bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Traumatic Brain Injury and Acute Kidney Injury—Outcomes and Associated Risk Factors
Authors: Barea-Mendoza Jesús Abelardo , Chico-Fernández Mario , Quintana-Díaz Manuel , Serviá-Goixart Lluís , Fernández-Cuervo Ana , Bringas-Bollada María , Ballesteros-Sanz María Ángeles , García-Sáez Íker , Pérez-Bárcena Jon , Llompart-Pou Juan Antonio
Published: December 2022

Our objective was to analyze the contribution of acute kidney injury (AKI) to the mortality of isolated TBI patients and its associated risk factors. Observational, prospective and multicenter registry (RETRAUCI) methods were used, from March 2015 to December 2019. Isolated TBI was defined as abbreviated injury scale (AIS) ≥ 3 head with no additional score ≥ 3. A comparison of groups was conducted using the Wilcoxon test, chi-square test or Fisher’s exact test, as appropriate. A multiple logistic regression analysis was conducted to analyze associated risk factors in the development of AKI. For the result, overall, 2964 (30.2%) had AIS head ≥ 3 with no other area with AIS ≥ 3. The mean age was 54.7 (SD 19.5) years, 76% were men, and the ground-level falls was 49.1%. The mean ISS was 18.4 (SD 8). The in-hospital mortality was 22.2%. Up to 310 patients (10.6%) developed AKI, which was associated with increased mortality (39% vs. 17%, adjusted OR 2.2). Associated risk factors (odds ratio (OR) (95% confidence interval)) were age (OR 1.02 (1.01–1.02)), hemodynamic instability (OR 2.87 to OR 5.83 (1.79–13.1)), rhabdomyolysis (OR 2.94 (1.69–5.11)), trauma-associated coagulopathy (OR 1.67 (1.05–2.66)) and transfusion of packed red-blood-cell concentrates (OR 1.76 (1.12–2.76)). In conclusion, AKI occurred in 10.6% of isolated TBI patients and was associated with increased mortality.
Prevention and Epidemiological, Clinical, and Economic Issues of COVID-19: Far More Than a Respiratory Disease
Authors: La Torre Giuseppe , Moretti Luca , Vezza Francesca
Published: December 2022

The Journal of Clinical Medicine has published many papers on coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), and it is now clear that this is not simply a respiratory disease [...]
Early Mortality Risk in Acute Trauma Patients: Predictive Value of Injury Severity Score, Trauma Index, and Different Types of Shock Indices
Authors: Dai Guoyang , Lu Xin , Xu Feng , Xu Deli , Li Pengfei , Chen Xionghui , Guo Fengbao
Published: December 2022

Objective: This study aimed to explore the predictive value of the Injury Severity Score (ISS), Trauma Index (TI) and different types of shock indices (SI) on the early mortality risk of acute trauma patients. Methods: Clinical data of acute trauma patients who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria of this study and were treated in the hospital from January 2020 to December 2020 were retrospectively collected, including gender, age, trauma mechanism, severe injury site, ISS, TI, admission vital signs, different types of shock indices (SI), death within 7 days, length of hospital stay, and Glasgow Outcome Score (GOS). The predictive value of the Injury Severity Score, Trauma Index, and different types of shock indices on the risk of early mortality in patients with acute trauma were compared using relevant statistical methods. Results: A total of 283 acute trauma patients (mean age 54.0 ± 17.9 years, 30.74% female) were included, and 43 (15.19%) of the patients died during 7 days of hospitalization. The admission ISS, TI, SI, MSI, and ASI in the survival group were significantly lower than those in the death group, and the difference was statistically significant (p < 0.05). Meanwhile, different trauma assessment tools included in the study have certain predictive value for early mortality risk of trauma patients. Conclusions: The TI indicates a better capability to predict the risk of early death in patients with acute trauma. As the most sensitive predictor, the SI has the greatest reference value in predicting the risk of early death in patients with traumatic shock.
Outcome of Intermittent Thoracentesis versus Pigtail Catheter Drainage for Hepatic Hydrothorax
Authors: Han Seul-Ki , Kang Seong-Hee , Kim Moon-Young , Na Seong-Kyun , Kim Taehyung , Lee Minjong , Jun Baek-Gyu , Kim Tae-Suk , Choi Dae-Hee , Suk Ki-Tae , Kim Young-Don , Cheon Gab-Jin , Yim Hyung-Joon , Kim Dong-Joon , Baik Soon-Koo
Published: December 2022

Background/Aims: The management of hepatic hydrothorax (HH) remains a challenging clinical scenario with suboptimal options. We investigated the effect and safety of pigtail catheter drainage compared to intermittent thoracentesis. Methods: This multicenter, retrospective study included 164 cirrhotic patients with recurrent pleural effusion from March 2012 to June 2017. Patients with neoplasms, cardiopulmonary disease, and infectious conditions were excluded. We compared the clinical outcomes of pigtail catheter drainage versus thoracentesis for variables including complications related to procedures, overall survival, and re-admission rates. Results: A total of 164 patients were divided into pigtail catheter (n = 115) and thoracentesis (n = 49) groups. During the follow-up period of 6.93 months after discharge, 98 patients died (pigtail; n = 47 vs. thoracentesis; n = 51). The overall survival (p = 0.61) and 30-day mortality (p = 0.77) rates were similar between the pigtail catheter and thoracentesis groups. Only MELD scores were associated with overall survival (adjusted HR, 1.08; p < 0.01) in patients with HH. Spontaneous pleurodesis occurred in 59 patients (51.3%) in the pigtail catheter group. Re-admission rates did not differ between the pigtail catheter and thoracentesis groups (13.2% vs 19.6% p = 0.7). A total of five complications occurred, including four total cases of bleeding (one patient in the pigtail catheter group and three in the thoracentesis group) and one case of empyema in the pigtail catheter group. Conclusions: Pigtail catheter drainage is not inferior to that of intermittent thoracentesis for the management of HH, proving it may be an effective and safe clinical option.
Impact Energy Absorption Analysis of Shape Memory Hybrid Composites
Authors: Ozair Huma , Rehman Muhammad Atiq Ur , Baluch Abrar H. , Yaqoob Khurram , Qazi Ibrahim , Wadood Abdul
Published: December 2022

Shape memory hybrid composites are hybrid structures with fiber-reinforced-polymer matrix materials. Shape memory wires due to shape memory/super-elastic properties exhibit a pseudo-elastic response with good damping/energy absorption capability. It is expected that the addition of shape memory wires in the glass-fiber-reinforced-polymer matrix composite (GFRP) will improve their mechanical and impact resistant properties. Stainless-steel wires are also expected to improve the impact resistance properties of GFRPs. In this research work, we investigated the effect of addition of shape memory wires and stainless-steel wires on the impact resistance properties of the GFRP and compared our results with conventional GFRPs. Super-elastic shape memory alloy wires and stainless-steel wires were fabricated as meshes and composites were fabricated by the hand-layup process followed by vacuum bagging and the compression molding setup. The shape-memory-alloy-wires-reinforced GFRP showed maximum impact strength followed by stainless-steel-wires-reinforced GFRPs and then conventional GFRPs. The effect of the energy absorption capability of super-elastic NiTi wires owing to their energy hysteresis was attributed to stress-induced martensitic transformation in the isothermal regime above the austenite transformation temperature. The smart shape memory wires and stainless-steel-wires-based hybrid composites were found to improve the impact strength by 13% and 4%, respectively, as compared to the unreinforced GFRPs. The shape-memory-reinforced hybrid composite also dominated in specific strength as compared to stainless-steel-wires-reinforced GFRPs and conventional GFRPs.
The Role of Primary Cilia-Associated Phosphoinositide Signaling in Development
Authors: Chen Chuan , Hu Jinghua , Ling Kun
Published: December 2022

Primary cilia are microtube-based organelles that extend from the cell surface and function as biochemical and mechanical extracellular signal sensors. Primary cilia coordinate a series of signaling pathways during development. Cilia dysfunction leads to a pleiotropic group of developmental disorders, termed ciliopathy. Phosphoinositides (PIs), a group of signaling phospholipids, play a crucial role in development and tissue homeostasis by regulating membrane trafficking, cytoskeleton reorganization, and organelle identity. Accumulating evidence implicates the involvement of PI species in ciliary defects and ciliopathies. The abundance and localization of PIs in the cell are tightly regulated by the opposing actions of kinases and phosphatases, some of which are recently discovered in the context of primary cilia. Here, we review several cilium-associated PI kinases and phosphatases, including their localization along cilia, function in regulating the ciliary biology under normal conditions, as well as the connection of their disease-associated mutations with ciliopathies.
Image Decomposition Technique Based on Near-Infrared Transmission
Authors: Aminoto Toto , Priambodo Purnomo Sidi , Sudibyo Harry
Published: December 2022

One way to diagnose a disease is to examine pictures of tissue thought to be affected by the disease. Near-infrared properties are subdivided into nonionizing, noninvasive, and nonradiative properties. Near-infrared also has selectivity properties for the objects it passes through. With this selectivity, the resulting attenuation coefficient value will differ depending on the type of material or wavelength. By measuring the output and input intensity values, as well as the attenuation coefficient, the thickness of a material can be measured. The thickness value can then be used to display a reconstructed image. In this study, the object studied was a phantom consisting of silicon rubber, margarine, and gelatin. The results showed that margarine materials could be decomposed from other ingredients with a wavelength of 980 nm.
Darkness within: The Internal Mechanism between Dark Triad and Malevolent Creativity
Authors: Gao Zhenni , Qiao Xinuo , Xu Xiaobo , Hao Ning
Published: December 2022

The Dark Triad has been found to be associated with malevolent creativity (MC) in terms of trait level, and its underlying mechanism remains unclear. Based on the cognitive–affective processing system theory and the existing studies, the current study aimed to explore the internal mechanism between the Dark Triad and MC behavioral tendencies/performance. The results revealed that the Dark Triad is positively related to MC behavioral tendencies through trait aggression and general creativity behavioral tendencies. Regarding MC performance, the Dark Triad is positively related to the originality of malevolent ideas through MC behavioral tendencies, but this effect is only significant at low-to-medium levels of moral identity. In line with moral identity theory, a higher moral identity may prevent individuals from acting immorally due to their desire to maintain their moral image, which may further suppress malevolent idea generation. Therefore, cultivating moral identity may be an effective approach to weaken the Dark Triad–MC performance association.
On the Lubricity and Comparative Life Cycle of Biobased Synthetic and Mineral Oil Emulsions in Machining Titanium Ti-6Al-4V at Low Cutting Speed
Authors: Wood Paul , Boud Fathi , Carter Wayne , Varasteh Hirbod , Gunputh Urvashi , Pawlik Marzena , Clementson Jenny , Lu Yiling , Hossain Syed , Broderick Matthew , Raguraman Munusamy , Smith Andy , Mantle Andy , McGourlay Jamie
Published: December 2022

The paper discusses an instrumented tapping test method using a CNC machine tool to compare the lubricity of MWFs by cutting threads in a Ti-6Al-4V alloy at low speed. The method uses a spiral flute tap size typical of industrial practice. A soft synchronous tap holder and spindle mounted dynamometer were incorporated on the machine to measure torque and thrust force. The tapping test method was demonstrated on three groups of MWFs that were commercially available and classified by ASTM E2523-13:2018. The method developed stable results free of chip clogging in tool flutes which could otherwise mask their comparative lubricity. The fully synthetic (FS) group displayed the best lubricity and within this group the FS from renewables (FS-bio) was the best overall. The method was shown to be effective in mitigating biasing effects on lubricity performance due to the generous tool chamfer angle tolerance and was practical and economical to implement. The significance of the results is discussed enabling an understanding of friction effects in tapping using a soft synchronous tap holder. A life cycle assessment of each MWF group found total Greenhouse Gas emitted from the FS group was 17% of the hydrocarbon group whilst FS-bio emitted just 7%.
On Sea-Level Change in Coastal Areas
Authors: Courtillot Vincent , Le Mouël Jean-Louis , Lopes Fernando , Gibert Dominique
Published: December 2022

Variations in sea-level, based on tide gauge data (GSLTG) and on combining tide gauges and satellite data (GSLl), are subjected to singular spectrum analysis (SSA) to determine their trends and periodic or quasi-periodic components. GLSTG increases by 90 mm from 1860 to 2020, a contribution of 0.56 mm/yr to the mean rise rate. Annual to multi-decadal periods of ∼90/80, 60, 30, 20, 10/11, and 4/5 years are found in both GSLTG and GSLl. These periods are commensurable periods of the Jovian planets, combinations of the periods of Neptune (165 yr), Uranus (84 yr), Saturn (29 yr) and Jupiter (12 yr). These same periods are encountered in sea-level changes, the motion of the rotation pole RP and evolution of global pressure GP, suggesting physical links. The first SSA components comprise most of the signal variance: 95% for GSLTG, 89% for GSLl, 98% for GP and 75% for RP. Laplace derived the Liouville–Euler equations that govern the rotation and translation of the rotation axis of any celestial body. He emphasized that one must consider the orbital kinetic moments of all planets in addition to gravitational attractions and concluded that the Earth’s rotation axis should undergo motions that carry the combinations of periods of the Sun, Moon and planets. Almost all the periods found in the SSA components of sea-level (GSLl and GSLTG), global pressure (GP) and polar motion (RP), of their modulations and their derivatives can be associated with the Jovian planets. The trends themselves could be segments of components with still longer periodicities (e.g., 175 yr Jose cycle).
Alternative Power Options for Improvement of the Environmental Friendliness of Fishing Trawlers
Authors: Koričan Marija , Perčić Maja , Vladimir Nikola , Alujević Neven , Fan Ailong
Published: December 2022

The fishing sector is faced with emission problems arising from the extensive use of diesel engines as prime movers. Energy efficiency, environmental performance, and minimization of operative costs through the reduction of fuel consumption are key research topics across the whole maritime sector. Ship emissions can be determined at different levels of complexity and accuracy, i.e., by analyzing ship technical data and assuming its operative profile, or by direct measurements of key parameters. This paper deals with the analysis of the environmental footprint of a fishing trawler operating in the Adriatic Sea, including three phases of the Life-Cycle Assessment (manufacturing, Well-to-Pump (WTP), and Pump-to-Wake (PTW)). Based on the data on fuel consumption, the viability of replacing the conventional diesel-powered system with alternative options is analyzed. The results showed that fuels such as LNG and B20 represent the easiest solution that would result in a reduction of harmful gases and have a positive impact on overall costs. Although electrification and hydrogen represent one of the cleanest forms of energy, due to their high price and complex application in an obsolete fleet, they do not present an optimal solution for the time being. The paper showed that the use of alternative fuels would have a positive effect on the reduction of harmful emissions, but further work is needed to find an environmentally acceptable and economically profitable pathway for redesigning the ship power system of fishing trawlers.
Selective NO2 Detection by Black Phosphorus Gas Sensor Prepared via Aqueous Route for Ship Pollutant Monitoring
Authors: Wang Yang , Wang Yujia , Sun Yue , Zhang Kuanguang , Zhang Chenyang , Liu Jianqiao , Fu Ce , Wang Junsheng
Published: December 2022

The emission of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) caused by marine transportation has attracted worldwide environmental concerns. Two-dimensional (2D) black phosphorus (BP) is an emerging semiconductive material with the advantages of high electron mobility, a layer-dependent direct band gap and a large specific surface area. These properties ensure excellent potential in gas-sensing applications. In this work, BP quantum dots (QDs) are synthesized from commercial red phosphorus (RP) fine powder via the aqueous route. The BP QDs show uniform size distribution with an average size of 2.2 nm. They are employed to fabricate thin film gas sensors by aerial-assisted chemical vapor deposition. The microstructure, morphology and chemical composition are determined by various characterizations. The sensor performances are evaluated with the optimized response set to 100 ppm NO2 of 10.19 and a sensitivity of 0.48 is obtained. The gas sensor also demonstrates excellent repeatability, selectivity and stability. The fabricated thin film gas sensor assembled by BP QDs exhibits prospective applications in selective NO2 detection for marine gaseous pollutant monitoring and control.
A Na+/H+-Exchanger Gene from Penaeus monodon: Molecular Characterization and Expression Analysis under Ammonia Nitrogen Stress
Authors: Li Yundong , Jiang Shigui , Fan Hongdi , Yang Qibin , Jiang Song , Huang Jianhua , Yang Lishi , Zhang Wenwen , Chen Xu , Zhou Falin
Published: December 2022

Na+/H+-exchanger (NHE) assumes a significant part in different particle transport in creatures. A clone of Penaeus monodon NHE cDNA was examined in this study (PmNHE), and its impact on high-concentration ammonia nitrogen stress was researched. The 877-amino acid (aa) protein was encoded by a full-length PmNHE cDNA that was 2788 base pairs (bp) long and had a 2643-bp open reading frame (ORF). The findings show that PmNHE was expressed in all of the P. monodon organs that were tested, including the intestine, muscle, hemolymph, heart, hepatopancreas, stomach, epidermis, gill, testis, and ovary, and the intestine and muscle were found to have the highest levels of PmNHE expression. The expression of PmNHE in the gill tissue of P. monodon was significantly up-regulated under high levels of ammonia nitrogen stress. The expression of PmNHE in the intestine of P. monodon under high-concentration ammonia nitrogen stress was significant. When exposed to high concentrations of ammonia nitrogen stress, P. monodon exhibited shorter survival times than the two control groups. Hence, it is suggested in the present study that PmNHE may have a significant impact on the environment with high levels of ammonia nitrogen.
Increase in the Erosion Rate Due to the Impact of Climate Change on Sea Level Rise: Victoria Beach, a Case Study
Authors: Aguilera-Vidal Maria , Muñoz-Perez Juan J. , Contreras Antonio , Contreras Francisco , Lopez-Garcia Patricia , Jigena Bismarck
Published: December 2022

This article provides a general methodology for calculating the retreat of the coastline and the volume of sand necessary to renourish a beach due to sea level rise (SLR) in the medium-long term. An example is presented, Victoria Beach, and a projection is made for the years 2030, 2040, 2050, and 2100. The results obtained take into account global sea level rise (GSLR), which is worldwide, and local sea level rise (LSLR), which considers climate variability and vertical land movements. Regarding GSLR, data were provided by the projections from IPCC (Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change) scenarios and empirical models, such as Rahmstorf and Pfeffer. The LSLR data came from the tide gauge station located in Cadiz. Finally, the results obtained showed that global warming impacts erosive effects and the subsequent volume of sand required to renourish beaches. The total sea level rise (TSLR) projections indicated for Victoria Beach are relatively higher than the GSLR projections. Even in the best IPCC scenario (RCP 2.6), Victoria Beach presents a significant erosion of 52 m, requiring a volume of sand of 1.0 Mm3 to supply renourishment.
Proteomic Analysis of Apple Response to Penicillium expansum Infection Based on Label-Free and Parallel Reaction Monitoring Techniques
Authors: Xu Meng , Wang Kaili , Li Jun , Tan Zhuqing , Godana Esa Abiso , Zhang Hongyin
Published: December 2022

Blue mold, caused by Penicillium expansum, is the most destructive fungal disease of apples and causes great losses during the post-harvest storage of the fruit. Although some apple cultivars are resistant to P. expansum, there has been little information on the molecular mechanism of resistance. In this study, differential proteomic analysis was performed on apple samples infected and uninfected with P. expansum. Parallel reaction monitoring (PRM) technology was used to target and verify the expression of candidate proteins. The label-free technique identified 343 differentially expressed proteins, which were mainly associated with defense responses, metal ion binding, stress responses, and oxidative phosphorylation. The differential expression of enzymes related to reactive oxygen species (ROS) synthesis and scavenging, the activation of defense-related metabolic pathways, and the further production of pathogenesis-related proteins (PR proteins) during P. expansum infection in apples, and direct resistance to pathogen invasion were determined. This study reveals the mechanisms of apple response at the proteomic level with 9 h of P. expansum infection.
Improved Itaconate Production with Ustilago cynodontis via Co-Metabolism of CO2-Derived Formate
Authors: Ullmann Lena , Guntermann Nils , Kohl Philipp , Schröders Gereon , Müsgens Andreas , Franciò Giancarlo , Leitner Walter , Blank Lars M.
Published: December 2022

In recent years, it was shown that itaconic acid can be produced from glucose with Ustilago strains at up to maximum theoretical yield. The use of acetate and formate as co-feedstocks can boost the efficiency of itaconate production with Ustilaginaceae wild-type strains by reducing the glucose amount and thus the agricultural land required for the biotechnological production of this chemical. Metabolically engineered strains (U. cynodontis Δfuz7 Δcyp3 ↑Pria1 and U. cynodontis Δfuz7 Δcyp3 PetefmttA ↑Pria1) were applied in itaconate production, obtaining a titer of 56.1 g L−1 and a yield of 0.55 gitaconate per gsubstrate. Both improved titer and yield (increase of 5.2 g L−1 and 0.04 gitaconate per gsubstrate, respectively) were achieved when using sodium formate as an auxiliary substrate. By applying the design-of-experiments (DoE) methodology, cultivation parameters (glucose, sodium formate and ammonium chloride concentrations) were optimized, resulting in two empirical models predicting itaconate titer and yield for U. cynodontis Δfuz7 Δcyp3 PetefmttA ↑Pria1. Thereby, an almost doubled itaconate titer of 138 g L−1 was obtained and a yield of 0.62 gitaconate per gsubstrate was reached during confirmation experiments corresponding to 86% of the theoretical maximum. In order to close the carbon cycle by production of the co-feed via a “power-to-X” route, the biphasic Ru-catalysed hydrogenation of CO2 to formate could be integrated into the bioprocess directly using the obtained aqueous solution of formates as co-feedstock without any purification steps, demonstrating the (bio)compatibility of the two processes.
Uses of Antibiotics in Ornamental Fish in Hong Kong and the Antibiotic Resistance in the Associated Zoonotic Pathogens
Authors: Au-Yeung Chun , Lam Kit-Ling , Chan Ka-Wai , Mo Wing-Yin
Published: December 2022

The use of antibiotics in ornamental fish is not regulated, as they are not intended for human consumption. Although antibiotic resistant bacteria have been detected in ornamental fish worldwide, there have been no studies to look at the situation in Hong Kong. Therefore, the present study was conducted to investigate the use of antibiotics in ornamental fish. Ornamental fish were purchased from five local pet fish shops and the antibiotics in carriage water were quantified using liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. Moreover, Aeromonas and Pseudomonas spp. present in carriage water were isolated and their minimum inhibitory concentrations against selected antibiotics were determined. Results indicated that among the twenty antibiotics screened, doxycycline (0.0155–0.0836 µg L−1), oxytetracycline (0.0102–29.0 µg L−1), tetracycline (0.0350–0.244 µg L−1), enrofloxacin (0.00107–0.247 µg L−1), and oxalinic acid (n.d.−0.514 µg L−1) were detected in all sampled shops. Additionally, MIC results revealed that some of the Aeromonas and Pseudomonas spp. isolates were highly resistant to all antibiotics selected. Our findings confirmed that multiple antibiotics are being used in ornamental fish and the associated bacteria are resistant to selected antibiotics, suggesting that this could be a significant transmission route of antibiotic resistant bacteria to household indoor environments.
Development of a Multi-Channel Wearable Heart Sound Visualization System
Authors: Guo Binbin , Tang Hong , Xia Shufeng , Wang Miao , Hu Yating , Zhao Zehang
Published: December 2022

A multi-channel wearable heart sound visualization system based on novel heart sound sensors for imaging cardiac acoustic maps was developed and designed. The cardiac acoustic map could be used to detect cardiac vibration and heart sound propagation. The visualization system acquired 72 heart sound signals and one ECG signal simultaneously using 72 heart sound sensors placed on the chest surface and one ECG analog front end. The novel heart sound sensors had the advantages of high signal quality, small size, and high sensitivity. Butterworth filtering and wavelet transform were used to reduce noise in the signals. The cardiac acoustic map was obtained based on the cubic spline interpolation of the heart sound signals. The results showed the heart sound signals on the chest surface could be detected and visualized by this system. The variations of heart sounds were clearly displayed. This study provided a way to select optimal position for auscultation of heart sounds. The visualization system could provide a technology for investigating the propagation of heart sound in the thoracic cavity.
A Fractal View on Losses Attributable to Scams in the Market for Initial Coin Offerings
Authors: Grobys Klaus , King Timothy , Sapkota Niranjan
Published: December 2022

Analogous to traditional Initial Public Offerings (IPO), Initial Coin Offerings (ICOs) represent an emerging channel through which firms can access external funding using the new evolving digital financial market for tokens. However, while ICOs represent an alternative funding channel for startups, the ICO market is essentially unregulated, which creates opportunities for fraud such as ‘ICO scams’. This paper addresses the question as to what the expected losses attributable to scams in the market for ICOs are. Using web scrapping techniques, all ICOs launched between August 2014 and December 2019 were first screened for accusations of fraud, before a novel methodological framework was employed to understand the true costs associated with scams. The findings reveal that 56.80% of ICOs were subject to scams, corresponding to 65.80% of the relevant market capitalization, estimated at USD 15.38 billion. Moreover, it is found that the loss distribution due to scam ICOs is governed by a fractal process. Specifically, the power law exponent for the distribution governing losses due to scam ICOs suggests that the second moment is not defined, rendering the sample mean unstable. Taken together, the results in this paper provide evidence that we have not yet seen the largest loss in the market for ICOs and are supportive of an urgent need for ICO market regulations from governments and regulatory agencies.
Spatial-Temporal Pattern and Influencing Factors of Land Ecological Carrying Capacity in The National Pilot Zones for Ecological Conservation in China
Authors: Fan Zhenggen , Liu Ji , Yu Hu , Lu Hua , Zhang Puwei
Published: December 2022

Improving land ecological carrying capacity (LECC) is important in accelerating the realization of national ecological civilization construction goals. Based on the panel data of the first batch of prefecture-level cities in the National Pilot Zones for Ecological Conservation initiative from 2005 to 2019, this study analyzes the spatial–temporal pattern of LECC using the improved ecological footprint model, Theil–Sen’s slope estimator and Mann–Kendall test, and investigates the influencing factors of LECC using the geodetector. Results show that the overall land ecological carrying status of each province tends to improve but also shows remarkable interprovincial differences in development trend, with Guizhou outperforming Jiangxi and Fujian in general. The pattern of LECC security has apparent regional heterogeneity. Most prefecture-level cities have high ecological pressure and uneven spatial distribution but slowly improve overall. The influencing factor of forest land coverage and population density has strong explanatory power on the LECC, and the interactions among the factors are enhanced. The four aspects of land ecological construction should be carried out. A first step is to strengthen land ecological management and optimize the land use practices actively. Second, modern technology is used to establish real-time monitoring and early warning systems for LECC security. Third, the two key factors of forest land coverage and population density should be focused on, and enhancing their positive interaction with industrial structure and arable land utilization rate. Finally, the experience of model construction should be promoted in the Non-national Pilot Zones for Ecological Conservation in China. The aim is to enhance the effectiveness of land ecology measures further and promote the construction of national ecological civilization in China.
A Neighborhood-Based Urban Water Carrying Capacity Assessment: Analysis of the Relationship between Spatial-Demographic Factors and Water Consumption Patterns in Tehran, Iran
Authors: Tayebi Safiyeh , Feizizadeh Bakhtiar , Esfandi Saeed , Aliabbasi Banafsheh , Ali Alavi Seyed , Shamsipour Aliakbar
Published: December 2022

The upward trajectory of urbanization, coupled with the ever-growing demand for more water resources, has led to increased pressure on limited water resources, particularly in cities with dry climates such as Tehran. Since the balance of Tehran’s water ecosystems has been disturbed, and the quality and quantity of water resources have been affected in recent years, conducting an assessment of water environment carrying capacity (WECC) seemed vital for this city. WECC was used as the basis of water supply sustainability evaluation concerning Tehran’s land use and demographic characteristics on a neighborhood scale. Therefore, the effect size and correlation of 12 types of land use and six variables derived from the literature with water consumption patterns were examined in warm and cold seasons. The results show that land use, population density, percentage of deteriorated area, percentage of buildings over 30 years old, residential–commercial land use, and green spaces correlate significantly with water consumption. The percentage of deteriorated areas and buildings over 30 years old has a negative, and the rest has a positive impact on water consumption. It is also recommended to use the research findings to improve Tehran’s water environment carrying capacity and apply the proposed evaluation procedure to other cities. The results of this research can be used in planning large and densely populated cities with a neighborhood-oriented approach, in which local institutions play an essential role in attracting people’s participation and inclusive urban planning.
Hierarchical Correlates of the Shrinkage of Cities and Towns in Northeast China
Authors: Liu Wei , Tong Yao , Zhang Jing , Ma Zuopeng , Zhou Guolei , Liu Yanjun
Published: December 2022

The growth and shrinkage of cities and towns are normal phenomena in the evolution of regional town systems. The growth and shrinkage of different levels of cities and towns are mutually influential. This study uses ArcGIS and the Hierarchical Linear Model to analyze the hierarchical differences and correlations in the characteristics and mechanisms of shrinking cities and towns in Northeast China from 2000 to 2020. The results indicate that the shrinkage of cities and towns is characterized by hierarchical differences. High-level cities show widespread and slight shrinkage, while low-level towns show the most severe and continued shrinkage. The population shrinkage of cities and towns within the same municipality is not fully synchronized. In terms of spatial patterns, the multi-level relationship between cities and towns is divided into growth-driven, central siphon, peripheral growth, local growth, and global shrinkage. The shrinkage of high-level cities is mainly influenced by economic and industrial development and built-up environment. The shrinkage of low-level towns is constrained by population concentration, economic development, enterprise scale, local arable land resources, and environmental quality. Wages, jobs, and infrastructures in high-level cities have a strong siphoning effect on low-level towns, while technology and industrial development drive the population and economic development of low-level towns.
Age-Dependent Decline in Common Femoral Artery Flow-Mediated Dilation and Wall Shear Stress in Healthy Subjects
Authors: Bapir Mariam , Untracht Gavrielle R. , Hunt Julie E. A. , McVey John H. , Harris Jenny , Skene Simon S. , Campagnolo Paola , Dikaios Nikolaos , Rodriguez-Mateos Ana , Sampson David D. , Sampson Danuta M. , Heiss Christian
Published: December 2022

Femoral artery (FA) endothelial function is a promising biomarker of lower extremity vascular health for peripheral artery disease (PAD) prevention and treatment; however, the impact of age on FA endothelial function has not been reported in healthy adults. Therefore, we evaluated the reproducibility and acceptability of flow-mediated dilation (FMD) in the FA and brachial artery (BA) (n = 20) and performed cross-sectional FA- and BA-FMD measurements in healthy non-smokers aged 22–76 years (n = 50). FMD protocols demonstrated similar good reproducibility. Leg occlusion was deemed more uncomfortable than arm occlusion; thigh occlusion was less tolerated than forearm and calf occlusion. FA-FMD with calf occlusion was lower than BA-FMD (6.0 ± 1.1% vs 6.4 ± 1.3%, p = 0.030). Multivariate linear regression analysis indicated that age (−0.4%/decade) was a significant independent predictor of FA-FMD (R2 = 0.35, p = 0.002). The age-dependent decline in FMD did not significantly differ between FA and BA (pinteraction agexlocation = 0.388). In older participants, 40% of baseline FA wall shear stress (WSS) values were <5 dyne/cm2, which is regarded as pro-atherogenic. In conclusion, endothelial function declines similarly with age in the FA and the BA in healthy adults. The age-dependent FA enlargement results in a critical decrease in WSS that may explain part of the age-dependent predisposition for PAD.
Excessive Sedation as a Risk Factor for Delirium: A Comparison between Two Cohorts of ARDS Critically Ill Patients with and without COVID-19
Authors: Rasulo Frank Anthony , Badenes Rafael , Longhitano Yaroslava , Racca Fabrizio , Zanza Christian , Marchesi Mattia , Piva Simone , Beretta Silvia , Nocivelli Gian Piero , Matta Basil , Cunningham Daniel , Cattaneo Sergio , Savioli Gabriele , Franceschi Francesco , Robba Chiara , Latronico Nicola
Published: December 2022

Excessive sedation is associated with poor outcome in critically ill acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) patients. Whether this prognostic effect varies among ARDS patients with and without COVID-19 has yet to be determined. We compared the prognostic value of excessive sedation—in terms of delirium, length of stay in intensive care unit (ICU-LOS) and ICU mortality—between COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 critically ill ARDS patients. This was a second analysis of prospectively collected data in four European academic centers pertaining to 101 adult critically ill ARDS patients with and without COVID-19 disease. Depth of sedation (DOS) and delirium were monitored through processed electroencephalogram (EEG) and the Confusion Assessment Method for ICU (CAM-ICU). Our main exposure was excessive sedation and how it relates to the presence of delirium, ICU-LOS and ICU mortality. The criterion for excessive sedation was met in 73 (72.3%) patients; of these, 15 (82.2%) and 58 (69.1%) were in non-COVID-19 and COVID-19 ARDS groups, respectively. The criteria of delirium were met in 44 patients (60.3%). Moreover, excessive sedation was present in 38 (86.4%) patients with delirium (p < 0.001). ICU death was ascertained in 41 out of 101 (41.0%) patients; of these, 37 (90.2%) had excessive sedation (p < 0.001). The distribution of ICU-LOS among excessive-sedated and non-sedated patients was 22 (16–27) vs. 14 (10.5–19.5) days (p < 0.001), respectively. In a multivariable framework, excessive sedation was independently associated with the development of delirium (p = 0.001), increased ICU mortality (p = 0.009) and longer ICU-LOS (p = 0.000), but only in COVID-19 ARDS patients. Independent of age and gender, excessive sedation might represent a risk factor for delirium in COVID-19 ARDS patients. Similarly, excessive sedation shows to be an independent predictor of ICU-LOS and ICU mortality. The use of continuous EEG-based depth of sedation (DOS) monitoring and delirium assessment in critically ill COVID-19 patients is warranted.
Tiresome or Pamphleteering? The Use of Periautologia in Libanius of Antioch’s To Those Who Called Him Tiresome (Or. 2)
Authors: Quiroga-Puertas Alberto Jesús
Published: December 2022

The study of periautologia (“self-praise”) in Ancient Greek literature has been somehow overlooked even though its presence is felt in numerous works. The absence of the analysis of periautologia is even more remarkable in the case of the works composed by the sophist Libanius of Antioch given the autobiographical nature of most of his speeches. Thus, in this paper I surveyed the use and the purposes of periautologia in one of his speeches—Or. 2, To those who called him tiresome—in order to ascertain which rhetorical and literary strategies were deployed by Libanius. The sophist’s concern with losing his influence in the cultural and political milieu of the end of the fourth century AD contributes to explain the frequent use of periautological passages in his Or. 2.
Influence of Si3N4 on the Dry Sliding Wear Characteristics of Stir-Cast Cu-10Sn/xSi3N4 Metal Matrix Composite for Bearing Applications
Authors: Satheesh Sooraj , Priya Gokul Krishna Gopakumar , Venugopal Govind , Anil Anuranjan , Jayasree Jayakrishna Ajithkumar , Vishnu Anandhan Ajan , Shankar Karthik Venkitraman , Kumar Anil
Published: December 2022

Bronze metal matrix composites (MMCs) are futuristic materials that may find applications in automobile, aviation, and marine industries, specifically for propellers in submarines, bearings, and bushings for defence purposes. The present investigation studied the effect of Si3N4 (5, 10, 15 wt%) ceramic particles on the physical, metallurgical, and tribological behaviour of Cu-10Sn/Si3N4 MMCs. Cast rods of three composites and a base alloy were fabricated using the liquid metallurgy route. The microstructural characterisation for the cast samples was conducted using FESEM (Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope), EDS (Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy), XRD (X-ray diffraction), and TEM (Transmission Electron Microscope), which revealed that the Cu-10Sn alloy reinforced with 5 wt% of Si3N4 had homogeneous distribution and perfect bonding of the Si3N4 with the bronze MMC. The dry sliding wear test was performed by varying parameters such as the applied load (10, 20, 30 N) and sliding velocity (1, 2, 3 m/s). The specific wear rate (SWR) increased against an increased load. However, the SWR and coefficient of friction decreased and then increased against an increasing sliding velocity due to tribolayer formation. The primary wear mechanism observed at low and high loads was severe delamination. In contrast, the wear mechanism was adhesion wear at high and low velocities. Amongst the researched samples, Cu-10Sn/5 wt% Si3N4 composites revealed the least SWR at a load of 10 N and sliding velocity of 2 m/s and hence can be recommended for manufacturing bearings and bushings in the automobile and defence industry.
3-(3-Bromophenyl)-7-acetoxycoumarin
Authors: Turhanen Petri A. , Nousiainen Liisa P. , Timonen Juri M.
Published: December 2022

In natural product synthesis, the procurement of easily accessible starting materials is crucial. Chromenones and their subclass, coumarins, are a wide family of small, oxygen-containing aromatic heterocycles. Phenylcoumarins offer a particularly excellent starting point for a diverse chemical space of natural products, and thus are excellent staring materials for more complex natural products. Herein, we report an efficient synthesis of an easily accessible 3-phenylcoumarin bearing two orthogonally substitutable groups, bromine, and an acetyl-protected phenylic hydroxyl group.
2-(2,5-Dimethoxyphenoxy)isoindoline-1,3-dione
Authors: Paveliev Stanislav A. , Segida Oleg O. , Terent’ev Alexander O.
Published: December 2022

In this work, the direct C-H functionalization reaction of 1,4-dimethoxybenzene with N-hydroxyphthalimide has been disclosed. A previously unknown product of the C-O coupling of 1,4-dimethoxybenzene and N-hydroxyphthalimide was obtained. The reaction proceeded under mild conditions, in which a commercially available manganese-based oxidizing agent was used for generation of a phthalimide-N-oxyl radical. The obtained compound is a promising valuable precursor of O-aryl hydroxylamine.
Optimization of 3D Printing Technology for Fabrication of Dental Crown Prototype Using Plastic Powder and Zirconia Materials
Authors: Bennett Chonlada , Sojithamporn Phanumas , Thanakulwattana Warinthorn , Wattanutchariya Wassanai , Leksakul Komgrit , Nakkiew Wasawat , Jantanasakulwong Kittisak , Rachtanapun Pornchai , Suhr Jonghwan , Sawangrat Choncharoen
Published: December 2022

This research was aimed at developing a dental prototype from 3D printing technology using a synthetic filament of polylactic acid (PLA) and zirconium dioxide (ZrO2) with glycerol and silane coupling agent as a binder. A face-centered central composite design was used to study the effects of the filament extrusion parameters and the 3D printing parameters. Tensile and compressive testing was conducted to determine the stress-strain relationship of the filaments. The yield strength, elongation percentage and Young’s modulus were also calculated. Results showed the melting temperature of 193 °C, ZrO2 ratio of 17 wt.% and 25 rpm screw speed contributed to the highest ultimate tensile strength of the synthetic filament. A Nozzle temperature of 210 °C and an infill density of 100% had the most effect on the ultimate compressive strength whilst the printing speed had no significant effects. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) was used to study the thermal properties and percentage of crystallinity of PLA filaments. The addition of glycerol and a silane coupling agent increased the tensile strength and filament size. The ZrO2 particles induced the crystallization of the PLA matrix. A higher crystallization was also obtained from the annealing treatment resulting in the greater thermal resistance performance of the dental crown prototype.
Processing and Characterization of a New Quaternary Alloy Ti10Mo8Nb6Zr for Potential Biomedical Applications
Authors: Carobolante João Pedro Aquiles , Pereira Júnior Adelvam , Bortolini Junior Celso , Barboza da Silva Kerolene , Sabino Roberta Maia , Popat Ketul C. , Claro Ana Paula Rosifini Alves
Published: December 2022

The study of new metallic biomaterials for application in bone tissue repair has improved due to the increase in life expectancy and the aging of the world population. Titanium alloys are one of the main groups of biomaterials for these applications, and beta-type titanium alloys are more suitable for long-term bone implants. The objective of this work was to process and characterize a new Ti10Mo8Nb6Zr beta alloy. Alloy processing involves arc melting, heat treatment, and cold forging. The characterization techniques used in this study were X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, differential scanning calorimetry, optical microscopy, microhardness measurements, and pulse excitation technique. In vitro studies using adipose-derived stem cells (ADSC) were performed to evaluate the cytotoxicity and cell viability after 1, 4, and 7 days. The results showed that the main phase during the processing route was the beta phase. At the end of processing, the alloy showed beta phase, equiaxed grains with an average size of 228.7 µm, and low Young’s modulus (83 GPa). In vitro studies revealed non-cytotoxicity and superior cell viability compared to CP Ti. The addition of zirconium led to a decrease in the beta-transus temperature and Young’s modulus and improved the biocompatibility of the alloy. Therefore, the Ti10Mo8Nb6Zr alloy is a promising candidate for application in the biomedical field.
Reliable Design and Control Implementation of Parallel DC/DC Converter for High Power Charging System
Authors: Zhou Qing , Xu Yuelei , Rasol Jarhinbek , Hui Tian , Yuan Chaofeng , Li Fan
Published: December 2022

With the current popularity of Electric Vehicles (EV), especially in some critical EV applications such as hospital EV fleets, the demand for continuous and reliable power supply is increasing. However, most of the charging stations are powered in a centralized way, which causes transistors and other components to be subjected to high voltage and current stresses that reduce reliability, and a single point of failure can cause the entire system to fail. Therefore, a significant effort is made in this paper to improve the reliability of the charging system. In terms of charging system structure design, a distributed charging structure with fault tolerance is designed and a mathematical model to evaluate the reliability of the structure is proposed. In terms of control, a current sharing control algorithm is designed that can achieve fault tolerance. To further improve the reliability of the system, a thermal sharing control method based on current sharing technology is also designed. This method can improve the reliability of the charging system by distributing the load more rationally according to the differences in component performance and operating environment; FPGA-based control techniques are provided, and innovative ideas of pipeline control and details of mathematical reasoning for key IP cores are presented. Experiments show that N + 1 redundancy fault tolerance can be achieved in both current sharing and thermal sharing modes. In the current sharing experiment, when module 3 failed, the total current only fluctuated 800 mA within 500 ms, which is satisfactory. In the thermal sharing experiment, after module 3 failed, modules 1, 2, and 4 adjusted the current reasonably under the correction of the thermal sharing loop, and the total current remained stable throughout the process. The experimental results prove that the charging system structure design and control method proposed in this paper are feasible and excellent.