bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High-Hardness, Water-Stable, and UV-Resistant Conductive Coatings Based on Waterborne PEDOT:PSS/Epoxy/(KH560/SiO2) Composite
Authors: Li Zhanqi , Zhu Ling , Xie Xiaowen , Zhou Meng , Fu Changqing , Chen Shuai
Published: February 2023

Despite the fact that PEDOT:PSS has been successfully used in the field of flexible electronics, some of its applications in the domain of rigid conductive coating have been limited by the pricey cost and subpar mechanical properties (hardness, adhesion, and moisture absorption) of the commercially available Clevios™ PH 1000, as well as the poor conductivity, film formation, and mechanical properties of the self-made PEDOT:PSS. In the process of investigating the low-cost preparation of PEDOT-based conductive polymer coatings, we discovered that self-made PEDOT:PSS, a waterborne epoxy resin, and a bio-based epoxy curing agent can be blended uniformly to produce good film-forming conductive coatings. Later, the addition of KH560-modified nano-SiO2 further improved the coating’s hardness while ensuring a modest increase in conductivity. Meanwhile, the inadequacies of the epoxy resin, which are not UV-resistant, were considerably improved by the synergistic action of PEDOT:PSS and the modified SiO2. The result is a low-cost method designed for creating conductive coatings that are UV-resistant and may be utilized for electromagnetic, electrothermal, and antistatic shielding applications. Such a PEDOT:PSS/epoxy composite system and its design approach will broaden the scope of PEDOT:PSS’s application and will inspire future research in and practical implementations of PEDOT:PSS-based conducting coatings.
Effects of Background Color on Stress-Linked Behavior in the Critically Endangered Lake Oku Clawed Frog (Xenopus longipes)
Authors: Graves Arabella E. , Dias Jemma E. , Michaels Christopher J.
Published: February 2023

Ex situ amphibian populations are a key component of global amphibian conservation strategy, and optimal husbandry is vital to ex situ conservation success. Animal behavior can be used to inform captive welfare and improve husbandry practices. However, it has been little used for amphibians compared with mammals and birds. The goal of this study was to explore the effect of different colored tank backgrounds on the behavior of the critically endangered Lake Oku clawed frog (Xenopus longipes) in captivity. This was conducted by studying the behavior of a group of 24 captive frogs in 5 groups using established behavioral indicators of presumed stress. Resting and swimming behaviors, established in the literature as linked to acute stress, were recorded under conditions of three background colors and a standard husbandry control of no background. Frog groups were exposed to each background for five days with behavioral frequencies recorded daily from 11:00 until 13:00. Using generalized linear mixed models, we identified a significant effect of background days after the background was changed and the interaction between the two variables on both swimming and resting behavior. The results of this study suggest an initial response of stress to altering the background, modulated by the color of the background, followed by the extinction of the stress response such that by five days after the background change, behaviors were similar to the baseline and indistinguishable between treatments. Overall, this study suggests that frog stress behavior was not differentially directly affected by green, grey, black, or transparent backgrounds but that green and grey backgrounds were associated with the smallest stress response to background change. These colors may therefore be recommended to reduce the impact of stress from disturbance.
Can Severe Plastic Deformation Tune Nanocrystallization in Fe-Based Metallic Glasses?
Authors: Antoni Monika , Spieckermann Florian , Plutta Niklas , Gammer Christoph , Kapp Marlene , Ramasamy Parthiban , Polak Christian , Pippan Reinhard , Zehetbauer Michael J. , Eckert Jürgen
Published: February 2023

The effects of severe plastic deformation (SPD) by means of high-pressure torsion (HPT) on the structural properties of the two iron-based metallic glasses Fe73.9Cu1Nb3Si15.5B6.6 and Fe81.2Co4Si0.5B9.5P4Cu0.8 have been investigated and compared. While for Fe73.9Cu1Nb3Si15.5B6.6, HPT processing allows us to extend the known consolidation and deformation ranges, HPT processing of Fe81.2Co4Si0.5B9.5P4Cu0.8 for the first time ever achieves consolidation and deformation with a minimum number of cracks. Using numerous analyses such as X-ray diffraction, dynamic mechanical analyses, and differential scanning calorimetry, as well as optical and transmission electron microscopy, clearly reveals that Fe81.2Co4Si0.5B9.5P4Cu0.8 exhibits HPT-induced crystallization phenomena, while Fe73.9Cu1Nb3Si15.5B6.6 does not crystallize even at the highest HPT-deformation degrees applied. The reasons for these findings are discussed in terms of differences in the deformation energies expended, and the number and composition of the individual crystalline phases formed. The results appear promising for obtaining improved magnetic properties of glassy alloys without additional thermal treatment.
The Properties of Activated Carbons Functionalized with an Antibacterial Agent and a New SufA Protease Inhibitor
Authors: Burchacka Ewa , Pstrowska Katarzyna , Bryk Michał , Maciejowski Filip , Kułażyński Marek , Chojnacka Katarzyna
Published: February 2023

S. aureus is the cause of many diseases, including numerous infections of the skin. One way to help combat skin infections is to use bandages containing activated carbon. Currently, there are no dressings on the market that use the synergistic effect of activated carbon and antibiotics. Thus, in this study, we point out the adsorption level of an antimicrobial substance on three different active carbons of different origins; by examining the inhibition level of the growth of S. aureus bacteria, we determined the number of live cells adsorbed on activated carbons depending on the presence of gentamicin in the solution. In addition, we designed and synthesized a new antibacterial substance with a new mechanism of action to act as a bacterial protease inhibitor, as well as determining the antibacterial properties conducted through adsorption. Our results demonstrate that activated carbons with adsorbed antibiotics show better bactericidal properties than activated carbon alone or the antibiotic itself. The use of properly modified activated carbons may have a beneficial effect on the development and functioning of new starting materials for bacteria elimination, e.g., in wound-healing treatments in the future.
Study of the Soft Magnetic Properties of FeSiAl Magnetic Powder Cores by Compounding with Different Content of Epoxy Resin
Authors: Zhu Zhengqu , Liu Jiaqi , Zhao Huan , Pang Jing , Wang Pu , Zhang Jiaquan
Published: February 2023

FeSiAl is a commonly used soft magnetic material because of its high resistivity, low core loss, and low cost. In order to systematically study the effect of epoxy resin (EP) on the insulated coating and pressing effect of FeSiAl magnetic powders, six groups of composite powders and their corresponding soft magnetic powder cores (SMPCs) were prepared by changing the content of EP, and the soft magnetic properties of the powders and SMPCs were characterized. The results showed that FeSiAl powders exhibited good sphericity and morphology. The Ms of FeSiAl/EP composite powders was between 117.4–124.8 emu·g−1 after adding (0.3, 0.5, 0.7, 1, 1.5, and 2 wt. %) EP. The permeability μe of SMPCs increased first and then decreased with the increase in EP content. Among them, when the EP content was 1 wt. %, the corresponding SMPCs had the highest μe and excellent DC bias performance (63%, 100 Oe). In the whole test frequency range (50~1000 kHz), SMPCs with 1 wt. % EP content had the lowest core loss (1733.9 mW·cm−3 at 20 mT and 1000 kHz). After that, the loss separation study in the low-frequency range (50~250 kHz) was conducted, and the hysteresis loss and eddy current loss of SMPCs with 1 wt. % EP content were also the lowest. In addition, SMPCs also exhibited the best overall performance when the EP content was 1 wt. %. The results of this study can guide the design of composite insulation coating schemes and promote the development of soft magnetic materials for medium and high frequency applications.
The Characteristics of the Metal-Free and Non-Conjugated Polymer Film with Self-Assembled Nanoparticles
Authors: Lee Kwang-Ming , Chang Chung-Cheng , Wang Jia-Ming , Chang Chia-Yu , Huang Chia-Hong
Published: February 2023

It is shown in this paper that a polymer, MA-PEG 1000-DGEBA (MP1D), exhibits antireflection, substrate-dependent photoluminescence (SDP), wide band-gap, and photoconduction characterization. MP1D was synthesized from maleic anhydride, polyethylene glycol 1000, and bisphenol-A diglycidyl ether. Self-assembled nanoparticles embedded in MP1D film and ranging from 2.5 to 31.6 nm are observed, which could be expected as scatterers to enhance light trapping and extraction. The size of the nanoparticle increases with the concentration of the MP1D solution. Besides solution concentration, the nanoparticle dimension could be modified by the chain length of polyethylene glycol in the polymer synthesis. The effects of solution concentration, annealing temperature, annealing period, and substrate on the photoluminescence (PL) of MP1D films are examined. Increasing solution concentration increases PL intensity. However, aggregation-caused quenching is explicit as the solution concentration exceeds 100 mM. PL intensity increases with annealing temperature, which could be attributed to crystallinity improvement. PL intensity increases with increasing the annealing period from 0.5 to 2 h. Nonetheless, as the annealing period exceeds 2 h, PL quenching is emerging, which could be due to aggregation. It is expected that MP1D could be a promising candidate for host materials and MP1D film could play a multifunctional role (antireflective and light-trapping functions) in optoelectronics.
ONC201 for Glioma Treatment: Adding an Important Weapon to Our Arsenal
Authors: Aloizou Athina-Maria , Aloizou Dimitra
Published: February 2023

Glioma, specifically gliobastoma, represents the commonest central nervous system malignancy and is notoriously challenging to treat, with only a minimal number of patients surviving beyond a year after diagnosis. The available treatment options include surgical resection, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy, mainly with temozolomide. However, gliomas can be particularly treatment resistant and novel options are currently being researched. One such agent is ONC201, the first member of the imipridone class and a TNF-related apoptosis inducing ligand (TRAIL)-inducing compound, which has shown positive results in the first preliminary clinical reports about its application in glioma patients, while also being safe and well-tolerated. Particular promise has been shown for the H3K27M mutated glioblastomas, with more trials focusing on this patient subset. It is likely that this compound will be added in the treatment algorithms of glioma in the future, although more research is still needed.
The Intersection of Personality Traits and Social Media Usage: Large-Scale Representative Samples of Internet Users in Sweden
Authors: Roos John Magnus
Published: February 2023

This paper aims to explore the relationship between the Big Five model of personality traits and social media usage in a Swedish context. The paper consists of three representative studies of the Swedish population in the age range 16 to 85. In Study 1 (N = 6542), the Big Five personality factors were measured by HP5i. In Study 2 (N = 3322) and Study 3 (N = 3302), the Big Five personality factors were measured by BFI-10. Different personality inventories and time periods for data collection were the basis for the breakdown of the studies. In all three studies, social media usage was measured by a self-reported estimation of frequencies. For each study, correlation matrixes between the study variables were first presented, followed by hierarchical regression analyses to test if personality factors predicted internet users’ social media usage. Gender and age were control variables. Over and above the effects of gender and age, all three studies found that social media usage is positively associated with extraversion. The first two studies also found that social media usage is associated with a high degree of openness to experiences and a low degree of conscientiousness. The reliability of the findings is strengthened through different personality inventories, large-scale representative samples of the Swedish population, and replications over time. However, since personality and social media usage vary between different cultures and time periods, caution should be taken in generalizing the results.
Predicting Emotion with Biosignals: A Comparison of Classification and Regression Models for Estimating Valence and Arousal Level Using Wearable Sensors
Authors: Siirtola Pekka , Tamminen Satu , Chandra Gunjan , Ihalapathirana Anusha , Röning Juha
Published: February 2023

This study aims to predict emotions using biosignals collected via wrist-worn sensor and evaluate the performance of different prediction models. Two dimensions of emotions were considered: valence and arousal. The data collected by the sensor were used in conjunction with target values obtained from questionnaires. A variety of classification and regression models were compared, including Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) models. Additionally, the effects of different normalization methods and the impact of using different sensors were studied, and the way in which the results differed between the study subjects was analyzed. The results revealed that regression models generally performed better than classification models, with LSTM regression models achieving the best results. The normalization method called baseline reduction was found to be the most effective, and when used with an LSTM-based regression model it achieved high accuracy in detecting valence (mean square error = 0.43 and R2-score = 0.71) and arousal (mean square error = 0.59 and R2-score = 0.81). Moreover, it was found that even if all biosignals were not used in the training phase, reliable models could be obtained; in fact, for certain study subjects the best results were obtained using only a few of the sensors.
An Optimization Framework for Data Collection in Software Defined Vehicular Networks
Authors: Wijesekara Patikiri Arachchige Don Shehan Nilmantha , Sudheera Kalupahana Liyanage Kushan , Sandamali Gammana Guruge Nadeesha , Chong Peter Han Joo
Published: February 2023

A Software Defined Vehicular Network (SDVN) is a new paradigm that enhances programmability and flexibility in Vehicular Adhoc Networks (VANETs). There exist different architectures for SDVNs based on the degree of control of the control plane. However, in vehicular communication literature, we find that there is no proper mechanism to collect data. Therefore, we propose a novel data collection methodology for the hybrid SDVN architecture by modeling it as an Integer Quadratic Programming (IQP) problem. The IQP model optimally selects broadcasting nodes and agent (unicasting) nodes from a given vehicular network instance with the objective of minimizing the number of agents, communication delay, communication cost, total payload, and total overhead. Due to the dynamic network topology, finding a new solution to the optimization is frequently required in order to avoid node isolation and redundant data transmission. Therefore, we propose a systematic way to collect data and make optimization decisions by inspecting the heterogeneous normalized network link entropy. The proposed optimization model for data collection for the hybrid SDVN architecture yields a 75.5% lower communication cost and 32.7% lower end-to-end latency in large vehicular networks compared to the data collection in the centralized SDVN architecture while collecting 99.9% of the data available in the vehicular network under optimized settings.
JUTAR: Joint User-Association, Task-Partition, and Resource-Allocation Algorithm for MEC Networks
Authors: Kang Ling , Wang Yi , Hu Yanjun , Jiang Fang , Bai Na , Deng Yu
Published: February 2023

Mobile edge computing (MEC) is a promising technique to support the emerging delay-sensitive and compute-intensive applications for user equipment (UE) by means of computation offloading. However, designing a computation offloading algorithm for the MEC network to meet the restrictive requirements towards system latency and energy consumption remains challenging. In this paper, we propose a joint user-association, task-partition, and resource-allocation (JUTAR) algorithm to solve the computation offloading problem. In particular, we first build an optimization function for the computation offloading problem. Then, we utilize the user association and smooth approximation to simplify the objective function. Finally, we employ the particle swarm algorithm (PSA) to find the optimal solution. The proposed JUTAR algorithm achieves a better system performance compared with the state-of-the-art (SOA) computation offloading algorithm due to the joint optimization of the user association, task partition, and resource allocation for computation offloading. Numerical results show that, compared with the SOA algorithm, the proposed JUTAR achieves about 21% system performance gain in the MEC network with 100 pieces of UE.
Age Related Functional Connectivity Signature Extraction Using Energy-Based Machine Learning Techniques
Authors: Varanasi Sravani , Tuli Roopan , Han Fei , Chen Rong , Choa Fow-Sen
Published: February 2023

The study of brain connectivity plays an important role in understanding the functional organizations of the brain. It also helps to identify connectivity signatures that can be used for evaluating neural disorders and monitoring treatment efficacy. In this work, age-related changes in brain connectivity are studied to obtain aging signatures based on various modeling techniques. These include an energy-based machine learning technique to identify brain network interaction differences between two age groups with a large (30 years) age gap between them. Disconnectivity graphs and activation maps of the seven prominent resting-state networks (RSN) were obtained from functional MRI data of old and young adult subjects. Two-sample t-tests were performed on the local minimums with Bonferroni correction to control the family-wise error rate. These local minimums are connectivity states showing not only which brain regions but also how strong they are working together. They work as aging signatures that can be used to differentiate young and old groups. We found that the attention network’s connectivity signature is a state with all the regions working together and young subjects have a stronger average connectivity among these regions. We have also found a common pattern between young and old subjects where the left and right brain regions of the frontal network are sometimes working separately instead of together. In summary, in this work, we combined machine learning and statistical approaches to extract connectivity signatures, which can be utilized to distinguish aging brains and monitor possible treatment efficacy.
SERS for Detection of Proteinuria: A Comparison of Gold, Silver, Al Tape, and Silicon Substrates for Identification of Elevated Protein Concentration in Urine
Authors: Aitekenov Sultan , Sultangaziyev Alisher , Boranova Aigerim , Dyussupova Aigerim , Ilyas Aisha , Gaipov Abduzhappar , Bukasov Rostislav
Published: February 2023

Excessive protein excretion in human urine is an early and sensitive marker of diabetic nephropathy and primary and secondary renal disease. Kidney problems, particularly chronic kidney disease, remain among the few growing causes of mortality in the world. Therefore, it is important to develop an efficient, expressive, and low-cost method for protein determination. Surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) methods are potential candidates to achieve these criteria. In this paper, a SERS method was developed to distinguish patients with proteinuria from the healthy group. Commercial gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) with diameters of 60 nm and 100 nm, and silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) with a diameter of 100 nm were tested on the surface of four different substrates including silver and gold films, silicon, and aluminum tape. SERS spectra were acquired from 111 unique human urine samples prepared and measured for each of the seven different nanoparticle plus substrate combinations. Data analysis by the PCA-LDA algorithm and the ROC curves gave results for the diagnostic figures of merits. The best sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, and AUC were 0.91, 0.84, 0.88, and 0.94 for the set with 100 nm Au NPs on the silver substrate, respectively. Among the three metal substrates, the substrate with AuNPs and Al tape performed slightly worse than the other three substrates, and 100 nm gold nanoparticles on average produced better results than 60 nm gold nanoparticles. The 60 nm diameter AuNPs and silicon, which is about one order of magnitude more cost-effective than AuNPs and gold film, showed a relative performance close to the performance of 60 nm AuNPs and Au film (average AUC 0.88 (Si) vs. 0.89 (Au)). This is likely the first reported application of unmodified silicon in SERS substrates applied for direct detection of proteins in any biofluid, particularly in urine. These results position silicon and AuNPs@Si in particular as a perspective SERS substrate for direct urine analysis, including clinical diagnostics of proteinuria.
New Insights to Design Electrospun Fibers with Tunable Electrical Conductive–Semiconductive Properties
Authors: Serrano-Garcia William , Bonadies Irene , Thomas Sylvia W. , Guarino Vincenzo
Published: February 2023

Fiber electronics, such as those produced by the electrospinning technique, have an extensive range of applications including electrode surfaces for batteries and sensors, energy storage, electromagnetic interference shielding, antistatic coatings, catalysts, drug delivery, tissue engineering, and smart textiles. New composite materials and blends from conductive–semiconductive polymers (C-SPs) offer high surface area-to-volume ratios with electrical tunability, making them suitable for use in fields including electronics, biofiltration, tissue engineering, biosensors, and “green polymers”. These materials and structures show great potential for embedded-electronics tissue engineering, active drug delivery, and smart biosensing due to their electronic transport behavior and mechanical flexibility with effective biocompatibility. Doping, processing methods, and morphologies can significantly impact the properties and performance of C-SPs and their composites. This review provides an overview of the current literature on the processing of C-SPs as nanomaterials and nanofibrous structures, mainly emphasizing the electroactive properties that make these structures suitable for various applications.
Phase Deflectometry for Defect Detection of High Reflection Objects
Authors: Cheng Xian-Ming , Wang Ting-Ting , Zhu Wen-Bin , Shi Bai-Di , Chen Wei
Published: February 2023

A method for detecting the surface defects of high reflection objects using phase deflection is proposed. The abrupt change in the surface gradient at the defect leads to the change in the fringe phase. Therefore, Gray code combined with a four-step phase-shift method was employed to obtain the surface gradients to characterize the defects. Then, through the double surface illumination model, the relationship between illumination intensity and phase was established. The causes of periodic error interference were analyzed, and the method of adjusting the fringe width to eliminate it was proposed. Finally, experimental results showed the effectiveness of the proposed method.
A Feature-Trajectory-Smoothed High-Speed Model for Video Anomaly Detection
Authors: Sun Li , Wang Zhiguo , Zhang Yujin , Wang Guijin
Published: February 2023

High-speed detection of abnormal frames in surveillance videos is essential for security. This paper proposes a new video anomaly–detection model, namely, feature trajectory–smoothed long short-term memory (FTS-LSTM). This model trains an LSTM autoencoder network to generate future frames on normal video streams, and uses the FTS detector and generation error (GE) detector to detect anomalies on testing video streams. FTS loss is a new indicator in the anomaly–detection area. In the training stage, the model applies a feature trajectory smoothness (FTS) loss to constrain the LSTM layer. This loss enables the LSTM layer to learn the temporal regularity of video streams more precisely. In the detection stage, the model utilizes the FTS loss and the GE loss as two detectors to detect anomalies. By cascading the FTS detector and the GE detector to detect anomalies, the model achieves a high speed and competitive anomaly-detection performance on multiple datasets.
Distributed Data Integrity Verification Scheme in Multi-Cloud Environment
Authors: Witanto Elizabeth , Stanley Brian , Lee Sang-Gon
Published: February 2023

Most existing data integrity auditing protocols in cloud storage rely on proof of probabilistic data possession. Consequently, the sampling rate of data integrity verification is low to prevent expensive costs to the auditor. However, in the case of a multi-cloud environment, the amount of stored data will be huge. As a result, a higher sampling rate is needed. It will also have an increased cost for the auditor as a consequence. Therefore, this paper proposes a blockchain-based distributed data integrity verification protocol in multi-cloud environments that enables data verification using multi-verifiers. The proposed scheme aims to increase the sampling rate of data verification without increasing the costs significantly. The performance analysis shows that this protocol achieved a lower time consumption required for verification tasks using multi-verifiers than a single verifier. Furthermore, utilizing multi-verifiers also decreases each verifier’s computation and communication costs.
Algorithm for Mobile Platform-Based Real-Time QRS Detection
Authors: Neri Luca , Oberdier Matt T. , Augello Antonio , Suzuki Masahito , Tumarkin Ethan , Jaipalli Sujai , Geminiani Gian Angelo , Halperin Henry R. , Borghi Claudio
Published: February 2023

Recent advancements in smart, wearable technologies have allowed the detection of various medical conditions. In particular, continuous collection and real-time analysis of electrocardiogram data have enabled the early identification of pathologic cardiac rhythms. Various algorithms to assess cardiac rhythms have been developed, but these utilize excessive computational power. Therefore, adoption to mobile platforms requires more computationally efficient algorithms that do not sacrifice correctness. This study presents a modified QRS detection algorithm, the AccYouRate Modified Pan–Tompkins (AMPT), which is a simplified version of the well-established Pan–Tompkins algorithm. Using archived ECG data from a variety of publicly available datasets, relative to the Pan–Tompkins, the AMPT algorithm demonstrated improved computational efficiency by 5–20×, while also universally enhancing correctness, both of which favor translation to a mobile platform for continuous, real-time QRS detection.
A Graph-Attention-Based Method for Single-Resident Daily Activity Recognition in Smart Homes
Authors: Ye Jiancong , Jiang Hongjie , Zhong Junpei
Published: February 2023

In ambient-assisted living facilitated by smart home systems, the recognition of daily human activities is of great importance. It aims to infer the household’s daily activities from the triggered sensor observation sequences with varying time intervals among successive readouts. This paper introduces a novel deep learning framework based on embedding technology and graph attention networks, namely the time-oriented and location-oriented graph attention (TLGAT) networks. The embedding technology converts sensor observations into corresponding feature vectors. Afterward, TLGAT provides a sensor observation sequence as a fully connected graph to the model’s temporal correlation as well as the sensor’s location correlation among sensor observations and facilitates the feature representation of each sensor observation through receiving other sensor observations and weighting operations. The experiments were conducted on two public datasets, based on the diverse setups of sensor event sequence length. The experimental results revealed that the proposed method achieved favorable performance under diverse setups.
A Comprehensive Analysis of Smartphone GNSS Range Errors in Realistic Environments
Authors: Hu Jiahuan , Yi Ding , Bisnath Sunil
Published: February 2023

Precise positioning using smartphones has been a topic of interest especially after Google decided to provide raw GNSS measurement through their Android platform. Currently, the greatest limitations in precise positioning with smartphone Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) sensors are the quality and availability of satellite-to-smartphone ranging measurements. Many papers have assessed the quality of GNSS pseudorange and carrier-phase measurements in various environments. In addition, there is growing research in the inclusion of a priori information to model signal blockage, multipath, etc. In this contribution, numerical estimation of actual range errors in smartphone GNSS precise positioning in realistic environments is performed using a geodetic receiver as a reference. The range errors are analyzed under various environments and by placing smartphones on car dashboards and roofs. The distribution of range errors and their correlation to prefit residuals is studied in detail. In addition, a comparison of range errors between different constellations is provided, aiming to provide insight into the quantitative understanding of measurement behavior. This information can be used to further improve measurement quality control, and optimize stochastic modeling and position estimation processes.
N,Zn-Doped Fluorescent Sensor Based on Carbon Dots for the Subnanomolar Detection of Soluble Cr(VI) Ions
Authors: Adotey Enoch Kwasi , Amouei Torkmahalleh Mehdi , Hopke Philip K. , Balanay Mannix P.
Published: February 2023

The development of a fluorescent sensor has attracted much attention for the detection of various toxic pollutants in the environment. In this work, fluorescent carbon dots (N,Zn-CDs) doped with nitrogen and zinc were synthesized using citric acid monohydrate and 4-pyridinecarboxyaldehyde as carbon and nitrogen sources, respectively. The synthesized N,Zn-CDs served as an “off” fluorescence detector for the rapid and sensitive detection of hexavalent chromium ions (Cr(VI)). The zinc metal integrated into the heteroatomic fluorescent carbon dot played a functional role by creating a coordination site for the hydrogen ions that were displaced after the addition of Cr to the solution matrix. The stepwise addition of Cr(VI) effectively quenched the fluorescence intensity of the N,Zn-CDs, and this phenomenon was attributed to the internal filter effect. A low detection limit of 0.47 nmol/L for Cr(VI) was achieved in the fluorescence experiments. Real water samples were used to evaluate the practical application of N,Zn-CDs for the quantification of Cr(VI). The results show acceptable recoveries and agreement with ion chromatography-ultraviolet spectrometry results. These good recoveries indicate that the fluorescence probe is very well suited for environmental measurements.
Effect of Hamstring Tightness and Fatigue on Dynamic Stability and Agility in Physically Active Young Men
Authors: Encarnación-Martínez Alberto , García-Gallart Antonio , Pérez-Soriano Pedro , Catalá-Vilaplana Ignacio , Rizo-Albero Julia , Sanchis-Sanchis Roberto
Published: February 2023

Hamstring extensibility has been defined as a factor to diminished dynamic stability and therefore increased risk of injury. The purpose of this study was to analyse the effects of hamstring tightness and fatigue on dynamic stability and agility. Nineteen participants were divided between the normal extensibility group (NEG) (n = 9, 82.2° ± 12.4°) and hamstrings tightness group (HTG) (n = 10, 64° ± 4.9°) using the passive straight leg raise test. To analyse dynamic stability and agility, they performed the modified Star Excursion Balance Test (mSEBT) and Dynamic Postural Stability Index (DPSI), and hexagon agility test, respectively, before and after a fatigue protocol. A two-way repeated measures ANOVA was used to determine differences among conditions: NEG vs. HTG, and rested vs. fatigued. HTG showed a significantly lower reach in the anterior direction in the mSEBT in pre- and post-fatigue than NEG. Participants in the NEG showed poor stability after landing in the mediolateral direction on DPSI post-fatigue. No significant changes were found in agility related with the group nor fatigue state. Participants with hamstring extensibility reduction has no differences in dynamic stability after landing nor agility after fatigue test, but significantly affects reaching distances during one-leg balance. As a conclusion, a reduction in range of motion in HTG was observed, but no other effects were observed on performance and dynamic stability after a local fatigue protocol depending on hamstring extensibility.
Double Image Encryption System Using a Nonlinear Joint Transform Correlator in the Fourier Domain
Authors: Perez Ronal A. , Pérez-Cabré Elisabet , Vilardy Juan M. , Millán María S. , Torres Cesar O.
Published: February 2023

In this work, we present a new nonlinear joint transform correlator (JTC) architecture in the Fourier domain (FD) for the encryption and decryption of two simultaneous images. The main features of the proposed system are its increased level of security, the obtention of a single real-valued encrypted signal that contains the ciphered information of the two primary images and, additionally, a high image quality for the two final decrypted signals. The two images to be encrypted can be either related to each other, or independent signals. The encryption system is based on the double random phase encoding (DRPE), which is implemented by using a nonlinear JTC in the FD. The input plane of the JTC has four non-overlapping data distributions placed side-by-side with no blank spaces between them. The four data distributions are phase-only functions defined by the two images to encrypt and four random phase masks (RPMs). The joint power spectrum (JPS) is produced by the intensity of the Fourier transform (FT) of the input plane of the JTC. One of the main novelties of the proposal consists of the determination of the appropriate two nonlinear operations that modify the JPS distribution with a twofold purpose: to obtain a single real-valued encrypted image with a high level of security and to improve the quality of the decrypted images. The security keys of the encryption system are represented by the four RPMs, which are all necessary for a satisfactory decryption. The decryption system is implemented using a 4f-processor where the encrypted image and the security keys given by the four RPMs are introduced in the proper plane of the processor. The double image encryption system based on a nonlinear JTC in the FD increases the security of the system because there is a larger key space, and we can simultaneously validate two independent information signals (original images to encrypt) in comparison to previous similar proposals. The feasibility and performance of the proposed double image encryption and decryption system based on a nonlinear JTC are validated through computational simulations. Finally, we additionally comment on the proposed security system resistance against different attacks based on brute force, plaintext and deep learning.
Utilizing Additive Manufacturing to Produce Organ Mimics and Imaging Phantoms
Authors: Karaman Dmitri , Willerth Stephanie M.
Published: February 2023

The complex geometries and material properties necessary for generating accurate organ mimics require new procedures and methods to fully utilize current technologies. The increased accessibility of 3D printers, along with more specialized bioprinters, allow the creation of highly tunable models of various body parts. Three-dimensional printing can reduce lead-time on custom parts, produce structures based on imaging data in patients, and generate a test bench for novel surgical methods. This technical note will cover three unique case studes and offer insights for how 3D printing can be used for lab research. Each case follows a unique design process in comparison to traditional manufacturing workflows as they required significantly more iterative design. The strengths of different printing technologies, design choices, and structural/chemical requirements all influence the design process. Utilization of in-house manufacturing allows for greater flexibility and lower lead-times for novel research applications. Detailed discussions of these design processes will help reduce some of the major barriers to entry for these technologies and provide options for researchers working in the field.
‘Ultrasound Examination’ of the Musculoskeletal System: Bibliometric/Visualized Analyses on the Terminology (Change)
Authors: Pirri Carmelo , Pirri Nina , Stecco Carla , Macchi Veronica , Porzionato Andrea , De Caro Raffaele , Özçakar Levent
Published: February 2023

Ultrasound imaging of the musculoskeletal system is paramount for physicians of different specialties. In recent years, its use has become the extension of physical examinations like using a “magnifying glass”. Likewise, the eventual concept has naturally and spontaneously evolved to a “fusion” of classical physical examination and static/dynamic ultrasound imaging of the musculoskeletal system. In this regard, we deem it important to explore the current use/awareness regarding ‘ultrasound examination’, and to better provide insight into understanding future research spots in this field. Accordingly, this study aimed to search the global/research status of ‘ultrasound examination’ of the musculoskeletal system based on bibliometric and visualized analysis.
COVID-19: The Many Ways to Hurt Your Heart
Authors: Akter Aklima , Clemente-Casares Xavier
Published: February 2023

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has become a global pandemic, affecting the lives of billions of individuals [...]
Dynamic Cooperation of Transportation and Power Distribution Networks via EV Fast Charging Stations
Authors: Chen Zihao , Han Bing , Xue Fei , Lu Shaofeng , Jiang Lin
Published: February 2023

With the development of electric vehicles, research on the cooperation of transportation networks (TNs) and power distribution networks (PDNs) has become important. Because of practicability, most cooperation research focuses on user equilibrium assignment based on the Wardrop I principle. There is less research focusing on network cooperation involving the system optimal assignment based on Wardrop II. This research paper constructs a cooperation between dynamic system optimal (DSO) and dynamic optimal power flow (DOPF) assignments with multi-objective optimization. Based on Wardrop II, this DSO model realizes multiple origin–destination pairs, multiple tasks, and multiple vehicle types. Electric vehicle and fast charging station models are designed as the connection between both networks. The optimal result gives three scenarios: TN prior, PDN prior, and a compromise of both. DSO minimized the total travel cost and DOPF minimized the total cost of power generation. Several path choices resulted from the scenarios. Whichever scenario is chosen, an electric vehicle is assigned dispersedly for a certain time period to reduce power loss. The optimal solution is also affected by the charging power in fast charging stations. This research can be applied to logistics transportation under traffic restrictions. It offers a dynamic optimization model for transportation and power operators.
Sweets as an element of a healthy diet
Authors:   Basic Department of Trade Policy, Plekhanov Russian University of Economics, Moscow, Kazantseva S. Yu.
Published: February 2023

Modern times are characterized by public interest in a healthy lifestyle, and this is not only a Russian trend, but a global one. It should be noted that this interest is conscious in nature and is an integral part of conscious consumption and sustainable development of society, which has led to the fact that it has become fashionable even among representatives of different social status and income strata of society. The article will investigate the issue of healthy food market in terms of its sweet component.
Development of VR technologies in domestic trade: trends and prospects
Authors:   Basic Department of Trade Policy, Plekhanov Russian University of Economics, Panasenko S. V. , Lebedev A. A. ,   Basic Department of Trade Policy, Plekhanov Russian University of Economics
Published: February 2023

The article focuses on the trends of and prospects for the development of virtual reality technologies in Russian trade. The paper examines scientific and practical approaches to the definition of virtual reality and retail and various aspects of its application in practice (including with regard to the legal aspects of virtual world trade, ways to improve virtual reality technologies in trade, trading on virtual trading platforms, virtual retail market opportunities, features of the promotion of goods and services on the virtual markets, specifics of communications in virtual trade, pricing on the Internet, modern problems of virtual trade, etc.). Current situation in the virtual trade market is considered. The recommendations on the development of virtual reality technologies in domestic trade, taking into account economic sanctions and import substitution, are presented.
The grain market of Russia and the current state of exchange trade in grain commodities in the Russian Federation
Authors:   Higher School of Corporate Management, Sinyaev R. Y. , Dukanich L. V. ,   Department of International Commerce, Russian Academy of National Economy and Public Administration under the President of the Russian Federation
Published: February 2023

The article considers the current state of the grain market in the Russian Federation, its structure and export potential. The current state of grain commodity exchange trading in Russia, its problems and development prospects are assessed.
Características anatómicas y del habla según tipo de frenillo lingual alterado en niños de 6 a 12 años
Authors: Parra-Reyes David , Sanzana-Leiva Andres , Sandi-Rojas Henry Christopher
Published: February 2023

Objetivo: determinar las características anatómicas y del habla según tipo de frenillo lingual alterado en niños de 6 a 12 años de una institución educativa de Tacna- Perú. Metodología: de naturaleza cuantitativa de tipo descriptivo, de corte transversal y diseño no experimental. La muestra estuvo constituida por todos los niños que presenten alteraciones en el frenillo de la lengua, siendo esta de 37 niños que acuden a una institución educativa de Lima, Perú. Para la recolección de datos se utilizó un consentimiento informado y el protocolo de identificación de frenillo lingual propuesto por la Dra. Irene Marchesan. Resultados: se determina que tanto el frenillo corto, el frenillo anteriorizado y, el frenillo corto y a la vez anteriorizado, presentan una mayor elevación del piso con un 77,3%, 77,8% y 50% respectivamente. Finalmente, de acuerdo con las características del habla más importantes según el tipo de frenillo de la lengua, se determina que la distorsión del habla se manifiesta en todos los tipos de frenillo de la lengua, es decir en el frenillo corto y a la vez anteriorizado, frenillo anteriorizado y frenillo corto, con un 50%, 44,4% y 36,4%, respectivamente; seguido de una articulación trabada con un 40,9%, 33,3% y 17%, para el frenillo corto, frenillo anteriorizado, y, el frenillo corto a la vez y anteriorizado, respectivamente. Conclusiones: con respecto a las características anatómicas según el tipo de frenillo de la lengua, se determina que tanto el frenillo corto, el frenillo anteriorizado y, el frenillo corto y a la vez anteriorizado, presentan una mayor elevación del piso. En las características del habla según el tipo de frenillo de la lengua, se evidencia con mayor frecuencia la distorsión del habla y una articulación trabada.
Evaluación e intervención paliativa del dolor mixto en las personas con síndrome demencial avanzado
Authors: Maroto-Martínez Melania , Acuña-Aguilar Carlos , Roselló-Araya Marlene
Published: February 2023

Objetivos: establecer la evaluación e intervención paliativa del dolor mixto en las personas con síndrome demencial avanzado, mediante el análisis de las escalas validadas e identificando las medidas farmacológicas y no farmacológicas basadas en estas escalas. Metodología: estudio descriptivo tipo revisión narrativa. La extracción de datos se obtuvo por medio de una revisión exhaustiva de artículos científicos seleccionados según el nivel de evidencia. Se utilizaron los motores de búsqueda Pubmed, Cochrane Library, Scielo, ELSEVIER, Revista Médica Británica, Biomed Central-Editorial científica británica. Se incluyeron artículos que relacionaran los temas de personas adultas con síndrome demencial y síndrome demencial avanzado y dolor, publicados en inglés y español, entre el 2006 y el 2022. Se excluyeron artículos que trataran de personas menores de edad con déficits cognitivos y de adultos con dolor mixto sin déficits cognitivos.  Se utilizaron los siguientes descriptores: pain AND dementia, palliative care AND advanced dementia, dementia OR severe cognitive impairment, pain assessment AND scales. Se incluyen 26 artículos, entre los cuales se encontraron estudios de metaanálisis y revisión sistemática de ensayos clínicos aleatorizados para un 38,4%; revisión sistemática con homogeneidad de estudios de cohortes un 11,5%; estudios observacionales analíticos de cohortes y estudios observacionales descriptivos un 38,4%, y revisiones narrativas un 11,5%. Resultados y conclusiones: se determinó que las escalas validadas para la evaluación del dolor mixto en personas con síndrome demencial avanzado son principalmente PAINAD-Sp, escala de Abbey, MOBID-2, Mahoney, PADE y PACSLAC-2. Respecto a los tratamientos farmacológicos, el paracetamol, opioides, antiinflamatorios no esteroideos y neuromoduladores son los más usados. En las terapias no farmacológicas se recomienda la musicoterapia, sin embargo, las pruebas son escazas. En general, la evidencia debe seguir desarrollándose, a fin de que los futuros estudios clínicos se lleven a cabo con muestras más grandes y homogéneas.
La espiritualidad desde la mirada de Terapia Ocupacional en el contexto de los Cuidados Paliativos
Authors: Mondelo Carla
Published: February 2023

Los Cuidados Paliativos, al igual que la Terapia Ocupacional, proponen una mirada holística de la persona, incluyendo las dimensiones: física, emocional, social y espiritual. La espiritualidad se encuentra íntimamente unida a la participación en ocupaciones significativas. La ocupación se convierte en un medio para la expresión de ésta. En el artículo se efectúa un recorrido por el concepto de espiritualidad y la intervención desde la Terapia Ocupacional. La evidencia de las necesidades espirituales no atendidas manifiesta una limitación en la atención integral de los equipos en Cuidados Paliativos.  Se exponen seis cualidades esenciales para la atención de la espiritualidad en los profesionales de la salud que pueden ser tenidas en cuenta desde un modelo paliativo centrado en la persona. Asimismo, se propone un enfoque de atención centrado en la persona y en la ocupación. De este modo, se pretende exponer la importancia de la espiritualidad, como un determinante para la salud y el bienestar de las personas, y un modo de expresión a partir de la participación en ocupaciones significativas, favoreciendo el afrontamiento y la adaptación a la situación de enfermedad en personas y familias que asisten a Cuidados Paliativos.