bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Existential distress in patients with advanced cancer and their caregivers: study protocol of a longitudinal cohort study
Authors: Philipp Rebecca , Kalender Anna , Härter Martin , Bokemeyer Carsten , Oechsle Karin , Koch Uwe , Vehling Sigrun
Published: April 2021

Introduction

At the end of life, patients with advanced cancer and their informal caregivers may confront multiple existential concerns. Despite the strong potential to alleviate existential distress through psychosocial interventions, existential distress and its impact on healthcare outcomes have not yet been studied systematically. We aim to investigate the frequency, longitudinal trajectory and predictive impact of existential distress on end-of-life outcomes. We further aim to determine patients’ and caregivers’ specific need for and utilisation of psychosocial support for existential distress.

Methods

This longitudinal cohort study will consecutively recruit 500 patients with advanced cancer and 500 caregivers from oncological outpatient and inpatient clinics. Participants will complete self-report questionnaires (sociodemographic and disease-related characteristics, existential distress, end-of-life outcomes, resources and support needs) at five points of assessment (at baseline and after 3, 6, 9 and 12 months). At baseline and 6-month follow-up, we will conduct structured diagnostic interviews to assess mental disorders. Statistical analyses will include descriptive statistics to determine the prevalence of existential distress, mental disorders and end-of-life outcomes; multiple linear and logistic regression analyses to calculate the predictive impact of existential distress on end-of-life outcomes; and growth mixture models to analyse longitudinal trajectories of existential distress.

Discussion

This study will provide comprehensive knowledge about patients’ and caregivers’ existential concerns. The longitudinal empirical data will allow for conclusions concerning the frequency and course of existential distress throughout 1 year. This important extension of existing cross-sectional research will contribute to further develop targeted psychosocial interventions. Profiles of existential distress may be applied by clinicians from multiple professions and help to address existential concerns effectively.

Ethics and dissemination

The study was approved by the institutional research ethics committee (reference number LPEK-0177). Results will be presented at scientific conferences and published in peer-reviewed journals. Other forms of dissemination will include sharing results on the psychometric properties of the structured demoralisation interview with international research groups and communication with healthcare professionals providing psychosocial treatment for patients and caregivers. Following scientific standards, our progress will be regularly updated on ClinicalTrials.gov.

Trial registration number

NCT04600206.
Impact and cost-effectiveness of potential interventions against infant respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in 131 low-income and middle-income countries using a static cohort model
Authors: Baral Ranju , Higgins Deborah , Regan Katie , Pecenka Clint
Published: April 2021

Objectives

Interventions to prevent childhood respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) disease are limited and costly. New interventions are in advanced stages of development and could be available soon. This study aims to evaluate the potential impact and cost-effectiveness of two interventions to prevent childhood RSV—a maternal vaccine and a monoclonal antibody (mAb).

Design

Using a static population-based cohort model, we evaluate impact and cost-effectiveness of RSV interventions, from a health systems perspective. The assumed baseline efficacy and duration of protection were higher for the mAb (60%–70% efficacy, protection 6 months) compared with the maternal vaccine (40%–60% efficacy, protection 3 months). Both interventions were evaluated at US$3 and US$5 per dose for Gavi and non-Gavi countries, respectively. A range of input values were considered to explore uncertainty.

Settings

131 low-income and middle-income countries.

Participants

Pregnant women and live birth cohorts.

Interventions

Maternal vaccine given to pregnant women and mAb given to young infants.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Disability-adjusted life years averted, severe case averted, deaths averted, incremental cost effectiveness ratios.

Results

Under baseline assumptions, maternal vaccine and mAbs were projected to avert 25% and 55% of RSV-related deaths among infants younger than 6 months of age, respectively. The average incremental cost-effectiveness ratio per disability-adjusted life year averted was US$1342 (range US$800–US$1866) for maternal RSV vaccine and US$431 (range US$167–US$692) for mAbs. At a 50% gross domestic product per capita threshold, maternal vaccine and mAbs were cost-effective in 60 and 118 countries, respectively.

Conclusions

Both interventions are projected to be impactful and cost-effective in many countries, a finding that would be enhanced if country-specific Gavi cofinancing to eligible countries were included. mAbs, with assumed higher efficacy and duration of protection, are expected to be more cost-effective than RSV maternal vaccines at similar prices. Final product characteristics will influence this finding.
Organisational best practices for advancing women in leadership: protocol for a systematic literature review
Authors: Mousa Mariam , Mullins Alexandra K , Skouteris Helen , Boyle Jacqueline , Teede Helena J
Published: April 2021

Introduction

Evidence-based approaches for achieving gender equity for women in leadership are lacking. Current efforts are of limited effectiveness, especially in healthcare. This work occurs in the context of an Australian National Health and Medical Research Council funded partnership to advance women in healthcare leadership. Partners include government, professional colleges and healthcare organisations with national reach and international links. Here we present a protocol for a systematic review, aiming to capture evidence on effective organisational strategies across multiple sectors with comparable challenges in advancing women in leadership. The aim of the review is to learn from other sectors and analyse the evidence to inform implementation in the health sector.

Methods and analysis

A systematic search will be performed on Ovid MEDLINE, PsycINFO and SCOPUS databases to identify studies since 2000, reflecting a major shift in the global gender equality agenda with the development of the 2000 Millennium Development Goals. Titles and abstracts will be screened to assess eligibility; data extraction, quality assessment (using the Critical Appraisal Skill Programme checklist) and synthesis of outcomes will be performed. Outcomes will be assessed using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation framework. Studies in English using quantitative or qualitative design, which investigate organisational practices in any sector, for advancing women in leadership, and report on one or more measurable outcomes (eg, capacity-building, incidence of promotion) will be included. Findings will be analysed, themes will be extracted and results will be described.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethics approval is not required. To our knowledge, this review will be the first to provide a comprehensive synthesis of available evidence on organisational practices for advancing women in leadership from the last two decades. Findings will be published in peer-reviewed journals and disseminated at conferences and meetings. Through a large-scale funded partnership, this work will inform practice, linking to international initiatives.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42020162115; International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews.
Contact-free and fast detection of energetic materials in containments
Authors: Wild Dominik , Theiß Cathrin , Holl Gerhard
Published: April 2021

The identification of energetic materials in containments is an important challenge for analytical methods in the field of safety and security. Opening a package without knowledge of its contents and the resulting hazards is highly involved with risks and should be avoided whenever possible. Therefore, preferable methods work non-destructive with minimal interaction and are capable of identifying target substances in a containment quickly and reliably. Most spectroscopic methods find their limits, if the target substance is shielded by a covering material. To solve this problem, a combined laser drilling method with subsequent identification of the target substance by means of Raman spectroscopic measurements through microscopic bore holes of the covering material is presented. A pulsed laser beam is used for both the drilling process and as an excitation source for Raman measurements in the same optical setup. Results show the ability of this new method to gain high-quality spectra even when performed through microscopic small bore channels. With the laser parameters chosen right, the method can even be performed on highly sensitive explosives like triacetone triperoxide (TATP). Another advantageous effect arises in an observed reduction in unwanted fluorescence signal in the spectral data, resulting from the confocal-like measurement setup with the bore hole acting as aperture.
DETERMINATION OF THE STRESS OF ANTERIOR CRUCIATE LIGAMENT IN VARIOUS DEGREES OF KNEE FLEXION, COMPARISON OF NORMAL AND RECONSTRUCTED LIGAMENT
Authors: KARIMI MOHAMMAD TAGHI , HOSSEINI SAYED IMAN , LARI YOUSEF BAZARGAN
Published: April 2021

Background: Knee joint stability is enhanced by ligamentus structures such as anterior cruciate (ACL), posterior cruciate (PCL), medial collateral (MCL) and lateral collateral ligaments (LCL). Rupture of ACL is the most common knee injuries, especially in sport related activities. The aim of this study is to evaluate the stress developed in knee joint structures in various degrees of knee flexion in ACL ruptured compared to normal condition.

Method: CT scan images of knee joint were used to create 3d model of knee joint by use of Mimics software. Abaqus software was used to evaluate the stress developed in knee joint in normal and in ACL reconstructed conditions in various degrees of knee flexion.

Results: The stress developed in ACL and other knee joint structures increased significantly by increase in knee joint flexion. The stress of knee joint structures (especially in ACL) in ACL reconstructed condition was more than that of normal condition.

Conclusion: It is recommended to immobilize the knee joint in extension up to [Formula: see text] of knee flexion in those with ACL injuries. The stress of ACL increased due to an increase in tibia translation associated with knee flexion.
A FUSION FRAMEWORK BASED ON CEPSTRAL DOMAIN FEATURES FROM PHONOCARDIOGRAM TO PREDICT HEART HEALTH STATUS
Authors: ARORA SHRUTI , JAIN SUSHMA , CHANA INDERVEER
Published: April 2021

A great increase in the number of cardiovascular cases has been a cause of serious concern for the medical experts all over the world today. In order to achieve valuable risk stratification for patients, early prediction of heart health can benefit specialists to make effective decisions. Heart sound signals help to know about the condition of heart of a patient. Motivated by the success of cepstral features in speech signal classification, authors have used here three different cepstral features, viz. Mel-frequency cepstral coefficients (MFCCs), gammatone frequency cepstral coefficients (GFCCs), and Mel-spectrogram for classifying phonocardiogram into normal and abnormal. Existing research has explored only MFCCs and Mel-feature set extensively for classifying the phonocardiogram. However, in this work, the authors have used a fusion of GFCCs with MFCCs and Mel-spectrogram, and achieved a better accuracy score of 0.96 with sensitivity and specificity scores as 0.91 and 0.98, respectively. The proposed model has been validated on the publicly available benchmark dataset PhysioNet 2016.
Fuzzy Convergence, Fuzzy Neighborhood Convergence and I-Tolerance Structures for Groups
Authors: Ahsanullah T. M. G.
Published: April 2021

We introduce a category of fuzzy convergence groups, FCONVGRP a subcategory of the category of fuzzy convergence spaces, FCONV. Viewing [Formula: see text] as a complete Heyting algebra, we prove that the category of [Formula: see text]-tolerance groups, [Formula: see text]-TOLGRP is isomorphic to a subcategory of FCONVGRP. Since FCONV is a topological universe, and thereby possesses function space structure, upon invoking this, we are able, among others, to show that FCONVGRP is topological, and more importantly, it enables us to obtain a compatible fuzzy convergence function space structure on group of homeomorphisms. It is noticeable, however, that the category of fuzzy neighborhood convergence groups, FNCONVGRP — a supercategory of the well-known category FNS, of fuzzy neighborhood spaces, as well as the category of fuzzy neighborhood groups, FNGRP — a subcategory of FNCONVGRP exhibit nice relationships with FCONVGRP. It is important to note that the objects of FCONVGRP are homogeneous, this paves the way to present two pertinent characterization theorems on fuzzy convergence groups. Finally, introducing a category PSTOPGRP, of pseudotopological groups, we reveal the embeddings of FTOPGRP and PSTOPGRP into FCONVGRP.
Electrochemical Behavior of SmF3 in Alkali Chloride Melts
Authors: Stulov Yu. V. , Kuznetsov S. A.
Published: April 2021

Electrochemical studies of the Sm(III)/Sm(II) redox couple were carried out in NaCl-KCl, KCl and CsCl melts in a temperature range of 973–1173 K by cyclic voltammetry. Diffusion coefficients (D) of Sm(III) in these melts were determined using the Randles–Sevchik equation. Diffusion coefficients decrease with a change in the composition of the second coordination sphere from sodium to cesium. It is associated with a decrease in the counter-polarizing effect during the transition from Na to Cs, which in turn causes a decrease the metal—ligand bond length in the complexes. The standard rate constants of charge transfer (k
s) of the Sm(III)/Sm(II) redox couple were determined by cyclic voltammetry in all studied melts using the Nicholson’s equation, which is valid for quasi-reversible processes. The following series of the standard rate constants of charge transfer was found k
s(CsCl) < k
s(KCl) < k
s(NaCl–KCl).
Interpreting Ionic Conductivity for Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cell Catalyst Layers with Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy and Transmission Line Modeling
Authors: Qi Yongzhen , Liu Jiangjin , Sabarirajan Dinesh C. , Huang Ying , Perego Andrea , Haug Andrew T. , Zenyuk Iryna V.
Published: April 2021

A cathode catalyst layer containing optimally distributed ionomer is critical to reduce the platinum loading and increase its utilization in polymer electrolyte fuel cells. Here, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) was used to measure effective ionic conductivity of pseudo catalyst layers (PCLs) at a relative humidity (RH) range of 50%–120%. These results are compared to previous work using the hydrogen pump (HP) method. EIS effective ionic conductivity results reported here are higher than those from the HP because in the HP set-up ionic pathways must be effectively connected through the PCL to be counted, whereas in the EIS measurement, ionomer segments that are in contact with the membrane but are not effectively connected all the way through the PCL can be detected. Double layer capacitances and effective ionic conductivities of Pt/C catalyst layers with various supports and ionomer to carbon (I/C) ratios were studied. High surface area carbon support resulted in a lower effective ionic conductivity compared to the graphitized carbon support due to worse ionomer dispersion. Effective ionic conductivities of Pt/C layers were compared to that of PCLs. On average, effective ionic conductivities of Pt/C layers were higher than PCLs because of possible carbon agglomeration within the PCLs.
The Negative Impact of Transition Metal Migration on Oxygen Redox Activity of Layered Cathode Materials for Na-Ion Batteries
Authors: Hirsh Hayley , Li Yixuan , Cheng Ju-Hsiang , Shimizu Ryosuke , Zhang Minghao , Zhao Enyue , Meng Ying Shirley
Published: April 2021

Rechargeable sodium ion batteries with high energy density are a promising technology to address the demand for grid storage. Cathode materials with oxygen redox activity exhibit higher energy density than expected from Na-ion removal and charge compensation solely by transition metal redox. One strategy to enable oxygen redox in materials is to alter the oxygen environment through transition metal layer ordering. In this work, we report the investigation of oxygen redox activity induced by transition metal ordering in P2-type Na0.8Li0.12Ni0.22Mn0.66O2 cathode synthesized by carbonate co-precipitation. Irreversible oxygen activity was observed and correlated with Ni migration that resulted in the loss of transition metal ordering in the structure. Calculated density of states shows that after Ni migration, the number of unoccupied states of O above Fermi level decreases, inhibiting the reduction of oxygen during sodiation. This paper provides insights on how Ni migration has a detrimental effect on transition metal ordering and reversibility of oxygen redox at high voltage.
Mesoscale Model for Ostwald Ripening of Catalyst Nanoparticles
Authors: Bucci Giovanna , Gadelrab Karim , Carter W. Craig
Published: April 2021

A mesoscale model is proposed to characterize coarsening of platinum-based catalyst particles with the aim of understanding cathode degradation and power loss in proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFC). The microstructure of a cathode catalyst layer is more complex than the ones typically described by Ostwald-ripening models, such as the Lifshitz and Slyozov and Wagner (LSW) theory or diffuse interface models. Our model captures the dissolution kinetics of the catalyst material, and the diffusivity of the ions in solution. The network structure of the model embeds the tortuosity of the microstructure and the effect of water content on Pt-ion mobility. Detailed diffusional interactions among catalyst particles are explicitly described with the aim of providing statistically averaged properties of coarsening ensembles. Through numerical tests, the scaling of coarsening kinetics is predicted as function of voltage. The effect of voltage cycling, and initial particle size distribution are also probed. The power-law exponents for the mean square radius vs time are affected by the reduced dimensionality of inter-particle diffusion, constrained by the carbon support and the surface wetting. This theoretical framework can be used to understand how material design influences the degradation pathways that are responsible for platinum surface area loss.
Communication—Bimetallic-MOFs-Derived ZnO/Bi2O3 Composites as Anode Materials for Advanced Zinc-Based Batteries
Authors: Wang Tao , Luo Feilin , Li Zheng , Yang Kai , Tian Zhongliang , Lai Yanqing
Published: April 2021

In this study, the nano-sized ZnO/Bi2O3 composites were synthesized with the zinc-bismuth bimetallic-MOFs as the precursor for the first time. The metal ions were homogeneously anchored on the self-assembled precursor with a structure of hollow sphere. The results showed that the obtained ZnO presented a typical structure of hexagonal prismatic and an even distribution of element Zn and Bi was realized. Utilized as anode materials of Zn/Ni battery, the composites displays an ultra-high average discharge capacity of 630 mAh g−1 at 1 C and longer cycle life than the unmodified pure ZnO.
Review—Energy Storage through Graphite Intercalation Compounds
Authors: Gopalakrishnan Varun , Sundararajan Anushpamathi , Omprakash Pravan , Bhat Panemangalore Devadas
Published: April 2021

Research and development with regards to battery technologies have been evolving at a profitably good rate with an impressive amount of progress being made at different levels. Graphite has been continuously preferred as the anode material for lithium-ion batteries since its commercialization in 1991. The interlayer spacing of about 3.35 Å promotes the intercalation of guest ions, thereby resulting in what is called graphite intercalation compounds (GICs). Through such intercalation mechanisms, graphite can contribute to electrochemical charge transfer owing to its ionic and electronic conduction properties. The intercalation of alkali metal ions into graphite is considered the epitome of ion intercalation with regards to layered materials. Putting together various inferences made through the years, this review aims at establishing a foundational understanding of GICs and their applications in energy storage devices. A brief overview of graphite intercalation chemistry has been provided and discussions on the advancements in various GICs ranging from binary-GICs to ternary-GICs have been elaborated. Towards the end, this paper provides a comprehension of the specific strategies that might improve the performance of a GIC, following which the challenges and the future of GIC-based research have also been highlighted.
Transient Loss and Recovery of Platinum Fuel Cell Cathode Catalyst at High Voltage Efficiency Regimes
Authors: Lin Liang-Chen , Cheng Yun-Sheng , Liao Wei-Chieh , Huang Yi-Hong , Pan Yung-Tin
Published: April 2021

The performance of oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) catalysts, typically evaluated by potential scanning techniques, fails to capture the significant activity decay occurring at longer time scales. To meet the 65% peak energy efficiency target, the continuous decay of Pt/C ORR catalyst, commonly referred to as “transient performance loss”, is studied at 0.8 V by chronoamperometry under membrane electrode assembly (MEA) testing conditions. Based on the results from the time-resolved cyclic voltammetry (CV), surface oxidation was identified as the primary cause of the transient loss. The reduction of surface oxide was observed to occur at 0.6 V, and the recovery of cathode performance can hence be achieved at equal or lower potentials. In addition, the effects of operating temperature and cathode humidity were also studied. The coverage of Pt surface oxides and the extent of the transient loss were both significantly reduced as temperature decreased. However, the benefit of a lower operating temperature came at the cost of slower recovery kinetics. In terms of the impact of humidity, the presence of liquid water was identified as the critical factor leading to a much more severe performance loss over time.
Ion Clusters and Networks in Water-in-Salt Electrolytes
Authors: McEldrew Michael , Goodwin Zachary A. H. , Bi Sheng , Kornyshev Alexei A. , Bazant Martin Z.
Published: April 2021

Water-in-salt electrolytes (WiSEs) are a class of super-concentrated electrolytes that have shown much promise in replacing organic electrolytes in lithium-ion batteries. At the extremely high salt concentrations of WiSEs, ionic association is more complicated than the simple ion pair description. In fact, large branched clusters can be present in WiSEs, and past a critical salt concentration, an infinite percolating ionic network can form spontaneously. In this work, we simplify our recently developed thermodynamic model of reversible ionic aggregation and gelation, tailoring it specifically for WiSEs. Our simplified theory only has a handful of parameters, all of which can be readily determined from simulations. Our model is able to quantitatively reproduce the populations of ionic clusters of different sizes as a function of salt concentration, the critical salt concentration for ionic gelation, and the fraction of ions incorporated into the ionic gel, as observed from molecular simulations of three different lithium-based WiSEs. The extent of ionic association and gelation greatly affects the effective ionic strength of solution, the coordination environment of active cations that is known to govern the chemistry of the solid-electrolyte interface, and the thermodynamic activity of all species in the electrolyte.
A Practical Non-Enzymatic, Ultra-Sensitive Molybdenum Oxide (MoO3) Electrochemical Nanosensor for Hydroquinone
Authors: Hameed Pato Abdul , Balouch Aamna , Alveroglu Esra , Buledi Jamil Ahmed , Lal Shankar , Mal Dadu
Published: April 2021

Current paper reports the fabrication of an exceptional and cost-effective electrochemical nanosensor for the ultra-sensitive determination of Hydroquinone (HQ) using MoO3 nanostructures. The characterization through versatile analytical techniques such as Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffractogram (XRD), Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) and Zeta sizer-potential (ZS-P) reveals that engineered Molybdenum oxide (MoO3) nanostructures are highly crystalline in nature, phase purity homogeneity and size around 20 nm, respectively. The MoO3 nanostructures were applied as electro nanosensor for the effective determination of HQ using Cyclic voltammetry. For efficient analysis of HQ, the bare glassy carbon electrode was modified with synthesized MoO3 NS as sensitive sensing nanoprobe. HQ was sensitively determined at scan rate of 70 mV s−1, borate supporting electrolyte with pH 8, and potential (V) range (−0.4 to 0.4 V vs Ag/AgCl). The linear dynamic range of Molybdenum oxide/Glassy Carbon Electrode (MoO3/GCE) for HQ was kept from 10–210 μM and the limit of detection was calculated to be 0.00126 μM respectively. The developed sensor exhibited outstanding sensing characteristics in terms of high sensitivity, exceptional electro-catalytic properties, low cost and reliable determination route for HQ in different cosmetic products.
Controlled Oxygen Incorporation in TiN Coatings via Heat Treatment for Applications in PEMFC Metallic Bipolar Plates
Authors: Hong Yuan-Yuan , Wang Xian-Zong , Cadien Ken , Luo Jing-Li
Published: April 2021

Improving the corrosion resistance while maintaining good electrical conductivity is of vital importance for the application of stainless steel in bipolar plates of polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs). Transition nitride coatings on steel surfaces, such as TiN, is considered as a possible solution. However, most coatings still fail to exhibit good corrosion resistance and high electrical conductivity simultaneously, especially after corrosion testing. This study prepares TiN on 316L stainless steel (SS) and conducts heat treatment on the TiN deposited samples at different temperatures. The corrosion behaviours of the prepared samples are investigated under the simulated working environments of fuel cell. Our results demonstrate that heat treatment at appropriate temperatures is an effective approach to improve the corrosion resistance of TiN coatings while maintaining a considerable electrical conductivity. The interfacial contact resistance (ICR) test results indicate that high temperature (450 °C) heat treatment has detrimental effect on the electrical conductivity of samples due to the formation of a thick oxide dominated layer, while samples heat treated at 300 °C only form graded layers with suitable oxide amount which endows the coated specimens with a very low ICR value both before and after corrosion tests. This suggests that the heat treatment of TiN coatings under suitable conditions is a feasible strategy to simultaneously achieve an enhanced corrosion resistance and a good electrical conductivity of the TiN coated samples for bipolar plates in PEMFCs.
Effect of Diethanolamine as Corrosion Inhibitor for the Chemical Mechanical Polishing of Cobalt in H2O2 Based Slurry
Authors: Xu Aoxue , Xu Fan , Wang Weilei , Liu Weili , Song Zhitang
Published: April 2021

In this article, we investigated the polishing effect of inhibitor diethanolamine (DEA) on cobalt under chemical mechanical polishing (CMP) in a slurry based on complexing agent ammonium sulfate ((NH4)2SO4). DEA is beneficial to inhibit the removal rate of cobalt and significantly reduce surface scratches of post-CMP cobalt in the AFM image. Through electrochemical experiments, the changes of corrosion current and corrosion potential with the increase of DEA concentration are obtained. The results show that by calculating the inhibition efficiency of DEA and the standard free energy of adsorption, the inhibition types of DEA can be determined as physical adsorption (main) and chemical adsorption. The XPS experiment analysis indicates that the chemisorption of DEA is to form a water-insoluble Co-DEA complex by complexing cobalt ions.Through the atomic force microscope to observe the surface condition of cobalt polished with/without EDA. Adding DEA in the slurry is beneficial to reduce the potential difference between Cu-Co and inhibit the galvanic corrosion between Cu-Co.
Material Removal and Wear Behaviour of Copper Thin Film in Ambient Air and Wet Environment by Nanoindenter
Authors: Sharma Mohit , Chen Chao-Chang A. , Gupta Ajay
Published: April 2021

This paper aims to investigate the scratching behaviour of copper thin film in dry and wet environments by nanoindenter using conical indenter. The material removal mechanism of the complex chemical mechanical polishing (CMP) process is viewed as single abrasive scratch wear considering the effect of the wet environment. The experimental scratches are performed on Hysitron TI 980 Triboindenter in constant load mode as well as ramp load mode. The experimental results show that for a given force, the scratch depth in slurry environment sample is significantly larger than that in the DI water environment sample, due to the presence of soft passivation in the slurry environment. Consequently, the wear rate in the slurry environment is significantly larger than wear rates in the air and DI water environment. The wear rate in the slurry environment is five times larger than those in ambient air and DI water environments. A similar trend is reflected by the instantaneous specific energy evaluation for all conditions. In comparison to ambient conditions, the slurry environment requires 78% less and the DI water environment require 17% more instantaneous specific energy for unit volume material removal, at a given scratch depth. The ease of material removal in the slurry environment is supported by the significant decrease in Scratch hardness of the copper thin film sample passivated in the slurry environment. The progression of the coefficient of friction is studied concerning the nano deformation mechanism in the copper thin film in all environments. The stick-slip behaviour is observed for the copper thin film in wet environment. An explicit scratch hardness model with consideration of elastic recovery is developed for constant load mode scratching to access the scratch hardness of the copper thin film. The computed scratch hardness of copper thin film in ambient, DI water and slurry comes out to be 1.875 GPa, 1.948 GPa and 0.996 GPa respectively. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis is performed to characterize the copper thin film surface before and after passivation in DI water and slurry. Results of this study of deformation during scratching of the passivation layer on copper thin film can be applied to develop and analyze the advanced node copper CMP process.
An Intelligent Detection Method of Personal Privacy Disclosure for Social Networks
Authors: Kang Haiyan , Xiao Yanhang , Yin Jie
Published: April 2021

With the increase of the number of users in the current social network platform (taking WeChat as an example), personal privacy security issues are important. This paper proposes an intelligent detection method for personal privacy disclosure in social networks. Firstly, we propose and construct the eigenvalue in social platform. Secondly, by calculating the value of user account assets, we can obtain the eigenvalue to calculate the possibility of threat occurrence and the impact of threat. Thirdly, we analyse the situation that the user may leak the privacy information and make a score. Finally, SVM algorithm is used to classify the results, and some suggestions for warning and modification are put forward. Experiments show that this intelligent detection method can effectively analyse the privacy leakage of individual users.
An Improved Attitude Compensation Algorithm for SINS/GNS Integrated Navigation System
Authors: Xie Feng , Dong Minzhou
Published: April 2021

In order to suppress the error caused by the drift of the gyroscope and further improve accuracy of the navigation system, combined with the method of measuring attitude by using the three‐axis components of geomagnetic, a new scheme, consisting of Strapdown Inertial Navigation System (SINS)/Geomagnetic Navigation System (GNS), is designed for autonomous integrated navigation systems. The principle of this SINS/GNS integrated navigation system is explored, and the corresponding mathematical model is established. Furthermore, a Marginalized Particle Filter (MPF) is designed for this autonomous integrated navigation system. The simulation experiments are conducted, and the results show that the improved SINS/GNS autonomous integrated navigation system possesses strong robustness and high reliability, thus providing a new reference solution for autonomous navigation technology.
The “Prosthetic Orthodontic Approach”: An Application of the Biologically Oriented Preparation Technique Protocol
Authors: Casula Luca
Published: April 2021

In this study, three cases involving patients who required multidisciplinary treatment for the aesthetic and functional rehabilitation of the maxillary or mandibular arch are described. In particular, an indication for preprosthetic orthodontic treatment, such as orthodontic extrusion, tooth realignment, correction of malocclusion, and diastemata closure, was present in all cases. Preprosthetic orthodontic treatment to resolve these issues before the restorative procedures was proposed; however, all patients refused preprosthetic orthodontic treatment. Thus, to restore aesthetics and function, solely a feather-edge prosthetic protocol has been used. The biologically oriented preparation technique was used to prepare the teeth that were moved in the established direction by preparing the abutment more on one side than the opposite. This so called “prosthetic orthodontic approach” allowed resolving clinical issues that would typically require preprosthetic orthodontic treatment, such as complete clinical crown loss, occlusal vertical dimension loss, tooth misalignment, malocclusion, tooth agenesis, and severe multiple diastemata. The degree of reciprocal movement of the prepared teeth achievable through this approach was minor and not comparable to a traditional wide-range orthodontic movement. Besides, the technique resulted in a modification of the gingival tissues and improvement of their thickness although it is unclear what effect this technique has on the gingival biotype. None of the patients had prosthetic or periodontal complications for at least 12 months following the procedure. Gingival health was excellent, and the prosthetic procedure did not affect the pulp survival of the vital teeth. The biologically oriented preparation technique used with a prosthetic orthodontic approach can effectively manage complicated cases without the need for preprosthetic orthodontics.
IL‐6 Promotes the Proliferation and Immunosuppressive Function of Myeloid‐Derived Suppressor Cells via the MAPK Signaling Pathway in Bladder Cancer
Authors: Zheng Zhong , Zheng Xinyi , Zhu Yiwen , Yao Zhixian , Zhao Weiguang , Zhu Youjia , Sun Feng , Mu Xingyu , Wang Yong , He Wanqing , Liu Zhihong , Wu Ke , Zheng Junhua
Published: April 2021

Muscle‐invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) is characterized by a highly complex immune environment, which is not well understood. Interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) is generated and secreted by multifarious types of cells, including tumor cells. This study was aimed at demonstrating that the levels of IL‐6 and the number of myeloid‐derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), with a positive correlation between them, increased in MIBC tissues, promoting MIBC cell proliferation, especially in patients with recurrence. In coculture analysis, MDSCs, with the stimulation of IL‐6, could significantly lower the proliferation ability of CD4+ or CD8+ T lymphocytes. Further, this study demonstrated that IL‐6 could upregulate the mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway in MDSCs. The MAPK signaling inhibitor, aloesin, partially reversed the effects of IL‐6 on MDSCs. These data suggested that IL‐6 promoted MIBC progression by not only accelerating proliferation but also improving the immune suppression ability of MDSCs through activating the MAPK signaling pathway.
Nonlinear Analysis Method of High-Strength Steel Based on Local Buckling Fiber Hinge
Authors: Wang Yuhua , Zheng Hengchao
Published: April 2021

Based on the analysis and summary of the research and application status of domestic and foreign high-strength steel local buckling fiber hinged rod stability and ordinary steel local buckling fiber hinged rod stability control, this paper proposes a fiber hinged rod suitable for spatial structures subject to local buckling. The new type is high-strength steel composite local buckling fiber hinged pressure rod. The influence of related parameters in the dislocation string model and the dislocation couple model on the ultrasonic nonlinear parameters is deeply analyzed. And, from the perspective of contact nonlinear acoustics, the mechanism of the ultrasonic nonlinear response of the crack is analyzed, and the finite element software ABAQUS is used to simulate it. The relationship between the nonlinear parameter and the internal crack shape of the material is simulated and analyzed, which proves the nonlinearity. A series of nonlinear ultrasonic testing was performed on three groups of FV520B high-strength steel fatigue specimens using a nonlinear testing system. Analyzing the results, it is found that the material has a good ultrasonic nonlinear cumulative effect, and the microcracks have a greater impact on the ultrasonic nonlinear response. The β-N curves under three sets of fatigue tests are obtained. The results show that the nonlinear parameters are very sensitive to the fatigue damage of FV520B high-strength steel, and the ultrasonic nonlinear parameters generally increase with the increase in the number of fatigue cycles.
Efficiency Measurement and Determinant Factors of Marine Economy in China: Based on the Belt and Road Perspective
Authors: Wang Yinyin , Xue Conghua , Li Huimin , Yu Kaizhi
Published: April 2021

Analyzing the evolution characteristics and influencing factors of marine economic efficiency is the foundation to improve the quality of marine economic development. A super-efficiency Slacks-Based Measure (SBM) model is applied to measure the marine economic efficiency of 11 coastal provinces between 2006 and 2017 in China. Time series and standard deviation ellipse methods are used to analyze its temporal and spatial characteristics. The influencing factors of efficiency are analyzed using the Bayesian model averaging (BMA) method based on the indicator system constructed on the relationship between the Belt and Road and marine economic efficiency. The research found that (1) the average change of marine economic efficiency is not large, and the efficiency values among most provinces are relatively stable. (2) The center of gravity of marine economic efficiency gradually shifts from the northeast to the southwest; the spatial scope continues to shrink, the level of flatness indicates increase at first followed by decrease, and the direction angle shows a fluctuating trend. (3) The compliance rate of industrial wastewater discharge and the diversification of the marine industry structure have strong explanatory capacity in marine economic efficiency in the coastal areas. This research proposed the specific path to improve the efficiency of marine economy and facilitate quality development under the “Belt and Road” initiative from the aspects of the optimization of the marine industry structure, the integrated construction of transportation, the development of opening to the outside world, the progress of marine science and technology, and the improvement of the marine ecological environment.
Detection of Melamine Based on the Fluorescence Changes of Nitrogen-Doped Carbon Dots
Authors: Yin Wenzhi , Ma Chaoqun , Zhu Tuo , Gu Jiao , Zhu Chun , Li Lei , Chen Guoqing
Published: April 2021

In order to determine the concentration of melamine, nitrogen-doped carbon dots (NCDs) were synthesized in one step as a fluorescent probe. Uric acid and diethylenetriamine were used as carbon source and nitrogen source, respectively. The experimental results showed that the fluorescence of NCDs can be quenched by mercury ions (Hg2+). Due to the strong coordination affinity between the carbon-nitrogen heterocyclic of melamine and Hg2+, part of Hg2+ coordinated with melamine when melamine was mixed with Hg2+. Then, the fluorescence of the added NCDs was quenched by the remaining Hg2+. Therefore, the concentration of melamine could be determined. The results show that the method has high sensitivity in wide measuring range that the linear ranges are 50–400 μg/L and 800–2500 μg/L, and the R2 is 0.997 and 0.988, respectively, with the limit of detection (LOD) of 21.76 μg/L. The NCDs are easy to fabricate, and the detection method is easy to implement. In this study, a new method for melamine detection was established, and the proposed method for melamine detection can provide some insights for food safety detection.
Clinical Effectiveness of Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy in Gastric Carcinoma and Exploration of Perioperative Imaging Assessment Parameters
Authors: Lai Jiajun , Li Junsheng , Mo Xianwei
Published: April 2021

Background and Aims. Due to the difficulty in clinical staging, a simple and feasible perioperative assessment approach for guiding personalized neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) is lacking. We investigated the clinical value of NAC in advanced gastric carcinoma (GC) and the concordance between perioperative imaging and postoperative pathological assessments. Methods. This study included 62 patients with advanced GC who received NAC between January 2012 and December 2018. The preoperative and postoperative T stages, postoperative pathological tumor regression grade (TRG), and changes in computed tomography (CT) values after NAC were assessed. Follow-ups were conducted to obtain the median survival time (MST), and Kaplan–Meier survival curves were plotted. Results. The T stages significantly differed between before and after NAC (

p
=
0.001

). The MST of patients in the TRG0 group was significantly different from that of patients in the TRG1+2 and TRG3 groups (

p
=
0.223

). The percentages of positive lymph nodes were 0%, 24.17%, and 27.64% in the TRG0, TRG1+2, and TRG3 groups, respectively. TRG was correlated with changes in CT values before and after NAC, and the extent of change was associated with patient prognosis. Conclusions. Perioperative imaging can be used to assess the short-term effectiveness of NAC for patients with GC.
Governance in the Internet of Vehicles (IoV) Context: Examination of Information Privacy, Transport Anxiety, Intention, and Usage
Authors: Hussain Hafezali Iqbal , Kamarudin Fakarudin , Mohd-Sanusi Zuraidah , Shuhidan Shuhaida Mohamed , Saad Al-Dhubaibi Ahmed Abdullah , Ahmad Razimi Mohd Shahril
Published: April 2021

This study examines the validity and acceptability of concern for information privacy with the Internet of vehicle context. For this purpose, the exploratory and confirmatory analysis processes were performed for testing the validity of concern for the Internet of vehicle information privacy. A total number of 357 responses were received online which were complete in all respects from college and university students studying information system course at undergraduate and graduate level. The estimated results obtained from exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis revealed that 3-dimension construct containing collection, error, and information accuracy measuring governance for Internet of vehicle information privacy (CFIOVIP) was validated through second order construction with strong goodness-of-fit estimates. The relevant factors were reliable and valid as per their internal and external validity estimates of Cronbach Alpha, average variance extracted, composite reliability, discriminant validity, and factor loading values including their fitness indices for 16 items for 3-dimension construct of CFIOVIP. The findings of the study indicate that Internet of vehicle users view secondary usage of information and unauthorised access of information as the same dimension with the title of information access for measuring CFIOVIP along with two other constructs like collection and error in information for the Internet of vehicle context. The study recommends a 2nd order CFIOVIP construct based on three dimensions, namely, collection, error, and information access, for testing the present governance of the Internet of vehicles.
The Flora Compositions of Nitrogen‐Fixing Bacteria and the Differential Expression of nifH Gene in Pennisetum giganteum z.x.lin Roots
Authors: Lin Biaosheng , Liu Jiamin , Zhang Xue , Weng Changren , Lin Zhanxi
Published: April 2021

The flora compositions of nitrogen‐fixing bacteria in roots of Pennisetum giganteum z.x.lin at different growth stages and the expression and copy number of nitrogen‐fixing gene nifH were studied by Illumina Miseq second‐generation sequencing technology and qRT‐PCR. The results showed that there were more than 40,000~50,000 effective sequences in 5 samples from the roots of P. giganteum, with Proteobacteria and Cyanobacteria as the dominant nitrogen‐fixing bacteria based on the OTU species annotations for each sample and Bradyrhizobium as the core bacterial genera. The relative expression and quantitative change of nifH gene in roots of P. giganteum at different growth stages were consistent with the changes in the flora compositions of nitrogen‐fixing microbia. Both revealed a changing trend with an initial increase and a sequential decrease, as well as changing order as jointing stage>maturation stage>tillering stage>seedling stage>dying stage. The relative expression and copy number of nifH gene were different in different growth stages, and the difference among groups basically reached a significant level (p < 0.05). The relative expression and copy number of nifH gene at the jointing stage were the highest, and the 2-△△CT value was 4.43 folds higher than that at the seedling stage, with a copy number of 1.32 × 107/g. While at the dying stage, it was the lowest, and the 2-△△CT value was 0.67 folds, with a copy number of 0.31 × 107/g.