bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Role of Public Incentives in Promoting Innovation: An Analysis of Recurrently Supported Companies
Authors: Rosário Cátia , Varum Celeste , Botelho Anabela
Published: June 2024

This study delves into the intricate relationship between corporate innovation and public support, underscoring innovation’s vital role in driving economic growth and competitiveness. Recognizing the multifaceted nature of innovation, from product and process improvements to organizational and marketing innovations, we examine how specific business characteristics and sectoral specificities condition access to public research and development (R&D) support, both nationally and at the European level. We analyze data from five Community Innovation Survey (CIS) reports spanning from 2008 to 2018 using ordered logit models. This approach evaluates the likelihood of companies receiving recurring public support for R&D based on internal R&D investments, interinstitutional collaboration, employee qualifications, and sectoral attributes. The findings reveal that internal R&D investments and collaboration with other entities significantly increase the likelihood of a company receiving recurrent public support. Furthermore, companies in high-tech sectors are more prone to receive public assistance. However, the analysis of European support shows no widespread statistical significance of the considered variables, suggesting the influence of evolving funding policies and an imbalanced dependent variable distribution. We conclude that the ability to secure public R&D support is influenced by a mix of company-internal and -external factors, highlighting the need for comprehensive and adaptable innovation policies. This study’s limitations, including potential sample non-representativeness and the dynamics of funding policies, underscore the importance of further, more encompassing research.
Identifying the Frequency and Connectivity Dynamics of the US Economy
Authors: Tessmann Mathias Schneid , Passos Marcelo De Oliveira , Khodr Omar Barroso , Lima Alexandre Vasconcelos , Fontana Pedro Henrique Pontes
Published: June 2024

This paper seeks to investigate the connectivity of the US economy through the dynamics of the transmission of volatility in sectoral indices. For this, we use daily asset data and two methodologies. The first creates a spillover index that measures market connectivity and the second partitions this index into different frequency bands that denote periods. We found results that show significant transmissions of volatility among the 64 analyzed assets. Notably, the DJIA, Wilshire 5000, and S&P 500 showed significant volatility and were the main drivers of volatility for the other sectors and indices. Results also indicated that sectors that transferred volatility were influenced by three key factors: periods of economic uncertainty, socioeconomic circumstances resulting from post-crisis events, and the impact of economic and financial news on market sentiment. Additionally, we found that global returns and price changes in market indices sent considerable volatility into commodity assets. Our results are potentially useful for investors, portfolio managers, financial economists, financial advisors, financial market regulators, and policymakers.
Enhancing Communication in CPS Using Graph-Based Reply Relationship Identification in Multi-Party Conversations
Authors: Zhu Bingwei , Yang Jinzhu , Qiu Lirong , Sun Weichun , Hou Bin
Published: June 2024

To enhance communication and collaborative work efficiency in cyber–physical systems (CPSs) within the Industry 4.0 environment, this study investigates a graph-based machine learning approach aimed at optimizing information interaction during multi-party conversations. Devices within CPSs must efficiently exchange information in real time to synchronize operations and responses. This research treats these interactions as intricate graph structures and uses graph learning techniques to accurately identify communication links and dependencies among devices. This improvement leads to more accurate decision-making and smoother operations. Our methodology involves a real-time analysis of structural patterns and node attributes within conversations, improving information flow and comprehension. The empirical findings demonstrate that this approach significantly enhances production efficiency, system adaptability, and minimizes delays attributed to communication misunderstandings. Our method can effectively identify the communication relationships between devices, significantly improving the efficiency and accuracy of information transmission. This improved communication capability leads to an enhanced production efficiency of the entire system.
A Study of the Key Factors Influencing Young Users’ Continued Use of the Digital Twin-Enhanced Metaverse Museum
Authors: Wu Ronghui , Gao Lin , Lee Hyemin , Xu Junping , Pan Younghwan
Published: June 2024

This research investigates the key factors influencing young users’ continuous use of digital twin-enhanced metaverse museums. Attracting young users to use the metaverse museum for a more extended period consistently contributes to increasing the frequency of visits and content usage and promoting its sustainable development and innovation. However, there is a lack of research on the key factors influencing young users’ continuous use of digital twin-enhanced metaverse museums, which makes the theoretical basis for the in-depth design of user motivation for metaverse museums insufficient. This study constructed a model covering four dimensions—hedonic, utilitarian, social, and technological—based on communication’s uses and gratification theory (UGT). It was validated in the Metaverse Digital Twin Museum (MDTM). Using Spatial.io’s IES Goya Museum as the experimental platform, the research team conducted Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) using SmartPLS 4.0 software through experiments and surveys with 307 participants aged 18 to 30. Quantitative analyses revealed that MDTM’s hedonic gratification (hope), utilitarian gratification (information and self-presentation), social gratification (social interaction and social presence), and technological gratification (immersion) significantly influenced young users’ continued intention. The findings reveal that these six key factors can be the focus of MDTM’s future development to enhance user experience. This study fills the gap in applying UGT in the field of metaverse museums, provides metaverse museum managers with references to the key factors that can prolong users’ continued intention to use, and points out the key factors that need further attention in future research and practice.
Sustainable Irrigation Systems in Vineyards: A Literature Review on the Contribution of Renewable Energy Generation and Intelligent Resource Management Models
Authors: Branquinho Rodrigo , Briga-Sá Ana , Ramos Sérgio , Serôdio Carlos , Pinto Tiago
Published: June 2024

Agriculture being an essential activity sector for the survival and prosperity of humanity, it is fundamental to use sustainable technologies in this field. With this in mind, some statistical data are analyzed regarding the food price rise and sustainable development indicators, with a special focus on the Portugal region. It is determined that one of the main factors that influences agriculture’s success is the soil’s characteristics, namely in terms of moisture and nutrients. In this regard, irrigation processes have become indispensable, and their technological management brings countless economic advantages. Like other branches of agriculture, the wine sector needs an adequate concentration of nutrients and moisture in the soil to provide the most efficient results, considering the appropriate and intelligent use of available water and energy resources. Given these facts, the use of renewable energies is a very important aspect of this study, which also synthesizes the main irrigation methods and examines the importance of evaluating the evapotranspiration of crops. Furthermore, the control of irrigation processes and the implementation of optimization and resource management models are of utmost importance to allow maximum efficiency and sustainability in this field.
Smart Healthcare: Exploring the Internet of Medical Things with Ambient Intelligence
Authors: Sarkar Mekhla , Lee Tsong-Hai , Sahoo Prasan Kumar
Published: June 2024

Ambient Intelligence (AMI) represents a significant advancement in information technology that is perceptive, adaptable, and finely attuned to human needs. It holds immense promise across diverse domains, with particular relevance to healthcare. The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) with the Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) to create an AMI environment in medical contexts further enriches this concept within healthcare. This survey provides invaluable insights for both researchers and practitioners in the healthcare sector by reviewing the incorporation of AMI techniques in the IoMT. This analysis encompasses essential infrastructure, including smart environments and spectrum for both wearable and non-wearable medical devices to realize the AMI vision in healthcare settings. Furthermore, this survey provides a comprehensive overview of cutting-edge AI methodologies employed in crafting IoMT systems tailored for healthcare applications and sheds light on existing research issues, with the aim of guiding and inspiring further advancements in this dynamic field.
AI-Driven Network Security and Privacy
Authors: Tan Yu-an , Zhang Qikun , Li Yuanzhang , Yu Xiao
Published: June 2024

While creating unprecedented opportunities, artificial intelligence is also accompanied by unprecedented risks [...]
Sensitivity-Based Electromagnetic Performance Calculation Model for Radome-Covered Array Antennas
Authors: Wang Yan , Wang Gang , Wang Zhiji , Wang Feiran , Yan Weixing , Yan Yuefei , Duan Xuechao , Wang Zhihai , Yu Kunpeng , Wang Meng , Wang Congsi
Published: June 2024

Antenna design and optimization must ensure robust electrical performance, making its analysis a crucial step in all antenna design processes. Traditionally, this analysis involves setting up various cases after establishing the calculation model, comparing the performance of each case, and summarizing the impact of relevant factors to guide design and optimization. However, this method is time-consuming and inefficient. This paper proposes a sensitivity-based approach for analyzing antenna electrical performance, using a radome-covered array antenna as an example. First, we derive the formulas for calculating the antenna’s electrical performance and its sensitivity to the current amplitude, array element position, and radome thickness. We then design comparative experiments to analyze the antenna’s performance using the sensitivity-based method and the traditional case enumeration method. Comparing the conclusions of both methods, we find that they yield the same results regarding antenna performance. The proposed sensitivity-based method offers a quantitative evaluation of various influencing factors and provides a more scientific and systematic approach to analyzing antenna electrical performance.
Emulation of Digital Substations Communication for Cyber Security Awareness
Authors: Holik Filip , Yayilgan Sule Yildirim , Olsborg Guro Bråten
Published: June 2024

Increasing power consumption and reliance on non-predictable renewable power generation is pushing the transition from analog to digital power grid substations forward. Grid digitalization helps to reduce substation complexity and therefore costs, and improves observability and management, but introduces new cyber security issues. To make the digital substations secure, cyber security awareness and efficient personnel training is one of the most important research areas as the power grid is a part of critical infrastructure. In our previous work, we have proposed an approach for analyzing cyber security threats and attacks in digital substations based on a case study from Norway. In this article, we present how we developed a tool for emulation of digital substation communication for cyber security awareness based on experiences from the case study. We present technical details of the tool—called the SGSim—so the community can easily replicate the process or only the selected parts. We also freely provide source code on GitHub and distribution in the form of a virtual machine on request. Finally, we validate the tool performance in several scenarios and evaluate its usability on a survey conducted among a wide range of professionals.
Strategic Planning of Urban Green Space at Large Spatiotemporal Scales
Authors: Wang Yuncai
Published: June 2024

Urban green spaces play a crucial role in enhancing the quality of life by providing ecological, social, and economic benefits [...]
Forest Fire Image Deblurring Based on Spatial–Frequency Domain Fusion
Authors: Kong Xueyi , Liu Yunfei , Han Ruipeng , Li Shuang , Liu Han
Published: June 2024

UAVs are commonly used in forest fire detection, but the captured fire images often suffer from blurring due to the rapid motion between the airborne camera and the fire target. In this study, a multi-input, multi-output U-Net architecture that combines spatial domain and frequency domain information is proposed for image deblurring. The architecture includes a multi-branch dilated convolution attention residual module in the encoder to enhance receptive fields and address local features and texture detail limitations. A feature-fusion module integrating spatial frequency domains is also included in the skip connection structure to reduce feature loss and enhance deblurring performance. Additionally, a multi-channel convolution attention residual module in the decoders improves the reconstruction of local and contextual information. A weighted loss function is utilized to enhance network stability and generalization. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed model outperforms popular models in terms of subjective perception and quantitative evaluation, achieving a PSNR of 32.26 dB, SSIM of 0.955, LGF of 10.93, and SMD of 34.31 on the self-built forest fire datasets and reaching 86% of the optimal PSNR and 87% of the optimal SSIM. In experiments without reference images, the model performs well in terms of LGF and SMD. The results obtained by this model are superior to the currently popular SRN and MPRNet models.
A Reliable DBH Estimation Method Using Terrestrial LiDAR Points through Polar Coordinate Transformation and Progressive Outlier Removal
Authors: Hui Zhenyang , Lin Lei , Jin Shuanggen , Xia Yuanping , Ziggah Yao Yevenyo
Published: June 2024

Diameter at breast height (DBH) is a crucial parameter for forest inventory. However, accurately estimating DBH remains challenging due to the noisy and incomplete cross-sectional points. To address this, this paper proposed a reliable DBH estimation method using terrestrial LiDAR points through polar coordinate transformation and progressive outlier removal. In this paper, the initial center was initially detected by rasterizing the convex hull, and then the Cartesian coordinates were transformed into polar coordinates. In the polar coordinate system, the outliers were classified as low and high outliers according to the distribution of polar radius difference. Both types of outliers were then removed using adaptive thresholds and the moving least squares algorithm. Finally, DBH was estimated by calculating the definite integral of arc length in the polar coordinate system. Twenty publicly available individual trees were adopted for the test. Experimental results indicated that the proposed method performs better than the other four classical DBH estimation methods. Furthermore, several extreme cases scanned using terrestrial LiDAR in practice, such as cross-sectional points with lots of outliers or larger data gaps, were also tested. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method accurately calculates DBH even in these challenging cases.
Candelilla Wax and Glycerol Monostearate-Based Oleogels as Animal Fat Substitutes in Bologna Sausages
Authors: Tanislav Anda Elena , Cornea Anca Alexandra , Radu Eugen Dan , Țibulcă Dorin , Mureșan Vlad , Mudura Elena
Published: June 2024

The aim of this study was to produce Bologna sausages rich in unsaturated fatty acids and to evaluate this replacement on the structural characteristics. For the purpose of a comparative analysis, three different types of sausages were produced, distinct only in the type of fat used: I. sausages obtained with pork backfat (PBF), II. sausages produced with oleogel formed from refined sunflower oil and glycerol monostearate (GM_OG), and III. with candelilla wax oleogel (CW_OG). The meat composition was also analyzed to better understand the process in the dynamics and the finished products were analyzed both uncooked and cooked. The enhanced oil-binding capacity of oleogels suggests their potential value as substitutes for saturated fats (>99%). In terms of meat composition textural analysis, the highest hardness value was registered for PBF_C of 25.23 N, followed by a CW_OG_C of 13.08 N and a GM_OG_C of 12.27 N. However, adhesiveness, cohesiveness, springiness index, and gumminess showed similar values between samples. Reformulation of products with oleogels as a fat source abundant in mono- and polyunsaturated fatty acids resulted in uncooked products exhibiting reduced hardness values of 49.01 N (CW_OG_US) and 40.51 N (GM_OG_US), compared to 65.03 N (PBF_US). Color results of the cross-section color can indicate the potential for consumer acceptance due to the reduced color differences between the conventional and oleogel samples.
Quantifying Aperiodic Cliff Top and Cliff Face Retreat Rates for an Eroding Drumlin on Ireland’s Atlantic Coast Using Structure-from-Motion
Authors: Rink Gregor M. , Farrell Eugene J. , Bromley Gordon R. M.
Published: June 2024

Globally, the rapid retreat of coastal cliffs poses a profound risk to property, transport infrastructure, and public safety. To quantify and compare cliff top and cliff face retreat and identify erosion processes, this study combines historical (1842–2000) maps and orthophotos with contemporary UAV surveys (2019–2023) to quantify cliff top and cliff face retreat along a 240 m wide coastal drumlin in Galway Bay, Ireland. Retreat rates for the cliff top and cliff face were calculated using 2D mapping and 3D modelling, respectively. Critically, the choice of method has a significant impact on calculated rates of cliff top retreat, with output from the 2D mapping approach (0.14 +/− 0.02 m yr−1) being double that of the 3D modelling approach (0.08 +/− 0.02 m year−1). The aperiodic development of a talus cone, which temporarily protects the cliff from storm waves, also influences estimates of cliff retreat. The repeat cycles of talus slope formation and removal in this high wave energy environment suggest that the drumlin scarp transitions between a periodically transport-limited and supply-limited system over short- and long-time periods, respectively, on the continuum of cliff types. These results warrant further research to identify and quantify the rates, patterns, drivers (marine and subaerial processes), and timing of cliff retreat in response to climate change.
Energy-Based Pore Pressure Generation Models in Silty Sands under Earthquake Loading
Authors: Tomasello Giuseppe , Porcino Daniela Dominica
Published: June 2024

During an earthquake, excess pore water pressure generation in saturated silty sands causes a reduction in shear strength and even liquefaction of the soil. A comprehensive experimental program consisting of undrained cyclic simple-shear tests was undertaken to explore the key factors affecting the energy-based excess pore water pressure generation models for non-plastic silty sands. The examined influencing factors were non-plastic fines content (less than and greater than the threshold value ≅ 25%), packing density, vertical effective stress, applied cyclic stress ratio, and soil fabric. The relationship between excess pore water pressure ratio and dissipated energy per unit volume was found to be mainly dependent on the relative density and fines content of soil, whereas the cyclic stress ratio, initial vertical effective stress, and soil fabric (i.e. the reconstitution method) appeared to have a minor impact. A revision of the original energy-based model developed for clean sand by Berrill and Davis was proposed to improve prediction accuracy in terms of residual excess pore water pressures versus normalised cumulative dissipated energy. Nonlinear multivariable regression analyses were performed to develop correlations for the calibration parameters of the revised model. Lastly, these correlations were validated through additional cyclic simple-shear tests performed on different silty sands recovered at a site where liquefaction occurred after the 2012 Emilia Romagna (Italy) earthquake.
Nursing Staff in a Large Hospital System Underutilize Insurance-Based Mental Health Services
Authors: Bautista Chandra L. , Bourassa Katelynn A. , Vasquez Namrata N. , Desrochers Madeleine , Bartek Nicole , Madan Alok
Published: June 2024

Nurses are at high risk of burnout and subsequent mental health concerns due to problems with overstaffing, immense workload volume, and personal health risks associated with the job. Effective mental health treatments are available but potential barriers to receiving care may prevent nurses from benefiting. The Emotional Health and Well-Being Clinic (EHWC) at Houston Methodist is an outpatient mental health clinic offering therapy and medication management services for employees and employee dependents of our institution. The EHWC is uniquely positioned to observe how nurses utilize mental health services and to address barriers to effective care for this vital group of healthcare professionals. This paper provides descriptive data on the utilization of mental health services by nurses in the EHWC and a discussion of possible challenges faced by this group when seeking care. Based on these data, we propose potential solutions to ensure that nurses can achieve maximum benefit from outpatient mental health services.
Effects of a Multicomponent Preventive Intervention in Women at Risk of Sarcopenia: A Pilot Study
Authors: Rios-Escalante Violeta , Perez-Barba Juan Carlos , Espinel-Bermudez Maria Claudia , Zavalza-Gomez Ana Bertha , Arias-Merino Elva Dolores , Zavala-Cerna Maria G. , Sanchez-Garcia Sergio , Trujillo Xochitl , Nava-Zavala Arnulfo Hernan
Published: June 2024

Sarcopenia is defined by the presence of decreased skeletal muscle mass, strength, and functionality in older people. Multicomponent interventions represent an alternative to non-pharmacological treatment for preventing disease progression. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of a multicomponent intervention approach in women at risk of sarcopenia. Methods: A quasi-experimental pilot study of 12 weeks was conducted, with 24 sessions of dancing and resistance exercises and 12 sessions of nutritional education. The outcomes were changes in muscle mass, grip strength, gait speed, and body composition. The project was registered on Clinical Trials: NCT06038500 (14 September 2023). Results: Twelve women aged 55–75 years participated in this study; after the intervention, changes were found in the following variables: grip strength, from 18.70 (17.98–19.23) at baseline to 21.57 (20.67–23.16) kg (p = 0.002); gait speed, from 0.95 (0.81–1.18) at baseline to 1.34 (1.20–1.47) m/s (p = 0.003); and hip circumference, from 99.75 (94.75–110.37) at baseline to 97.65 (93.92–109.50) cm (p = 0.023). Other measurements that appeared without changes were appendicular skeletal muscle mass, from 21.17 (18.58–22.33) at baseline to 20.77 (18.31–22.39) kg (p = 0.875), and the appendicular skeletal muscle mass index, from 8.64 (8.08–9.35) at baseline to 8.81 (7.91–9.38) kg/m2 (p = 0.875) after the intervention. Conclusions: The three-month multicomponent intervention in women at risk of sarcopenia improved their grip strength and gait speed.
Agreement between Vital Signs Measured Using Mat-Type Noncontact Sensors and Those from Conventional Clinical Assessment
Authors: Shimotori Daiki , Otaka Eri , Sato Kenji , Takasugi Munetaka , Yamakawa Nobuyoshi , Shimizu Atsuya , Kagaya Hitoshi , Kondo Izumi
Published: June 2024

Vital signs are crucial for assessing the condition of a patient and detecting early symptom deterioration. Noncontact sensor technology has been developed to take vital measurements with minimal burden. This study evaluated the accuracy of a mat-type noncontact sensor in measuring respiratory and pulse rates in patients with cardiovascular diseases compared to conventional methods. Forty-eight hospitalized patients were included; a mat-type sensor was used to measure their respiratory and pulse rates during bed rest. Differences between mat-type sensors and conventional methods were assessed using the Bland–Altman analysis. The mean difference in respiratory rate was 1.9 breaths/min (limits of agreement (LOA): −4.5 to 8.3 breaths/min), and proportional bias existed with significance (r = 0.63, p < 0.05). For pulse rate, the mean difference was −2.0 beats/min (LOA: −23.0 to 19.0 beats/min) when compared to blood pressure devices and 0.01 beats/min (LOA: −11.4 to 11.4 beats/min) when compared to 24-h Holter electrocardiography. The proportional bias was significant for both comparisons (r = 0.49, p < 0.05; r = 0.52, p < 0.05). These were considered clinically acceptable because there was no tendency to misjudge abnormal values as normal. The mat-type noncontact sensor demonstrated sufficient accuracy to serve as an alternative to conventional assessments, providing long-term monitoring of vital signs in clinical settings.
Assessing Contamination in Transitional Waters Using Geospatial Technologies: A Review
Authors: Arroyo-Ortega Itzel , Chavarin-Pineda Yaselda , Torres Eduardo
Published: June 2024

Transitional waters (TWs) are relevant ecological and economical ecosystems that include estuaries, deltas, bays, wetlands, marshes, coastal lakes, and coastal lagoons and play a central role in providing food, protecting coastal environments, and regulating nutrients. However, human activities such as industrialization, urbanization, tourism, and agriculture are threatening these ecosystems, which results in contamination and habitat degradation. Therefore, it is essential to evaluate contamination in TW to develop effective management and protection strategies. This study analyses the application of geospatial technologies (GTS) for monitoring and predicting contaminant distribution in TW. Cartography, interpolation, complex spatial methods, and remote sensing were applied to assess contamination profiles by heavy metals, and persistent organic compounds, and analyze contamination indices or some physicochemical water parameters. It is concluded that integrating environmental and demographic data with GTS would help to identify critical points of contamination and promote ecosystem resilience to ensure long-term health and human well-being. This review comprehensively analyzes the methods, indicators, and indices used to assess contamination in transitional waters in conjunction with GTS. It offers a valuable foundation for planning future research on pollution in these types of waters or other similar water bodies worldwide.
A Novel Approach to Urban Village Extraction and Generalization from Digital Line Graphics Using the Computational Geometric Method and the Modified Hausdorff Distance
Authors: Gao Xiaorong , Yan Haowen , Lu Xiaomin , Wang Xiaolong , Wang Rong
Published: June 2024

Urban villages represent informal residential areas emerging since China’s rapid urbanization process. Scientific map generalization of urban villages with scientific maps aids readers in discerning their distribution and making informed decisions concerning them. However, there is still a scarcity of research on the automatic extraction and generalization of urban villages from vector data, which needs to be studied to further improve the expression of maps. To address this problem, this paper presents a methodology for the extraction and generalization of urban villages from Digital Line Graphics. Firstly, a heuristic approach is employed to analyze the atypical morphological characteristics of urban villages. Then, indices based on computational geometry and the modified Hausdorff distance are utilized to quantify these traits. Lastly, an automatic generalization principle for urban villages is offered. The approach was tested in experimental blocks and proved to be effective. It offers a novel method for the automatic extraction and cartography of urban villages.
Driving across Markets: An Analysis of a Human–Machine Interface in Different International Contexts
Authors: Sogemeier Denise , Forster Yannick , Naujoks Frederik , Krems Josef F. , Keinath Andreas
Published: June 2024

The design of automotive human–machine interfaces (HMIs) for global consumers’ needs to cater to a broad spectrum of drivers. This paper comprises benchmark studies and explores how users from international markets—Germany, China, and the United States—engage with the same automotive HMI. In real driving scenarios, N = 301 participants (premium vehicle owners) completed several tasks using different interaction modalities. The multi-method approach included both self-report measures to assess preference and satisfaction through well-established questionnaires and observational measures, namely experimenter ratings, to capture interaction performance. We observed a trend towards lower preference ratings in the Chinese sample. Further, interaction performance differed across the user groups, with self-reported preference not consistently aligning with observed performance. This dissociation accentuates the importance of integrating both measures in user studies. By employing benchmark data, we provide insights into varied market-based perspectives on automotive HMIs. The findings highlight the necessity for a nuanced approach to HMI design that considers diverse user preferences and interaction patterns.
MOF-Derived Fe2CoSe4@NC and Fe2NiSe4@NC Composite Anode Materials towards High-Performance Na-Ion Storage
Authors: Xie Hangxuan , Zhang Wei , Wang Chao , Zhao Shangcheng , Hao Zhentao , Huang Xiaolian , Miao Kanghua , Kang Xiongwu
Published: June 2024

Binary transition metal selenides (BTMSs) are more promising than single transition metal selenides (TMS) as anode materials of sodium-ion batteries (SIBs). However, it is still very challenging to prepare high-performance BTMSs in the pure phase, instead of a mixture of two TMSs. In this study, a binary metal center-based MOF derived selenization strategy was developed to prepare iron–cobalt selenide (Fe2CoSe4@NC) and iron–nickel selenide (Fe2NiSe4@NC) nanocomposites in the single phase and when wrapped with carbon layers. As the anode material of SIBs, Fe2CoSe4@NC exhibits higher long-term cycling performance than Fe2NiSe4@NC, maintaining a capacity of 352 mAh g−1 after 2100 cycles at 1.0 A g−1, which is ascribed to the higher percentage of the nanopores, larger lattice spacing, and faster Na+ diffusion rate in the electrode materials of the former rather than the latter.
Comparative SEM Study of Sensilla and Tyloid Structures in the Antennae of Vespinae (Hymenoptera: Vespidae)
Authors: Zhou Tong , Huang Xiaojuan , Ullah Hasin , Tang Yan , Zhu Danyang , Xu Hongli , Wen Qian , Tian Xiaoxia , Tan Jiangli
Published: June 2024

This study investigates the distribution, morphology, and potential functions of antennal sensilla in various wasp species, including Dolichovespula flora, D. intermedia, Vespula structor, Vl. vulgaris, Provespa barthelemyi, Vespa bicolor, V. ducalis, V. mocsaryana, and V. velutina var. nigothorax. The study thoroughly analyzes the antennal structure of these species, representing all four genera of the yellow-jacket and hornet subfamily Vespinae. Using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), the study identifies a total of nineteen types of sensilla, including sensilla trichodea (ST-I, ST-II, ST-III), sensilla campaniform (SCF-I, SCF-II, SCF-III), pit organs (SCO-I, SCO-II, and SA), sensilla placodea (SP-I, SP-II), sensilla chaetica (SCH-I, SCH-II), sensilla basiconica (SB-I, SB-II), sensilla agmon (SAG-I, SAG-II), and sensilla coelocapitular (SCA). Additionally, tyloids were observed in the males of seven species, except for Vl. structor and Vl. vulgaris. The study provides insights into these sensilla types’ morphology, abundance, and distribution. It discusses the variations in sensilla morphology among different species and the presence of gender-specific sensilla. This study provides new data about the morphology and distribution patterns of sensilla and tyloid.
Stroke Demographics, Risk Factors, Subtypes, Syndromes, Mechanisms and Inter-Ethnic Differences between Chinese, Malays and Indians in Singapore—A Hospital-Based Study
Authors: Venketasubramanian Narayanaswamy
Published: June 2024

Disparities in stroke may be due to socioeconomics, demographics, risk factors (RF) and ethnicity. Asian data are scant. This retrospective hospital-based study aimed to explore demographics, RF, stroke subtypes and mechanisms among the Chinese, Malays and Indians in Singapore. Stroke was subtyped into haemorrhagic stroke (HS) and ischaemic stroke (IS). For IS, the clinical syndrome was classified using the Oxfordshire Community Stroke Project (OCSP) classification while the stroke mechanism was categorised using the Trial of Org 10172 in Acute Stroke Treatment (TOAST) classification. During the study period 1 June 2015 to 31 December 2023, data were collected on 1165 patients, with a mean age of 65.6 ± 12.9 yr; 47.4% were female, 83% were Chinese and hypertension (63.5%) and hyperlipidaemia (60.3%) were the most common RF. HS comprised 23.5% (95%CI 21.1–26.1%) (intracerebral 21.7%, subarachnoid 1.3%) of the patients, while IS comprised 76.5% (95%CI 73.9–78.9%) (small artery occlusion 29.0%, cardioembolism 13.3%, large artery atherosclerosis 9.4%, stroke of other determined aetiology 6.2%, stroke of undetermined aetiology 18.6%); 55% of patients had lacunar syndrome. A multivariable analysis showed that HS was associated with ethnicity (p = 0.044), diabetes mellitus (OR 0.27, 95%CI 0.18–0.41, p < 0.001) and smoking (OR 0.47, 95%CI 0.34–0.64, p < 0.001). There were no significant inter-ethnic differences by the OCSP (p = 0.31) or TOAST (p = 0.103) classification. While differences in stroke subtype in Asia may be due to RF, ethnicity has a role. More studies are needed to further explore this.
The Role of Multimodality Imaging (CT & MR) as a Guide to the Management of Chronic Coronary Syndromes
Authors: Tassetti Luigi , Sfriso Enrico , Torlone Francesco , Baggiano Andrea , Mushtaq Saima , Cannata Francesco , Del Torto Alberico , Fazzari Fabio , Fusini Laura , Junod Daniele , Maragna Riccardo , Volpe Alessandra , Carrabba Nazario , Conte Edoardo , Guglielmo Marco , La Mura Lucia , Pergola Valeria , Pedrinelli Roberto , Indolfi Ciro , Sinagra Gianfranco , Perrone Filardi Pasquale , Guaricci Andrea Igoren , Pontone Gianluca
Published: June 2024

Chronic coronary syndrome (CCS) is one of the leading cardiovascular causes of morbidity, mortality, and use of medical resources. After the introduction by international guidelines of the same level of recommendation to non-invasive imaging techniques in CCS evaluation, a large debate arose about the dilemma of choosing anatomical (with coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA)) or functional imaging (with stress echocardiography (SE), cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR), or nuclear imaging techniques) as a first diagnostic evaluation. The determinant role of the atherosclerotic burden in defining cardiovascular risk and prognosis more than myocardial inducible ischemia has progressively increased the use of a first anatomical evaluation with CCTA in a wide range of pre-test probability in CCS patients. Functional testing holds importance, both because the role of revascularization in symptomatic patients with proven ischemia is well defined and because functional imaging, particularly with stress cardiac magnetic resonance (s-CMR), gives further prognostic information regarding LV function, detection of myocardial viability, and tissue characterization. Emerging techniques such as stress computed tomography perfusion (s-CTP) and fractional flow reserve derived from CT (FFRCT), combining anatomical and functional evaluation, appear capable of addressing the need for a single non-invasive examination, especially in patients with high risk or previous revascularization. Furthermore, CCTA in peri-procedural planning is promising to acquire greater importance in the non-invasive planning and guiding of complex coronary revascularization procedures, both by defining the correct strategy of interventional procedure and by improving patient selection. This review explores the different roles of non-invasive imaging techniques in managing CCS patients, also providing insights into preoperative planning for percutaneous or surgical myocardial revascularization.
Cross-Cultural Examination of Problematic Internet Use and Associated Psychological Variables: A Comparative Study in Italy, Spain, Ecuador, and Peru
Authors: Varchetta Manuel , Tagliaferri Ginevra , Mari Emanuela , Quaglieri Alessandro , Cricenti Clarissa , Martí-Vilar Manuel
Published: June 2024

Background: Several studies focused on the escalating prevalence of Problematic Use of Internet (PUI) and its consequential impact on mental health globally. This study investigates the relationship between PUI and associated psychological variables across different cultural contexts in Italy, Spain, Ecuador, and Peru. Method: A total of 675 participants, aged 18 to 54 (M = 22.73; SD = 4.05), completed measures assessing Internet addiction, social media addiction, Fear of Missing Out, Internet Gaming Disorder, and Phubbing. Results: Significant cultural variations were found, with Italian participants showing higher levels of Internet addiction but lower levels of social media addiction compared to other countries. Fear of Missing Out was higher in Italy, while the Italian sample exhibited lower Internet Gaming Disorder levels compared to Peru. As regards the communication disturbance caused by Phubbing, the Italian sample demonstrated significantly higher scores than the Peruvian sample. Linear regression analyses revealed distinct predictors for problematic Internet use in each country, emphasizing the importance of considering the cultural context in understanding this phenomenon. Conclusions: These findings contribute valuable insights into the interplay of cultural factors, psychological variables, and problematic Internet use, guiding future research and interventions.
PET Molecular Imaging in Breast Cancer: Current Applications and Future Perspectives
Authors: Katal Sanaz , McKay Michael J. , Taubman Kim
Published: June 2024

Positron emission tomography (PET) plays a crucial role in breast cancer management. This review addresses the role of PET imaging in breast cancer care. We focus primarily on the utility of 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) PET in staging, recurrence detection, and treatment response evaluation. Furthermore, we delve into the growing interest in precision therapy and the development of novel radiopharmaceuticals targeting tumor biology. This includes discussing the potential of PET/MRI and artificial intelligence in breast cancer imaging, offering insights into improved diagnostic accuracy and personalized treatment approaches.
Association between the Anatomical Location of Glioblastoma and Its Evaluation with Clinical Considerations: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Valenzuela-Fuenzalida Juan Jose , Moyano-Valarezo Laura , Silva-Bravo Vicente , Milos-Brandenberg Daniel , Orellana-Donoso Mathias , Nova-Baeza Pablo , Suazo-Santibáñez Alejandra , Rodríguez-Luengo Macarena , Oyanedel-Amaro Gustavo , Sanchis-Gimeno Juan , Gutiérrez Espinoza Héctor
Published: June 2024

Background: Glioblastoma is a primary malignant brain tumor; it is aggressive with a high degree of malignancy and unfavorable prognosis and is the most common type of malignant brain tumor. Glioblastomas can be located in the brain, cerebellum, brainstem, and spinal cord, originating from glial cells, particularly astrocytes. Methods: The databases MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and CINAHL were researched up to January 2024. Two authors independently performed the search, study selection, and data extraction. Methodological quality was evaluated with an assurance tool for anatomical studies (AQUA). The statistical mean, standard deviation, and difference of means calculated with the Student’s t-test for presence between hemispheres and presence in the frontal and temporal lobes were analyzed. Results: A total of 123 studies met the established selection criteria, with a total of 6224 patients. In relation to the mean, GBM between hemispheres had a mean of 33.36 (SD 58.00) in the right hemisphere and a mean of 34.70 (SD 65.07) in the left hemisphere, due to the difference in averages between hemispheres. There were no statistically significant differences, p = 0.35. For the comparison between the presence of GBM in the frontal lobe and the temporal lobe, there was a mean in the frontal lobe of 23.23 (SD 40.03), while in the temporal lobe, the mean was 22.05 (SD 43.50), and for the difference in means between the frontal lobe and the temporal lobe, there was no statistically significant difference for the presence of GBM, p = 0.178. Conclusions: We believe that before a treatment, it will always be correct to know where the GBM is located and how it behaves clinically, in order to generate correct conservative or surgical treatment guidelines for each patient. We believe that more detailed studies are also needed to show why GBM is associated more with some regions than others, despite the brain structure being homologous to other regions in which GMB occurs less frequently, which is why knowing its predominant presence in brain regions is very important.
Gestational Metabolic Risk: A Narrative Review of Pregnancy-Related Complications and of the Effectiveness of Dietary, Exercise and Lifestyle Interventions during Pregnancy on Reducing Gestational Weight Gain and Preventing Gestational Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Tsironikos Georgios I. , Zakynthinos George E. , Tatsioni Athina , Tsolaki Vasiliki , Kagias Iraklis-Georgios , Potamianos Petros , Bargiota Alexandra
Published: June 2024

Objective: This study is a Narrative Review that aims at investigating the implications of obesity, excessive gestational weight gain (GWG) and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Additionally, this Review seeks to explore the effectiveness of nutrition, and/or exercise interventions during pregnancy on reducing GWG and preventing GDM. Materials and Methods: The search in literature included studies that identified obesity, GWG, GDM and associated risks during pregnancy. Also, SR and MA focusing on interventions including diet, or physical activity (PA), or combined (i.e., lifestyle interventions) and their impact on metabolic risk during pregnancy, were identified through searches in PubMed, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews (CDSRs), and Scopus. Results: The study findings suggest that lifestyle interventions during pregnancy may be effective in reducing excessive GWG. Regarding the prevention of GDM, results from studies evaluating lifestyle interventions vary. However, significant and less controversial results were reported from studies assessing the efficacy of exercise interventions, particularly in high-risk pregnant women. Conclusions: Lifestyle interventions during pregnancy may reduce excessive GWG. Exercise during pregnancy may prevent GDM, especially in high-risk pregnant women. Future research is warranted to tailor lifestyle interventions for optimal effectiveness during pregnancy.
Physical Fitness Is Directly Related to Exercise Capacity and Ventilatory Response to Exercise in Men with HFrEF
Authors: Kisiel-Sekura Olga , Wójciak Magdalena , Siennicka Agnieszka , Tkaczyszyn Michał , Drozd Marcin , Jankowska Ewa A. , Doroszko Adrian , Banasiak Waldemar , Węgrzynowska-Teodorczyk Kinga
Published: June 2024

Background: Heart failure (HF) patients experience reduced functional fitness level (determining the performance of routine, daily activities) and diminished exercise capacity (linked to more effortful activities). Aim: The aim of the study is to assess this relationship using functional fitness tests compared to peak VO2 and VE/VCO2 slope in the context of exercise capacity and ventilatory response to exercise. Methods: A total of 382 men with stable HFrEF (age: 61 ± 10, NYHA class I/II/III/IV: 16/50/32/2%, LVEF: 30.5 ± 8.3%) underwent cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPX) and a Senior Fitness Test (SFT). Afterwards, the patients were divided according to the 2capacity with peak VO2 ≥ 18 mL/kg/min, those with higher or lower ventilatory responses (VE/VCO2 slope ≥ 35 vs. <35) to the exercise were compared. Results: Patients who covered shorter distances in the 6 min walking test showed worse results in the functional tests (‘stand up and go’, ‘chair stand’ and ‘arm curl’) and CPX (lower peak VO2, shorter exercise time and higher VE/VCO2 slope). Subjects classified into Class D demonstrated the worst results in all elements of SFT; those in Class A demonstrated the best results. Significant differences that were analogous occurred also between classes B and C. Among the participants who reached peak VO2 ≥ 18 mL/kg/min (n = 170), those with VE/VCO2 slope ≥ 35 were characterized by worse physical fitness as compared to those with VE/VCO2 < 35. Conclusion: Reduced exercise tolerance led to worsening physical function in patients with HFrEF. Moreover, limitations in physical fitness seem to be distinctive for those patients showing excessive ventilatory response to exercise slope VE/VCO2 (≥35). The Senior Fitness Test may be considered as a useful tool for assessing comprehensive functional and clinical status and risk stratification in patients with HFrEF, especially those with extremely low exercise capacity.
Enhancing Wear Resistance and Mechanical Behaviors of AA7020 Alloys Using Hybrid Fe3O4-GNP Reinforcement
Authors: Taşcı Ufuk , Yılmaz Taha Alper , Karakoç Halil , Karabulut Şener
Published: June 2024

This study investigates the effect of graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) and milling duration on the microstructure, mechanical properties, and wear resistance of the AA7020 alloy reinforced with Fe3O4 and GNP. The composites were prepared with a fixed 10 wt.% Fe3O4 and varying GNP contents (0.5 and 1 wt.%) using high-energy ball milling for 4 and 8 h, followed by hot pressing. The aim was to enhance the performance of the AA7020 alloy for potential use in defense, automotive, aviation, and space applications, where superior mechanical properties and wear resistance are required. The results showed that the incorporation of 0.5 wt.% GNP and optimized milling significantly improved the composite’s performance. The AA7020 + 10 wt.% Fe3O4 + 0.5 wt.% GNP composite achieved the highest density (99.70%) when milled for 4 h. Its hardness increased with both the inclusion of GNP and extended milling duration, with the composite milled for 8 h exhibiting the highest hardness value (149 HBN). The tensile strength also improved, with the composite milled for 4 h showing a 28% increase (292 MPa) compared with the unreinforced alloy. Additionally, the friction coefficient decreased with GNP content and milling duration, with the composite milled for 8 h showing a 26% reduction. Wear resistance was notably enhanced, with the composite milled for 8 h exhibiting the lowest specific wear rate (7.86 × 10−7 mm3/Nm).