap in the knowledge of the complications of FGM/C types 1 and 4, which are often considered milder forms of cutting. Case Presentation: A 23-year-old Somali woman with FGM/C was referred for chronic clitoral pain and superficial dyspareunia after several inconclusive gynecological examinations. Her clitoris was found to be entrapped under the scar of the cut clitoral hood. We surgically lysed the scar and reconstructed a prepuce. At the two-month follow-up, the patient reported no pain and physiologic sexual response. Conclusion: Clitoral pain and dyspareunia after FGM/C can be due to the incarceration of the clitoral glans. Treatment is surgical lysis of the scar.展开更多
Background: Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting (FGM/C) often has lifelong negative consequences for a woman’s physical and mental health but is still practiced in some parts of Kenya including Kajiado County. We aimed...Background: Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting (FGM/C) often has lifelong negative consequences for a woman’s physical and mental health but is still practiced in some parts of Kenya including Kajiado County. We aimed to estimate the current prevalence as well as the socio-cultural beliefs and power relations that are in favor of or against the practice in Kajiado, Kenya. Methods: A mixed method cross-sectional study was conducted in Kajiado County. The study targeted: women of reproductive age (15 to 49 years);community health volunteers (CHVs);opinion leaders;health care workers;officials from the ministries of Education, Health, Culture, Gender and Social Services;Community Health Assistants (CHAs);Traditional Birth Attendants (TBAs);teachers;morans and adolescent boys and girls aged 10 to 24 years. Data were collected both quantitatively through a household questionnaire and qualitatively through the focus group discussions and key informant interviews. Factors influencing Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting (FGM/C) were classified as either social, cultural beliefs or economic. Results: From the study, quantitative results revealed that the prevalence of FGM/C in Kajiado County was 91%, with most of them (96.7%) practicing type 2 (excision) circumcisions. From the interviews, girls undergo the cut as a rite of passage to womanhood and thus a prerequisite for marriage. It is also believed that girls who are uncircumcised cannot be helped by TBAs in delivery. It is believed that their blood is poisonous and can cause bad omen to whoever comes in contact with dirty blood. Additionally, it is believed that girls go through the cut to avoid conflict and natural phenomena;for instance, drought and outbreaks of diseases that kill many people. Finally, it is a practice that earns respect for the parents of the girls and incentives as dowry to the father of the girl. TBAs that perform FGM/C get paid in cash and kind. Conclusion: Female genital mutilation/cutting practice in Kajiado County is still high. Efforts to end the practice will need to have an integrated approach to include all the players. Suggested alternatives to the cut must, therefore, be inclusive so as to address the myths/beliefs, misconceptions, socio-cultural and economic factors in favor of the vice. The alternatives must be inclusive for the beneficiaries, supporters, and practitioners.展开更多
The remarkable ability of titanium alloys to preserve their superior physical and chemical characteristics when subjected to extreme conditions significantly enhances their importance in the aerospace,military,and med...The remarkable ability of titanium alloys to preserve their superior physical and chemical characteristics when subjected to extreme conditions significantly enhances their importance in the aerospace,military,and medical sectors.However,conventional machining of titanium alloys leads to elevated tool wear,development of surface defects,and reduced machining efficiency due to their low heat conductivity,and chemical affinity.These issues can be somewhat counteracted by integrating ultrasonic vibration in the conventional machining of titanium alloys and also enhance sustainability.This review article offers a holistic evaluation of the influence of ultrasonic vibration-assisted milling and turning on cutting forces,temperature,tool wear,and surface integrity,encompassing surface morphology,surface roughness,surface residual stress,surface hardness,and surface tribological properties during titanium alloys machining.Furthermore,it investigates the sustainability aspect that has not been previously examined.Studies on the performance of ultrasonic-assisted cutting revealed several advantages,including decreased cutting forces and cutting temperature,improved tool life,and a better-machined surface during machining.Consequently,the sustainability factor is improved due to minimized energy consumption and residual waste.In conclusion,the key challenges and future prospects in the ultrasonic-assisted cutting of titanium alloys are also discussed.This review article provides beneficial knowledge for manufactur-ers and researchers regarding ultrasonic vibration-assisted cutting of titanium alloy and will play an important role in achieving sustainability in the industry.展开更多
China has a history of more than five thousand years,and its culture is broad and rich.Among many traditional arts,paper-cutting is a special handicraft full of stories and myths.Paper-cutting is a unique art.People u...China has a history of more than five thousand years,and its culture is broad and rich.Among many traditional arts,paper-cutting is a special handicraft full of stories and myths.Paper-cutting is a unique art.People use scissors to cut paper into many beautiful shapes,such as flowers,animals,or people.This art only needs simple tools,but it is not as easy as it looks.When we watch the masters cut paper,they can create wonderful patterns in just a few minutes.However,for beginners,a lot of practice and patience are necessary.展开更多
Genital self-mutilation is an uncommon event that is commonly associated with psychotic disorders. Such injuries have also been reported secondary to complex religious beliefs and delusions regarding sexual guilt. Eve...Genital self-mutilation is an uncommon event that is commonly associated with psychotic disorders. Such injuries have also been reported secondary to complex religious beliefs and delusions regarding sexual guilt. Even though few case reports of male genital self-mutilation are available in literature, it is?rareto have a combined self-genital mutilation and attempted suicide by cut throat occurring in the same patient at presentation. We presented the case of a 38-yr-old male who presented to the accident and emergency centre of a tertiary hospital in Accra, Ghana.展开更多
With the widespread adoption of ultra-precision machining(UPM)in manufacturing,accurately monitoring the temperature within micro-scale cutting zones has become crucial for ensuring machining quality and tool longevit...With the widespread adoption of ultra-precision machining(UPM)in manufacturing,accurately monitoring the temperature within micro-scale cutting zones has become crucial for ensuring machining quality and tool longevity.This review comprehensively evaluates modern in-process cutting temperature measurement methods,comparing conventional approaches and emerging technologies.Thermal conduction-based and radiation-based measurement paradigms are analyzed in terms of their merits,limitations,and domain-specific applicability,particularly with regard to the unique challenges involving micro-scale cutting zones in UPM.Special emphasis is placed on micro-scale sensor-integrated tools and self-sensing tools that enable real-time thermal monitoring at cutting edges.Furthermore,we explore thermal monitoring and management techniques for atomic and close-to-atomic scale manufacturing(ACSM),as well as the transformative potential of emerging technologies like artificial intelligence(AI),internet of things(IoT),and data fusion for machining temperature measurement.This review may serve as a reference for UPM cutting temperature measurement research,helping foster the development of optimized process control technologies.展开更多
During the excavation process of deep hard rock tunnels,precutting rock with an abrasive water jet can weaken their strength and improve the efficiency of mining machinery.However,owing to the complex geological envir...During the excavation process of deep hard rock tunnels,precutting rock with an abrasive water jet can weaken their strength and improve the efficiency of mining machinery.However,owing to the complex geological environment,abrasive jets cannot fully utilize their rock-cutting performance.To fully exploit the advantages of high-pressure abrasive water jets,five orthogonal experiments were designed for rocks with significant differences in strength.Experimental research has been conducted on the performance of rotating abrasive waterjet-cutting rocks.Moreover,a neural network prediction model for predicting rock-cutting characteristics is established by comprehensively considering rock mechanics parameters and abrasive water jet parameters.The results show that the cutting depth of rocks with different strengths increases nonlinearly with increasing work pressure of the abrasive water jet.The cutting depth decreases exponentially with increasing cutting velocity.The cutting depth first increases and then decreases with increasing target distance,and the best target distance is between 4 mm and 6 mm.The effect of the target distance on the cutting width of rock is the most significant,but the cutting width of high-strength rock is not sensitive to changes in the working parameters of the abrasive water jet.The average relative errors of BP(backpropagation)neural networks optimized by global optimization algorithms in predicting rock cutting depth and width are 13.3%and 5.4%,respectively.This research combines the working characteristics of mining machinery to study the performance of abrasive waterjet rotary cutting of rocks and constructs a predictive model for the performance of abrasive waterjet cutting of rocks that includes rock strength factors.This provides a new solution for quickly adjusting the working parameters of abrasive water jets according to mining conditions.展开更多
Objective: The aim of this study is to evaluate the acute and long-term effects of female genital mutilation (FGM) among women in Sharkia Governorate. Method: This was a cross-sectional descriptive study carried out i...Objective: The aim of this study is to evaluate the acute and long-term effects of female genital mutilation (FGM) among women in Sharkia Governorate. Method: This was a cross-sectional descriptive study carried out in Zagazic University Hospital (ZUH) over a two years period from January 2012 to January 2014. The overall sample consisted of 1500 women. An interview was utilized to collect the necessary data. The questionnaires were administered face to face, in Arabic language. Four open and 25 close-ended questions were used to collect socio-demographic data of the sample: women’s experience about the circumcision, occurrence of health hazards after circumcision, and sexual effects on married women. Intention of all women (circumcised or not) to circumcise?their daughters was also documented. Results: This study revealed that the prevalence of FGM in?Sharkia Governorate was about 85.5%. The majority of circumcised women were Muslims (94.4%), married (87.9%), housewife (81.4%), illiterate or with low education level (45.5% and 38.5% respectively) and from rural areas (82.2%). The most common types of FGM were type I (49.2%) and type II (50.8%). The most common motive of FGM was the religious cause (46.6%). The majority of circumcised women (59%) denied the occurrence of any acute complication. The reported acute complications in this study were bleeding (19.6%), urine retention (2.3%), infection (6.3%) and difficult walking (12.8%). The majority of circumcised women (86%) denied the occurrence of any problems at labor related to circumcision. The reported problems at labor in this study were narrowing of introitus (8.4%), laceration (0.7%) and bleeding (4.9%). In this study, 74.6% of circumcised women believed that there was no effect of circumcision on their sexual satisfaction and 92.1% of circumcised women believed that there was no effect of circumcision on their husband’s sexual satisfaction. Approximately 16% of circumcised women complained of dyspareunia and believed that it was related to circumcision. Conclusion: Female circumcision is deeply rooted in our community and laws alone will not eradicate it. Moreover, this approach may drive it underground. Increased media coverage, statements by ministers, religious leaders and non-governmental organizations may lead to increased discussion of the topic at a local level. Spreading the message by means of pictures, song and drama as well as economic development will be more effective.展开更多
A centrifugal pump with a specific speed ns=67 is considered in this study to investigate the impact of blade cutting(at the outlet edge)on the fluid-induced noise,while keeping all the other geometric parameters unch...A centrifugal pump with a specific speed ns=67 is considered in this study to investigate the impact of blade cutting(at the outlet edge)on the fluid-induced noise,while keeping all the other geometric parameters unchanged.The required unsteady numerical calculations are conducted by applying the RNG k-εturbulence model with the volute dipole being used as the sound source.The results indicate that the internal pressure energy of the centrifugal pump essentially depends on the blade passing frequency and its low-frequency harmonic frequency.Moreover,the pressure pulsation distribution directly affects the noise caused by the centrifugal pump.The sound pressure inside and outside the centrifugal pump and the sound power at the blade passing frequency gradually decrease increasing cutting distance of the impeller blades.When the cutting percentage is 1.21%,that is,the clearance ratio between impeller blade and tongue is 8.57%,the comprehensive performance of the centrifugal pump is the best.展开更多
Vibration cutting has emerged as a promising method for creating surface functional microstructures.However,achieving precise tool setting is a time-consuming process that significantly impacts process efficiency.This...Vibration cutting has emerged as a promising method for creating surface functional microstructures.However,achieving precise tool setting is a time-consuming process that significantly impacts process efficiency.This study proposes an intelligent approach for tool setting in vibration cutting using machine vision and hearing,divided into two steps.In the first step,machine vision is employed to achieve rough precision in tool setting within tens of micrometers.Subsequently,in the second step,machine hearing utilizes sound pickup to capture vibration audio signals,enabling fine tool adjustment within 1μm precision.The relationship between the spectral intensity of vibration audio and cutting depth is analyzed to establish criteria for tool–workpiece contact.Finally,the efficacy of this approach is validated on an ultra-precision platform,demonstrating that the automated tool-setting process takes no more than 74 s.The total cost of the vision and hearing sensors is less than$1500.展开更多
Real-time identification of rock strength and cuttability based on monitoring while cutting during excavation is essential for key procedures such as the precise adjustment of excavation parameters and the in-situ mod...Real-time identification of rock strength and cuttability based on monitoring while cutting during excavation is essential for key procedures such as the precise adjustment of excavation parameters and the in-situ modification of hard rocks.This study proposes an in-telligent approach for predicting rock strength and cuttability.A database comprising 132 data sets is established,containing cutting para-meters(such as cutting depth and pick angle),cutting responses(such as specific energy and instantaneous cutting rate),and rock mech-anical parameters collected from conical pick-cutting experiments.These parameters serve as input features for predicting the uniaxial compressive strength and tensile strength of rocks using regression fitting and machine learning methodologies.In addition,rock cuttabil-ity is classified using a combination of the analytic hierarchy process and fuzzy comprehensive evaluation method,and subsequently iden-tified through machine learning approaches.Various models are compared to determine the optimal predictive and classification models.The results indicate that the optimal model for uniaxial compressive strength and tensile strength prediction is the genetic algorithm-optimized backpropagation neural network model,and the optimal model for rock cuttability classification is the radial basis neural network model.展开更多
Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of human mortality,and calcified tissue blocking blood vessels is the main cause of major adverse cardiovascular events(MACE).Rotational Atherectomy(RA)is a minimally invasi...Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of human mortality,and calcified tissue blocking blood vessels is the main cause of major adverse cardiovascular events(MACE).Rotational Atherectomy(RA)is a minimally invasive catheterbased treatment method that involves high-speed cutting of calcified tissue using miniature tools for removal.However,the cutting forces,heat,and debris can induce tissue damage and give rise to serious surgical complications.To enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of RA,a novel eccentric rotational cutting tool,with one side comprising axial and circumferential staggered micro-blades,was designed and fabricated in this study.In addition,a series of experiments were conducted to analyze their performance across five dimensions:tool kinematics,force,temperature,debris,and surface morphology of the specimens.Experimental results show that the force,temperature and debris size of the novel tool were well inhibited at the highest rotational speed.For the tool of standard clinical size(diameter 1.25 mm),the maximum force is 0.75 N,with a maximum temperature rise in the operation area of 1.09℃.Debris distribution followed a normal distribution pattern,with 90%of debris measuring smaller than 9.12μm.All tool metrics met clinical safety requirements,indicating its superior performance.This study provides a new idea for the design of calcified tissue removal tools,and contributes positively to the advancement of RA.展开更多
The water conductivity of karst collapsed column is affected by multiple factors such as the characteristics of its own column filling,structure and mining disturbance.As a structural water-conducting channel,fault us...The water conductivity of karst collapsed column is affected by multiple factors such as the characteristics of its own column filling,structure and mining disturbance.As a structural water-conducting channel,fault usually plays a controlling role in hydrogeological structure.During the process of mine water hazard prevention and control,it was discovered that the lithology composition,compaction and cementation degree and water physical properties of karst collapsed column fillings were all non-conducting water,but due to the influence of combined development faults,some exploration drill holes showed concentrated water outflow.Based on this,the scientific hypothesis was proposed that fault cutting leads to water conduction in karst collapsed columns.The study comprehensively used methods like chronology,exploration data analysis,and hydrochemical testing to analyze the chronological relationship between faults and karst collapsed columns,their spatial relationship,outlet point distribution and water chemical properties,and the impact of faults on the water-conductivity of karst collapsed columns,which proved the effect of fault cutting on changing water conductivity of karst collapsed column.The research showed that later fault cutting through karst collapsed columns turned the originally non-conductive karst collapsed columns into water-conductive collapsed columns at the fault plane,creating a longitudinally connected water-conducting channel.A new model of fault cutting karst collapsed column to change the original water conductivity of karst collapsed column was proposed.The research results can provide a theoretical basis for the prediction of the water conductivity of the karst collapsed column.According to whether the karst collapsed column was cut by the fault,it was predicted theoretically,so as to determine the key areas of water conductivity detection and prevention and control,and has broad application prospects under the background of source control of mine water disaster.展开更多
It is generally believed that cuttings have a significant impact on the forces of tubular string in extended-reach drilling.However,there are few studies attempted to investigate and quantify it.In this paper,a three-...It is generally believed that cuttings have a significant impact on the forces of tubular string in extended-reach drilling.However,there are few studies attempted to investigate and quantify it.In this paper,a three-layer transient model for cuttings transport is established to simulate the characteristics of dynamic cuttings transport over time under various conditions.The simulation results indicate that the change in drilling parameters like ROP(rate of penetration)and flow rate of drilling fluid will lead to the non-uniform distribution of cuttings bed.And the alternation of drilling and circulation will lead to a clear wavy distribution of cuttings bed in the wellbore.Then,the effect of cuttings on tubular string is obtained through a large number of numerical simulations and the nonlinear regression method,and this influence is introduced into the conventional stiff rod model of tubular string.Finally,the transient model for cuttings transport is coupled with the modified tubular mechanic model and applies to a case study of extended-reach drilling.The results show that there is a delay effect for the effect of the changes in drilling parameters on the ground torques because the changes in drilling parameters occur instantaneously,while the changes in cuttings bed distribution are slow due to its low transport velocity.Based on the coupling analysis of transient cuttings transport and tubular mechanical behaviors,the drilling parameters are optimized,including the recommended adjustment period and adjustment range for the ROP,the proper drilling time for the increased flow rate.Furthermore,the circulation and back reaming are optimized.For circulation,the keys are choosing appropriate time interval between the two adjacent circulations and the time for each circulation.To avoid pipe stuck,at least 20 min of circulation is required to remove the cuttings bed near the large-sized BHA((Bottom Hole Assembly))before back reaming,and the maximum back reaming velocity should be smaller than the minimum transport velocity of the uniform bed.展开更多
The fatigue resistance of casting polyurethane(CPU)is crucial in various sectors,such as construction,healthcare,and the automotive industry.Despite its importance,no studies have reported on the fatigue threshold of ...The fatigue resistance of casting polyurethane(CPU)is crucial in various sectors,such as construction,healthcare,and the automotive industry.Despite its importance,no studies have reported on the fatigue threshold of CPU.This study employed an advanced Intrinsic Strength Analyzer(ISA)to evaluate the fatigue threshold of CPUs,systematically exploring the effects of three types of isocyanates(PPDI,NDI,TDI)that contribute to hard segment structures based on the cutting method.Employing multiple advanced characterization techniques(XRD,TEM,DSC,AFM),the results indicate that PPDI-based polyurethane exhibits the highest fatigue threshold(182.89 J/m^(2))due to a highest phase separation and a densely packed spherulitic structure,although the hydrogen bonding degree is the lowest(48.3%).Conversely,NDI-based polyurethane,despite having the high hydrogen bonding degree(53.6%),exhibits moderate fatigue performance(122.52 J/m^(2)),likely due to a more scattered microstructure.TDI-based polyurethane,with the highest hydrogen bonding degree(59.1%)but absence of spherulitic structure,shows the lowest fatigue threshold(46.43 J/m^(2)).Compared to common rubbers(NR,NBR,EPDM,BR),the superior fatigue performance of CPU is attributed to its well-organized microstructure,polyurethane possesses a higher fatigue threshold due to its high phase separation degree and orderly and dense spherulitic structure which enhances energy dissipation and reduces crack propagation.展开更多
Recent advancements in drilling technology have driven substantial progress in cuttings removal tool development,particularly for addressing borehole cleaning challenges in highly deviated directional critical factors...Recent advancements in drilling technology have driven substantial progress in cuttings removal tool development,particularly for addressing borehole cleaning challenges in highly deviated directional critical factors in operational safety and efficiency improvement.Despite these innovations,two fundamental challenges persist:an incomplete understanding of mechanistic cuttings removal processes and an insufficient methodological framework for optimal tool installation.Studying the installation positions and assessing the effects of two cuttings removal are essential steps to advance the application of such tools.This investigation was initiated with a comprehensive analysis of particle settling dynamics and migration behaviors in annular wellbore spaces.Building upon Moore's terminal settling velocity equation,a modified model was developed to characterize the transport patterns of cuttings.Through model integration,the precise positioning of the efficient Vortex Cuttings Removal Tool(VCRT)was determined at 188 m from the bit.Subsequently,Computational Fluid Dynamics(CFD)numerical simulation was employed to reveal distinct annular flow field characteristics between VCRT and conventional drilling tools.Field validation in Well Z401X demonstrated a strong correlation between empirical measurements and simulated predictions,with pressure drop deviations of 6.25%and rotational speed variances limited to 7.50%.Analytical results confirmed VCRT's superior performance,exhibited 36.43%reductions in cuttings accumulation at the wellbore's lower quadrant compared to conventional drilling tools.The application of VCRT accelerated cuttings migration velocity in the annular space,significantly increasing the volume of returned onsite cuttings.Friction resistance decreased by approximately 35.90%,indicating higher cuttings removal efficiency than conventional drilling tools.展开更多
Background: In Africa, female genital mutilation (FGM) is a widespread and harmful practice, with Somalia having the highest incidence at 98%. This practice has severe and long-lasting physical and mental health conse...Background: In Africa, female genital mutilation (FGM) is a widespread and harmful practice, with Somalia having the highest incidence at 98%. This practice has severe and long-lasting physical and mental health consequences. The aim of the study was to evaluate the different types of FGM;immediate and long-term complications associated with the practice, and identify factors related to its prevalence. Method: In a one-year cross-sectional hospital-based study, data were collected from females aged 18 - 50 with a history of FGM. Face-to-face semi-structured questionnaires were used for data collection. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 26, utilizing univariate and bivariate analyses to identify correlations between variables, which were presented in tables. Results: In a study involving 255 female participants, 65.5% were between 18 and 30 years old. The majority (82.7%) were married, while 47.1% were illiterate. FGM cases were more prevalent in rural areas (61.6%). Among the participants, 45.1% were employed. Type 3 FGM was the most common (44.3%), followed by Type 2 (32.2%) and Type 1 (23.9%). In terms of short-term complications experienced by circumcised women, the most common were bleeding, reported by 29.8% of participants, followed by infection (25.1%), and urinary retention (19.2%). Among the long-term complications observed, recurrent vaginal infections were the most prevalent, affecting 29.8% of the surveyed females. This was episiotomy during delivery (22.3%) and genital scarring (10.2%). Conclusion: The study reveals that Type 3 FGM is highly prevalent among the surveyed females, contributing to an increased risk of recurrent vaginal infections, prolonged second stage of labor, higher likelihood of episiotomy during delivery, and genital scarring. These findings emphasize the urgent need for effective preventive strategies and implementation from both international and local organizations to eliminate the harmful practice of FGM.展开更多
Have we ever seen such a shocking garment in the fashion industry?A down jacket that claims to be one but uses absolutely no down,yet possesses remarkable heating and insulating properties,all designed with a colorles...Have we ever seen such a shocking garment in the fashion industry?A down jacket that claims to be one but uses absolutely no down,yet possesses remarkable heating and insulating properties,all designed with a colorless aesthetic.It resembles clothing that has come from the future.The secret behind this captivating design lies in"SOLAMENTR■"developed by Sumitomo Metal Mining Co.,Ltd.展开更多
Shanghai is blazing a new development track powered by dual engines:one is intelligent manufacturing empowered by cutting-edge technologies,and the other is green development driven by low-carbon and energy-saving sol...Shanghai is blazing a new development track powered by dual engines:one is intelligent manufacturing empowered by cutting-edge technologies,and the other is green development driven by low-carbon and energy-saving solutions.On September 10,China Today visited two enterprises in Shanghai-Shanghai Schneider Electric Industrial Control Co.,Ltd.and Huaqin Technology Co.,Ltd.-to observe firsthand how global investment and local innovation are jointly shaping Shanghai’s future of high-quality development.展开更多
The 3rd China International Supply Chain Expo(hereinafter referred to as the CISCE)is approaching,and NEXWISE Intelligence China Limited(hereinaf ter refer red to as NEXWISE Intelligence),a repeat exhibitor at the eve...The 3rd China International Supply Chain Expo(hereinafter referred to as the CISCE)is approaching,and NEXWISE Intelligence China Limited(hereinaf ter refer red to as NEXWISE Intelligence),a repeat exhibitor at the event,is ready for the show.In the E4 Hall’s Digital Technology Exhibition Zone,this AI-focused company will showcase its two flagship products and technology systems:“Zhang An Xing”Smart Security and“KuberAI(Producer Platform)”Computing Power Foundation,demonstrating China’s innovative AIdriven efforts in empowering industrial chain security.展开更多
文摘Background: Current evidence has focused on the complications of female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C) types 2 and 3, and there is a gap in the knowledge of the complications of FGM/C types 1 and 4, which are often considered milder forms of cutting. Case Presentation: A 23-year-old Somali woman with FGM/C was referred for chronic clitoral pain and superficial dyspareunia after several inconclusive gynecological examinations. Her clitoris was found to be entrapped under the scar of the cut clitoral hood. We surgically lysed the scar and reconstructed a prepuce. At the two-month follow-up, the patient reported no pain and physiologic sexual response. Conclusion: Clitoral pain and dyspareunia after FGM/C can be due to the incarceration of the clitoral glans. Treatment is surgical lysis of the scar.
文摘Background: Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting (FGM/C) often has lifelong negative consequences for a woman’s physical and mental health but is still practiced in some parts of Kenya including Kajiado County. We aimed to estimate the current prevalence as well as the socio-cultural beliefs and power relations that are in favor of or against the practice in Kajiado, Kenya. Methods: A mixed method cross-sectional study was conducted in Kajiado County. The study targeted: women of reproductive age (15 to 49 years);community health volunteers (CHVs);opinion leaders;health care workers;officials from the ministries of Education, Health, Culture, Gender and Social Services;Community Health Assistants (CHAs);Traditional Birth Attendants (TBAs);teachers;morans and adolescent boys and girls aged 10 to 24 years. Data were collected both quantitatively through a household questionnaire and qualitatively through the focus group discussions and key informant interviews. Factors influencing Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting (FGM/C) were classified as either social, cultural beliefs or economic. Results: From the study, quantitative results revealed that the prevalence of FGM/C in Kajiado County was 91%, with most of them (96.7%) practicing type 2 (excision) circumcisions. From the interviews, girls undergo the cut as a rite of passage to womanhood and thus a prerequisite for marriage. It is also believed that girls who are uncircumcised cannot be helped by TBAs in delivery. It is believed that their blood is poisonous and can cause bad omen to whoever comes in contact with dirty blood. Additionally, it is believed that girls go through the cut to avoid conflict and natural phenomena;for instance, drought and outbreaks of diseases that kill many people. Finally, it is a practice that earns respect for the parents of the girls and incentives as dowry to the father of the girl. TBAs that perform FGM/C get paid in cash and kind. Conclusion: Female genital mutilation/cutting practice in Kajiado County is still high. Efforts to end the practice will need to have an integrated approach to include all the players. Suggested alternatives to the cut must, therefore, be inclusive so as to address the myths/beliefs, misconceptions, socio-cultural and economic factors in favor of the vice. The alternatives must be inclusive for the beneficiaries, supporters, and practitioners.
基金financially supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.92160301,92060203,52175415 and 52205475)the Science Center for Gas Turbine Project(No.P2023-B-IV-003-001)+1 种基金the Natural Science Foundation of Jiangsu Province(No.BK20210295)the Huaqiao University Engineering Research Center of Brittle Materials Machining(MOE,2023IME-001)。
文摘The remarkable ability of titanium alloys to preserve their superior physical and chemical characteristics when subjected to extreme conditions significantly enhances their importance in the aerospace,military,and medical sectors.However,conventional machining of titanium alloys leads to elevated tool wear,development of surface defects,and reduced machining efficiency due to their low heat conductivity,and chemical affinity.These issues can be somewhat counteracted by integrating ultrasonic vibration in the conventional machining of titanium alloys and also enhance sustainability.This review article offers a holistic evaluation of the influence of ultrasonic vibration-assisted milling and turning on cutting forces,temperature,tool wear,and surface integrity,encompassing surface morphology,surface roughness,surface residual stress,surface hardness,and surface tribological properties during titanium alloys machining.Furthermore,it investigates the sustainability aspect that has not been previously examined.Studies on the performance of ultrasonic-assisted cutting revealed several advantages,including decreased cutting forces and cutting temperature,improved tool life,and a better-machined surface during machining.Consequently,the sustainability factor is improved due to minimized energy consumption and residual waste.In conclusion,the key challenges and future prospects in the ultrasonic-assisted cutting of titanium alloys are also discussed.This review article provides beneficial knowledge for manufactur-ers and researchers regarding ultrasonic vibration-assisted cutting of titanium alloy and will play an important role in achieving sustainability in the industry.
文摘China has a history of more than five thousand years,and its culture is broad and rich.Among many traditional arts,paper-cutting is a special handicraft full of stories and myths.Paper-cutting is a unique art.People use scissors to cut paper into many beautiful shapes,such as flowers,animals,or people.This art only needs simple tools,but it is not as easy as it looks.When we watch the masters cut paper,they can create wonderful patterns in just a few minutes.However,for beginners,a lot of practice and patience are necessary.
文摘Genital self-mutilation is an uncommon event that is commonly associated with psychotic disorders. Such injuries have also been reported secondary to complex religious beliefs and delusions regarding sexual guilt. Even though few case reports of male genital self-mutilation are available in literature, it is?rareto have a combined self-genital mutilation and attempted suicide by cut throat occurring in the same patient at presentation. We presented the case of a 38-yr-old male who presented to the accident and emergency centre of a tertiary hospital in Accra, Ghana.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.52425505 and U22A20207)the National Key R&D Program of China(No.2022YFB3403302)the Zhejiang Provincial Key R&D Program of China(No.2023C01056).
文摘With the widespread adoption of ultra-precision machining(UPM)in manufacturing,accurately monitoring the temperature within micro-scale cutting zones has become crucial for ensuring machining quality and tool longevity.This review comprehensively evaluates modern in-process cutting temperature measurement methods,comparing conventional approaches and emerging technologies.Thermal conduction-based and radiation-based measurement paradigms are analyzed in terms of their merits,limitations,and domain-specific applicability,particularly with regard to the unique challenges involving micro-scale cutting zones in UPM.Special emphasis is placed on micro-scale sensor-integrated tools and self-sensing tools that enable real-time thermal monitoring at cutting edges.Furthermore,we explore thermal monitoring and management techniques for atomic and close-to-atomic scale manufacturing(ACSM),as well as the transformative potential of emerging technologies like artificial intelligence(AI),internet of things(IoT),and data fusion for machining temperature measurement.This review may serve as a reference for UPM cutting temperature measurement research,helping foster the development of optimized process control technologies.
基金Supported by Jiangsu Provincial Natural Science Foundation(Grant No.BK20231497)Jiangsu Provincial Post Graduate Research&Practice Innovation Program(Grant No.KYCX25_2982)+2 种基金China University of Mining and Technology Graduate Innovation Program(Grant No.2025WLKXJ094)National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant No.51975573),National Key R&D Program of China(Grant No.2022YFC2905600)Priority Academic Program Development of Jiangsu Higher Education Institute of China.
文摘During the excavation process of deep hard rock tunnels,precutting rock with an abrasive water jet can weaken their strength and improve the efficiency of mining machinery.However,owing to the complex geological environment,abrasive jets cannot fully utilize their rock-cutting performance.To fully exploit the advantages of high-pressure abrasive water jets,five orthogonal experiments were designed for rocks with significant differences in strength.Experimental research has been conducted on the performance of rotating abrasive waterjet-cutting rocks.Moreover,a neural network prediction model for predicting rock-cutting characteristics is established by comprehensively considering rock mechanics parameters and abrasive water jet parameters.The results show that the cutting depth of rocks with different strengths increases nonlinearly with increasing work pressure of the abrasive water jet.The cutting depth decreases exponentially with increasing cutting velocity.The cutting depth first increases and then decreases with increasing target distance,and the best target distance is between 4 mm and 6 mm.The effect of the target distance on the cutting width of rock is the most significant,but the cutting width of high-strength rock is not sensitive to changes in the working parameters of the abrasive water jet.The average relative errors of BP(backpropagation)neural networks optimized by global optimization algorithms in predicting rock cutting depth and width are 13.3%and 5.4%,respectively.This research combines the working characteristics of mining machinery to study the performance of abrasive waterjet rotary cutting of rocks and constructs a predictive model for the performance of abrasive waterjet cutting of rocks that includes rock strength factors.This provides a new solution for quickly adjusting the working parameters of abrasive water jets according to mining conditions.
文摘Objective: The aim of this study is to evaluate the acute and long-term effects of female genital mutilation (FGM) among women in Sharkia Governorate. Method: This was a cross-sectional descriptive study carried out in Zagazic University Hospital (ZUH) over a two years period from January 2012 to January 2014. The overall sample consisted of 1500 women. An interview was utilized to collect the necessary data. The questionnaires were administered face to face, in Arabic language. Four open and 25 close-ended questions were used to collect socio-demographic data of the sample: women’s experience about the circumcision, occurrence of health hazards after circumcision, and sexual effects on married women. Intention of all women (circumcised or not) to circumcise?their daughters was also documented. Results: This study revealed that the prevalence of FGM in?Sharkia Governorate was about 85.5%. The majority of circumcised women were Muslims (94.4%), married (87.9%), housewife (81.4%), illiterate or with low education level (45.5% and 38.5% respectively) and from rural areas (82.2%). The most common types of FGM were type I (49.2%) and type II (50.8%). The most common motive of FGM was the religious cause (46.6%). The majority of circumcised women (59%) denied the occurrence of any acute complication. The reported acute complications in this study were bleeding (19.6%), urine retention (2.3%), infection (6.3%) and difficult walking (12.8%). The majority of circumcised women (86%) denied the occurrence of any problems at labor related to circumcision. The reported problems at labor in this study were narrowing of introitus (8.4%), laceration (0.7%) and bleeding (4.9%). In this study, 74.6% of circumcised women believed that there was no effect of circumcision on their sexual satisfaction and 92.1% of circumcised women believed that there was no effect of circumcision on their husband’s sexual satisfaction. Approximately 16% of circumcised women complained of dyspareunia and believed that it was related to circumcision. Conclusion: Female circumcision is deeply rooted in our community and laws alone will not eradicate it. Moreover, this approach may drive it underground. Increased media coverage, statements by ministers, religious leaders and non-governmental organizations may lead to increased discussion of the topic at a local level. Spreading the message by means of pictures, song and drama as well as economic development will be more effective.
文摘A centrifugal pump with a specific speed ns=67 is considered in this study to investigate the impact of blade cutting(at the outlet edge)on the fluid-induced noise,while keeping all the other geometric parameters unchanged.The required unsteady numerical calculations are conducted by applying the RNG k-εturbulence model with the volute dipole being used as the sound source.The results indicate that the internal pressure energy of the centrifugal pump essentially depends on the blade passing frequency and its low-frequency harmonic frequency.Moreover,the pressure pulsation distribution directly affects the noise caused by the centrifugal pump.The sound pressure inside and outside the centrifugal pump and the sound power at the blade passing frequency gradually decrease increasing cutting distance of the impeller blades.When the cutting percentage is 1.21%,that is,the clearance ratio between impeller blade and tongue is 8.57%,the comprehensive performance of the centrifugal pump is the best.
基金the financial support for this research provided by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant Nos.52275470,124115301,and 52105458)the Natural Science Foundation of Beijing(Grant No.3222009).
文摘Vibration cutting has emerged as a promising method for creating surface functional microstructures.However,achieving precise tool setting is a time-consuming process that significantly impacts process efficiency.This study proposes an intelligent approach for tool setting in vibration cutting using machine vision and hearing,divided into two steps.In the first step,machine vision is employed to achieve rough precision in tool setting within tens of micrometers.Subsequently,in the second step,machine hearing utilizes sound pickup to capture vibration audio signals,enabling fine tool adjustment within 1μm precision.The relationship between the spectral intensity of vibration audio and cutting depth is analyzed to establish criteria for tool–workpiece contact.Finally,the efficacy of this approach is validated on an ultra-precision platform,demonstrating that the automated tool-setting process takes no more than 74 s.The total cost of the vision and hearing sensors is less than$1500.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.52174099 and 52474168)the Science and Technology Innovation Program of Hunan Province,China(No.2023RC3050)+1 种基金the Natural Science Foundation of Hunan,China(No.2024JJ4064)the Open Fund of the State Key Laboratory of Safety Technology of Metal Mines(No.kfkt2023-01).
文摘Real-time identification of rock strength and cuttability based on monitoring while cutting during excavation is essential for key procedures such as the precise adjustment of excavation parameters and the in-situ modification of hard rocks.This study proposes an in-telligent approach for predicting rock strength and cuttability.A database comprising 132 data sets is established,containing cutting para-meters(such as cutting depth and pick angle),cutting responses(such as specific energy and instantaneous cutting rate),and rock mech-anical parameters collected from conical pick-cutting experiments.These parameters serve as input features for predicting the uniaxial compressive strength and tensile strength of rocks using regression fitting and machine learning methodologies.In addition,rock cuttabil-ity is classified using a combination of the analytic hierarchy process and fuzzy comprehensive evaluation method,and subsequently iden-tified through machine learning approaches.Various models are compared to determine the optimal predictive and classification models.The results indicate that the optimal model for uniaxial compressive strength and tensile strength prediction is the genetic algorithm-optimized backpropagation neural network model,and the optimal model for rock cuttability classification is the radial basis neural network model.
基金Supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant No.52205455)Fujian Provincial Health Technology Project(Grant Nos.2022CXA005,2022CXA015)。
文摘Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of human mortality,and calcified tissue blocking blood vessels is the main cause of major adverse cardiovascular events(MACE).Rotational Atherectomy(RA)is a minimally invasive catheterbased treatment method that involves high-speed cutting of calcified tissue using miniature tools for removal.However,the cutting forces,heat,and debris can induce tissue damage and give rise to serious surgical complications.To enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of RA,a novel eccentric rotational cutting tool,with one side comprising axial and circumferential staggered micro-blades,was designed and fabricated in this study.In addition,a series of experiments were conducted to analyze their performance across five dimensions:tool kinematics,force,temperature,debris,and surface morphology of the specimens.Experimental results show that the force,temperature and debris size of the novel tool were well inhibited at the highest rotational speed.For the tool of standard clinical size(diameter 1.25 mm),the maximum force is 0.75 N,with a maximum temperature rise in the operation area of 1.09℃.Debris distribution followed a normal distribution pattern,with 90%of debris measuring smaller than 9.12μm.All tool metrics met clinical safety requirements,indicating its superior performance.This study provides a new idea for the design of calcified tissue removal tools,and contributes positively to the advancement of RA.
基金supported by the Postdoctoral Fellowship Program of CPSF(No.GZC20233005)the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities(No.2024QN11025)+1 种基金the General Program of National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.52274243)the Hebei Province Natural Science Foundation Ecological Wisdom Mine Joint Fund Project(Nos.D2020402013 and D2022402040)。
文摘The water conductivity of karst collapsed column is affected by multiple factors such as the characteristics of its own column filling,structure and mining disturbance.As a structural water-conducting channel,fault usually plays a controlling role in hydrogeological structure.During the process of mine water hazard prevention and control,it was discovered that the lithology composition,compaction and cementation degree and water physical properties of karst collapsed column fillings were all non-conducting water,but due to the influence of combined development faults,some exploration drill holes showed concentrated water outflow.Based on this,the scientific hypothesis was proposed that fault cutting leads to water conduction in karst collapsed columns.The study comprehensively used methods like chronology,exploration data analysis,and hydrochemical testing to analyze the chronological relationship between faults and karst collapsed columns,their spatial relationship,outlet point distribution and water chemical properties,and the impact of faults on the water-conductivity of karst collapsed columns,which proved the effect of fault cutting on changing water conductivity of karst collapsed column.The research showed that later fault cutting through karst collapsed columns turned the originally non-conductive karst collapsed columns into water-conductive collapsed columns at the fault plane,creating a longitudinally connected water-conducting channel.A new model of fault cutting karst collapsed column to change the original water conductivity of karst collapsed column was proposed.The research results can provide a theoretical basis for the prediction of the water conductivity of the karst collapsed column.According to whether the karst collapsed column was cut by the fault,it was predicted theoretically,so as to determine the key areas of water conductivity detection and prevention and control,and has broad application prospects under the background of source control of mine water disaster.
基金support from the Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant Nos.52222401,52234002,52394255)National Key Research and Development Program of China(Grant No.2023YFC2810901)Science Foundation of China University of Petroleum,Beijing(Grant No.ZXZX20230083).
文摘It is generally believed that cuttings have a significant impact on the forces of tubular string in extended-reach drilling.However,there are few studies attempted to investigate and quantify it.In this paper,a three-layer transient model for cuttings transport is established to simulate the characteristics of dynamic cuttings transport over time under various conditions.The simulation results indicate that the change in drilling parameters like ROP(rate of penetration)and flow rate of drilling fluid will lead to the non-uniform distribution of cuttings bed.And the alternation of drilling and circulation will lead to a clear wavy distribution of cuttings bed in the wellbore.Then,the effect of cuttings on tubular string is obtained through a large number of numerical simulations and the nonlinear regression method,and this influence is introduced into the conventional stiff rod model of tubular string.Finally,the transient model for cuttings transport is coupled with the modified tubular mechanic model and applies to a case study of extended-reach drilling.The results show that there is a delay effect for the effect of the changes in drilling parameters on the ground torques because the changes in drilling parameters occur instantaneously,while the changes in cuttings bed distribution are slow due to its low transport velocity.Based on the coupling analysis of transient cuttings transport and tubular mechanical behaviors,the drilling parameters are optimized,including the recommended adjustment period and adjustment range for the ROP,the proper drilling time for the increased flow rate.Furthermore,the circulation and back reaming are optimized.For circulation,the keys are choosing appropriate time interval between the two adjacent circulations and the time for each circulation.To avoid pipe stuck,at least 20 min of circulation is required to remove the cuttings bed near the large-sized BHA((Bottom Hole Assembly))before back reaming,and the maximum back reaming velocity should be smaller than the minimum transport velocity of the uniform bed.
基金financially supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.52473228).
文摘The fatigue resistance of casting polyurethane(CPU)is crucial in various sectors,such as construction,healthcare,and the automotive industry.Despite its importance,no studies have reported on the fatigue threshold of CPU.This study employed an advanced Intrinsic Strength Analyzer(ISA)to evaluate the fatigue threshold of CPUs,systematically exploring the effects of three types of isocyanates(PPDI,NDI,TDI)that contribute to hard segment structures based on the cutting method.Employing multiple advanced characterization techniques(XRD,TEM,DSC,AFM),the results indicate that PPDI-based polyurethane exhibits the highest fatigue threshold(182.89 J/m^(2))due to a highest phase separation and a densely packed spherulitic structure,although the hydrogen bonding degree is the lowest(48.3%).Conversely,NDI-based polyurethane,despite having the high hydrogen bonding degree(53.6%),exhibits moderate fatigue performance(122.52 J/m^(2)),likely due to a more scattered microstructure.TDI-based polyurethane,with the highest hydrogen bonding degree(59.1%)but absence of spherulitic structure,shows the lowest fatigue threshold(46.43 J/m^(2)).Compared to common rubbers(NR,NBR,EPDM,BR),the superior fatigue performance of CPU is attributed to its well-organized microstructure,polyurethane possesses a higher fatigue threshold due to its high phase separation degree and orderly and dense spherulitic structure which enhances energy dissipation and reduces crack propagation.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.52374008,No.52174003)Shanghai Leading Academic Discipline Project(No,S30106).
文摘Recent advancements in drilling technology have driven substantial progress in cuttings removal tool development,particularly for addressing borehole cleaning challenges in highly deviated directional critical factors in operational safety and efficiency improvement.Despite these innovations,two fundamental challenges persist:an incomplete understanding of mechanistic cuttings removal processes and an insufficient methodological framework for optimal tool installation.Studying the installation positions and assessing the effects of two cuttings removal are essential steps to advance the application of such tools.This investigation was initiated with a comprehensive analysis of particle settling dynamics and migration behaviors in annular wellbore spaces.Building upon Moore's terminal settling velocity equation,a modified model was developed to characterize the transport patterns of cuttings.Through model integration,the precise positioning of the efficient Vortex Cuttings Removal Tool(VCRT)was determined at 188 m from the bit.Subsequently,Computational Fluid Dynamics(CFD)numerical simulation was employed to reveal distinct annular flow field characteristics between VCRT and conventional drilling tools.Field validation in Well Z401X demonstrated a strong correlation between empirical measurements and simulated predictions,with pressure drop deviations of 6.25%and rotational speed variances limited to 7.50%.Analytical results confirmed VCRT's superior performance,exhibited 36.43%reductions in cuttings accumulation at the wellbore's lower quadrant compared to conventional drilling tools.The application of VCRT accelerated cuttings migration velocity in the annular space,significantly increasing the volume of returned onsite cuttings.Friction resistance decreased by approximately 35.90%,indicating higher cuttings removal efficiency than conventional drilling tools.
文摘Background: In Africa, female genital mutilation (FGM) is a widespread and harmful practice, with Somalia having the highest incidence at 98%. This practice has severe and long-lasting physical and mental health consequences. The aim of the study was to evaluate the different types of FGM;immediate and long-term complications associated with the practice, and identify factors related to its prevalence. Method: In a one-year cross-sectional hospital-based study, data were collected from females aged 18 - 50 with a history of FGM. Face-to-face semi-structured questionnaires were used for data collection. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 26, utilizing univariate and bivariate analyses to identify correlations between variables, which were presented in tables. Results: In a study involving 255 female participants, 65.5% were between 18 and 30 years old. The majority (82.7%) were married, while 47.1% were illiterate. FGM cases were more prevalent in rural areas (61.6%). Among the participants, 45.1% were employed. Type 3 FGM was the most common (44.3%), followed by Type 2 (32.2%) and Type 1 (23.9%). In terms of short-term complications experienced by circumcised women, the most common were bleeding, reported by 29.8% of participants, followed by infection (25.1%), and urinary retention (19.2%). Among the long-term complications observed, recurrent vaginal infections were the most prevalent, affecting 29.8% of the surveyed females. This was episiotomy during delivery (22.3%) and genital scarring (10.2%). Conclusion: The study reveals that Type 3 FGM is highly prevalent among the surveyed females, contributing to an increased risk of recurrent vaginal infections, prolonged second stage of labor, higher likelihood of episiotomy during delivery, and genital scarring. These findings emphasize the urgent need for effective preventive strategies and implementation from both international and local organizations to eliminate the harmful practice of FGM.
文摘Have we ever seen such a shocking garment in the fashion industry?A down jacket that claims to be one but uses absolutely no down,yet possesses remarkable heating and insulating properties,all designed with a colorless aesthetic.It resembles clothing that has come from the future.The secret behind this captivating design lies in"SOLAMENTR■"developed by Sumitomo Metal Mining Co.,Ltd.
文摘Shanghai is blazing a new development track powered by dual engines:one is intelligent manufacturing empowered by cutting-edge technologies,and the other is green development driven by low-carbon and energy-saving solutions.On September 10,China Today visited two enterprises in Shanghai-Shanghai Schneider Electric Industrial Control Co.,Ltd.and Huaqin Technology Co.,Ltd.-to observe firsthand how global investment and local innovation are jointly shaping Shanghai’s future of high-quality development.
文摘The 3rd China International Supply Chain Expo(hereinafter referred to as the CISCE)is approaching,and NEXWISE Intelligence China Limited(hereinaf ter refer red to as NEXWISE Intelligence),a repeat exhibitor at the event,is ready for the show.In the E4 Hall’s Digital Technology Exhibition Zone,this AI-focused company will showcase its two flagship products and technology systems:“Zhang An Xing”Smart Security and“KuberAI(Producer Platform)”Computing Power Foundation,demonstrating China’s innovative AIdriven efforts in empowering industrial chain security.