bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
“Do I See What You See?”—Differentiation of Stakeholders in Assessing Heritage Significance of Neighbourhood Attributes
Authors: Spoormans Lidwine , Czischke Darinka , Pereira Roders Ana , de Jonge Wessel
Published: March 2023

Although attention for citizen involvement in urban development and heritage management processes is growing, both in practice and in research, the specifics of stakeholders’ interests have been less researched. This paper reveals and discusses the assessment by individuals and groups, to differentiate stakeholders, based on the heritage significance they convey on neighbourhood attributes. Fifty-nine interviews on a Dutch neighbourhood in Amsterdam Zuidoost were analysed integrating quantitative and qualitative methods. Results confirm important differences between and within stakeholder groups regarding their interest in particular attribute categories and scales, indicating the need to further specify stakeholders beyond the commonly used ‘community’ and ‘experts’. The identification of stakeholder interests is important to involve relevant groups in the identification and designation of significant attributes, buildings, and areas and to anticipate potential conflicts or shared interests in neighbourhood renovation processes.
NDVI Characteristics and Influencing Factors of Typical Ecosystems in the Semi-Arid Region of Northern China: A Case Study of the Hulunbuir Grassland
Authors: Zhao Yating , Hu Chunming , Dong Xi , Li Jun
Published: March 2023

The semi-arid region of northern China is highly sensitive to environmental changes, especially the Hulunbuir Grassland, which has an essential ecological status and a fragile environment. This study focused on the NDVI characteristics of three different ecosystems and their dominant influencing factors. It proposed a method to show the immediate effects of factors influencing NDVI on a statistical level. The results showed that: (1) NDVI of floodplain wetland > NDVI of meadow > NDVI of sand ribbon. There were obvious differences among the three ecosystems, and the spatial distribution of NDVI was consistent with altitude. (2) The main explanatory factors were the phenological period, humidity, temperature, accumulated precipitation, runoff, and evaporation, which accounted for 68.8% of the total explanation. (3) Phenological period, humidity, and precipitation were positively correlated with NDVI. Temperature and evaporation had a positive effect on NDVI within a certain range. This study revealed the differences in environmental factors in different ecosystems, enriched the theory of NDVI influencing factors, and provided a scientific basis for future NDVI research and regional ecological conservation.
Metastasis in Neuroblastoma and Its Link to Autophagy
Authors: Jahangiri Leila
Published: March 2023

Neuroblastoma is a paediatric malignancy originating from the neural crest that commonly occurs in the abdomen and adrenal gland, leading to cancer-related deaths in children. Distant metastasis can be encountered at diagnosis in greater than half of these neuroblastoma patients. Autophagy, a self-degradative process, plays a key role in stress-related responses and the survival of cells and has been studied in neuroblastoma. Accordingly, in the early stages of metastasis, autophagy may suppress cancer cell invasion and migration, while its role may be reversed in later stages, and it may facilitate metastasis by enhancing cancer cell survival. To that end, a body of literature has revealed the mechanistic link between autophagy and metastasis in neuroblastoma in multiple steps of the metastatic cascade, including cancer cell invasion and migration, anoikis resistance, cancer cell dormancy, micrometastasis, and metastatic outbreak. This review aims to take a step forward and discuss the significance of multiple molecular players and compounds that may link autophagy to metastasis and map their function to various metastatic steps in neuroblastoma.
New Fossil Evidence Suggests That Angiosperms Flourished in the Middle Jurassic
Authors: Han Lei , Zhao Ya , Zhao Ming , Sun Jie , Sun Bainian , Wang Xin
Published: March 2023

Angiosperms are a group of plants with the highest rate of evolution, the largest number of species, the widest distribution and the strongest adaptability. Needless to say, angiosperms are the most important group for the humans. The studies on the origin, evolution and systematics of angiosperms have been the major challenges in plant sciences. However, the origin and early history of angiosperms remains poorly understood and controversial among paleobotanists. Some paleobotanists insist that there were no angiosperms in the pre-Cretaceous age. However, this conclusion is facing increasing challenges from fossil evidence, especially Early Jurassic Nanjinganthus, which is based on over two hundred specimens of fossil flowers. Studying more fossil plants is the only reliable way to elucidate the origin and early evolution of angiosperms. Here, we document a new species of angiosperms, Qingganninginfructus formosa gen. et sp. nov, and provide the first detailed three-dimensional morphology of Qingganninginfructus gen. nov from the Middle Jurassic of Northwest China. A Micro-CT examination shows that the best-preserved fossil infructescence has eleven samaroid fruits, each with a single basal ovule. Since these fossils are distinct in morphology and organization from all organs of known gymnosperms and angiosperms (the latter are defined by their enclosed ovules), we interpret Qingganninginfructus as a new genus of angiosperms including a new species, Q. formosa gen. et sp. nov., and an unspecified species from the Middle Jurassic of Northwest China. The discovery of this new genus of angiosperms from the Middle Jurassic, in addition to the existing records, undermines the “no angiosperms until the Cretaceous” stereotype and updates the perspective on the origin and early history of angiosperms.
Tension-Type Headache in Children and Adolescents
Authors: Baglioni Valentina , Orecchio Silvia , Esposito Dario , Faedda Noemi , Natalucci Giulia , Guidetti Vincenzo
Published: March 2023

In pediatric neurology, tension-type headache (TTH) represents a very common type of primary headache during the pediatric age. Despite the high prevalence of TTH, this diagnosis is often underestimated in childhood, with relevant difficulties in the differential diagnosis of TTH from secondary and primary headache manifestations. Even among primary headaches, a clinical overlap is not so infrequent in children: migraine attacks could present tension headache-like features while tension-type headaches may display migraine-like symptoms as well. Several variables play a role in the complex trajectory of headache evolution, such as hormonal changes during adolescence, triggers and genetic and epigenetic factors. The trajectories and outcomes of juvenile migraine and TTH, as well as the transition of one form to the other, have been investigated in several long-term prospective studies. Thus, the aim of this paper is to review the current literature on the differential diagnosis workout of TTH in pediatrics, the possible outcomes during the developmental age and the appropriate therapeutic strategies. Indeed, TTH represents a challenging diagnostic entity in pediatrics, both from a clinical and a therapeutic point of view, in which early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are recommended.
Patterns of Care in Patients with Basilar Artery Occlusion (BAO): A Population-Based Study
Authors: Farooqui Mudassir , Ikram Asad , Suriya Sajid , Qeadan Fares , Bzdyra Piotr , Quadri Syed A. , Zafar Atif
Published: March 2023

Basilar artery occlusion (BAO) is associated with high morbidity and mortality. Endovascular therapy (EVT) has been shown to be beneficial in acute BAO patients. This retrospective observational study used the National Inpatient Sample (NIS) database to identify BAO patients using the International Classification of Diseases (ICD). Multivariable models were used to evaluate the association of risk factors, comorbidities, length of stay (LOS) in hospital, total cost, disposition, and transfer status. A total of 1120 (447 females, 39.95%) patients were identified, with a higher proportion of White individuals (66.8% vs. 57.6%), atrial fibrillation (31.5% vs. 17.2%; p < 0.0001), and peripheral vascular disease (21.2% vs. 13.7%; p = 0.009). A lower proportion of individuals with diabetes mellitus (32.1% vs. 39.5%; p = 0.05) was found in the EVT group. Majority of the patients (924/1120, 82.5%) were treated at the urban teaching facility, which also performed most of the EVT procedures (164, 89.13%), followed by non-academic urban (166, 14.8%) and rural (30, 2.7%) hospitals. Most patients (19/30, 63%) admitted to rural hospitals were transferred to other facilities. Urban academic hospitals also had the highest median LOS (8.9 days), cost of hospitalization (USD 117,261), and disposition to home (32.6%). This study observed distinct patterns and geographical disparities in the acute treatment of BAO patients. There is a need for national- and state-level strategies to improve access to stroke care.
Prostate MRI for Improving Personalized Risk Prediction of Incontinence and Surgical Planning: The Role of Membranous Urethral Length Measurements and the Use of 3D Models
Authors: Boellaard Thierry N. , Hagens Marinus J. , Veerman Hans , Yakar Derya , Mertens Laura S. , Heijmink Stijn W. T. P. J. , van der Poel Henk G. , van Leeuwen Pim J. , Schoots Ivo G. , van Dijk-de Haan Margriet C.
Published: March 2023

Prostate MRI has an important role in prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment, including detection, the targeting of prostate biopsies, staging and guiding radiotherapy and active surveillance. However, there are other ‘’less well-known’’ applications which are being studied and frequently used in our highly specialized medical center. In this review, we focus on two research topics that lie within the expertise of this study group: (1) anatomical parameters predicting the risk of urinary incontinence after radical prostatectomy, allowing more personalized shared decision-making, with special emphasis on the membranous urethral length (MUL); (2) the use of three-dimensional models to help the surgical planning. These models may be used for training, patient counselling, personalized estimation of nerve sparing and extracapsular extension and may help to achieve negative surgical margins and undetectable postoperative PSA values.
Understanding the Diurnal Oscillation of the Gut Microbiota Using Microbial Culture
Authors: Amando Guilherme , Tonon André , Constantino Débora , Hidalgo Maria Paz , Rampelotto Pabulo Henrique , Montagner Francisco
Published: March 2023

The composition of the gut microbiota oscillates according to the light–dark cycle. However, the existing literature demonstrates these oscillations only by molecular methods. Microbial cultures are an interesting method for studying metabolically active microorganisms. In this work, we aimed to understand the diurnal oscillation of the intestinal microbiota in Wistar male rats through microbial culture analysis. Over a 24 h period, three animals were euthanized every 6 h. Intestinal segments were dissected immediately after euthanasia and diluted in phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) for plating in different culture media. The CFU/mL counts in feces samples cultured in the Brucella medium were significantly higher at ZT0, followed by ZT6, ZT18, and ZT12 (p = 0.0156), which demonstrated the diurnal oscillation of metabolically active anaerobic bacteria every 6 h using microbial culture. In addition, quantitative differences were demonstrated in anaerobic bacteria and fungi in different gastrointestinal tract tissues.
Basal Cell Carcinoma—A Retrospective Descriptive Study Integrated in Current Literature
Authors: Giuglea Carmen , Marin Andrei , Gavrila Iulia , Paunescu Alexandra , Dobrete Nicoleta Amalia , Marinescu Silviu Adrian
Published: March 2023

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is considered to be the most common cancer in humans. It has a slow growth rhythm, and for this reason, metastases are rare. For our retrospective study, we selected 180 patients from those who underwent surgery for a variety of skin tumours between January 2019 and August 2022 and whose histopathological examination revealed basal cell carcinoma. All surgeries were performed by plastic surgeons at the “St. John” hospital in Bucharest. The aim of this article is to provide observational data regarding BCC—in terms of histopathology and diagnostic and therapeutic management and to integrate these data into the current knowledge of this pathology.
Immunoglobulin G4-Related Disease-Associated Dermatitis with Pruritus: A Positive Response to Dupilumab
Authors: Beck Tyler , Plante John , Robinson India , Khatskevich Katsiaryna , Forcucci Jessica , Valdebran Manuel
Published: March 2023

Immunoglobulin G4-related disease (IgG4-RD) is a rare fibro-inflammatory condition characterized by IgG4-expressing plasma cell infiltration of the skin and other organs, leading to profound itchiness. Oral corticosteroids are the first-line therapy for IgG4-RD but relapses and potential side effects are common. In this case, we discuss a patient with a hyperpigmented, scaling dermatitis on his arms, back, and chest with lichen amyloidosis (LA) that incompletely responded to corticosteroids. He had reduced quality of life secondary to chronic pruritus. Dupilumab, an IL-4 and IL-13 inhibitor, was initiated. He experienced a transient worsening, followed by complete resolution of his itch with remission of his rash. While the pathogenesis of IgG4-RD is not entirely understood, a T-helper 2 (Th2) immune response has been implicated, with interleukins (IL) 4, 5, 10, and 13 playing a role in IgG4 class switch, resulting in eosinophilia and elevated IgE. The strong response of dupilumab in this case may provide evidence in favor of the involvement of IL-4 and IL-13 in the pathogenesis of cutaneous IgG4-RD. Future clinical studies involving larger patient populations may be warranted.
Interventional Radiology in the Treatment of Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma: Present and Future Perspectives
Authors: Punzi Ernesto , Carrubba Claudio , Contegiacomo Andrea , Posa Alessandro , Barbieri Pierluigi , De Leoni Davide , Mazza Giulia , Tanzilli Alessandro , Cina Alessandro , Natale Luigi , Sala Evis , Iezzi Roberto
Published: March 2023

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a lethal disease; patients’ long-term survival is strictly linked to the surgical resection of the tumor but only a minority of patients (2–3%) have a resectable disease at diagnosis. In patients with surgically unresectable disease, interventional radiology is taking on an increasing role in treatment with the application of loco-regional percutaneous therapies. The primary purposes of this narrative review are to analyze the safety and efficacy of ablative techniques in the management of borderline resectable and locally advanced diseases and to underline the role of the interventional radiologist in the management of patients with distant metastases. The secondary purpose is to focus on the synergy between immunotherapy and ablative therapies.
The Role of Oxidative Stress in the Aging Eye
Authors: Goodman Deniz , Ness Steven
Published: March 2023

Given the expanding elderly population in the United States and the world, it is important to understand the processes underlying both natural and pathological age-related changes in the eye. Both the anterior and posterior segment of the eye undergo changes in biological, chemical, and physical properties driven by oxidative stress. With advancing age, changes in the anterior segment include dermatochalasis, blepharoptosis, thickening of the sclera, loss of corneal endothelial cells, and stiffening of the lens. Changes in the posterior segment include lowered viscoelasticity of the vitreous body, photoreceptor cell loss, and drusen deposition at the macula and fovea. Age-related ocular pathologies including glaucoma, cataracts, and age-related macular degeneration are largely mediated by oxidative stress. The prevalence of these diseases is expected to increase in the coming years, highlighting the need to develop new therapies that address oxidative stress and slow the progression of age-related pathologies.
The Safety Profile of Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter-2 Inhibitors and Glucagon-like Peptide 1 Receptor Agonists in the Standard of Care Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Salmen Teodor , Bobirca Florin-Teodor , Bica Ioana-Cristina , Mihai Doina-Andrada , Pop Corina , Stoian Anca Pantea
Published: March 2023

Aim: We evaluated the safety of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) and glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) for their use with other glucose-lowering drugs and drugs for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), in a standard-of-care regimen with maximum tolerated doses, and, respectively, when compared with metformin. Methods: We conducted a retrospective, observational study on 405 patients that were seen in the outpatient clinic of the N Paulescu National Institute for Diabetes Mellitus, Bucharest, Romania, in 2019. Their demographics, metabolic parameters, and medication safety were evaluated at three follow-up visits, from baseline, six months, and twelve months. Results: Both SGLT-2is and GLP-1 RAs are safe regarding creatinine, eGFR, urea, GOT, and GPT upon the comparison of the data from the six- and twelve-month visits with the initial visit, and also the twelve-month visit with the six-month visit. Moreover, when comparing SGLT-2is and GLP-1 RAs with metformin, there are safety data only for urea. Conclusions: In this retrospective analysis, both SGLT-2is and GLP-1 RAs, when used in conjunction with other glucose-lowering, blood-pressure-lowering, and lipid-lowering medications, appeared to be safe for the management of T2DM.
Preparation and Performance of Repair Materials for Surface Defects in Pavement Concrete
Authors: Li Pengfei , Mao Zhongyang , Huang Xiaojun , Deng Min
Published: March 2023

Concrete surface defects are very complex and diverse, which is a great test for repair materials. The efficiency and durability of the repair system depend on the bonding effect between the concrete and the repair material. However, the rapid increase in system viscosity during the reaction of repair materials is an important factor affecting the infiltration effect. In the present work, the infiltration consolidation repair material was prepared, and its basic properties (viscosity, surface drying time and actual drying time, infiltration property) and mechanical properties were evaluated. Finally, the infiltration depth, film-forming thickness, and anti-spalling ability of concrete under a single-side freeze–thaw cycle are revealed. The results showed that using ethyl acetate could rapidly reduce the viscosity of the repair material, and the repair material could penetrate 20–30 mm into the concrete within 10 min. It was found by laser confocal microscopy that the thickness of the film formation after 3 days was only 29 µm. In the mortar fracture repair test to evaluate the bond strength, the bond strength of the repaired material reached 9.18 MPa in 28 days, and the new fracture surface was in the mortar itself. In addition, the freeze–thaw cycle test was carried out on the composite specimens under salt solution to verify the compatibility of the designed repair material with the concrete substrate. The data showed that the average amount of spalling was only 1704.4 g/m2 when 10% ethyl acetate was added. The penetrating repair material in this study has good infiltration performance, which can penetrate a certain depth in the surface pores and form a high-performance consolidation body, forming a “rooted type” filling.
Anti-Penetration Performance of Composite Structures with Metal-Packaged Ceramic Interlayer and UHMWPE Laminate
Authors: Sun Xin , Zhang Longhui , Sun Qitian , Ye Ping , Hao Wei , Shi Peizhuo , Dong Yongxiang
Published: March 2023

The impact response of a composite structure consisting of a metal-packaged ceramic interlayer and an ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) laminate has been studied through a ballistic test and numerical simulation. The studied structure exhibits 50% higher anti-penetration performance than the traditional ceramic/metal structure with the same areal density. The metal-packaged ceramic interlayer and the UHMWPE laminate are key components in resisting the penetration. By using a metal frame to impose three-dimensional constraints on ceramic tiles, the metal-packaged ceramic interlayer can limit the crushing of the ceramic and contain the broken ceramic fragment to improve the erosion of the projectile. The large deformation of UHMWPE laminate absorbs a large amount of energy from the projectile. By decreasing the amplitude of the shock wave and changing the distribution of the impact load in the structure, the projectile has longer residence time on the interlayer. The anti-penetration performance shows within 10% variation when the impact position is varied. Due to the asymmetric deformation and high elastic recovery ability of the UHMWPE laminate, the projectile trajectory deflection is increased, and the broken ceramic fragments are restrained, thereby mitigating after-effect damage caused by the projectile after penetrating the structure.
Recent Research Progress in Indophenine-Based-Functional Materials: Design, Synthesis, and Optoelectronic Applications
Authors: Ren Shiwei , Yassar Abderrahim
Published: March 2023

This review highlights selected examples, published in the last three to four years, of recent advance in the design, synthesis, properties, and device performance of quinoidal π-conjugated materials. A particular emphasis is placed on emerging materials, such as indophenine dyes that have the potential to enable high-performance devices. We specifically discuss the recent advances and design guidelines of π-conjugated quinoidal molecules from a chemical standpoint. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this review is the first compilation of literature on indophenine-based semiconducting materials covering their scope, limitations, and applications. In the first section, we briefly introduce some of the organic electronic devices that are the basic building blocks for certain applications involving organic semiconductors (OSCs). We introduce the definition of key performance parameters of three organic devices: organic field effect transistors (OFET), organic photovoltaics (OPV), and organic thermoelectric generators (TE). In section two, we review recent progress towards the synthesis of quinoidal semiconducting materials. Our focus will be on indophenine family that has never been reviewed. We discuss the relationship between structural properties and energy levels in this family of molecules. The last section reports the effect of structural modifications on the performance of devices: OFET, OPV and TE. In this review, we provide a general insight into the association between the molecular structure and electronic properties in quinoidal materials, encompassing both small molecules and polymers. We also believe that this review offers benefits to the organic electronics and photovoltaic communities, by shedding light on current trends in the synthesis and progression of promising novel building blocks. This can provide guidance for synthesizing new generations of quinoidal or diradical materials with tunable optoelectronic properties and more outstanding charge carrier mobility.
Bioinspired Cyclic Dipeptide Functionalized Nanofibers for Thermal Sensing and Energy Harvesting
Authors: Santos Daniela , Baptista Rosa M. F. , Handa Adelino , Almeida Bernardo , Rodrigues Pedro V. , Torres Ana R. , Machado Ana , Belsley Michael , de Matos Gomes Etelvina
Published: March 2023

Nanostructured dipeptide self-assemblies exhibiting quantum confinement are of great interest due to their potential applications in the field of materials science as optoelectronic materials for energy harvesting devices. Cyclic dipeptides are an emerging outstanding group of ring-shaped dipeptides, which, because of multiple interactions, self-assemble in supramolecular structures with different morphologies showing quantum confinement and photoluminescence. Chiral cyclic dipeptides may also display piezoelectricity and pyroelectricity properties with potential applications in new sources of nano energy. Among those, aromatic cyclo-dipeptides containing the amino acid tryptophan are wide-band gap semiconductors displaying the high mechanical rigidity, photoluminescence and piezoelectric properties to be used in power generation. In this work, we report the fabrication of hybrid systems based on chiral cyclo-dipeptide L-Tryptophan-L-Tryptophan incorporated into biopolymer electrospun fibers. The micro/nanofibers contain self-assembled nano-spheres embedded into the polymer matrix, are wide-band gap semiconductors with 4.0 eV band gap energy, and display blue photoluminescence as well as relevant piezoelectric and pyroelectric properties with coefficients as high as 57 CN−1 and  35×10−6 Cm−2K−1, respectively. Therefore, the fabricated hybrid mats are promising systems for future thermal sensing and energy harvesting applications.
Effect of the Water-Binder Ratio on the Autogenous Shrinkage of C50 Mass Concrete Mixed with MgO Expansion Agent
Authors: Chen Jun , Mao Zhongyang , Huang Xiaojun , Deng Min
Published: March 2023

The high adiabatic temperature rise and low heat dissipation rate of mass concrete will promote rapid hydration of the cementitious material and rapid consumption of water from the concrete pores, which may significantly accelerate the development of concrete autogenous shrinkage. In this study, the effect of the water-binder ratio on the autogenous shrinkage of C50 concrete mixed with MgO expansion agent (MEA) was explained with respect to mechanical properties, pore structure, degree of hydration, and micromorphology of the concrete based on a variable temperature curing chamber. The results show that the high temperature rise within the mass concrete accelerates the development of early (14 d) autogenous shrinkage of the concrete, and that the smaller the water-binder ratio, the greater the autogenous shrinkage of the concrete. With the addition of 8 wt% MEA, the autogenous shrinkage of concrete can be effectively compensated. The larger the water-binder ratio, the higher the degree of MgO hydration, and in terms of the compensation effect of autogenous shrinkage, the best performance is achieved at a water-binder ratio of 0.36. This study provides a data reference for the determination of the water-binder ratio in similar projects with MEA.
The Influence of Annealing and Film Thickness on the Specific Properties of Co40Fe40Y20 Films
Authors: Liu Wen-Jen , Chang Yung-Huang , Chiang Chia-Chin , Chen Yuan-Tsung , Liu Yu-Chi , Huang Yu-Jie , Chi Po-Wei
Published: March 2023

Cobalt Iron Yttrium (CoFeY) magnetic film was made using the sputtering technique in order to investigate the connection between the thickness and annealing procedures. The sample was amorphous as a result of an insufficient thermal driving force according to X-ray diffraction (XRD) examination. The maximum low-frequency alternate-current magnetic susceptibility (χac) values were raised in correlation with the increased thickness and annealing temperatures because the thickness effect and Y addition improved the spin exchange coupling. The best value for a 50 nm film at annealing 300 °C for χac was 0.20. Because electron carriers are less constrained in their conduction at thick film thickness and higher annealing temperatures, the electric resistivity and sheet resistance are lower. At a thickness of 40 nm, the film’s maximum surface energy during annealing at 300 °C was 28.7 mJ/mm2. This study demonstrated the passage of photon signals through the film due to the thickness effect, which reduced transmittance. The best condition was found to be 50 nm with annealing at 300 °C in this investigation due to high χac, strong adhesion, and low resistivity, which can be used in magnetic fields.
Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Spark Plasma Sintered CoCrFeNiNbX High-Entropy Alloys with Si Addition
Authors: Karlík Miroslav , Průša Filip , Kratochvíl Petr , Thürlová Hana , Strakošová Angelina , Čech Jaroslav , Čapek Jiří , Vronka Marek , Cabibbo Marcello , Ekrt Ondřej
Published: March 2023

Three mechanically alloyed (MA) and spark plasma sintered (SPS) CoCrFeNiNbX (X = 5, 20, and 35 at.%) alloys with an addition of 5 at.% of SiC were investigated. The face-centered cubic (FCC) high-entropy solid solution, NbC carbides, and hexagonal Laves phase already developed during MA. In addition, the SPS compacting led to the formation of oxide particles in all alloys, and the Cr7C3 carbides in the Nb5 alloy. The fraction of the FCC solid solution decreased with increasing Nb concentration at the expense of the NbC carbide and the Laves phase. Long-term annealing at 800 °C led to the disappearance of the Cr7C3 carbide in the Nb5 alloy, and new oxides—Ni6Nb6O, Cr2O3, and CrNbO4—were formed. At laboratory temperature, the Nb5 alloy, containing only the FCC matrix and carbide particles, was relatively strong and very ductile. At a higher Nb content (Nb20 and Nb35), the alloys became brittle. After annealing for 100 h at 800 °C, the Nb5 alloy conserved its plasticity and the Nb20 and Nb35 alloys maintained or even increased their brittleness. When tested at 800 °C, the Nb5 and Nb20 alloys deformed almost identically (CYS ~450 MPa, UTS ~500 MPa, plasticity ~18%), whereas the Nb35 alloy was much stronger (CYS of 1695 MPa, UCS of 1817 MPa) and preserved comparable plasticity.
Enhancing Wettability of Cu3P/Cu Systems through Doping with Si, Sn, and Zr Elements: Insights from First Principles Analysis
Authors: Yu Shimeng , Cheng Fang , He Lian , Tang Weigang , Wang Yongsheng , Chen Rong , Hu Chenglu , Ma Xiao , Shen Hangyan
Published: March 2023

Explaining the wetting mechanism of Cu–P brazing materials and Cu remains challenging. This fundamental research aims to reveal the wettability mechanism of Si, Sn, and Zr doping on the interfacial bond strength of the Cu3P/Cu system through the first principles study. We carried out several sets of calculations to test the validity of the result; included in the work are those used to establish the interfacial structure and to analyze the effect of doping on the wettability. Specific analysis was carried out in terms of three aspects: the work of adhesion (Wad), the charge density difference, and the density of states (DOS). The calculated results show that doping with Si, Sn, and Zr elements can effectively improve the wettability within the CuP/Cu interface with very high accuracy, and is particularly effective when doped with Zr. These results provide an insightful theoretical guide for enhancing the CuP/Cu system’s wettability by adding active elements.
Towards Understanding Subsurface Characteristics in Burn Process of Gear Profile Grinding
Authors: Wen Jun , Tang Jinyuan , Shao Wen , Zhou Weihua , Huang Weiwei
Published: March 2023

In gear profile grinding, the grinding burn will greatly influence the anti-fatigue performance of gears. However, the influence of microstructure change caused by grinding burn on gear surface integrity is still unclear. In this paper, full-factor experiments of gear profile grinding are conducted and the grinding temperature is measured during the experiments. Furthermore, the tooth surface integrity including microstructure, residual stress, microhardness, and surface morphology is characterized. The relationship between grinding parameters, grinding burns and subsurface layer properties is analyzed by systematical test results. Radial grinding depths of more than 20 μm matched with wheel speeds below 30 m/s will result in severe grinding burns. The effect of grinding burns on the grain state mainly results in the breakdown of high strength martensite and the formation of inhomogeneous secondary tempered sorbite. The recovery and recrystallization of the microstructure of the tooth subsurface layer after grinding burns is the root cause of the substantial reduction in compressive residual stress and nano-hardness. The occurrence of grinding burns is mainly due to the unreasonable matching of process parameters rather than being influenced by a single grinding parameter alone. The risk of burn can be significantly reduced at greater wheel speeds and lower radial grinding depth. This study presents an insight into the mechanism of the effect of gear profile grinding burns on the surface integrity of the tooth flank.
A New Self-Reconfiguration Wave-like Crawling Robot: Design, Analysis, and Experiments
Authors: Sun Haosheng , Wu Qingxiang , Wang Xuebing , Yang Tong , Sun Ning
Published: March 2023

Traditional mobile robots with fixed structures lack the ability to cope with complex terrains and tasks. Reconfigurable modular mobile robots have received considerable attention as they can automatically reassemble according to the changing environment or task. In this paper, a new self-reconfiguration wave-like crawling (SWC) robot is presented to improve the mobile robots’ locomotion capacity. First, the mechanical design of the wave-like crawling mechanism is detailed. Then, the series and parallel connections are introduced to achieve self-reconfiguration. In addition, the kinematic model of the SWC robot is established. Finally, experiments were performed to verify the robotic system with wireless data transmission.
New Two-BWT Blade Aerodynamic Design and CFD Simulation
Authors: Li Guo , Dai Juchuan , Zhang Fan , Zuo Chengming
Published: March 2023

Due to reduced manufacturing, transportation, and installation costs, the two-blade wind turbines (Two-BWT) are a viable option for offshore wind farms. So far, there is no mature design model for offshore Two-BWT. This paper proposes an aerodynamic design method for offshore Two-BWT blades using the blade element momentum (BEM) theory. This method calculates the power coefficient of the Two-BWT by analogy with the three-blade wind turbines (Three-BWT), and then determines the wind rotor diameter. Then, the airfoil, chord length, and twist angle are taken as the key design factors. Furthermore, the piecewise combination method (PCM) for airfoil distribution, the three-point sine method (Three-PSM) for chord length distribution, and the two-point sine method (Two-PSM) for torsion angle distribution are adopted, respectively. Subsequently, the minimum rotational speed, under the rated wind speed and rated power, is taken as the optimization objective to establish the optimization model. The global flow field of Two-BWT is constructed based on CFD technology, and the characteristics of wind speed distribution and blade pressure distribution in the flow field are investigated. Finally, the CFD results are compared with the results of the BEM theory, and the consistency of the results also shows the feasibility of the design method.
Two New Modified Regularized Methods for Solving the Variational Inclusion and Null Point Problems
Authors: Wang Yuanheng , Li Miaoqing , Yao Chengru , Jiang Bingnan
Published: March 2023

In this article, based on the regularization techniques, we construct two new algorithms combining the forward-backward splitting algorithm and the proximal contraction algorithm, respectively. Iterative sequences of the new algorithms can converge strongly to a common solution of the variational inclusion and null point problems in real Hilbert spaces. Multi-inertial extrapolation steps are applied to expedite their convergence rate. We also give some numerical experiments to certify that our algorithms are viable and efficient.
Random “Decision and Experienced Utility”, Adaptive “Consumer Memory and Choice”: The Impact of Mind Fluctuations and Cognitive Biases on Consumption and Classification
Authors: Yuan Runze , Xi Xi , Liu Zhentao
Published: March 2023

In the study of consumer behavior, we believe that a distinction should be made between the subjective mental activity of consumption and the objective process of consumption experience, and that the deviation and fluctuation of “decision utility” and the randomness of “experience utility” have essential effects on consumer behavior. For one thing, purchase often precedes experience, and consumers cannot precisely predict utility and its distribution but can only make decisions based on adaptive expectations. Secondly, there is often uncertainty in the experience of goods, making predictions more difficult. Thirdly, the revision of consumer decision utility is carried out through memory in an adaptive process. We introduce two stochastic forms of decision and experience utility functions and build a two-period model. In the model, consumers make decisions based on a pre-determined decision utility function in the first period and a randomly realized experience utility function in the second period. The analysis shows that the volatility of “decision utility” and “experience utility” affects consumers in opposite directions; the former may trigger expansionary consumption, while the latter makes consumers more cautious. Finally, the consumption behaviors in the model can be divided into 24 categories based on the dimensions of chance, systematicity, luck, and deviance, corresponding to various scenarios. The total number of consumer behavior categories is a full ranking of the size relationship of the four factors mentioned above, thus 24 categories. For example, when good luck is accompanied by chance underestimation versus systematic underestimation, it leads to a better process experience for the consumer.
Effort and Cost Estimation Using Decision Tree Techniques and Story Points in Agile Software Development
Authors: Rodríguez Sánchez Eduardo , Vázquez Santacruz Eduardo Filemón , Cervantes Maceda Humberto
Published: March 2023

Early effort estimation is important for efficiently planning the use of resources in an Information Technology (IT) project. However, limited research has been conducted on the topic of effort estimation in agile software development using artificial intelligence. This research project contributes to strengthening the use of hybrid models composed of algorithmic models and learning oriented techniques as a project-level effort estimation method in agile frameworks. Effort estimation in agile methods such as Scrum uses a story point approach that measures, using an arithmetic scale, the effort required to complete a release of the system. This project relied on labeled historical data to estimate the completion time measured in days and the total cost of a project set in Pakistani rupees (PKR). using a decision tree, random forest and AdaBoost to improve the accuracy of predictions. Models were trained using 10-fold cross-validation and the relative error was used as a comparison with literature results. The bootstrap aggregation (bagging) ensemble made of the three techniques provides the highest accuracy, and project classification also improves the estimates.
Distributed Optimization Control for Heterogeneous Multiagent Systems under Directed Topologies
Authors: Wang Jingyi , Liu Danqi , Feng Jianwen , Zhao Yi
Published: March 2023

This paper focuses on the solutions for the distributed optimization coordination problem (DOCP) for heterogeneous multiagent systems under directed topologies. To begin with, a different convex optimization problem is proposed, which implies a weighted average of the objective function of each agent. Sufficient conditions are set to ensure the unique solution for the DOCP. Then, despite the external disruption, a distributed control mechanism is constructed to drive the state of each agent to the auxiliary state in a finite time. Furthermore, it is demonstrated that the outputs of all agents can achieve the optimal value, ensuring global convergence. Moreover, the controller design rule is expanded with event-triggered communication, and there is no Zeno behavior. Finally, to exemplify the usefulness of the theoretical conclusions, a simulation example is offered.
Cryptographic Algorithm Based on Hybrid One-Dimensional Cellular Automata
Authors: Stănică George Cosmin , Anghelescu Petre
Published: March 2023

The theory and application of cellular automata (CA) for a stream cipher-based encryption principle are presented in this study. Certain fundamental transformations are developed based on CA theory regarding decentralized computation for modeling different system’s behavior. The changes governing state transitions rely on simple evolution rules, which can easily be translated into functions using logic operators. A class of linear hybrid cellular automata (LHCA) based on rules 90 and 150 is used to implement these functions. Symmetric key systems theory is the foundation of the suggested algorithm. The algorithm functions use the proprieties provided by the LHCA evolution in order to convert plain text into cipher text and vice versa, in each case starting from the same initial state of the system and performing the same number of steps for each operation. Cellular automata’s parallel information processing property, in addition to their regular and dynamical structure, makes hardware implementation of such schemes best suited for VLSI implementation. Testing of the proposed algorithm was performed by developing both software and hardware solutions. Hardware implementation of the presented cryptosystem was developed using VHDL hardware description language and a FPGA device (XILINX Spartan3E XC3S500E). Design and software simulations have been carried out using the C# programming language.
Measuring E-Commerce User Experience in the Last-Mile Delivery
Authors: Vrhovac Vijoleta , Vasić Stana , Milisavljević Stevan , Dudić Branislav , Štarchoň Peter , Žižakov Marina
Published: March 2023

This research aims to develop and to examine a measurement of customers’ experiences in the last-mile delivery process, which is a critical step towards their satisfaction and future intention to order products from the same retailer again. The CMX-LMD scale is proposed as a self-report tool whose psychometric properties where then examined. The total sample of N = 907 participants (63.4% females) was randomly split into two subsamples, then EFA and CFA were conducted, followed by item and correlation analysis. Six factors were revealed (Delivery efficiency, Parcel tracking, Smooth delivery, Visual appeal, Joyful anticipation, and Convenience), explaining about 60% of the total variance. The structure was supported by CFA (χ2(237) = 584.71, p < 0.001, CFI = 0.941, TLI = 0.932, RMSEA = 0.057, SRMR = 0.058). The relations of the derived scales and other variables, such as trust in courier services, were also examined. The CDX-LMD offers acceptable properties and provides a useful measurement for researchers and practitioners in the cross-section between e-commerce and logistics.
Graph Generation for Quantum States Using Qiskit and Its Application for Quantum Neural Networks
Authors: Tudorache Alexandru-Gabriel
Published: March 2023

This paper describes a practical approach to the quantum theory using the simulation and processing technology available today. The proposed project allows us to create an exploration graph so that for an initial starting configuration of the qubits, all possible states are created given a set of gates selected by the user. For each node in the graph, we can obtain various types of information such as the applied gates from the initial state (the transition route), necessary cost, representation of the quantum circuit, as well as the amplitudes of each state. The project is designed not as an end goal, but rather as a processing platform that allows users to visualize and explore diverse solutions for different quantum problems in a much easier manner. We then describe some potential applications of this project in other research fields, illustrating the way in which the states from the graph can be used as nodes in a new interpretation of a quantum neural network; the steps of a hybrid processing chain are presented for the problem of finding one or more states that verify certain conditions. These concepts can also be used in academia, with their implementation being possible with the help of the Python programming language, the NumPy library, and Qiskit—the open-source quantum framework developed by IBM.
A Novel Adaptive Finite-Time Position Tracking Control Strategy for Teleoperation System with Varying Communication Delays
Authors: Zhang Haochen , Fu Liyue , Zhang Ancai
Published: March 2023

Based on the traditional control approach, the position-tracking performance of the teleoperation system with communication delay is generally asymptotically stable. In practical applications, the closed-loop system is expected to achieve stable and finite-time convergence performance. A novel finite-time bilateral control scheme for a telerobotics system with communication delay is presented in this paper. On the basis of the traditional proportional damping injection control, this paper proposes and designs a new finite-time control method by introducing the non-integer power to the position error, velocity, and the combined error with position error and velocity. In comparison to existing proportional damping injection and finite-time control structures, the proposed method not only achieves the finite-time convergence performance of position tracking, but it also has the advantages of a simple structure and fewer gain coefficients. The controller also incorporates the radial basis function (RBF) neural network and adaptive approach to compensate unknown dynamics and external forces, thus also avoiding the measurement of force signals. The Lyapunov–Krasovskii function is then defined, and it is demonstrated that the position tracking of closed-loop teleoperation system has bounded stability and finite-time control performance. The simulation experiment is also performed, and the results further illustrated the bounded stability of the system. Moreover, compared to the position tracking errors of other non-finite-time control methods, it is demonstrated that the proposed finite-time control scheme has a faster convergence rate and higher convergence precision.
A Comparative Evaluation between Convolutional Neural Networks and Vision Transformers for COVID-19 Detection
Authors: Nafisah Saad I. , Muhammad Ghulam , Hossain M. Shamim , AlQahtani Salman A.
Published: March 2023

Early illness detection enables medical professionals to deliver the best care and increases the likelihood of a full recovery. In this work, we show that computer-aided design (CAD) systems are capable of using chest X-ray (CXR) medical imaging modalities for the identification of respiratory system disorders. At present, the COVID-19 pandemic is the most well-known illness. We propose a system based on explainable artificial intelligence to detect COVID-19 from CXR images by using several cutting-edge convolutional neural network (CNN) models, as well as the Vision of Transformer (ViT) models. The proposed system also visualizes the infected areas of the CXR images. This gives doctors and other medical professionals a second option for supporting their decision. The proposed system uses some preprocessing of the images, which includes the segmentation of the region of interest using a UNet model and rotation augmentation. CNN employs pixel arrays, while ViT divides the image into visual tokens; therefore, one of the objectives is to compare their performance in COVID-19 detection. In the experiments, a publicly available dataset (COVID-QU-Ex) is used. The experimental results show that the performances of the CNN-based models and the ViT-based models are comparable. The best accuracy was 99.82%, obtained by the EfficientNetB7 (CNN-based) model, followed by the SegFormer (ViT-based). In addition, the segmentation and augmentation enhanced the performance.