bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Density Functional Theory Study of Oxygen Evolution Reaction Mechanism on Rare Earth Sc-Doped Graphene
Authors: Liu Yiwen , Liao Mengqi , Hu Yuting , Lee Tae-Gwan , Koutavarapu Ravindranadh , Peera Shaik Gouse , Liu Chao
Published: March 2023

The development of a stable catalyst with excellent catalytic performance for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) in alkaline environments is a key reaction in various electrochemical technologies. In this work, single-atom catalysts (SACs) systems in which scandium (Sc), a rare earth metal, with different N/C coordination environments (ScNxC3−x@SACs and ScNxC4−x@SACs of Sc) were systematically studied with the help of density functional theory (DFT) calculations. The results of the structural thermodynamic stability analysis indicated that the ScNxC3−x@SACs and ScNxC4−x@SACs systems are more stable with increasing N atom doping concentration around Sc. The ScN3, ScN3C, and ScN4 with better stability were selected as the objects of subsequent research. However, ScN3 and ScN4 form Sc(OH)2N3 and Sc(OH)2N4 structures with double-hydroxyl groups as ligands because of the strong adsorption of OH species, whereas the strong adsorption of OH species by ScN3C causes structural instability. Here, the overpotential (η) of Sc(OH)2N3 was 1.03 V; Sc(OH)2N4 had two reaction paths and the η of path 1 was 0.80 V, which was 0.30 V lower than that of path 2. Therefore, Sc(OH)2N4 can be used as a stable and promising OER catalyst with easy desorption of O2 and good cycle performance. The hydroxyl ligand modification of Sc-NxC3−x@SACs and Sc-NxC4−x@SACs provides a method for studying the catalytic performance of other rare earth elements.
Comparing the Cold-Cranking Performance of Lead-Acid and Lithium Iron Phosphate Batteries at Temperatures below 0 °C
Authors: Bauknecht Sophia , Wätzold Florian , Schlösser Anton , Kowal Julia
Published: March 2023

Six test cells, two lead–acid batteries (LABs), and four lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries have been tested regarding their capacity at various temperatures (25 °C, 0 °C, and −18 °C) and regarding their cold crank capability at low temperatures (0 °C, −10 °C, −18 °C, and −30 °C). During the capacity test, the LFP batteries have a higher voltage level at all temperatures than LABs, which results in a higher power and energy output. Moreover, LFP batteries have a lower capacity decline and a lower energy decline for decreasing temperature. Regarding the cold-cranking test definition, the LABs passed the test at 0 °C, −10 °C, and −18 °C, but not at −30 °C. The LFP batteries passed the test at 0 °C and −10 °C. At −18 °C, only two of the four LFP batteries passed, while all LFP batteries failed the test at −30 °C. For comparability between technologies, it is suggested to redefine the requirements of the standard test in terms of power or energy. With this redefinition, the LFP battery can generate comparable cold-cranking results till −18 °C.
Chinese Digital Arm (CDA): A High-Precision Digital Arm for Electrical Stimulation Simulation
Authors: Zhang Shuang , Wang Jiujiang , Yu Yuanyu , Wu Lin , Zhang Tao
Published: March 2023

To effectively analyze the diffusion and accumulation of signals on the surface and inside the human body under electrical stimulation, we used the gray threshold of the Chinese Digital Human image dataset to segment an arm image and reconstruct the tissue to obtain its three-dimensional cloud point dataset. Finally, a semirefined digital arm entity model with the geometric characteristics of the actual human arm tissue was constructed using reverse engineering technology. Further input of the current signal stimulation under tDCS and tACS with additional analysis of the signal diffusion in the transient mode via model calculation revealed that DC electrical stimulation is likely to cause high-voltage burns. The effective depth achieved using the AC stimulation signal is considerable, and provides reference for the electrical stimulation selection. Simultaneously, in the digital arm model, the signal diffusion and tissue damage inside the arm can be analyzed by changing the field, which provides a theoretical basis for the experimental study of the human body.
Capturing in Season Change-of-Direction Movement Pattern Change in Youth Soccer Players with Inertial Measurement Units
Authors: Alanen Aki-Matti , Bruce Olivia L. , Benson Lauren C. , Chin Mathieu , van den Berg Carla , Jordan Matthew J. , Ferber Reed , Pasanen Kati
Published: March 2023

This study aimed to examine the utility of inertial measurement unit (IMU) technology to identify angle, step-specific, and side-specific differences between youth soccer players with and without a history of lower limb injury during soccer-specific field tests. Thirty-two youths (mean age 16.4 years) who were elite soccer players (Females n = 13, Males n = 19) wore IMUs during pre- and postseason soccer-specific change-of-direction assessments. A response feature analysis was used to compare the change in peak resultant acceleration of the groups at a level of significance of p < 0.05. Statistical analysis revealed significant differences in change of peak resultant acceleration of right leg final foot contact in a 180° pivot turn (p = 0.012, ES = 1.0) and a 90° cut (p = 0.04, ES = 0.75) between the two groups. These data suggest that players with a history of lower limb injury might experience greater angle and side-specific change within a season in peak resultant acceleration when compared with injury-free athletes. This study demonstrates that IMUs may present a useful method to analyze youth soccer players’ change of direction movement after returning to play. These results can inform future studies investigating player monitoring and may prove to be a useful tool for coaches when designing individualized training programs in this population.
Conceptualization of Biomimicry in Engineering Context among Undergraduate and High School Students: An International Interdisciplinary Exploration
Authors: Yeter Ibrahim H. , Tan Valerie Si Qi , Le Ferrand Hortense
Published: March 2023

Biomimicry is an interdisciplinary design approach that provides solutions to engineering problems by taking inspiration from nature. Given the established importance of biomimicry for building a sustainable world, there is a need to develop effective curricula on this topic. In this study, a workshop was conducted twice in Singapore: once with 14 students from a local high school in Singapore, and once with 11 undergraduate students in engineering from the United States. The workshop aimed to better understand how students conceptualize biomimicry following the bottom-up and top-down biomimetic methods. The workshop contained a lecture and laboratory session, and data were collected via questionnaires, field observation, and participant presentations at the end of the laboratory session. A qualitative analysis revealed that the top-down biomimetic approach was initially understood using vague and generic terms. In contrast, the students described the bottom-up approach using precise and technical vocabulary. By naming the themes highlighting the students’ conceptualizations, it was concluded that strengthening the principle that makes the natural object unique and increasing interdisciplinary knowledge are needed to help them perform the top-down approach. The results from this work should be confirmed with a more significant number of participants, and they could help develop a curriculum to teach the two approaches effectively by providing tools to help the students generalize their ideas and abstract meaning from systems.
Comparison of Empirical Zn2+ Models in Protein–DNA Complexes
Authors: Volkenandt Senta , Imhof Petra
Published: March 2023

Zinc ions are the second most abundant ions found in humans. Their role in proteins can be merely structural but also catalytic, owing to their transition metal character. Modelling their geometric–coordination versatility by empirical force fields is, thus, a challenging task. In this work, we evaluated three popular models, specifically designed to represent zinc ions with regard to their capability of preserving structural integrity. To this end, we performed molecular dynamics simulations of two zinc-containing protein–DNA complexes, which differed in their zinc coordination, i.e., four cysteines or two cysteines and two histidines. The most flexible non-bonded 12-6-4 Lennard–Jones-type model shows a preference for six-fold coordination of the Zn2+-ions in contradiction to the crystal structure. The cationic dummy atom model favours tetrahedral geometry, whereas the bonded extended zinc AMBER force field model, by construction, best preserves the initial geometry of a regular or slightly distorted tetrahedron. Our data renders the extended zinc AMBER force field the best model for structural zinc ions in a given geometry. In more complicated cases, though, more flexible models may be advantageous.
Optimization of Melanin Production by Streptomyces antibioticus NRRL B-1701 Using Arthrospira (Spirulina) platensis Residues Hydrolysates as Low-Cost L-tyrosine Supplement
Authors: Kraseasintra Oranit , Sensupa Sritip , Mahanil Kanjana , Yoosathaporn Sada , Pekkoh Jeeraporn , Srinuanpan Sirasit , Pathom-aree Wasu , Pumas Chayakorn
Published: March 2023

Melanin is a functional pigment that is used in various products. It can be produced by Streptomyces antibioticus NRRL B-1701 when supplemented with L-tyrosine. Arthrospira (Spirulina) platensis is a cyanobacterium with high protein content, including the protein phycocyanin (PC). During PC’s extraction, biomass residues are generated, and these residues still contain various amino acids, especially L-tyrosine, which can be used as a low-cost supplement for melanin production. Thus, this study employed a hydrolysate of A. platensis biomass residue for L-tyrosine substitution. The effects of two drying methods, namely, lyophilization and dying via a hot air oven, on the proximate composition and content of L-tyrosine in the biomass residue were evaluated. The highest L-tyrosine (0.268 g L-tyrosine/100 g dried biomass) concentration was obtained from a hot-air-oven-dried biomass residue hydrolysate (HAO-DBRH). The HAO-DBRH was then used as a low-cost L-tyrosine supplement for maximizing melanin production, which was optimized by the response surface methodology (RSM) through central composite design (CCD). Using the RSM–CCD, the maximum level of melanin production achieved was 0.24 g/L, which is approximately four times higher than it was before optimization. This result suggests that A. platensis residue hydrolysate could be an economically feasible and low-cost alternative source of L-tyrosine for the production of melanin.
Has Anything Changed in the Frequency of Emergency Department Visits and the Profile of the Adolescent Seeking Emergency Mental Care during the COVID-19 Pandemic?
Authors: Ferro Valentina , Averna Roberto , Murciano Manuel , Raucci Umberto , Cristaldi Sebastian , Musolino Anna Maria Caterina , Pontillo Maria , Della Vecchia Nicoletta , Labonia Milena , Pisani Mara , Pucciarini Maria Laura , Nacca Raffaella , Reale Antonino , Vicari Stefano , Villani Alberto , Raponi Massimiliano
Published: March 2023

We described changes caused by the COVID-19 pandemic in the frequency of Emergency Department (ED) visits for mental health disorders (MHDs) in adolescents on a wider temporal range—that is, not just “the waves” of the pandemic—and characterized the profile of the adolescent seeking emergency psychiatric care. We conducted a retrospective longitudinal study by analyzing ED visits for MHDs from 10 March 2019 to 10 March 2021. A total of 1407 ED visits for MHDs were registered: 702 in the pre-COVID-19 and 707 in the COVID-19 period. The cumulative incidence of ED visits for MHDs was 1.22% in the pre-COVID-19 period and 1.77% in the COVID-19 period, with a statistically significant difference (p < 0.001). The principal characteristics of the adolescent with MHDs during the pandemic period: the odds of comorbidities decreased by 26% (p = 0.02), and the odds of transfer from other hospitals decreased by 71% (p < 0.001), while the odds of the ED presentation as first psychiatric episode were twice greater (p < 0.001). The risk of hospitalization increased by 54% (p = 0.001). Regarding psychopathology, the likelihood of attempted suicide increased by 74% during the pandemic (p = 0.02). The rate of mood and eating disorders grew significantly during the COVID-19 pandemic period (p = 0.005 and p = 0.031, respectively). Monitoring ED visits for MHDs and understanding changes in the profile of adolescents presenting to ED helps to reinforce the role of ED in identifying special clinical needs for these vulnerable patients in case of a future public health crisis.
Treatment of Fracture-Related Infections with Bone Abscess Formation after K-Wire Fixation of Pediatric Distal Radius Fractures in Adolescents—A Report of Two Clinical Cases
Authors: Scharf Markus , Walter Nike , Rupp Markus , Alt Volker
Published: March 2023

Closed reduction and K-wire fixation of displaced distal radius fractures in children and adolescents is an established and successful surgical procedure. Fracture-related infections after K-wire fixation are rare but can have significant consequences for the patient. There is a lack of literature on the treatment of K-wire-associated fracture-related infections in children and adolescents. Herein, we report two cases of fracture-related infection after initial closed reduction and Kirschner wire fixation in two adolescents. One 13-year-old boy and one 11-year-old girl were seen for fracture-related infections 4 and 8 weeks after closed reduction and percutaneous K-wire fixation of a distal radius, respectively. X-ray and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed a healed fracture with osteolytic changes in the metaphyseal radius with periosteal reaction and abscess formation of the surrounding soft tissue structures. A two-staged procedure was performed with adequate debridement of the bone and dead space management with an antibiotic-loaded polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) spacer at stage 1. After infection control, the spacer was removed and the defect was filled with autologous bone in one case and with a calcium sulphate–hydroxyapatite biomaterial in the other case. In each of the two patients, the infection was controlled and a stable consolidation of the distal radius in good alignment was achieved. In one case, the epiphyseal plate was impaired by the infection and premature closure of the epiphyseal plate was noted resulting in a post-infection ulna plus variant. In conclusion, a fracture-related infection after Kirschner wire fixation of pediatric distal radius fractures is a rare complication but can occur. A two-stage procedure with infection control and subsequent bone defect reconstruction was successful in the presented two cases. Premature closure of the epiphyseal growth plate of the distal radius is a potential complication.
Natural History of Hazelnut Allergy and Current Approach to Its Diagnosis and Treatment
Authors: Giannetti Arianna , Ruggi Alessandro , Ricci Giampaolo , Giannì Giuliana , Caffarelli Carlo
Published: March 2023

Hazelnut allergy is the most prevalent type of nut allergy in Europe, with symptoms that can range from mild, such as hives and itching, to severe, such as anaphylaxis, particularly in patients who are sensitized to highly stable allergens, such as storage proteins. Compared to other types of food allergies, allergies to tree nuts, including hazelnuts, tend to persist throughout life. Although symptoms can appear in early childhood, they often continue into adulthood, with a minority of cases improving during adolescence. Currently, there is no curative treatment available for hazelnut allergy, and patients must adhere to a restrictive diet and carry autoinjective epinephrine. However, oral allergen immunotherapy (AIT) is a promising treatment option. Patients can be categorized based on their risk for severe reactions using various clinical, in vivo, and in vitro tests, including component-resolved diagnosis and oral food challenge. This review aims to provide an overview of the current knowledge of the natural history of hazelnut allergy and new approaches for its diagnosis and management.
Impact of Extubation Time on Feeding Outcomes after Neonatal Cardiac Surgery: A Single-Center Study
Authors: Kepple Jeffrey W. , Kendall Meghan , Ortmann Laura A.
Published: March 2023

This study aimed to examine the impact of timing of extubation on feeding outcomes in neonates after surgery for congenital heart disease. This was a single-center retrospective study between December 2014 and June 2020. Patients were divided into three categories: extubated in the OR (immediate), extubated in the intensive care unit (ICU) between 0 and 3 days post-procedure (early), and extubated >3 days post-procedure (delayed). Comparing the immediate and early groups, we found no difference in time to first enteral feed (1.3 days (1.0–3.4) vs. 2.3 days (1.1–3.3), p = 0.27). There was no difference in time to first oral feed (2.0 days (1.1–4.5) vs. 3.1 days (1.8–4.4), p = 0.34) and time to goal feed (6.0 days (3.2–8.3) vs. 6.9 days (5.0–9.0), p = 0.15)). There was no difference in all oral feeds at one year: 88% vs. 98%, p = 0.16. The delayed extubation group performed significantly worse on all measures. Immediate and early extubation displayed no differences in feeding outcomes and length of stay in this study, while delayed extubation performed worse on all measures. Thus, we believe that clinicians should emphasize extubation within 3 days post-surgery to improve feeding outcomes while minimizing time hospitalized.
Mutant K-Ras in Pancreatic Cancer: An Insight on the Role of Wild-Type N-Ras and K-Ras-Dependent Cell Cycle Regulation
Authors: Ferguson Robert , Aughton Karen , Evans Anthony , Shaw Victoria , Armstrong Jane , Ware Adam , Bennett Laura , Costello Eithne , Greenhalf William
Published: March 2023

The development of K-Ras independence may explain the failure of targeted therapy for pancreatic cancer (PC). In this paper, active N as well as K-Ras was shown in all human cell lines tested. In a cell line dependent on mutant K-Ras, it was shown that depleting K-Ras reduced total Ras activity, while cell lines described as independent had no significant decline in total Ras activity. The knockdown of N-Ras showed it had an important role in controlling the relative level of oxidative metabolism, but only K-Ras depletion caused a decrease in G2 cyclins. Proteasome inhibition reversed this, and other targets of APC/c were also decreased by K-Ras depletion. K-Ras depletion did not cause an increase in ubiquitinated G2 cyclins but instead caused exit from the G2 phase to slow relative to completion of the S-phase, suggesting that the mutant K-Ras may inhibit APC/c prior to anaphase and stabilise G2 cyclins independently of this. We propose that, during tumorigenesis, cancer cells expressing wild-type N-Ras protein are selected because the protein protects cancer cells from the deleterious effects of the cell cycle-independent induction of cyclins by mutant K-Ras. Mutation independence results when N-Ras activity becomes adequate to drive cell division, even in cells where K-Ras is inhibited.
Significant Association of Estrogen Receptor-β Isoforms and Coactivators in Breast Cancer Subtypes
Authors: Choi Young , Pollack Simcha
Published: March 2023

Nuclear receptor coregulators are the principal regulators of Estrogen Receptor (ER)-mediated transcription. ERβ, an ER subtype first identified in 1996, is associated with poor outcomes in breast cancer (BCa) subtypes, and the coexpression of the ERβ1 isoform and AIB-1 and TIF-2 coactivators in BCa-associated myofibroblasts is associated with high-grade BCa. We aimed to identify the specific coactivators that are involved in the progression of ERβ-expressing BCa. ERβ isoforms, coactivators, and prognostic markers were tested using standard immunohistochemistry. AIB-1, TIF-2, NF-kB, p-c-Jun, and/or cyclin D1 were differentially correlated with ERβ isoform expression in the BCa subtypes and subgroups. The coexpression of the ERβ5 and/or ERβ1 isoforms and the coactivators were found to be correlated with a high expression of P53, Ki-67, and Her2/neu and large-sized and/or high-grade tumors in BCa. Our study supports the notion that ERβ isoforms and coactivators seemingly coregulate the proliferation and progression of BCa and may provide insight into the potential therapeutic uses of the coactivators in BCa.
Controlling Lateral Size and Thickness of Layered Double Hydroxide (LDH) Used as Conversion Layer for Corrosion Protection of AZ31 Mg Alloy
Authors: Malekkhouyan Roya , Paint Yoann , Prince Loïc , Gonon Maurice , Olivier Marie-Georges
Published: March 2023

In the present study, Mg-Al layered double hydroxide (Mg-Al/LDH) was synthesized on the surface of AZ31 Mg alloy substrate via in-situ hydrothermal treatment. Synthesis parameters were changed to determine their effect on the lateral size of LDH. For this purpose, etching in nitric acid and anodizing in sodium hydroxide solution were performed as surface pretreatments. Moreover, the influence of LDH solution pH (10 and 11) on the lateral size of LDH coating was investigated. Morphology, chemical composition, and crystalline structure were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The corrosion resistance of the coatings was investigated by H2 measurements, salt spray, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). Moreover, the epoxy coating was applied on the best anti-corrosive LDH sample for assessing the compatibility and effectiveness of LDH on the corrosion properties of the substrate with the epoxy layer. At pH = 11, the lateral size of LDH was smaller than samples at pH = 10. In addition, small-sized LDH, as well as LDH/epoxy coating, revealed enhanced corrosion protection.
Nose-to-Brain Targeting via Nanoemulsion: Significance and Evidence
Authors: Misra Shashi Kiran , Pathak Kamla
Published: March 2023

Background: Non-invasive and patient-friendly nose-to-brain pathway is the best-suited route for brain delivery of therapeutics as it bypasses the blood–brain barrier. The intranasal pathway (olfactory and trigeminal nerves) allows the entry of various bioactive agents, delivers a wide array of hydrophilic and hydrophobic drugs, and circumvents the hepatic first-pass effect, thus targeting neurological diseases in both humans and animals. The olfactory and trigeminal nerves make a bridge between the highly vascularised nasal cavity and brain tissues for the permeation and distribution, thus presenting a direct pathway for the entry of therapeutics into the brain. Materials: This review portrays insight into recent research reports (spanning the last five years) on the nanoemulsions developed for nose-to-brain delivery of actives for the management of a myriad of neurological disorders, namely, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s, epilepsy, depression, schizophrenia, cerebral ischemia and brain tumours. The information and data are collected and compiled from more than one hundred Scopus- and PubMed-indexed articles. Conclusions: The olfactory and trigeminal pathways facilitate better biodistribution and bypass BBB issues and, thus, pose as a possible alternative route for the delivery of hydrophobic, poor absorption and enzyme degradative therapeutics. Exploring these virtues, intranasal nanoemulsions have proven to be active, non-invasiveand safe brain-targeting cargos for the alleviation of the brain and other neurodegenerative disorders.
Alternative Sources of Natural Photosensitizers: Role of Algae in Dye-Sensitized Solar Cell
Authors: Armendáriz-Mireles Eddie Nahúm , Calles-Arriaga Carlos Adrián , Pech-Rodríguez Wilian , Castillo-Robles Adalberto , Rocha-Rangel Enrique
Published: March 2023

In this paper, the potential of marine algae to act as sensitizers is systematically studied and presented. We aim to find a feasible financial strategy to enhance the global efficiency of dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSC). Algae are mainly composed of chlorophylls, carotenoids, flavonoids, and Betalains, which are essential pigments that confer unique characteristics that are required in natural sensitizers. Therefore, this review aims to unveil and understand the underlying mechanism between algae pigments and photoelectrodes and to conduct a comprehensive analysis to determine the effect of algae dye on light absorption efficiency and electron transport. The structural, morphological, optical, and electrochemical impedance properties are deeply analyzed, and we show the current opportunities for natural dyes to be used in energy technologies through DSSC. A comparison of several bibliographic sources dealing with DSSC based on algae provided a general overview of the improvements in factors such as the recombination times, the filling factor, and the Voc values. The contributions of this paper relate to the conversion efficiency and future applications in the DSSC field. Finally, this review exemplifies that the nature of the pigment affects the photophysical properties of the cell. Thus, this paper may contribute to future investigations of DSSC when choosing efficient natural dyes according to their optical and electronic properties. Therefore, this work provides the knowledge required to efficiently merge materials and dyes, in which photovoltaic energy systems’ reproducibility and scalability still represent a challenge. Lastly, this document discusses the natural pigments’ stability and the approaches to improve their chemical stability.
The Limits of X-ray Diffraction Theory
Authors: Fewster Paul F.
Published: March 2023

X-ray diffraction theory allows the interpretation of experiments to build a structural model that fits the collected data. As with any experimental science, the observations are subject to uncertainty through the instrument and user limitations. Similarly, the theory can never be perfectly complete; it will have limits, and therefore the resultant model will have uncertainties associated with it. This article discusses the limits of X-ray kinematical and dynamical diffraction theories. These are not the only theories, but are the most widely used. These theories are often extended to accommodate new findings, which can reach the stage at which their fundamental premise is clouded. At that point, the theory requires a rethink. There should be nothing sacrosanct about a theory; it should represent the best usable explanation that will allow a good interpretation of the data. Both kinematical and dynamical theories assume that the X-rays see an average structure, which is not what a photon experiences. The observed diffraction pattern is the average of the diffraction patterns created by all the photons, which is not the same as the diffraction pattern from the average structure. Accounting for this has a profound influence on the interpretation of the data.
Is It Safe to Switch from a Standard Anterior to Retzius-Sparing Approach in Robot-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy?
Authors: Lambert Edward , Allaeys Charlotte , Berquin Camille , De Visschere Pieter , Verbeke Sofie , Vanneste Ben , Fonteyne Valerie , Van Praet Charles , Lumen Nicolaas
Published: March 2023

Background: Retzius-sparing robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RS-RARP) has been shown to lead to better outcomes regarding early continence compared to standard anterior RARP (SA-RARP). The goal of this study was to assess the feasibility and safety of implementing RS-RARP in a tertiary center with experience in SA-RARP. Methods: From February 2020, all newly diagnosed non-metastatic prostate cancer patients for whom RARP was indicated were evaluated for RS-RARP. Data from the first 100 RS-RARP patients were prospectively collected and compared with data from the last 100 SA-RARP patients. Patients were evaluated for Clavien Dindo grade ≥3a complications, urinary continence after 2 and 6 weeks, 3, 6 and 12 months, erectile function, positive surgical margins (PSMs) and biochemical recurrence (BCR). Results: There was no significant difference in postoperative complications at Clavien-Dindo grade ≥3a (SA-RARP: 6, RS-RARP: 4; p = 0.292). At all time points, significantly higher proportions of RS-RARP patients were continent (p < 0.001). No significant differences in postoperative potency were observed (52% vs. 59%, respectively, p = 0.608). PSMs were more frequent in the RS-RARP group (43% vs. 29%, p = 0.034), especially in locally advanced tumors (pT3: 64.6% vs. 43.8%, p = 0.041—pT2: 23.5% vs. 15.4%, p = 0.329). The one-year BCR-free survival was 82.6% vs. 81.6% in the SA-RARP and RS-RARP groups, respectively (p = 0.567). The median follow-up was 22 [18–27] vs. 24.5 [17–35] months in the RS-RARP and SA-RARP groups, respectively (p = 0.008). Conclusions: The transition from SA-RARP to RS-RARP can be safely performed by surgeons proficient in SA-RARP. Continence results after RS-RARP were significantly better at any time point. A higher proportion of PSMs was observed, although it did not result in a worse BCR-free survival.
Is It Possible to Notice the Unmet Non-Medical Needs among Cancer Patients? Application of the Needs Evaluation Questionnaire in Men with Lung Cancer
Authors: Osowiecka Karolina , Kurowicki Marcin , Kołb-Sielecki Jarosław , Gwara Anna , Szwiec Marek , Nawrocki Sergiusz , Rucińska Monika
Published: March 2023

Background: Lung cancer is the most common cause of cancer death worldwide. It is the most frequently diagnosed cancer in men. Lung cancer causes not only physical symptoms related to the disease itself and its treatment but also numerous mental, social and spiritual problems. The aim of the study was to assess non-medical needs among male lung cancer patients during oncological treatment. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted on a group of 160 men (mean age 67 years) treated for lung cancer from June 2022 until November 2022 in 5 oncological centers in Poland. The Needs Evaluation Questionnaire (NEQ) was used. The NEQ explores five areas of patients’ needs: informative, connected with assistance/care, relational, material and psycho-emotional support. Results: All participants (except one) expressed some unmet non-medical needs (mean and median 11). Male lung cancer patients indicated informative needs most frequently. There were no significant differences between expressed unmet needs based on age, place of residence, professional activity or marital status. Conclusions: The NEQ seems to be a proper instrument to explore the non-medical needs of cancer patients. Adequate measures to address the unmet needs of lung cancer patients could contribute to an improved quality of life.
Artificial Waterholes for European Bison as Biodiversity Hotspots in Forest Ecosystems: Ecological Effects of Species Reintroduction Activities
Authors: Thor Katarzyna Anna , Ołdak Krystian Adam , Klich Daniel , Gajewska Karolina , Popczyk Bartłomiej , Klimaszewski Krzysztof , Olech Wanda
Published: March 2023

Despite the growing population of European bison (Bison bonasus), it is necessary to plan the reintroduction of these animals to new areas. Reintroduction of European bison often requires the improvement of natural conditions. Such preparatory activities allow European bison to more easily adapt to new places, but also impact the functioning of animals from other taxa. The aim of the presented study was to examine the impact of waterholes for European bison on the development of local populations of amphibians and dragonflies (Odonata), as well as the creation of new feeding grounds for bats. We examined 15 reservoirs in the Augustów Forest District located in northeastern Poland, of which five were waterholes for European bison built in 2013–2014, four were semi-natural reservoirs transformed into waterholes for European bison in 2018, and six were natural reservoirs. Dragonflies were studied in 2021–2022; amphibians in 2018 and 2020; and bats in 2018, 2019, and 2020. In total, 24 species of dragonflies (Odonata), 10 species of amphibians, and 13 species of bats were found. The results of the inventory of three taxonomic groups using different comparative variants indicate a significant impact of the construction of waterholes for European bison on the biodiversity of the forest ecosystem. We concluded that the waterholes for European bison present better resistance to drying out than natural reservoirs. In addition, waterholes warm up more quickly, supporting better conditions for amphibians. The surface of the reservoirs and their exposed surroundings are favorable for insects (including dragonflies), and these are a source of food for bats, becoming attractive feeding grounds for them.
Developing New High-Protein-Content Traditional-Type Greek Yoghurts Based on Jersey Cow Milk
Authors: Nelios Grigorios , Nikolaou Anastasios , Papazilakis Panagiotis , Kourkoutas Yiannis
Published: March 2023

In the past few years, Jersey cow milk has been considered an effective commodity for the production of dairy products, such as cheese and yoghurts, due to its high nutrient density. Initially, the microbial safety and physicochemical properties of pasteurized milk from Jersey cows raised in Evrofarma S.A. dairy facilities were monitored and compared to Holstein Friesian milk over a six-month period. Subsequently, a new traditional-type Greek yoghurt was prepared using Jersey cow milk andthe physicochemical, microbiological and sensory properties were monitored throughout its shelf time and compared to commercially available traditional-type Greek yoghurts made with Milk Protein Concentrate powder (MPC)-fortified Holstein Friesian milk. Our study confirmed the significantly higher fat (29.41%), protein (20.6%) and calcium content (19.9%) compared to Holstein Friesian milk. The new yoghurt demonstrated several technological advantages and shared similar physicochemical properties with the commercially available products. Importantly, high protein concentration (4.03 g/100 g) was documented without the addition of MPC. Finally, the new yoghurt was accepted during the preliminary sensory evaluation, while similar scores with the commercially available products were noted during the texture, flavour, aroma and overall quality assessment.
A Systematic Review of UAVs for Island Coastal Environment and Risk Monitoring: Towards a Resilience Assessment
Authors: Jessin Jérémy , Heinzlef Charlotte , Long Nathalie , Serre Damien
Published: March 2023

Island territories and their coastal regions are subject to a wide variety of stresses, both natural and anthropogenic. With increasing pressures on these vulnerable environments, the need to improve our knowledge of these ecosystems increases as well. Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) have recently shown their worth as a tool for data acquisition in coastal zones. This literature review explores the field of UAVs in the context of coastal monitoring on island territories by highlighting the types of platforms, sensors, software, and validation methods available for this relatively new data acquisition method. Reviewing the existing literature will assist data collectors, researchers, and risk managers in more efficiently monitoring their coastal zones on vulnerable island territories. The scientific literature reviewed was strictly analyzed in peer-reviewed articles ranging from 2016 to 2022. This review then focuses on the operationalization of the concept of resilience as a risk management technique. The aim is to identify a procedure from raw data acquisition to quantifying indicators for the evaluation of the resilience of a territory and finally linking the analyzed data to a spatial decision support system. This system could aid the decision-making process and uses the islands of French Polynesia and its Resilience Observatory as a case study.
Systematic Review on Civilian Drones in Safety and Security Applications
Authors: AL-Dosari Khalifa , Hunaiti Ziad , Balachandran Wamadeva
Published: March 2023

The employment of unmanned aerial vehicles, also known as UAVs, is expanding rapidly across various civil application areas. Some of these domains include real-time tracking, the provision of wireless coverage, sensing, searches and rescue, the delivery of goods, safety and surveillance, security, and safety checks of engineering structures. Smart UAVs represent the next technology revolution in UAV technology. They promise to provide new possibilities in various applications, notably lower risk and costs for civil infrastructure. The military has traditionally used unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in countries such as the United Kingdom or the United States to partake in military and dangerous operations. The application and usage of these UAVs have become more commercial. Civilians can easily buy UAVs, commonly known as drones, from online platforms or shops. The main aim of this study is to review selected publications presenting previous efforts on using Civilian Drones in Safety applications. The study was accomplished using a systematic review research approach reviewing 45 publications. Drones have become more common, and it is crucial to understand how they work, especially since they entered the civilian domain. The research shows how civilian drones have been used in numerous safety applications, such as security cameras videotaping a house to ensure its safety.
Review of Autonomous Path Planning Algorithms for Mobile Robots
Authors: Qin Hongwei , Shao Shiliang , Wang Ting , Yu Xiaotian , Jiang Yi , Cao Zonghan
Published: March 2023

Mobile robots, including ground robots, underwater robots, and unmanned aerial vehicles, play an increasingly important role in people’s work and lives. Path planning and obstacle avoidance are the core technologies for achieving autonomy in mobile robots, and they will determine the application prospects of mobile robots. This paper introduces path planning and obstacle avoidance methods for mobile robots to provide a reference for researchers in this field. In addition, it comprehensively summarizes the recent progress and breakthroughs of mobile robots in the field of path planning and discusses future directions worthy of research in this field. We focus on the path planning algorithm of a mobile robot. We divide the path planning methods of mobile robots into the following categories: graph-based search, heuristic intelligence, local obstacle avoidance, artificial intelligence, sampling-based, planner-based, constraint problem satisfaction-based, and other algorithms. In addition, we review a path planning algorithm for multi-robot systems and different robots. We describe the basic principles of each method and highlight the most relevant studies. We also provide an in-depth discussion and comparison of path planning algorithms. Finally, we propose potential research directions in this field that are worth studying in the future.
A Survey on Energy Optimization Techniques in UAV-Based Cellular Networks: From Conventional to Machine Learning Approaches
Authors: Abubakar Attai , Ahmad Iftikhar , Omeke Kenechi , Ozturk Metin , Ozturk Cihat , Abdel-Salam Ali , Mollel Michael , Abbasi Qammer , Hussain Sajjad , Imran Muhammad
Published: March 2023

Wireless communication networks have been witnessing unprecedented demand due to the increasing number of connected devices and emerging bandwidth-hungry applications. Although there are many competent technologies for capacity enhancement purposes, such as millimeter wave communications and network densification, there is still room and need for further capacity enhancement in wireless communication networks, especially for the cases of unusual people gatherings, such as sport competitions, musical concerts, etc. Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) have been identified as one of the promising options to enhance capacity due to their easy implementation, pop-up fashion operation, and cost-effective nature. The main idea is to deploy base stations on UAVs and operate them as flying base stations, thereby bringing additional capacity where it is needed. However, UAVs mostly have limited energy storage, hence, their energy consumption must be optimized to increase flight time. In this survey, we investigate different energy optimization techniques with a top-level classification in terms of the optimization algorithm employed—conventional and machine learning (ML). Such classification helps understand the state-of-the-art and the current trend in terms of methodology. In this regard, various optimization techniques are identified from the related literature, and they are presented under the above-mentioned classes of employed optimization methods. In addition, for the purpose of completeness, we include a brief tutorial on the optimization methods and power supply and charging mechanisms of UAVs. Moreover, novel concepts, such as reflective intelligent surfaces and landing spot optimization, are also covered to capture the latest trends in the literature.
Entropic Dynamics in a Theoretical Framework for Biosystems
Authors: Summers Richard L.
Published: March 2023

Central to an understanding of the physical nature of biosystems is an apprehension of their ability to control entropy dynamics in their environment. To achieve ongoing stability and survival, living systems must adaptively respond to incoming information signals concerning matter and energy perturbations in their biological continuum (biocontinuum). Entropy dynamics for the living system are then determined by the natural drive for reconciliation of these information divergences in the context of the constraints formed by the geometry of the biocontinuum information space. The configuration of this information geometry is determined by the inherent biological structure, processes and adaptive controls that are necessary for the stable functioning of the organism. The trajectory of this adaptive reconciliation process can be described by an information-theoretic formulation of the living system’s procedure for actionable knowledge acquisition that incorporates the axiomatic inference of the Kullback principle of minimum information discrimination (a derivative of Jaynes’ principle of maximal entropy). Utilizing relative information for entropic inference provides for the incorporation of a background of the adaptive constraints in biosystems within the operations of Fisher biologic replicator dynamics. This mathematical expression for entropic dynamics within the biocontinuum may then serve as a theoretical framework for the general analysis of biological phenomena.
An Innovative Possibilistic Fingerprint Quality Assessment (PFQA) Filter to Improve the Recognition Rate of a Level-2 AFIS
Authors: Khmila Houda , Kallel Imene Khanfir , Bossé Eloi , Solaiman Basel
Published: March 2023

In this paper, we propose an innovative approach to improve the performance of an Automatic Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS). The method is based on the design of a Possibilistic Fingerprint Quality Assessment (PFQA) filter where ground truths of fingerprint images of effective and ineffective quality are built by learning. The first approach, QS_I, is based on the AFIS decision for the image without considering its paired image to decide its effectiveness or ineffectiveness. The second approach, QS_PI, is based on the AFIS decision when considering the pair (effective image, ineffective image). The two ground truths (effective/ineffective) are used to design the PFQA filter. PFQA discards the images for which the AFIS does not generate a correct decision. The proposed intervention does not affect how the AFIS works but ensures a selection of the input images, recognizing the most suitable ones to reach the AFIS's highest recognition rate (RR). The performance of PFQA is evaluated on two experimental databases using two conventional AFIS, and a comparison is made with four current fingerprint image quality assessment (IQA) methods. The results show that an AFIS using PFQA can improve its RR by roughly 10% over an AFIS not using an IQA method. However, compared to other fingerprint IQA methods using the same AFIS, the RR improvement is more modest, in a 5–6% range.
A Hybrid Particle Swarm Optimization Algorithm with Dynamic Adjustment of Inertia Weight Based on a New Feature Selection Method to Optimize SVM Parameters
Authors: Wang Jing , Wang Xingyi , Li Xiongfei , Yi Jiacong
Published: March 2023

Support vector machine (SVM) is a widely used and effective classifier. Its efficiency and accuracy mainly depend on the exceptional feature subset and optimal parameters. In this paper, a new feature selection method and an improved particle swarm optimization algorithm are proposed to improve the efficiency and the classification accuracy of the SVM. The new feature selection method, named Feature Selection-score (FS-score), performs well on data sets. If a feature makes the class external sparse and the class internal compact, its FS-score value will be larger and the probability of being selected will be greater. An improved particle swarm optimization model with dynamic adjustment of inertia weight (DWPSO-SVM) is also proposed to optimize the parameters of the SVM. By improving the calculation method of the inertia weight of the particle swarm optimization (PSO), inertia weight can decrease nonlinearly with the number of iterations increasing. In particular, the introduction of random function brings the inertia weight diversity in the later stage of the algorithm and the global searching ability of the algorithm to avoid falling into local extremum. The experiment is performed on the standard UCI data sets whose features are selected by the FS-score method. Experiments demonstrate that our algorithm achieves better classification performance compared with other state-of-the-art algorithms.
Quantitative Prediction of Braided Sandbodies Based on Probability Fusion and Multi-Point Geostatistics
Authors: Kang Qiangqiang , Hou Jiagen , Liu Liqin , Hou Mingqiu , Liu Yuming
Published: March 2023

Predicting the spatial distribution of braided fluvial facies reservoirs is of paramount significance for oil and gas exploration and development. Given that seismic materials enjoy an advantage in dense spatial sampling, many methods have been proposed to predict the reservoir distribution based on different seismic attributes. Nevertheless, different seismic attributes have different sensitivities to the reservoirs, and informational redundancy between them makes it difficult to combine them effectively. Regarding reservoir modeling, multi-point geostatistics represents the distribution characteristics of the braided fluvial facies reservoirs effectively. Despite this, it is very difficult to build high-quality training images. Hence, this paper proposes a three-step method of predicting braided fluvial facies reservoirs based on probability fusion and multi-point geostatistics. Firstly, similar statistical data of modern sedimentation and field paleo-outcrops were processed under the guidance of the sedimentation pattern to construct reservoir training images suitable for the target stratum in the research area. Secondly, each linear combination of selected seismic attributes was demarcated to calculate the principal component value and work out the elementary conditional probability. Lastly, the PR probability integration approach was employed to combine all conditional probabilities and calculate the joint probability. Then the joint probability was combined with training images to build a reservoir distribution model through multi-point geostatistics. We illustrated the detailed workflow of our new method by applying it to a braided fluvial reservoir modeling case in the Bohai Bay Basin, East China. The new method reduced the error of prediction results by 32% and 46% respectively, and the error of water content by 36.5% and 60.3%. This method is a potentially effective technique to predict and characterize the reservoir spatial distribution and modeling in other oil fields with the same geological background.