bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biocompatible Self-Assembled Hydrogen-Bonded Gels Based on Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents and Hydroxypropyl Cellulose with Strong Antimicrobial Activity
Authors: Filip Daniela , Macocinschi Doina , Balan-Porcarasu Mihaela , Varganici Cristian-Dragos , Dumitriu Raluca-Petronela , Peptanariu Dragos , Tuchilus Cristina Gabriela , Zaltariov Mirela-Fernanda
Published: October 2022

Natural deep eutectic solvents (NADES)-hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC) self-assembled gels with potential for pharmaceutical applications are prepared. FT-IR, 1HNMR, DSC, TGA and rheology measurements revealed that hydrogen bond acceptor–hydrogen bond donor interactions, concentration of NADES and the water content influence significantly the physico-chemical characteristics of the studied gel systems. HPC-NADES gel compositions have thermal stabilities lower than HPC and higher than NADES components. Thermal transitions reveal multiple glass transitions characteristic of phase separated systems. Flow curves evidence shear thinning (pseudoplastic) behavior. The flow curve shear stress vs. shear rate were assessed by applying Bingham, Herschel–Bulkley, Vocadlo and Casson rheological models. The proposed correlations are in good agreement with experimental data. The studied gels evidence thermothickening behavior due to characteristic LCST (lower critical solution temperature) behavior of HPC in aqueous systems and a good biocompatibility with normal cells (human gingival fibroblasts). The order of antibacterial and antifungal activities (S.aureus, E.coli, P. aeruginosa and C. albicans) is as follows: citric acid >lactic acid > urea > glycerol, revealing the higher antibacterial and antifungal activities of acids.
The Influence of Boron on the Structure and Properties of Hybrid Compounds Containing Zirconium and Phosphorus
Authors: Merghes Petru , Ilia Gheorghe , Hulka Iosif , Chiriac Vlad , Varan Narcis , Simulescu Vasile
Published: October 2022

In the present work, novel organic–inorganic hybrid materials containing boron, zirconium, and phosphorus were synthesized at different molar ratios, using the sol–gel method, starting from zirconyl chloride hexa-hydrate, triethyl borate, and phenyl phosphonic acid as the precursors. The sol–gel process is used for the first time in the present work in order to obtain organic–inorganic hybrids (or the so-called inorganic polymers) containing together boron, zirconium, and phosphorus. The sol–gel syntheses were performed at room temperature in ethanol. Zirconium containing compounds are already well known for their applications in medicine in restorative or prosthetic devices, including dental implants, knee and hip replacements, middle-ear ossicular chain reconstruction, and so on. Zirconium is a strong transition metal, which started to replace hafnium and titanium in the last decade in important applications. On the other hand, boron has the capability (similar to carbon) to form stable covalently bonded molecular networks. In addition to this capability, boron also offers mixed metallic and nonmetallic properties, because of its place on the periodic table, at the border between metals and nonmetals. Boron is responsible for the higher thermal stability of synthesized hybrid compounds. In the structure of those hybrid compounds, zirconium, boron, and phosphorus atoms are always connected via an oxygen atom, by P-O-Zr, Zr-O-Zr, or Zr-O-B bridges.
Three Dimensional Change Detection Using Point Clouds: A Review
Authors: Kharroubi Abderrazzaq , Poux Florent , Ballouch Zouhair , Hajji Rafika , Billen Roland
Published: October 2022

Change detection is an important step for the characterization of object dynamics at the earth’s surface. In multi-temporal point clouds, the main challenge is to detect true changes at different granularities in a scene subject to significant noise and occlusion. To better understand new research perspectives in this field, a deep review of recent advances in 3D change detection methods is needed. To this end, we present a comprehensive review of the state of the art of 3D change detection approaches, mainly those using 3D point clouds. We review standard methods and recent advances in the use of machine and deep learning for change detection. In addition, the paper presents a summary of 3D point cloud benchmark datasets from different sensors (aerial, mobile, and static), together with associated information. We also investigate representative evaluation metrics for this task. To finish, we present open questions and research perspectives. By reviewing the relevant papers in the field, we highlight the potential of bi- and multi-temporal point clouds for better monitoring analysis for various applications.
The Mediating Role of Work Engagement in the Relationship between Executive Functioning Deficits and Employee Well-Being
Authors: Tan Chee-Seng , Nasir Hira , Pheh Kai-Shuen , Cong Chin Wen , Tay Kok-Wai , Cheong Jia-Qi
Published: October 2022

Executive functioning and its related components have been found to promote well-being. However, there is a limited understanding of the underlying mechanism. Drawing from the job demands–resources and PERMA models, the present study examined the hypothetical mediating role of work engagement in the relationship between executive functioning deficit and well-being among 314 working adults in Malaysia. Participants answered a survey consisting of the Executive Skills Questionnaire-Revised (ESQ-R; a new measure of executive functioning deficits for working adults), Utrecht Work Engagement Scale, Employee Well-Being Scale, and Self-Rated Creativity Scale. Pearson correlation analysis showed that the ESQ-R score was negatively associated with all other target variables, while the latter was positively related to each other. Moreover, supporting the hypotheses, the results of mediation analysis using PROCESS macro found that work engagement mediated the negative relationship between executive functioning deficits and well-being after statistically controlling for the creativity score. The findings not only replicate the beneficial role of executive functioning in employees’ well-being but also shed light on the underlying process of the relationship. Implications and directions for future studies are discussed.
Insight into Greenhouse Gases Emissions and Energy Consumption of Different Full-Scale Wastewater Treatment Plants via ECAM Tool
Authors: Tian Yuhe , Liu Shuang , Guo Zheng , Wu Nan , Liang Jiaqi , Zhao Ruihua , Hao Linlin , Zeng Ming
Published: October 2022

Greenhouse gas (GHG) production is one of the urgent problems to be solved in the wastewater treatment industry in the context of “carbon neutrality”. In this study, the carbon emissions and energy consumption of typical wastewater treatment processes in China were evaluated, starting from different cities and water treatment plants. Tool of Energy Performance and Carbon Emission Assessment and Monitoring (ECAM) was used. By comparing the influent BOD5, it was found that the energy consumption for wastewater treatment was positively correlated with the influent organic load. The annual CH4 emission of Xi’an WWTP can reach 19,215 t CO2eq. Moreover, GHGs are closely related to the wastewater treatment process chosen. WWTP B of Kunming used only an anaerobic process without continuous aeration, with an average monthly energy consumption of 8.63 × 105 kW·h. The proportion of recoverable biogas was about 90% in the GHG discharged by the traditional process. However, the anaerobic digestion-thermoelectric cogeneration process can make the recovery of the biogas utilization ratio reach 100%. Compared to the Shuozhou WWTP and WWTP A of Kunming, the Strass WWTP served the smallest population and had the largest treatment capacity, reaching the lowest energy consumption, consuming only 23,670 kW·h per month. The evaluation and analysis of ECAM provide data support and research foundation for the wastewater treatment plants to improve energy utilization and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
A Critical Analysis of Decentralizing the Portuguese Public Healthcare Provision Services
Authors: Nunes Alexandre Morais , Ferreira Diogo Cunha
Published: October 2022

The Portuguese health system has a universal, public, general National Health Service (NHS), tending towards free healthcare access. Created in 1979, this delivery model developed from the integration and complementarity between the different response levels (primary, hospital, continuing, and palliative care). However, over the last 40 years, the initially centralized system underwent a decentralization process with the creation of Regional Health Administrations in the five mainland administrative regions. Since then, the entire NHS has settled around this new organization. The most recent step started in 2018 with the decentralization of primary healthcare skills to 190 municipalities. This paper presents the various critical issues involved in the latest gradual decentralization process in health, intending to bring services closer to the citizens, and to be more focused on their needs. The article identifies and discusses the implications of this experience based on the steps foreseen in the already-published legal texts.
Health-Risk Behaviors, COVID-19 Preventive Behaviors, and the Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Working-Age Population of Bangkok, Thailand
Authors: Nanthamongkolchai Sutham , Taechaboonsermsak Pimsurang , Tawatting Kanasap , Suksatan Wanich
Published: October 2022

Although studies have extensively discussed the effects of COVID-19 on global health behaviors, little is known about the extent of COVID-19 preventive behaviors and their negative effects on the working-age population of Bangkok, Thailand. Therefore, this study aimed to examine health-risk behaviors, COVID-19 preventive behaviors, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic among the Thai working-age population. An online cross-sectional survey was conducted among working-age adults through a self-administered questionnaire. Data were analyzed with descriptive statistics and stepwise multiple regression. Of the 313 Thai participants (227 females, 72.5%), 84.0% had high levels of health-risk behaviors for preventing COVID-19 infection, most respondents (89.1%) had high levels of knowledge about COVID-19, and most respondents (61.7%) had high levels of overall COVID-19 preventive behaviors. Stepwise multiple regression revealed that health-risk behaviors (β = 0.445), knowledge of COVID-19 (β = 0.148), gender (β = 0.145), and age (β = 0.133) were predictive of COVID-19 preventive behaviors. Additionally, most respondents (48.9%) had moderate overall effects from COVID-19. Based on our findings, these factors must be considered when implementing public policies to improve COVID-19 preventive behaviors among the currently employed working-age population. In addition, appropriate interventions must be established and evaluated for the pandemic’s long-term effects.
Study of the Impact of Industrial Restructuring on the Spatial and Temporal Evolution of Carbon Emission Intensity in Chinese Provinces—Analysis of Mediating Effects Based on Technological Innovation
Authors: Wang Jianshi , Yu Shangkun , Li Mengcheng , Cheng Yu , Wang Chengxin
Published: October 2022

Global warming caused by greenhouse gas emissions seriously threatens a region’s sustainable environmental and socioeconomic development. Promoting industrial restructuring and strengthening technological innovation have become an important path to achieving pollution and carbon reduction as well as the green transformation of economic structure. This paper explored the mechanism of the mediating effect of technological innovation on industrial restructuring and carbon reduction while accounting for the direct effect of industrial restructuring on carbon emissions. Then, based on China’s provincial panel data from 2001 to 2019, we estimated the carbon emission intensity using the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC)’s methods and analyzed its spatiotemporal evolution characteristics. Finally, we constructed a fixed-effect model and a mediating effect model to empirically analyze how industrial restructuring and technological innovation affect carbon emission intensity. The results are as follows: (1) From 2001 to 2019, China’s carbon emission intensity showed a continuous downward trend, with a pronounced convergence trend; there were obvious differences in carbon emission intensity between eastern, central, and western regions (western region > central region > eastern region) due to the unbalanced industrial structure. (2) In terms of direct effects, industrial restructuring can significantly reduce carbon emission intensity. The intensity of the effect is inversely proportional to the level of industrial restructuring, and the results of sub-regional tests are similar. Nevertheless, there is an obvious regional difference in the size of the carbon emission reduction effect of industrial restructuring in the east, central, and western regions. (3) In terms of indirect effects, industrial restructuring can reduce carbon emission intensity by enhancing technological innovation, and it acts as a mediating variable in the process of industrial restructuring to reduce carbon emission. Finally, we put forward recommendations for promoting industrial restructuring, strengthening green technological innovation, and properly formulating carbon reduction measures to provide a reference for countries and regions to achieve the goals of carbon neutrality, carbon peaking, and high-quality economic development.
Exploring Mental Health and Holistic Healing through the Life Stories of Indigenous Youth Who Have Experienced Homelessness
Authors: Gabriel Mikaela D. , Mirza Sabina , Stewart Suzanne L.
Published: October 2022

Indigenous youth are the fastest growing population in Canada, yet are marked by profound and disproportionate personal, societal, political, and colonial barriers that predispose them to mental health challenges, employment and educational barriers, and experiences of housing insecurity and homelessness. It is only from the perspectives and experiences of Indigenous community members themselves that we can gain appropriate insights into effective supports, meaningful interventions, and accessible pathways to security. This paper will explore the mental health of Indigenous youth who are at risk of, or who have experienced, homelessness, as well as the lifelong perspectives, teachings, and guidance from Indigenous Elders and traditional knowledge keepers; their perspectives are weaved throughout, in order to provide a more effective means to addressing holistic healing and the mental health needs of Indigenous homeless youth. As educators, researchers and clinicians who have sought to understand this issue in more depth, our analysis aims to raise awareness about the complexities of Indigenous youth homelessness and push back against systemic barriers that contribute to homelessness, fail young people, and subject them to oppression. We also offer recommendations from a clinical perspective in order for clinicians, researchers and those working within communities to serve our Indigenous youth with a diverse set of methods that are tailored and ethical in their approach.
The Physical and Mental Well-Being of Medical Doctors in the Silesian Voivodeship
Authors: Niewiadomska Ewa , Łabuz-Roszak Beata , Pawłowski Piotr , Wypych-Ślusarska Agata
Published: October 2022

Physical and mental well-being are important determinants of medical doctors’ lives, including their professional activity, which has a direct impact on the health and lives of patients. The aim of the study was to assess the health condition of medical doctors from the Silesian Voivodeship. The physical health condition, including the prevalence of chronic diseases, drug therapy, and pro-health activities, was assessed. Data on mental health according to the HADS scale (hospital anxiety and depression scale) referred to the selected socio-economic and professional aspects of life, as well as life and job satisfaction. The doctors most often reported diseases of the circulatory system and diseases of endocrine system, nutritional status and metabolic changes, allergies, and degenerative changes in the musculoskeletal system and connective tissue. Chronic diseases and anxiety or depressive disorders affected doctors aged 50–80 years more frequently, and those doctors undertook preventive pro-health activities more often. The higher risks of anxiety and depression were related to their social and professional roles, lower economic status, overweight or obesity, chronic diseases, pharmacotherapy, diets, and chronic fatigue. On the other hand, frequent physical activity, a longer sleep duration, smaller weekly workload, type of rest, a higher sense of job satisfaction, and a higher level of life satisfaction reduced the risk of disorders. The health condition of medical doctors in the Silesian Voivodeship requires decisive remedial actions in the professional and non-professional spheres.
Prevalence of Antimicrobial Prescribing in Long-Term Care Facilities in a Local Health Authority of Northern Italy
Authors: Sarro Andrea , Di Nardo Francesco , Andreoletti Michela , Airoldi Chiara , Scotti Lorenza , Panella Massimiliano
Published: October 2022

Background: Almost half of antimicrobial prescriptions in long-term care facilities (LTCFs) is inappropriate. This broad use might represent a strong contributor to antimicrobial resistance in these facilities. This study aimed to assess antibiotic use patterns and potential associated factors with a survey of LTCFs in the local health authority (LHA) of Novara. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in 25 LTCFs in the LHA of Novara following the healthcare-associated infection in LCTFs (HALT) protocol. Information on residents and facilities was assessed. Antibiotic usage and potential determinants were also estimated. Results: In total, 1137 patients were screened for antibiotic usage. Mean age was 84.58 years (SD 9.77), and the majority were female (76.52%). Twenty-six were antibiotic users (prevalence rate 2.29%, 95%CI 1.50–3.33). Antimicrobials were mainly prescribed orally (84.62%). Potential risk factors for antibiotic prescription were catheter use (central and peripheral venous, p-values 0.0475 and 0.0034, respectively, and urinary, p-value 0.0008), immobilization (p-value < 0.0001), and sex (p-value 0.0486). Conclusions: This study identified a low prevalence of antimicrobic consumption in LTCFs. Further surveillance studies are warranted to identify trends and changes in pathogen incidence and antimicrobial resistance and to inform public health authorities on the necessity of prudent use of antimicrobials in LCTFs.
A Qualitative Evaluation of COVID-19 Preventative Response Activities in South Kivu, Democratic Republic of the Congo
Authors: Aubourg Matthew A. , Bisimwa Lucien , Bisimwa Jean Claude , Sanvura Presence , Williams Camille , Boroto Raissa , Lunyelunye Claude , Timsifu Jessy , Munyerenkana Brigitte , Endres Kelly , Winch Peter J. , Bengehya Justin , Maheshe Ghislain , Cikomola Cirhuza , Mwishingo Alain , George Christine Marie
Published: October 2022

Objective: In this evaluation of COVID-19 preventative response programs in South Kivu, Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), we aimed to explore community understandings of COVID-19, assess operational successes and challenges of COVID response activities, and identify barriers to practicing COVID-19 preventative behaviors. Methods: Thirty-one semi-structured interviews were conducted from April to September 2021 in South Kivu, DRC, with community members (n = 16) and programmatic stakeholders (n = 15) (healthcare providers, government officials, and developmental and NGO staff engaged in COVID-19 response). Findings: Most community members were aware of COVID-19 and its global burden, but few were aware of local transmission in their area. Some community members attributed COVID-19 to actions of malevolent neighbors, miasma (“bad air”), or spirits. Awareness of COVID-19 preventative measures was widespread, largely because of radio and TV health promotion programs. Community members and programmatic stakeholders both said community-level non-compliance to COVID-19 preventative measures was high despite high awareness of preventative methods. Community members expressed concern that face masks distributed as part of preventative programs contained the COVID-19 virus. Programmatic stakeholders emphasized the need for broader health system strengthening with improved coordination, provision of resources to health facilities at the provincial level, and prioritization of research. Lessons learned from addressing Ebola were leveraged for COVID-19 health promotion, rapid training of healthcare personnel, and surveillance. Conclusions: Community-informed approaches are needed for effective COVID-19 preventative response programs in South Kivu, DRC. Our study identified successes and challenges in COVID-19 response activities. Future research should assess the effectiveness of integrating preventive programs with COVID-19 vaccination efforts.
Adipose-Secreted Exosomes and Their Pathophysiologic Effects on Skeletal Muscle
Authors: Yue Binglin , Wang Hui , Cai Xin , Wang Jiabo , Chai Zhixin , Peng Wei , Shu Shi , Fu Changqi , Zhong Jincheng
Published: October 2022

Due to its prominent secretory activity, adipose tissue (AT) is now considered a major player in the crosstalk between organs, especially with skeletal muscle. In which, exosomes are effective carriers for the intercellular material transfer of a wide range of molecules that can influence a series of physiological and pathological processes in recipient cells. Considering their underlying roles, the regulatory mechanisms of adipose-secreted exosomes and their cellular crosstalk with skeletal muscle have received great attention in the field. In this review, we describe what is currently known of adipose-secreted exosomes, as well as their applications in skeletal muscle pathophysiology.
Effects of Low Intensity Pulsed Ultrasound Stimulation on the Temporal Dynamics of Irradiated Bone Tissue Healing: A Histomorphometric Study in Rabbits
Authors: Biewer Bob , Kleine-Borgmann Felix , Hammer Gaël P. , Rompen Eric H. , Mittelbronn Michel , Quatresooz Pascale
Published: October 2022

The present study evaluated the influence of Low-Intensity Pulsed Ultrasound (LIPUS) on the regeneration processes of non-critical-size bone defects in irradiated and non-irradiated rabbit tibias. Bone defects were surgically created on both tibiae of six rabbits. The control group had no additional treatment. In one intervention group, one tibia was irradiated with 15 Gy in a single dose. A second group was treated with LIPUS, and a third with a combination of both treatments. The control samples showed 83.10% ± 17.79% of bone repair after 9 weeks, while the irradiated bone had regenerated significantly less during the same period (66.42% ± 29.36%). The LIPUS treatment on irradiated bones performed a 79.21% ± 21.07% bone fill and could not significantly improve the response compared to the non-treated irradiated specimens. However, LIPUS treatment on non-irradiated bone showed bone formations beyond the size defect (115.91% ± 33.69%), which was a highly significant increase when compared to the control group or any irradiated group. The application of ultrasound to healthy bone produced highly significant and enhanced bone formations with 36.70% more regenerated bone when compared to the same application on irradiated bone. LIPUS vibration stimuli may be considered as a promising complementary treatment approach in non-irradiated bone regeneration procedures to shorten the treatment and enhance bone healing. In irradiated bones, the effect of ultrasound application is less clear, and further studies are needed to refine the dynamics of the present results.
Short Peptides of Innate Immunity Protein Tag7 Inhibit the Production of Cytokines in CFA-Induced Arthritis
Authors: Telegin Georgii B. , Chernov Aleksandr S. , Minakov Alexey N. , Balmasova Irina P. , Romanova Elena A. , Sharapova Tatiana N. , Sashchenko Lidia P. , Yashin Denis V.
Published: October 2022

The pathogenesis of autoimmune arthritis is a hot topic in current research. The main focus of this work was to study cytokines released in CFA-induced arthritis in ICR mice as well as the regulation of blood levels of cytokines by two peptides of the innate immunity protein Tag7 (PGLYRP1) capable of blocking the activation of the TNFR1 receptor. Arthritis was induced by local periarticular single-dose injections of 40 µL of complete Freund’s adjuvant (CFA) into the left ankle joints of mice. The levels of chemokines and cytokines in plasma were measured using a Bio-Plex Pro Mouse Cytokine Kit at 3, 10, and 21 days after arthritis induction. Tag7 peptides were shown to decrease the blood levels of the pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-6, TNF, and IL-1β. Administration of peptides also decreased the levels of chemokines MGSA/CXCL1, MIP-2α/CXCL2, ENA78/CXCL5, MIG/CXCL9, IP-10/CXCL10, MCP-1/CCL2, and RANTES/CCL5. Furthermore, a decrease in the levels of cytokines IL7, G-CSF, and M-CSF was demonstrated. Addition of the studied peptides strongly affected IFN-γ concentration. We believe that a decrease in the levels of cytokine IFN-γ was associated with a therapeutic effect of Tag7 peptides manifested in alleviation of the destruction of cartilage and bone tissues in the CFA-induced arthritis.
A Challenge toward Novel Quaternary Sulfides SrLnCuS3 (Ln = La, Nd, Tm): Unraveling Synthetic Pathways, Structures and Properties
Authors: Ruseikina Anna V. , Grigoriev Maxim V. , Solovyov Leonid A. , Chernyshev Vladimir A. , Aleksandrovsky Aleksandr S. , Krylov Alexander S. , Krylova Svetlana N. , Shestakov Nikolai P. , Velikanov Dmitriy A. , Garmonov Alexander A. , Matigorov Alexey V. , Eberle Marcel A. , Schleid Thomas , Safin Damir A.
Published: October 2022

We report on the novel heterometallic quaternary sulfides SrLnCuS3 (Ln = La, Nd, Tm), obtained as both single crystals and powdered samples. The structures of both the single crystal and powdered samples of SrLaCuS3 and SrNdCuS3 belong to the orthorhombic space group Pnma but are of different structural types, while both samples of SrTmCuS3 crystallize in the orthorhombic space group Cmcm with the structural type KZrCuS3. Three-dimensional crystal structures of SrLaCuS3 and SrNdCuS3 are formed from the (Sr/Ln)S7 capped trigonal prisms and CuS4 tetrahedra. In SrLaCuS3, alternating 2D layers are stacked, while the main backbone of the structure of SrNdCuS3 is a polymeric 3D framework [(Sr/Ln)S7]n, strengthened by 1D polymeric chains (CuS4)n with 1D channels, filled by the other Sr2+/Ln3+ cations, which, in turn, form 1D dimeric ribbons. A 3D crystal structure of SrTmCuS3 is constructed from the SrS6 trigonal prisms, TmS6 octahedra and CuS4 tetrahedra. The latter two polyhedra are packed together into 2D layers, which are separated by 1D chains (SrS6)n and 1D free channels. In both crystal structures of SrLaCuS3 obtained in this work, the crystallographic positions of strontium and lanthanum were partially mixed, while only in the structure of SrNdCuS3, solved from the powder X-ray diffraction data, were the crystallographic positions of strontium and neodymium partially mixed. Band gaps of SrLnCuS3 (Ln = La, Nd, Tm) were found to be 1.86, 1.94 and 2.57 eV, respectively. Both SrNdCuS3 and SrTmCuS3 were found to be paramagnetic at 20–300 K, with the experimental magnetic characteristics being in good agreement with the corresponding calculated parameters.
The Merits, Limitations, and Future Directions of Cost-Effectiveness Analysis in Cardiac MRI with a Focus on Coronary Artery Disease: A Literature Review
Authors: Siddiqui Taha A. , Chamarti Kiran S. , Tou Leila C. , Demirjian Gregory A. , Noorani Sarah , Zink Sydney , Umair Muhammad
Published: October 2022

Cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging has a wide range of clinical applications with a high degree of accuracy for many myocardial pathologies. Recent literature has shown great utility of CMR in diagnosing many diseases, often changing the course of treatment. Despite this, it is often underutilized possibly due to perceived costs, limiting patient factors and comfort, and longer examination periods compared to other imaging modalities. In this regard, we conducted a literature review using keywords “Cost-Effectiveness” and “Cardiac MRI” and selected articles from the PubMed MEDLINE database that met our inclusion and exclusion criteria to examine the cost-effectiveness of CMR. Our search result yielded 17 articles included in our review. We found that CMR can be cost-effective in quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) in select patient populations with various cardiac pathologies. Specifically, the use of CMR in coronary artery disease (CAD) patients with a pretest probability below a certain threshold may be more cost-effective compared to patients with a higher pretest probability, although its use can be limited based on geographic location, professional society guidelines, and differing reimbursement patterns. In addition, a stepwise combination of different imaging modalities, with conjunction of AHA/ACC guidelines can further enhance the cost-effectiveness of CMR.
Calibrating the Attack to Sensitivity in Differentially Private Mechanisms
Authors: Ünsal Ayşe , Önen Melek
Published: October 2022

This work studies the power of adversarial attacks against machine learning algorithms that use differentially private mechanisms as their weapon. In our setting, the adversary aims to modify the content of a statistical dataset via insertion of additional data without being detected by using the differential privacy to her/his own benefit. The goal of this study is to evaluate how easy it is to detect such attacks (anomalies) when the adversary makes use of Gaussian and Laplacian perturbation using both statistical and information-theoretic tools. To this end, firstly via hypothesis testing, we characterize statistical thresholds for the adversary in various settings, which balances the privacy budget and the impact of the attack (the modification applied on the original data) in order to avoid being detected. In addition, we establish the privacy-distortion trade-off in the sense of the well-known rate-distortion function for the Gaussian mechanism by using an information-theoretic approach. Accordingly, we derive an upper bound on the variance of the attacker’s additional data as a function of the sensitivity and the original data’s second-order statistics. Lastly, we introduce a new privacy metric based on Chernoff information for anomaly detection under differential privacy as a stronger alternative for the (ϵ,δ)-differential privacy in Gaussian mechanisms. Analytical results are supported by numerical evaluations.
Enhanced Photocatalytic Degradation of Amoxicillin with Mn-Doped Cu2O under Sunlight Irradiation
Authors: Gaim Yohannes Teklemariam , Yimanuh Simachew Mekides , Kidanu Zaid Girmay
Published: October 2022

In this work, we report the synthesis of Mn-doped Cu2O nanoparticles using aloe vera leaves extract. X-ray diffraction data revealed that the Mn-doped Cu2O crystals have a cubic crystal structure. The surface morphology of the as-synthesized catalyst indicated truncated octahedral and spherical-like shapes. The photocatalytic activity of the catalyst is efficient at pH 9, initial concentration of amoxicillin 15 mg/L, and photocatalyst dosage 1 g/L under sunlight irradiation. 92% of amoxicillin was degraded in the presence of Mn-doped Cu2O. The enhancement in photocatalytic performance is due to the incorporation of Mn, which delays the rapid recombination rate by trapping the photogenerated electron. Therefore, Mn-doped Cu2O could remove pharmaceuticals from pharmaceutical factory and hospital wastes.
The Population Flow under Regional Cooperation of “City-Helps-City”: The Case of Mountain-Sea Project in Zhejiang
Authors: Xu Yuanshuo , Zhu Yiwen , Wu Yan , Wang Xiaoliang , Zhang Weiwen
Published: October 2022

Regional cooperation has been increasingly recognized as indispensable in promoting coordinated regional development in China’s new urbanization. The “city-helps-city” cooperation arises as an important type of regional approach to reduce regional inequalities. This study focuses on the “city-helps-city” cooperation of the Mountain-Sea Cooperation Project in Zhejiang province and aims to examine how this type of cooperation affects the interjurisdictional linkages of backward places. First, based on the cellphone signaling data from China Mobile and social network analysis, we capture the interjurisdictional linkages represented by the population flow between poverty counties and other municipalities as our dependent variables, which are expected to be stimulated by the regional cooperation of Mountain-Sea projects. Second, through text semantic analysis on the news data of Mountain-Sea cooperation, we further identify three measures of cooperation, including the diversity of cooperation fields, the intensity of different cooperation focuses, and the legitimacy of cooperation as our main explanatory variables. Last, we run regression models to show differentiated impacts of cooperation diversity, intensity, and legitimacy on the linkages between poverty counties and developed places. The findings interrogate whether and how Mountain-Sea cooperation effectively engages backward localities in the regional network of economic production, social affairs, and institutional arrangements to enhance their linkages with other places. This study not only contributes to theoretical and empirical understandings of the state-driven “city-helps-city” cooperation as the new regional institution in transitional China, but also attempts to provide policy implications on reducing regional inequalities from the perspective of intercity cooperation.
Molecular and Morphological Characterization of Eimeria crandallis Isolated from Deer (Cervidae) in Different Captive Animals
Authors: Hafeez Mian Abdul , Sattar Adeel , Khalid Kiran , Khalid Abdur Rauf , Mahmood Muhammad Shahid , Aleem Muhammad Tahir , Ashraf Kamran , Aslam Faiza , Alouffi Abdulaziz , Mohammed Aymen , Almutairi Mashal M. , ul Haq Muhammad Ikram
Published: October 2022

Coccidiosis is a protozoan disease that is characterized by diffuse diarrhea, dehydration, emaciation accompanied by moderate morbidity and mild mortality in animals and birds. The current study targeted the molecular characterization of Eimeria isolates in captive deer from different localities in Lahore. The host species was the Cervidae family, such as Hog deer (Axis porcinus) and Punjab urial (Ovis aries vignei). The Eimeria crandallis was isolated from zoo animals. The DNA was extracted from oocysts and amplified by using reported oligonucleotide primers that exhibited the 809 bp product. These were analyzed by using the small subunit 18S rRNA gene-based evolutionary relationship with 36 other Eimeria species reported in caprine, cervinae, bovines, avians, and rodents. Light microscopic examination exhibited 3.29% (7/213) Eimeria-positive fecal samples with morphological features, including sub-spherical forms, the presence of micropyle with polar cap, and oocysts diameters (μm) ranging from 24.32 ± 1.61 to 18.94 ± 1.51. The phylogenetic tree constitutes four distinct clusters with relatively higher values. The evolutionary network showed that sequences were clustered in the monophyletic group of Eimeria species reported in caprine and cervinae. The nucleotide and amino acid sequence similarity matrix analysis exhibited 99.5–99.9% identity of the study isolates with Eimeria crandallis (AF336339). This study provides relevant baseline data to develop strategic control measures for coccidiosis in zoo animals. However, further investigations are required to place the hog deer and Punjab urial-derived E. crandallis into the caprine-originated cluster.
Metamaterials for Wireless Power Transfer: A New Open Special Issue in Materials
Authors: Li Long , Liu Minghai , Li Yunhui , Rong Cancan
Published: October 2022

Metamaterials for Wireless Power Transfer is a new open Special Issue of Materials, which aims to publish original and review papers on new scientific and applied research and make great contributions to the finding and understanding of the use of metamaterials for wireless power transfer (WPT) and related fundamentals, characterization, and applications [...]
The Joining of Copper to Stainless Steel by Solid-State Welding Processes: A Review
Authors: Joshi Gaurang R. , Badheka Vishvesh J. , Darji Raghavendra S. , Oza Ankit D. , Pathak Vivek J. , Burduhos-Nergis Dumitru Doru , Burduhos-Nergis Diana Petronela , Narwade Gautam , Thirunavukarasu Gopinath
Published: October 2022

Joining immiscible materials such as copper and stainless steel together is a significant concern due to distinct mechanical and metallurgical properties across the joint line, such as melting points, the coefficient of linear thermal expansion, and thermal conductivity. The joint properties of copper to stainless steel welds are in great demand for various mechanical components of the international thermonuclear experimental reactor, ultra-high vacuum system, plan wave linear-accelerator or linac structure, and heat exchanger. These dissimilar-metals joints offer excellent flexibility in design and production, leading to a robust structure for many cutting-edge applications. Hence, the present article reviews the copper to stainless steel joining mechanism under different solid-state processing conditions. The present understanding says that defect-free strong joints between the dissimilar metals are systematically possible. Apart from this understanding, the authors have identified and highlighted the gaps in the research exploration to date. Moreover, a sustainable methodology to achieve a desirable weld of copper to stainless steel depends on favorable processing conditions.
The Experimental Investigation on Mechanics and Damage Characteristics of the Aeolian Sand Paste-like Backfill Materials Based on Acoustic Emission
Authors: Shao Xiaoping , Tian Chuang , Li Chao , Fang Zhiyu , Zhao Bingchao , Xu Baowa , Ning Jianbo , Li Longqing , Tang Renlong
Published: October 2022

With the wide application of the filling mining method, it is necessary to consider the influence of rock activity on the filling body, reflected in the laboratory, that is, the influence of loading rate. Therefore, to explore the response characteristics of loading rate on the mechanical and damage characteristics of aeolian sand paste filling body, DNS100 electronic universal testing machine and DS5-16B acoustic emission (AE) monitoring system were used to monitor the stress–strain changes and AE characteristic parameters changes of aeolian sand paste filling body during uniaxial compression, and the theoretical model of filling sample damage considering loading rate was established based on AE parameters. The experimental results show that: (1) With the increase in loading rate, the uniaxial compressive strength and elastic modulus of aeolian sand paste-like materials (ASPM) specimens are significantly improved. ASPM specimens have ductile failure characteristics, and the failure mode is unidirectional shear failure → tensile failure → bidirectional shear failure. (2) When the loading rate is low, the AE event points of ASPM specimens are more dispersed, and the large energy points are less. At high loading rates, the AE large energy events are more concentrated in the upper part, and the lower part is more distributed. (3) The proportion of the initial active stage is negatively correlated with the loading rate, and the proportion of the active stage is positively correlated with the loading rate. The total number of AE cumulative ringing decreases with the increase in loading rate. (4) Taking time as an intermediate variable, the coupling relationship between ASPM strain considering loading rate and the AE cumulative ringing count is constructed, and the damage and stress coupling model of ASPM specimen considering loading rate is further deduced. Comparing the theoretical model with the experimental results shows that the model can effectively reflect the damage evolution process of ASPM specimens during loading, especially at high loading rates. The research results have significant reference value for subsequent strength design of filling material, selection of laboratory loading rate and quality monitoring, and early warning of filling body in goaf.
Experimental and Numerical Evaluation on the Performance of Perfobond Leiste Shear Connectors in Steel–SFRCC Composite Beams
Authors: Peng Kai , Liu Laijun , Wu Fangwen , Lei Song , Cao Jincheng , Fan Xiangyan , Wang Xuan
Published: October 2022

The difference between the shear performances of Perfobond Leiste (PBL) shear connectors embedded in steel fiber-reinforced cementitious composite (SFRCC) structure and normal strength concrete (NC) structure was investigated by push-out tests and finite element (FE) simulations. Push-out tests were carried out on nine steel-SFRCC specimens and nine steel-NC specimens. The mechanical behavior of the PBL shear connector was examined according to the failure modes, load-slip curves, and strain distribution laws of the push-out specimens. Experimental results revealed that the extension of cracks in SFRCC was hindered by steel fibers, and the number and width of cracks in SFRCC were smaller than those in NC. The failure mode of the steel-SFRCC specimens and the single-hole steel-NC specimens was the shear failure of the penetrating reinforcement, whereas that of the multi-hole NC specimens was concrete slab cracking. The ultimate shear bearing capacity of PBL shear connectors in the steel-SFRCC specimens was 47.8% greater than that in the steel-NC specimens. Furthermore, an FE model verified by the test results was established to conduct parametric analyses. It was found that the hole diameter and thickness of the steel plate and the yield strength of the penetrating rebar greatly affected the shear bearing capacity of PBL shear connectors. Finally, based on the experimental and FE simulation results, an expression for calculating the ultimate shear bearing capacity of PBL shear connectors in the steel-SFRCC composite structure was developed by considering the bearing effects of concrete dowels, penetrating rebars, and end parts.
Mechanical Performance of Fly Ash Based Geopolymer (FAG) as Road Base Stabilizer
Authors: Sofri Liyana Ahmad , Abdullah Mohd Mustafa Al Bakri , Sandu Andrei Victor , Imjai Thanongsak , Vizureanu Petrica , Hasan Mohd Rosli Mohd , Almadani Mohammad , Aziz Ikmal Hakem Ab , Rahman Farahiyah Abdul
Published: October 2022

This study examines the strength development of fly ash-based geopolymer (FAG) as a stabilizer for road base material for pavement construction. In the last decade, there has been a rapid development of conventionally treated bases, such as cement-treated bases. However, a major problem with this kind of application is the shrinkage cracking in cement-treated bases that may result in the reflection cracks on the asphalt pavement surface. This study explores the effects of FAG on base layer properties using mechanistic laboratory evaluation and its practicability in pavement base layers. The investigated properties are flexural strength (FS), unconfined compressive strength (UCS), shrinkage, and resilient modulus (RM), as well as indirect tensile strength (ITS). The findings showed that the mechanical properties of the mixture enhanced when FAG was added to 80–85% of crushed aggregate, with the UCS being shown to be a crucial quality parameter. The effectiveness of FAG base material can have an impact on the flexible pavements’ overall performance since the base course stiffness directly depends on the base material properties. As a stabilizing agent for flexible pavement applications, the FAG-stabilized base appeared promising, predicated on test outcomes.
Synthesis of Fluorinated and Fluoroalkylated Heterocycles Containing at Least One Sulfur Atom via Cycloaddition Reactions
Authors: Mlostoń Grzegorz , Shermolovich Yuriy , Heimgartner Heinz
Published: October 2022

Fluorinated heterocycles constitute an important group of organic compounds with a rapidly growing number of applications in such areas as medicinal chemistry, agrochemicals production, polymer chemistry, as well as chemistry of advanced materials. In the latter case, fluorinated thiophenes are considered as a lead class of compounds with numerous spectacular applications. On the other hand, cycloaddition reactions offer a superior methodology for stereo-chemically controlled synthesis of heterocycles with a diverse ring size and a variable number of heteroatoms. A comprehensive review of methods based on cycloaddition reactions and applied for construction of fluorinated and/or fluoroalkylated S-heterocycles has not yet been published. For this reason, the main goal of the presented review was to fill the existing gap and to summarize the results published over last six decades. In this context, the [3+2]- and [4+2]-cycloadditions (Huisgen reactions, and Diels–Alder reactions, respectively) are of special importance. Some questions related to the discussed mechanisms of cycloaddition processes observed in reactions with electron deficient, fluorinated substrates (dipolarophiles and dienophiles), and electron-rich sulfur containing counter partners, are of fundamental importance for the development of interpretations of organic reaction mechanisms.
Fractional Order Dual-Phase-Lag Model of Heat Conduction in a Composite Spherical Medium
Authors: Kukla Stanisław , Siedlecka Urszula , Ciesielski Mariusz
Published: October 2022

In the paper, a solution of the fractional dual-phase-lag heat conduction problem is presented. The considerations are related to the heat conduction in a multi-layered spherical medium with azimuthal symmetry. The final form of the analytical solution is given in a form of the double series of spherical Bessel functions and Legendre functions. Numerical calculations concern the study of the effect of the order of the Caputo derivative on the temperature distribution in a composite solid sphere, hemisphere and spherical cone.
Study Progress on Inorganic Fibers from Industry Solid Wastes and the Key Factors Determining Their Characteristics
Authors: Zhang Jincai , Xu Xing , Cheng Fangqin , Ramakrishna Seeram
Published: October 2022

Compared to basalt and glass fibers, the production of inorganic fiber from industry solid wastes is an effective method to not only save natural resources but also recycle waste resources. Because the preparation of the fibers requires high temperature treatment, the production process is associated with high energy consumption and high carbon emissions. How to resolve these problems is a current research challenge in this field. Herein, we reviewed the study progress on these fibers and further discussed the key factors determining their characteristics, including chemical composition, melt structure, and viscosity of melt. In production, the matching of solid waste blends containing enough total content of SiO2 and Al2O3, and a suitable amount of MgO and CaO, is beneficial to the structure control of the melt. The study found that the melt consisted of Q2 and Q3; and that Q3 content more than Q2 was more suitable for fiber production and its performance improvement. Such a melt structure can be achieved by controlling the degree of depolymerization and the temperature. New ultrasonic technology can shorten the homogenization time; its application is hoped to save energy and reduce carbon emissions. These conclusions will offer important guidance for the development of inorganic fibers from industry solid wastes in the future.