bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Digital Credit and Its Determinants: A Global Perspective
Authors: Le Tu D. Q. , Ngo Thanh , Nguyen Dat T.
Published: October 2023

Digital credit has gained much attention from academic researchers, practitioners, and policymakers worldwide. This study empirically evaluates the determinants of digital credit using cross-country data from 2013 to 2019. The conventional ordinary least square regression with fixed effects estimator is used to investigate the factors affecting the growth of digital credit. Our study highlights that the regulatory frameworks of anti-money laundering and terrorist financing, the economy’s innovative capacity, and financial development are significant factors affecting the development of digital credit, especially fintech credit. However, the findings indicate that only the innovation capacity is more critical to the expansion of bigtech credit. Nonetheless, our results provide some important implications for market participants and the authorities in promoting digital credit. Accordingly, this study contributes to the literature on the growth of digital credit when considering the critical roles of money laundering and terrorist financing frameworks and innovation capacity.
Novel Antimicrobial Peptide from the Hepatopancreas of the Red King Crab
Authors: Molchanov Vladislav , Yegorov Alexander , Molchanov Maxim , Timchenko Alexander , Novikov Vitaly , Novojilov Nikolay , Timchenko Maria
Published: October 2023

Crustaceans have successfully adapted to survive in their natural habitat, rich in microorganisms, due to the presence of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) in their organism. They achieve this adaptation despite lacking the highly specific adaptive immune system found in vertebrates. One valuable source of AMPs is the hepatopancreas, a waste product from crab fishery and its processing. Applying zymographic and spectrophotometric techniques, we discovered a small peptide (approximately 5 kDa) within a low molecular weight protein fraction extracted from the acetone powder of the red king crab hepatopancreas. This peptide hydrolyzes both M. lysodeikticus cell wall and M. lysodeikticus cell wall polysaccharide, while showing no activity against gelatin. The found peptide may be of interest for application in medicine, biotechnology, and the food industry, for example as a bio-preservative.
Preparation of Azoxystrobin-Zinc Metal–Organic Framework/Biomass Charcoal Composite Materials and Application in the Prevention and Control of Gray Mold in Tomato
Authors: Han Xiao , Qian Yinjie , Li Jiapeng , Zhang Zhongkai , Guo Jinbo , Zhang Ning , Liu Longyu , Cheng Zhiqiang , Yu Xiaobin
Published: October 2023

In order to reduce the use of fungicide and ensure food safety, it is necessary to develop fungicide with low toxicity and high efficiency to reduce residues. Azoxystrobin (AZOX), which is derived from mushrooms, is an excellent choice. However, conventional AZOX release is difficult to regulate. In this paper, a pH-responsive fungicide delivery system for the preparation of AZOX by impregnation method was reported. The Zinc metal–organic framework/Biomass charcoal (ZIF-8/BC) support was first prepared, and subsequently, the AZOX-ZIF-8/BC nano fungicide was prepared by adsorption of AZOX onto ZIF-8/BC by dipping. Gray mold, caused by Botrytis cinerea, is one of the most important crop diseases worldwide. AZOX-ZIF-8/BC could respond to oxalic acid produced by Botrytis cinerea to release loaded AZOX. When pH = 4.8, it was 48.42% faster than when pH = 8.2. The loading of AZOX on ZIF-8/BC was 19.83%. In vitro and pot experiments showed that AZOX-ZIF-8/BC had significant fungicidal activity, and 300 mg/L concentration of AZOX-ZIF-8-BC could be considered as a safe and effective control of Botrytis cinerea. The above results indicated that the prepared AZOX-ZIF-8/BC not only exhibited good drug efficacy but also demonstrated pH-responsive fungicide release.
Exploiting the Features of Short Peptides to Recognize Specific Cell Surface Markers
Authors: Buonocore Michela , Grimaldi Manuela , Santoro Angelo , Covelli Verdiana , Marino Carmen , Napolitano Enza , Novi Sara , Tecce Mario Felice , Ciaglia Elena , Montella Francesco , Lopardo Valentina , Perugini Valeria , Santin Matteo , D’Ursi Anna Maria
Published: October 2023

Antibodies are the macromolecules of choice to ensure specific recognition of biomarkers in biological assays. However, they present a range of shortfalls including a relatively high production cost and limited tissue penetration. Peptides are relatively small molecules able to reproduce sequences of highly specific paratopes and, although they have less biospecificity than antibodies, they offer advantages like ease of synthesis, modifications of their amino acid sequences and tagging with fluorophores and other molecules required for detection. This work presents a strategy to design peptide sequences able to recognize the CD44 hyaluronic acid receptor present in the plasmalemma of a range of cells including human bone marrow stromal mesenchymal cells. The protocol of identification of the optimal amino acid sequence was based on the combination of rational design and in silico methodologies. This protocol led to the identification of two peptide sequences which were synthesized and tested on human bone marrow mesenchymal stromal cells (hBM-MSCs) for their ability to ensure specific binding to the CD44 receptor. Of the two peptides, one binds CD44 with sensitivity and selectivity, thus proving its potential to be used as a suitable alternative to this antibody in conventional immunostaining. In the context of regenerative medicine, the availability of this peptide could be harnessed to functionalize tissue engineering scaffolds to anchor stem cells as well as to be integrated into systems such as cell sorters to efficiently isolate MSCs from biological samples including various cell subpopulations. The data here reported can represent a model for developing peptide sequences able to recognize hBM-MSCs and other types of cells and for their integration in a range of biomedical applications.
Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt: Devices Evolution, Technical Tips and Future Perspectives
Authors: Saltini Dario , Indulti Federica , Guasconi Tomas , Bianchini Marcello , Cuffari Biagio , Caporali Cristian , Casari Federico , Prampolini Francesco , Senzolo Marco , Colecchia Antonio , Schepis Filippo
Published: October 2023

Portal hypertension (PH) constitutes a pivotal factor in the progression of cirrhosis, giving rise to severe complications and a diminished survival rate. The transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) procedure has undergone significant evolution, with advancements in stent technology assuming a central role in managing PH-related complications. This review aims to outline the progression of TIPS and emphasizes the significant influence of stent advancement on its effectiveness. Initially, the use of bare metal stents (BMSs) was limited due to frequent dysfunction. However, the advent of expanding polytetrafluoroethylene-covered stent grafts (ePTFE-SGs) heralded a transformative era, greatly enhancing patency rates. Further innovation culminated in the creation of ePTFE-SGs with controlled expansion, enabling precise adjustment of TIPS diameters. Comparative analyses demonstrated the superiority of ePTFE-SGs over BMSs, resulting in improved patency, fewer complications, and higher survival rates. Additional technical findings highlight the importance of central stent placement and adequate stent length, as well as the use of smaller calibers to reduce the risk of shunt-related complications. However, improving TIPS through technical means alone is inadequate for optimizing patient outcomes. An extensive understanding of hemodynamic, cardiac, and systemic factors is required to predict outcomes and tailor a personalized approach. Looking forward, the ongoing progress in SG technology, paired with the control of clinical factors that can impact outcomes, holds the promise of reshaping the management of PH-related complications in cirrhosis.
Postoperative Bloodstream Infection Is Associated with Early Vascular Complications in Pediatric Liver Transplant Recipients with Biliary Atresia
Authors: Jeon Ho Jong , Kang Ji-Man , Koh Hong , Kim Myoung Soo , Ihn Kyong
Published: October 2023

Bloodstream infection (BSI) after pediatric liver transplantation (PLT) is a common and severe complication that affects patient survival. Children with biliary atresia (BA) are at an increased risk for clinically significant infections. This study evaluated the impact of post-PLT BSI on clinical outcomes in children with BA. A total of 67 patients with BA aged <18 years who underwent PLT between April 2006 and September 2020 were analyzed and divided into two groups according to the occurrence of post-PLT BSI within 1 month (BSI vs. no BSI = 13 [19.4%] vs. 54 [80.6%]). The BSI group was significantly younger at the time of PLT and had a higher frequency of BSI at the time of PLT than the no BSI group. Early vascular complications within 3 months and reoperations were significantly more frequent in the BSI group. Univariate and multivariate analyses revealed that bacteremia within 1 month of PLT and graft-to-recipient weight ratio >4% were significantly associated with vascular complications. In conclusion, BSI after PLT is associated with increased vascular complications and reoperations. Proper control of bacterial infections and early liver transplantation before uncontrolled BSI may reduce vascular complications and unexpected reoperations in children with BA.
The COVID-19 Pandemic and Dental Professionals’ Infection Risk Perception: An International Survey
Authors: Campus Guglielmo , Jenni Magdalena Marie-Luise , Betancourt Marcela Diaz , Cagetti Maria Grazia , Giacaman Rodrigo A. , Manton David J. , Douglas Gail V. A. , Carvalho Joana C. , Wolf Thomas Gerhard
Published: October 2023

A global survey among dentists was used to identify the various impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on this professional group. Special attention was given to perception and assessment of infection risk. From May to August 2020, the questionnaire was delivered in 36 countries by respective research groups and was completed by 52,491 dental professionals. The survey was designed as a cross-sectional survey based on a previously standardized questionnaire. This study focuses on the part of the questionnaire that deals with the perception of the infection risk of COVID-19 by dentists and their patients. A logistic regression model was used, which consisted of four Likert items as response options and the additional self-reported routine or emergency treatment as the dependent variable. Analysis by continent found that European and Asian dentists were particularly likely to be infected at work (OR = 1.45 95%CI = 1.02/1.84 and OR = 2.68, 95%CI = 1.45/3.22, respectively), while it was likely that Australian dentists did not feel particularly at risk due to low infection rates. Three quarters of Americans treated only emergencies during this survey period, while Europeans (64.71%) and Asians (66.67%) provided mostly routine care. This could affect the Europeans’ confidence that they would not be able to protect themselves from infections in the long-term. The COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on dental professionals’ infection risk perception is determined by the geographical origin of dentists. This study shows that, especially in high-incidence countries, infection risk perception was higher when dentists tried to provide routine dental procedures to their patients. Dental professionals can offer themselves and their patients good protection by maintaining high standards of hygiene. However, their concerns should be taken seriously and the dental professionals’ group that is of great importance for oral health care and prevention, should not be neglected in the future, even in the event of emerging pandemics.
“I Can’t Do without You”: Treatment Perspectives for Affective Dependence: A Scoping Review
Authors: Özal Zeynep , Mancini Giacomo , De Fino Greta , Ambrosini Federica , Biolcati Roberta , Truzoli Roberto
Published: October 2023

Affective Dependence (AD) is a problematic model of the love relationship that is becoming increasingly prevalent and evident in the context of couple relationships. Similarly, the phenomenon is being observed with growing frequency in daily clinical practice, making it increasingly necessary to identify treatment guidelines that can help clinicians in dealing with AD, while waiting for the literature to reach a consensus on its definition and nosographic profile. The main objective of this work is to explore the existing evidence of effectiveness regarding feasible treatments for Affective Dependence through a scoping review of the international literature carried out using the main scientific databases and following the PRISMA-ScR (PRISMA Extension for Scoping Reviews) guidelines. Seven studies were included in this review, and the results show that several pharmaceuticals, as well as different types of individual and group therapies, are proposed as treatment plans for AD. However, there is a lack of clinical trials that can verify the efficacy of the AD treatments reported so far in the literature. Some reflections that may help to distinguish a “healthy” addiction from a dysfunctional or markedly pathological one are considered alongside potential prevention perspectives.
Association of GSTM1 Polymorphism and Redox Potential with Idiopathic Male Infertility
Authors: Potiris Anastasios , Voitse Anastasia , Mavrogianni Despoina , Machairiotis Nikolaos , Drakaki Eirini , Papamentzelopoulou Myrto , Karampitsakos Theodoros , Zikopoulos Athanasios , Evgeni Evangelini , Drakakis Peter , Stavros Sofoklis
Published: October 2023

Background: The aim of this case–control study is to investigate possible associations between GSTM1 polymorphism and redox potential with sperm parameters. Methods: The study group consisted of sperm samples from 51 infertile men according to the WHO guidelines. The control group included 39 samples from men with normal seminal parameters. DNA was extracted and genotyped for the detection of the GSTM1 polymorphism. An evaluation of the static redox potential (sORP) using the MiOXSYSTM system was conducted. Results: The frequency of the GSTM1-null genotype was higher in infertile male individuals (60.78%) than in the controls (41.03%) and was associated with a 2.228-fold increased risk for male infertility. Fertile controls carrying the GSTM1-null genotype presented a lower percentage of typical sperm morphology and lower slow progressive motility. An excess of redox potential was observed in infertile males compared to fertile ones. In the control group higher sORP values had a positive correlation with immotility percentage and a negative correlation regarding total motility. In the study group sORP values had a negative correlation with total count, concentration, and slow progressive motility. Conclusions: The present study highlights that GSTM1 polymorphism and redox potential affect both fertile and in fertile males. Moreover, redox potential levels could be used as an additional indicator along with the routine semen analysis for a comprehensive screening between infertile and fertile men.
Comparisons of Built Environment Correlates of Walking in Urban and Suburban Campuses: A Case Study of Tianjin, China
Authors: Zhang Zhehao , Wang Haiming , Pang Lei , Fisher Thomas , Yang Shuo
Published: October 2023

Current Chinese campus planning and design have neglected to promote walking activity (WA). Lacking WA and developing sedentary and physical inactivity habits can lead to obesity, diabetes, and other noncommunicable diseases. Academia has confirmed that WA can be facilitated by planning and designing built environment (BE) interventions. Accordingly, this study aims to explore the effect of campus BE features on walking in different regions’ campuses and present nuanced campus planning and design strategies. We selected the objectively measured BE features of destination accessibility, land use, street connectivity, and spatial configuration. Environmental design qualities and pedestrian facilities were chosen as the micro-level BE features. We applied GIS 10.1 and sDNA to calculate gross BE features and field audit tools to measure street environmental features and pedestrian volume (PV). We built negative binomial regression models and eliminated spatial autocorrelation to investigate and compare the BE correlates of walking in urban and suburban campuses. Similarities and differences were found among the outcomes derived from the two regions. We found that campus Walk Score, land use attributes of facility density and park land ratio, complexity, and other features closely correlate with PV in the two types of campuses. Comparatively, closeness, transparency, and complexity only influence urban campuses’ PV, while block length, entropy, facility land ratio, and sidewalk quality only correlate with PV on suburban campuses. According to these findings, we proposed different and targeted campus renewal and planning strategies for WA and walkability promotion.
Enthralling Prefigurative Urban and Regional Planning Forward
Authors: Lopes Balsas Carlos José
Published: October 2023

Improving, strengthening, and fine tuning, as well as developing, revitalizing, conserving, and preserving, are all words commonly used in an urban and regional planner’s vocabulary. More nebulous are the concepts of it, thyself, which are the other in planning thinking and professional interventions. Who, what, how, when, and where will it be carried out? If conscious and aware of one’s actions, oneself ought to be able to answer these questions without deference to its outcomes. However, it is commonly recognized that we are unable, and at times unwilling, to understand others’ reaction to a proposal, even when put forward according to established common norms and traditions and socio-economic, environmental, cultural, and legal orders. The purpose of this paper is to review various planning challenges derived from earlier lived and or researched experiences that have already occurred, others taking place here and now, as well as others in need of further conceptualization and study. The review methods build not only upon the now classical sustainability framework, but also upon the more recent and alternative Soft City approach centered on place, movement, and sociability. It is believed that the planning topics and methods analyzed in this review can help reach carbon neutrality goals, promote climate urbanism, accomplish higher utilization of renewable energy, and reduce automobility levels, all goals conducive to graceful bliss and authentic happiness.
Revised Proposed Classifications for Typical Anthropogenic Soils in China
Authors: Hao Shiheng , Wu Kening , Li Ling , Li Xiaoliang , Wei Hongbin , Wu Xiangyuan , Liu Bingrui
Published: October 2023

As global industrialization and its associated anthropogenic activities rapidly increase, so too does the areal extent of human-altered soils. The soil classification framework must incorporate the classification schemes of these disturbed soils in order to remediate land. Soil Taxonomy (ST) and the World Reference Base for Soil Resources (WRB) are the most widely used soil classification systems in the world. In this study, 15 typical anthropogenic soil profiles with engineering and technical characteristics from China were selected for a classification study. The aim of this study was to clarify the classifications of these soil profiles in the ST, WRB, Chinese Soil Taxonomy (CST), and Geogenetic Soil Classification of China (GSCC), and make references accordingly. The results showed that the WRB can classify these soils as Technosols in the first level. ST can classify most of these soils as subgroups within the different great groups under Entisols, as well as the Human-Altered and Human-Transported Material classes within the soil family differentiae. For Chinese soil classification schemes, there is a large loophole in the CST regarding the classification of anthropogenic soils. Many anthropogenic soils cannot reflect these soils’ artificial and technical naming characteristics. For the CST, revised proposals based on the WRB and ST were proposed. Based on the artificial disturbance of soil layers, a manufactured layer was added to the diagnostic basis. The Artificalic Anthrosols suborder was added, and it can be divided into the Transporti-Artificalic Anthrosols and Alteri-Artificalic Anthrosols groups. The subgroups were defined by their levels of contamination, imperviousness, and artifact content. The “T” layer symbol was added to soil profile descriptions to reflect a specific layer about technology, such as A, E, B, and C, to reflect the main genetic horizons. This revised classification system is proposed for inclusion in the revised CST to account for the very large and expanding extent of disturbed soils in China and to remain current with other global soil taxonomy systems.
Effect of Repetitive Bending and Straightening Process on Microstructure Properties and Deformation Mechanism of a Ti–Al–Cr–Mo Alloy
Authors: Li Zhuoliang , Xu Yan , Qian Jiang , Song Linhong
Published: October 2023

In this research, a repetitive bending and straightening process was carried out on the Ti–3Al–4Cr–Mo alloy for 20 passes. The changes in mechanical properties of the titanium alloy before and after repetitive bending and annealing were studied. The microstructure evolution and deformation mechanism were analyzed. The results show that after the repetitive bending and straightening process, the microstructure of the Ti–3Al–4Cr–Mo alloy is obviously refined, and, simultaneously, the yield strength is significantly improved. After annealing at 850 °C, the plastic ductility of the material was improved. The combined effects of grain refinement and dislocation behavior were the main reasons for the improvement in mechanical properties of the Ti–3Al–4Cr–Mo alloy. Twinning rarely occurred during plastic deformation of the Ti–3Al–4Cr–Mo alloy. The fine grains strongly inhibited the formation of twins. In addition, a small amount of α to β phase transformation was observed during the repetitive bending and straightening process of the material, which may have been induced by strain accumulation.
Leaching of Rare Earth Elements from Permanent Magnet Swarf in Citric Acid: Effects of Acid Concentration on Extraction Kinetics
Authors: Romano Pietro , Rahmati Soroush , Adavodi Roshanak , Birloaga Ionela , Vegliò Francesco
Published: October 2023

The high demand for rare earth permanent magnets (REPMs) for use in advanced electrical equipment has led to the classification of some rare earth elements (REEs), such as neodymium, praseodymium, and dysprosium, as strategic raw materials by the European Union. Finding an efficient method with economic benefits and minimal environmental impact is one of the challenges of recycling REPMs. A novel method to recover REPM metals by dissolving them with citric acid and separating the rare earth elements using the solvent extraction method as the next step has been introduced. Therefore, this research investigates the efficiency and kinetics of leaching REPM swarf by citric acid (0.5 to 2.5 M). The results showed that increasing the citric acid concentration from 0.5 M to 1.45 M significantly enhanced the dissolving rate of all studied elements. Although the results showed that the optimal concentration of citric acid in the leaching reagent was between 0.9 and 1.45 M, the REE dissolving reaction with a leaching reagent containing 1.45 M and 0.9 M citric acid reached equilibrium conditions at about 120 and 180 min, respectively. It could be concluded that using citric acid as an organic acid can dissolve the metals in REPM swarf with high efficiency and a fast dissolving rate. This issue can be considered key for recycling REPMs and the future REE supply challenge.
Tool Wear State Recognition Based on One-Dimensional Convolutional Channel Attention
Authors: Xue Zhongling , Li Liang , Chen Ni , Wu Wentao , Zou Yuhang , Yu Nan
Published: October 2023

Tool wear state recognition is an important part of tool condition monitoring (TCM). Online tool wear monitoring can avoid wasteful early tool changes and degraded workpiece quality due to later tool changes. This study incorporated an attention mechanism implemented by one-dimensional convolution in a convolutional neural network for improving the performance of the tool wear recognition model (1DCCA-CNN). The raw multichannel cutting signals were first preprocessed and three time-domain features were extracted to form a new time-domain sequence. CNN was used for deep feature extraction of temporal sequences. A novel 1DCNN-based channel attention mechanism was proposed to weigh the channel dimensions of deep features to enhance important feature channels and capture key features. Compared with the traditional squeeze excitation attention mechanism, 1DCNN can enhance the information interaction between channels. The performance of the model was validated on the PHM2010 public cutting dataset. The excellent performance of the proposed 1DCCA-CNN was verified by the improvement of 4% and 5% compared to the highest level of existing research results on T1 and T3 datasets, respectively.
Statistical Design and Optimization of Cr (VI) Adsorption onto Native and HNO3/NaOH Activated Cedar Sawdust Using AAS and a Response Surface Methodology (RSM)
Authors: El Hajam Maryam , Idrissi Kandri Noureddine , Özdemir Sadin , Plavan Gabriel , Ben Hamadi Naoufel , Boufahja Fehmi , Zerouale Abdelaziz
Published: October 2023

The removal of heavy metals from wastewater has become the subject of considerable interest at present. Thus, the use of novel adsorbents that are highly efficient is of critical importance for the removal of Cr (VI) ions from aqueous media. The adsorption of Cr (VI) ions from aqueous solutions by a new adsorbent, cedar wood sawdust, and the optimization of its adsorption parameters, were investigated in this study. Cedar wood sawdust was used in its native and HNO3/NaOH chemically modified forms as new low-cost sorbents to remove Cr (VI) ions from aqueous solutions in a batch system. The adsorption conditions were analyzed via response surface methodology. The RSM results showed that the optimal adsorption conditions yielding the best response were an adsorbent mass of 2 g for native Cedar and 1.125 g for its activated form, a metal concentration of 150 mg/L for native Cedar and 250 mg/L for activated, a temperature of 50 °C, a pH of 1, and a contact time of 67.5 min. At optimum adsorption conditions, the maximum adsorption capacities and the adsorption yields were 23.64 mg/g and 84% for native Cedar and 48.31 mg/g and 99% for activated Cedar, respectively.
The Synthesis of Novel aza-Steroids and α, β-Unsaturated-Cyanoketone from Diosgenin
Authors: Mesa Dayana , Augusto Yarelys E. , Hernández Giselle , Figueroa-Macías Juan P. , Coll Francisco , Olea Andrés F. , Núñez María , Campo Hernán Astudillo , Coll Yamilet , Espinoza Luis
Published: October 2023

Recent studies have demonstrated the antiproliferative and cytotoxic effects of aza-steroids and steroidal sapogenins on human cancer cell lines. The scientific community has shown a growing interest in these compounds as drug candidates for cancer treatment. In the current work, we report the synthesis of new diosgenin oxime derivatives as potential antiproliferative agents. From (25 R)-5α-spirost-3,5,6-triol (1), a diosgenin derivative, ketones 2, 3, 4, and 9 were obtained and used as precursors of the new oximes. A condensation reaction was carried out between the steroidal ketones (2, 3, 4, and 9) with hydroxylamine hydrochloride in 2,4,6-trimethylpyridine to produce five spirostanic oximes (four of them are not reported before) with a 42–96% yield. Also, a new spirostanic α, β-unsaturated cyanoketone was synthesized via Beckmann fragmentation using thionyl chloride with a 62% yield. Furthermore, we proposed a reaction mechanism with the aim of explaining such transformation.
Laser Pyrolysis of Iron Oxide Nanoparticles and the Influence of Laser Power
Authors: Lungu Iulia Ioana , Andronescu Ecaterina , Dumitrache Florian , Gavrila-Florescu Lavinia , Banici Ana Maria , Morjan Iuliana , Criveanu Anca , Prodan Gabriel
Published: October 2023

The purpose of this study was to investigate the synthesis of iron oxide nanoparticles under two different conditions, namely high and low gas flow rates, using laser pyrolysis and to examine the influence of laser power. The attained nanoparticles have been characterised regarding their stability and hydrodynamic dimensions by dispersive light scattering analysis (DLS), structure–X-ray diffraction (XRD), elemental composition–energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and morpho-structural characterisation achieved by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and selected-area electron diffraction (SAED). For a better understanding of the laser power influence, the residence time was also calculated.
Effect of Heat Treatment Parameters on the Modification of Nano Residual Austenite of Low-Carbon Medium-Chromium Steel
Authors: Wang Yiran , Wang Ruian , Yu Wenzhen , Gao Yimin
Published: October 2023

The ball milling lining board operates in a harsh environment, and the current materials fail to meet the requirements for large-sized boards due to the lack of synergistic properties between impact toughness and wear resistance. To address this issue, a low-carbon medium-chromium steel with martensite and nano residual austenite phases have been designed for future use. However, the residual austenite network could decrease the properties. Heat treatment, which includes processes like quenching and tempering, has the potential to alter the morphology and quantity of nano-scale residual austenite in the steel. In this study, the influence of heat treatment parameters on the morphologies and properties of steel has been investigated to address the wide-ranging fluctuations in impact toughness affected by nano residual austenite. Furthermore, the effect of cooling transformation on the microstructure has also been examined. The research findings indicate that modifying the quenching temperature of the steel within the range of 950–1100 °C results in a microstructure comprising martensite and nano residual austenite. At all quenching temperatures, the hardness exceeds 45 HRC, and the impact toughness shows a consistent improvement with increasing quenching temperature, indicating a modification of the nano residual austenite phase. The failure mode is primarily dimple fracture, with quasi-dissociation fracture as a secondary mode. The optimal heat treatment parameters are annealing at 930 °C, oil quenching at 1050 °C, and tempering at 250 °C. Under this condition, the steel exhibits a hardness of 51 HRC and impact toughness of 40 J/cm2 and an approximate fourfold increase compared to the untreated sample.
Contraindicated Drug Responses in Dravet Syndrome Brain Organoids Utilizing Micro Electrode Array Assessment Methods
Authors: Yokoi Remi , Nagafuku Nami , Ishibashi Yuto , Matsuda Naoki , Suzuki Ikuro
Published: October 2023

Ensuring drug safety for patients with specific neurological disorders is of paramount importance. For instance, certain antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) are contraindicated in Dravet Syndrome (DS), which is characterized by a deficiency in Na+ channel function. Constructing in vitro assessment methods capable of detecting contraindicated drug responses and medication effects on neurons derived from DS patients is highly anticipated for drug safety assessment and therapeutic innovation. This study used micro electrode array (MEA) measurements with low-frequency analysis on human iPSC-derived DS organoids to investigate AED responses. When exposed to the contraindicated drugs carbamazepine and phenytoin, the number of network oscillations increased in DS organoids while maintaining oscillation intensity. Furthermore, carbamazepine administration appeared to enhance activities beyond oscillations which is partially consistent with findings in the DS mouse model. Conversely, treatment with the therapeutic drug sodium valproate resulted in a similar decrease in activity both in healthy and DS organoids. The frequency characteristics of spontaneous firings and AEDs responsiveness in DS organoids demonstrated partial correlation with typical electroencephalography patterns observed in vivo. In conclusion, this study, employing MEA measurements with low-frequency analysis, revealed contraindicated drug responses and disease-specific functional characteristics in DS organoids, effective for DS patient safety assessment, precision medicine, and antiepileptic drug screening.
Collected Thoughts on Mycobacterial Lipoarabinomannan, a Cell Envelope Lipoglycan
Authors: Torrelles Jordi B. , Chatterjee Delphi
Published: October 2023

The presence of lipoarabinomannan (LAM) in the Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) cell envelope was first reported close to 100 years ago. Since then, numerous studies have been dedicated to the isolation, purification, structural definition, and elucidation of the biological properties of Mtb LAM. In this review, we present a brief historical perspective on the discovery of Mtb LAM and the herculean efforts devoted to structurally characterizing the molecule because of its unique structural and biological features. The significance of LAM remains high to this date, mainly due to its distinct immunological properties in conjunction with its role as a biomarker for diagnostic tests due to its identification in urine, and thus can serve as a point-of-care diagnostic test for tuberculosis (TB). In recent decades, LAM has been thoroughly studied and massive amounts of information on this intriguing molecule are now available. In this review, we give the readers a historical perspective and an update on the current knowledge of LAM with information on the inherent carbohydrate composition, which is unique due to the often puzzling sugar residues that are specifically found on LAM. We then guide the readers through the complex and myriad immunological outcomes, which are strictly dependent on LAM’s chemical structure. Furthermore, we present issues that remain unresolved and represent the immediate future of LAM research. Addressing the chemistry, functions, and roles of LAM will lead to innovative ways to manipulate the processes that involve this controversial and fascinating biomolecule.
A Hybrid Methodology to Assess Cyber Resilience of IoT in Energy Management and Connected Sites
Authors: Mehmood Amjad , Epiphaniou Gregory , Maple Carsten , Ersotelos Nikolaos , Wiseman Richard
Published: October 2023

Cyber threats and vulnerabilities present an increasing risk to the safe and frictionless execution of business operations. Bad actors (“hackers”), including state actors, are increasingly targeting the operational technologies (OTs) and industrial control systems (ICSs) used to protect critical national infrastructure (CNI). Minimisations of cyber risk, attack surfaces, data immutability, and interoperability of IoT are some of the main challenges of today’s CNI. Cyber security risk assessment is one of the basic and most important activities to identify and quantify cyber security threats and vulnerabilities. This research presents a novel i-TRACE security-by-design CNI methodology that encompasses CNI key performance indicators (KPIs) and metrics to combat the growing vicarious nature of remote, well-planned, and well-executed cyber-attacks against CNI, as recently exemplified in the current Ukraine conflict (2014–present) on both sides. The proposed methodology offers a hybrid method that specifically identifies the steps required (typically undertaken by those responsible for detecting, deterring, and disrupting cyber attacks on CNI). Furthermore, we present a novel, advanced, and resilient approach that leverages digital twins and distributed ledger technologies for our chosen i-TRACE use cases of energy management and connected sites. The key steps required to achieve the desired level of interoperability and immutability of data are identified, thereby reducing the risk of CNI-specific cyber attacks and minimising the attack vectors and surfaces. Hence, this research aims to provide an extra level of safety for CNI and OT human operatives, i.e., those tasked with and responsible for detecting, deterring, disrupting, and mitigating these cyber-attacks. Our evaluations and comparisons clearly demonstrate that i-TRACE has significant intrinsic advantages compared to existing “state-of-the-art” mechanisms.
The Spatio-Temporal Patterns of Regional Development in Shandong Province of China from 2012 to 2021 Based on Nighttime Light Remote Sensing
Authors: Zhang Hongli , Yu Quanzhou , Liu Yujie , Jiang Jie , Chen Junjie , Liu Ruyun
Published: October 2023

As a major coastal economic province in the east of China, it is of great significance to clarify the temporal and spatial patterns of regional development in Shandong Province in recent years to support regional high-quality development. Nightlight remote sensing data can reveal the spatio-temporal patterns of social and economic activities on a fine pixel scale. We based the nighttime light patterns at three spatial scales in three geographical regions on monthly nighttime light remote sensing data and social statistics. Different cities and different counties in Shandong Province in the last 10 years were studied by using the methods of trend analysis, stability analysis and correlation analysis. The results show that: (1) The nighttime light pattern was generally consistent with the spatial pattern of construction land. The nighttime light intensity of most urban, built-up areas showed an increasing trend, while the old urban areas of Qingdao and Yantai showed a weakening trend. (2) At the geographical unit scale, the total nighttime light in south-central Shandong was significantly higher than that in eastern and northwest Shandong, while the nighttime light growth rate in northwest Shandong was significantly highest. At the urban scale, Liaocheng had the highest nighttime light growth rate. At the county scale, the nighttime light growth rate of counties with a better economy was lower, while that of counties with a backward economy was higher. (3) The nighttime light growth was significantly correlated with Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and population growth, indicating that regional economic development and population growth were the main causes of nighttime light change.
Is Running Power a Useful Metric? Quantifying Training Intensity and Aerobic Fitness Using Stryd Running Power Near the Maximal Lactate Steady State
Authors: van Rassel Cody R. , Ajayi Oluwatimilehin O. , Sales Kate M. , Griffiths James K. , Fletcher Jared R. , Edwards W. Brent , MacInnis Martin J.
Published: October 2023

We sought to determine the utility of Stryd, a commercially available inertial measurement unit, to quantify running intensity and aerobic fitness. Fifteen (eight male, seven female) runners (age = 30.2 [4.3] years; V·O2max = 54.5 [6.5] ml·kg−1·min−1) performed moderate- and heavy-intensity step transitions, an incremental exercise test, and constant-speed running trials to establish the maximal lactate steady state (MLSS). Stryd running power stability, sensitivity, and reliability were evaluated near the MLSS. Stryd running power was also compared to running speed, V·O2, and metabolic power measures to estimate running mechanical efficiency (EFF) and to determine the efficacy of using Stryd to delineate exercise intensities, quantify aerobic fitness, and estimate running economy (RE). Stryd running power was strongly associated with V·O2 (R2 = 0.84; p < 0.001) and running speed at the MLSS (R2 = 0.91; p < 0.001). Stryd running power measures were strongly correlated with RE at the MLSS when combined with metabolic data (R2 = 0.79; p < 0.001) but not in isolation from the metabolic data (R2 = 0.08; p = 0.313). Measures of running EFF near the MLSS were not different across intensities (~21%; p > 0.05). In conclusion, although Stryd could not quantify RE in isolation, it provided a stable, sensitive, and reliable metric that can estimate aerobic fitness, delineate exercise intensities, and approximate the metabolic requirements of running near the MLSS.
The Design and Fabrication of Large-Area Under-Screen Fingerprint Sensors with Optimized Aperture and Microlens Structures
Authors: Yeh Chih-Chieh , Huang Teng-Wei , Lin You-Ren , Su Guo-Dung
Published: October 2023

In this paper, we designed and fabricated an optical filter structure applied to the FoD (Fingerprint on Display) technology of the smartphone, which contains the microlens array, black matrix, and photodetector to recognize the fingerprint on a full touchscreen. First, we used optical ray tracing software, ZEMAX, to simulate a smartphone with FoD and a touching finger. We then further discussed how the aperture and microlens influence the fingerprint image in this design. Through numerical analysis and process constraint adjustment to optimize the structural design, we determined that a modulation transfer function (MTF) of 60.8% can be obtained when the thickness of the black matrix is 4 μm, allowing successful manufacturing using photolithography process technology. Finally, we used this filter element to take fingerprint images. After image processing, a clearly visible fingerprint pattern was successfully captured.
Circumferential Damage Monitoring of Steel Pipe Using a Radar Map Based on Torsional Guided Waves
Authors: Zheng Zhupeng , Zhang Zihao
Published: October 2023

Ultrasonic guided wave technology has been successfully applied to detect multiple types of defects in pipes. However, the circumferential location and coverage of a defect are less studied because it is difficult to determine. In this study, the fundamental torsional mode T (0, 1) is selected to conduct monitoring of the circumferential defect in pipelines because of its almost non-dispersive property. A radar map of the peak wave signals at 30 circumferential positions is proposed to detect the damage. The circumferential defect of a steel pipe is thoroughly investigated using numerical simulation. First, the circumferential positioning of defects in various areas of the pipe is studied. Second, the results are compared to those based on longitudinal guide waves. Finally, the circumferential coverage of a defect in the pipeline is determined. The waves are excited and received using the pitch–catch approach, and the collected monitoring signals are processed using the Hilbert transformation. According to the findings, the circumferential defect in the pipe can be effectively identified from a ‘T’ shape in the radar image, and the monitoring method by the torsional guided wave is superior to the longitudinal wave method. The results clearly demonstrate the advantages of torsional guided waves in defect monitoring. The proposed method is expected to provide a promising solution to circumferential damage identification in pipelines.
Force and Torque Model of Magnetically Levitated System with 2D Halbach Array and Printed Circuit Board Coils
Authors: Zou Menglong , Song Mingxing , Zhou Shun , Xu Xianze , Xu Fengqiu
Published: October 2023

Precision machining fields often require worktables with different stroke sizes. To address the need for scalability and facilitate manufacturing, this study proposes a novel infinite expansion magnetically levitated planar motor (MLPM) based on PCB stator coils. Different from existing magnetic levitation systems that use PCB coils, the design presented in this paper utilizes smaller coil units, with each coil being independent of one another. The coils are structured in a spiral pattern on a 16-layer PCB, comprising 15 layers of coils, while the last layer is dedicated to wiring and other circuits. Magnetic field modeling is conducted for both the stator coil and the 2D Halbach array structure employed in the system. A simple table lookup method is employed to accurately account for the prevalent end effects observed during system motion. Additionally, the decoupling effect of magnetic force and torque is evaluated by solving for the current vector at different points along a specific trajectory. To verify the accuracy of the proposed system’s modeling, a prototype is developed and tested. Experimental results demonstrate that compared to traditional harmonic model methods, the proposed approach improves the calculation accuracy of magnetic force by 50.31% and torque by 70.65%. This study presents a new MLPM system with vast potential applications in precision manufacturing and robotics. The innovative design and improved performance characteristics make it a promising technology for enhancing the capabilities of worktables in precision machining fields.
An Efficient Recognition Method for Orbital Angular Momentum via Adaptive Deep ELM
Authors: Yu Haiyang , Chen Chunyi , Hu Xiaojuan , Yang Huamin
Published: October 2023

For orbital angular momentum (OAM) recognition in atmosphere turbulence, how to design a self-adapted model is a challenging problem. To address this issue, an efficient deep learning framework that uses a derived extreme learning machine (ELM) has been put forward. Different from typical neural network methods, the provided analytical machine learning model can match the different OAM modes automatically. In the model selection phase, a multilayer ELM is adopted to quantify the laser spot characteristics. In the parameter optimization phase, a fast iterative shrinkage-thresholding algorithm makes the model present the analytic expression. After the feature extraction of the received intensity distributions, the proposed method develops a relationship between laser spot and OAM mode, thus building the steady neural network architecture for the new received vortex beam. The whole recognition process avoids the trial and error caused by user intervention, which makes the model suitable for a time-varying atmospheric environment. Numerical simulations are conducted on different experimental datasets. The results demonstrate that the proposed method has a better capacity for OAM recognition.
CFANet: Context Feature Fusion and Attention Mechanism Based Network for Small Target Segmentation in Medical Images
Authors: Cao Ruifen , Ning Long , Zhou Chao , Wei Pijing , Ding Yun , Tan Dayu , Zheng Chunhou
Published: October 2023

Medical image segmentation plays a crucial role in clinical diagnosis, treatment planning, and disease monitoring. The automatic segmentation method based on deep learning has developed rapidly, with segmentation results comparable to clinical experts for large objects, but the segmentation accuracy for small objects is still unsatisfactory. Current segmentation methods based on deep learning find it difficult to extract multiple scale features of medical images, leading to an insufficient detection capability for smaller objects. In this paper, we propose a context feature fusion and attention mechanism based network for small target segmentation in medical images called CFANet. CFANet is based on U-Net structure, including the encoder and the decoder, and incorporates two key modules, context feature fusion (CFF) and effective channel spatial attention (ECSA), in order to improve segmentation performance. The CFF module utilizes contextual information from different scales to enhance the representation of small targets. By fusing multi-scale features, the network captures local and global contextual cues, which are critical for accurate segmentation. The ECSA module further enhances the network’s ability to capture long-range dependencies by incorporating attention mechanisms at the spatial and channel levels, which allows the network to focus on information-rich regions while suppressing irrelevant or noisy features. Extensive experiments are conducted on four challenging medical image datasets, namely ADAM, LUNA16, Thoracic OAR, and WORD. Experimental results show that CFANet outperforms state-of-the-art methods in terms of segmentation accuracy and robustness. The proposed method achieves excellent performance in segmenting small targets in medical images, demonstrating its potential in various clinical applications.