bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Systematic Literature Review of Reliable Provisioning for Virtual Network Function Chaining
Authors: Duytam Ly Le , Sadeghi Ghahroudi Mahsa , Ponce Victor
Published: April 2023

The abstraction of the network node functions using virtualization methods introduced an innovative architecture called Network Function Virtualization (NFV). In NFV, every virtualization software hosts a network service recognized as a Virtual Network Function (VNF). In general, the network provider creates a Service Function Chain (SFC) for every sequence of multiple requested VNFs by the customers. Although NFV allows for a more flexible and economical approach, it is more prone to error and failure. Therefore, providing reliable provisioning for VNF chaining is one of the key issues in NFV. In this paper, we present a systematic literature review to study the pioneer research efforts that provide reliable provisioning for VNF chaining by guaranteeing the availability of the service and resource optimization. Our review is the result of the analysis of 21 screened papers. This paper presents the result of our analysis, including different aspects of a reliable provisioning algorithm, various adopted techniques for reliable provisioning, and the superiority and drawbacks of each algorithm based on the proposed criteria for the evaluation of the provisioning algorithms.
Efficient SOM’s Application to Seismic Fumarolic Tremor for the Detection of Anomalous Hydrothermal Activity in Campi Flegrei Volcano (Italy)
Authors: Esposito Antonietta M. , De Cesare Walter , Macedonio Giovanni , Giudicepietro Flora
Published: April 2023

In recent decades, the Campi Flegrei caldera (Italy) showed unrest characterized by increases in seismicity, ground uplift, and hydrothermal activity. Currently, the seismic and hydrothermal phenomena are mostly concentrated in the Solfatara–Pisciarelli area, which presents a wide fumarolic field and mud emissions. The main fumarole in Pisciarelli is associated with a boiling mud pool. Recently, episodes of a sudden increase in hydrothermal activity and expansion of mud and gas emissions occurred in this area. During these episodes, which occurred in December 2018 and September 2020, Short Duration Events (SDEs), related to the intensity of mud pool boiling, were recorded in the fumarolic seismic tremor. We applied a Self-Organizing Map (SOM) neural network to recognize the occurrence of SDEs in the fumarolic tremor of Campi Flegrei, which provides important information on the state of activity of the hydrothermal system and about the possible phreatic activity. Our method, based on an ad hoc feature extraction procedure, effectively clustered the seismic signals containing SDEs and separated them from those representing the normal fumarolic tremor. This result is useful for improving the monitoring of the Solfatara–Pisciarelli hydrothermal area which is a high-risk zone in Campi Flegrei.
High-Power, High-Efficiency GaSb-Based Laser with Compositionally Linearly Graded AlGaAsSb Layer
Authors: Chen Yihang , Yang Chengao , Wang Tianfang , Yu Hongguang , Shi Jianmei , Su Xiangbin , Zhang Yu , Zhao Youwen , Tong Cunzhu , Wu Donghai , Xu Yingqiang , Ni Haiqiao , Niu Zhichuan
Published: April 2023

We propose a novel graded AlGaAsSb layer growth method to achieve a super-linear interface by precisely controlling the cell temperature and valve position. Atomically smooth surface and lattice-matched epitaxy was confirmed by AFM and the HRXRD characterization of the graded AlGaAsSb layer sample. With the inserted graded layer between the cladding and waveguide layers, high-power, high-efficiency GaSb-based laser emitters and laser bars were confirmed. The linearly graded interface layer smooths the potential barrier peak between the cladding and waveguide layers, which resulted in a low turn-on voltage of 0.65 V and an ultra-low series resistance of 0.144 Ω. A maximum continuous-wave output power of 1.8 W was obtained with a high power conversion efficiency of 28% at 1.1 A and 12% at 8 A. A facet-coated laser bar was also fabricated with a record-high CW output power of 18 W. A high internal quantum efficiency of 83 was maintained at 40 °C, implying improved carrier injection efficiency, which benefits from the built-in electric field of the composition-graded AlGaAsSb layer.
Intelligent Control of a Space Manipulator Ground Unfold Experiment System with Lagging Compensation
Authors: Zhang Xiao , Jiang Zainan , Zhao Zhen , He Yun , Xu Zhigang , Liu Yong
Published: April 2023

In ground testing of space manipulators, gravity compensation is a critical testing requirement. The objective of this paper was to design a space manipulator gravity compensation test platform for ground tests and solve the problems of force control oscillation and precision degradation caused by the execution lag encountered in the development process. An intelligent PID controller was designed for this active-suspension gravity compensation experimental mechanism of a space manipulator on the ground, and a specially designed second-order method was used to solve the problem of the execution lag in this mechanism. The intelligent controller was developed based on adaptive dynamic programming and redesigned to improve its transient performance. The simulation was carried out, and its results were compared with the results on a real machine to demonstrate the effectiveness of this set of experimental controllers. This paper compares in detail the results of the designed method on system input and output and shows the effectiveness of this method in dealing with the execution lag of the mechanism. In conclusion, in this work, we successfully designed and implemented an intelligent PID controller for an active-suspension gravity compensation experimental mechanism of a space manipulator on the ground, and the experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Effects of Landscape Patterns on Atmospheric Particulate Matter Concentrations in Fujian Province, China
Authors: Lin Fengyi , Chen Xingwei
Published: April 2023

Based on the observation data from 37 national ambient air automatic monitoring stations and the land use/cover data in Fujian Province, the effects of land use/cover on the annual and seasonal variations in the air quality index (AQI), PM2.5 concentration and PM10 concentration are analyzed. In addition, buffer zones with different radii are established to calculate landscape pattern metrics and the influences of landscape patterns on the AQI, PM2.5 concentration and PM10 concentration at different scales are discussed. The results show that land use/cover types have remarkable impacts on the variations in the atmospheric particulate matter concentrations. The AQI and PM10 concentration are the highest for construction land, and the PM2.5 concentration is the highest for cultivated land. The seasonal variations in all air pollutant concentrations show similar characteristics, i.e., high in spring and winter and low in summer and autumn. Different landscape metrics have diverse effects on atmospheric particulate matter concentrations at different scales. In the buffer zone with a 5000 m radius, the patch number and patch density of forest land are positively correlated with the PM2.5 concentration, while the edge density of construction land has a negative correlation with it, indicating that landscape fragmentation affects the PM2.5 concentration. More fragmented forest land has a weaker effect on the reduction in the PM2.5 concentration, and more fragmented construction land has a weaker effect on the increase in the PM2.5 concentration. Moreover, the seasonal variations in the atmospheric particulate matter concentrations are different under different land use/cover types. Except for autumn, the AQI and PM2.5 concentration are most noticeably affected by forest land in all seasons, showing negative correlations. In autumn, the impacts of cultivated land on the AQI and PM2.5 concentration are more pronounced. The PM10 concentration is substantially affected by forest land in spring and summer and is markedly influenced by construction land in autumn and winter. The analysis of the landscape metrics of forest land and construction land at different scales indicates that the optimal scale is 5000 m for studying the annual average of the AQI and PM10 concentration and is 3000 m for investigating the annual average of the PM2.5 concentration. The optimal scales to research the seasonal variations in the AQI, PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations are 4000–5000 m for forest land and construction land, while the optimal scale is 1000 m for cultivated land to research the AQI and PM2.5 in autumn. This study can provide a scientific basis for the optimization of land use/cover and landscape patterns in Fujian Province, the planning and management of green space and the selection of research scales in the future.
Sustainable Supply Chain Model for Defective Growing Items (Fishery) with Trade Credit Policy and Fuzzy Learning Effect
Authors: Alamri Osama Abdulaziz
Published: April 2023

Fundamentally, newborn items that are used commercially, such as chicken, fish, and small camel, grow day by day in size and also increase their weight. The seller offers a credit policy to the buyer to increase sales for a particular growing item (fish), and in this paper, it is assumed that the buyer accepts the policy of the trade credit. In this paper, the buyer acquires the newborn items (fish) from the seller and then sells them when the newborn items have increased their size and weight. From this point of view, the present paper reveals a fuzzy-based supply chain model that includes carbon emissions and a permissible delay in payment for defective growing items (fish) under the effect of learning where the demand rate is imprecise in nature and is treated as a triangular fuzzy number. Finally, the buyer’s total profit is optimized with respect to the number of newborn items. A numerical example has been presented for the justification of the model. The findings clearly suggest that the presence of trade credit, learning, and a fuzzy environment have an affirmative effect on the ordering policy. The buyer should order more to avoid higher interest charges after the grace period, which eventually increases their profit, while at the same time, it is also beneficial for the buyer to order less to gain the benefit of the trade credit period. The fuzziness theory controls the uncertainty situation of inventory parameters with the help of a de-fuzzified method. The lower and upper deviation of demand affects the total fuzzy profit. The effect of learning gives a positive response concerning the size of the order and the buyer’s total fuzzy profit. This means that the decision-maker should be aware of the size of the newborn items, rate of learning, and trade credit period during the supply chain because these directly affect the buyer’s total fuzzy profit. The impact of the inventory parameter of this model is presented with the help of sensitivity analysis.
Approximation Relations on the Posets of Pseudoultrametrics
Authors: Nykorovych Svyatoslav , Nykyforchyn Oleh , Zagorodnyuk Andriy
Published: April 2023

In this paper we study pseudoultrametrics, which are a natural mixture of ultrametrics and pseudometrics. They satisfy a stronger form of the triangle inequality than usual pseudometrics and naturally arise in problems of classification and recognition. The text focuses on the natural partial order on the set of all pseudoultrametrics on a fixed (not necessarily finite) set. In addition to the “way below” relation induced by a partial order, we introduce its version which we call “weakly way below”. It is shown that a pseudoultrametric should satisfy natural conditions closely related to compactness, for the set of all pseudoultrametric weakly way below it to be non-trivial (to consist not only of the zero pseudoultrametric). For non-triviality of the set of all pseudoultrametrics way below a given one, the latter must be compact. On the other hand, each compact pseudoultrametric is the least upper bound of the directed set of all pseudoultrametrics way below it, which are compact as well. Thus it is proved that the set CPsU(X) of all compact pseudoultrametric on a set X is a continuous poset. This shows that compactness is a crucial requirement for efficiency of approximation in methods of classification by means of ultrapseudometrics.
Engineered Grain Boundary Enables the Room Temperature Solid-State Sodium Metal Batteries
Authors: Li Yang , Sun Zheng , Jin Haibo , Zhao Yongjie
Published: April 2023

The NASICON-type (Sodium Super Ionic Conductor) Na3Zr2Si2PO12 solid electrolyte is one of the most promising electrolytes for solid-state sodium metal batteries. When preparing Na3Zr2Si2PO12 ceramic using a traditional high-temperature solid-state reaction, the high-densification temperature would result in the volatilization of certain elements and the consequent generation of impurity phase, worsening the functional and mechanical performance of the NASICON electrolyte. We rationally introduced the sintering additive B2O3 to the NASICON matrix and systemically investigated the influence of B2O3 on the crystal structure, microstructure, electrical performance, and electrochemical performance of the NASICON electrolytes. The results reveal that B2O3 can effectively reduce the densification sintering temperature and promote the performance of the Na3Zr2Si2PO12 electrolyte. The Na3Zr2Si2PO12-2%B2O3-1150 ℃ achieves the highest ionic conductivity of 4.7 × 10−4 S cm−1 (at 25 °C) with an activation energy of 0.33 eV. Furthermore, the grain boundary phase formed during the sintering process could improve the mechanical behavior of the grain boundary and inhibit the propagation of metallic sodium dendrite within the NASICON electrolyte. The assembled Na/Na3Zr2Si2PO12-2%B2O3/Na3V1.5Cr0.5(PO4)3 cell reveals the initial discharge capacity of 98.5 mAh g−1 with an initial Coulombic efficiency of 84.14% and shows a capacity retention of 70.3% at 30 mA g−1 over 200 cycles.
Pre-Planning the Surgical Target for Optimal Implant Positioning in Robotic-Assisted Total Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: Tzanetis Periklis , Fluit René , de Souza Kevin , Robertson Seonaid , Koopman Bart , Verdonschot Nico
Published: April 2023

Robotic-assisted total knee arthroplasty can attain highly accurate implantation. However, the target for optimal positioning of the components remains debatable. One of the proposed targets is to recreate the functional status of the pre-diseased knee. The aim of this study was to demonstrate the feasibility of reproducing the pre-diseased kinematics and strains of the ligaments and, subsequently, use that information to optimize the position of the femoral and tibial components. For this purpose, we segmented the pre-operative computed tomography of one patient with knee osteoarthritis using an image-based statistical shape model and built a patient-specific musculoskeletal model of the pre-diseased knee. This model was initially implanted with a cruciate-retaining total knee system according to mechanical alignment principles; and an optimization algorithm was then configured seeking the optimal position of the components that minimized the root-mean-square deviation between the pre-diseased and post-operative kinematics and/or ligament strains. With concurrent optimization for kinematics and ligament strains, we managed to reduce the deviations from 2.4 ± 1.4 mm (translations) and 2.7 ± 0.7° (rotations) with mechanical alignment to 1.1 ± 0.5 mm and 1.1 ± 0.6°, and the strains from 6.5% to lower than 3.2% over all the ligaments. These findings confirm that adjusting the implant position from the initial plan allows for a closer match with the pre-diseased biomechanical situation, which can be utilized to optimize the pre-planning of robotic-assisted surgery.
Myco-Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles and Their Bioactive Role against Pathogenic Microbes
Authors: Abdel-Hadi Ahmed , Iqbal Danish , Alharbi Raed , Jahan Sadaf , Darwish Omar , Alshehri Bader , Banawas Saeed , Palanisamy Manikanadan , Ismail Ahmed , Aldosari Sahar , Alsaweed Mohammed , Madkhali Yahya , Kamal Mehnaz , Fatima Faria
Published: April 2023

Nanotechnology based on nanoscale materials is rapidly being used in clinical settings, particularly as a new approach for infectious illnesses. Recently, many physical/chemical approaches utilized to produce nanoparticles are expensive and highly unsafe to biological species and ecosystems. This study demonstrated an environmentally friendly mode of producing nanoparticles (NPs) where Fusarium oxysporum has been employed for generation of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), which were further tested for their antimicrobial potentials against a variety of pathogenic microorganisms. The characterization of NPs was completed by UV–Vis spectroscopy, DLS and TEM, where it has been found that the NPs were mostly globular, with the size range of 50 to 100 nm. The myco-synthesized AgNPs showed prominent antibacterial potency observed as zone of inhibition of 2.6 mm, 1.8 mm, 1.5 mm, and 1.8 mm against Vibrio cholerae, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Bacillus anthracis, respectively, at 100 µM. Similarly, at 200 µM for A. alternata, A. flavus and Trichoderma have shown zone of inhibition as 2.6 mm, 2.4 mm, and 2.1 mm, respectively. Moreover, SEM analysis of A. alternata confirmed the hyphal damage where the layers of membranes were torn off, and further EDX data analysis showed the presence of silver NPs, which might be responsible for hyphal damage. The potency of NPs may be related with the capping of fungal proteins that are produced extracellularly. Thus, these AgNPs may be used against pathogenic microbes and play a beneficial role against multi-drug resistance.
Influence of Grafting on Rootstock Rhizosphere Microbiome Assembly in Rosa sp. ‘Natal Brier’
Authors: Ramirez-Villacis Dario X. , Erazo-Garcia Pablo , Quijia-Pillajo Juan , Llerena-Llerena Sol , Barriga-Medina Noelia , Jones Corbin D. , Leon-Reyes Antonio
Published: April 2023

The root microbiome is vital in plant development and health and is highly influenced by crop cultural practices. Rose (Rosa sp.) is the most popular cut flower worldwide. Grafting in rose production is a standard practice to increase yield, improve flower quality, or reduce root-associated pests and diseases. ‘Natal Brier’ is a standard rootstock used in most commercial operations in Ecuador and Colombia, leading countries in producing and exporting ornamentals. It is known that the rose scion genotype affects root biomass and the root exudate profile of grafted plants. However, little is known about the influence of the rose scion genotype on the rhizosphere microbiome. We examined the influence of grafting and scion genotype on the rhizosphere microbiome of the rootstock ‘Natal Brier’. The microbiomes of the non-grafted rootstock and the rootstock grafted with two red rose cultivars were assessed using 16S rRNA and ITS sequencing. Grafting changed microbial community structure and function. Further, analysis of grafted plant samples revealed that the scion genotype highly influences the rootstock microbiome. Under the presented experimental conditions, the rootstock ‘Natal Brier’ core microbiome consisted of 16 bacterial and 40 fungal taxa. Our results highlight that the scion genotype influences root microbe’s recruitment, which might also influence the functionality of assembled microbiomes.
Expression Improvement of Recombinant Plasmids of the Interleukin-7 Gene in Chitosan-Derived Nanoparticles and Their Elevation of Mice Immunity
Authors: Hou Wenli , Zhang Linhan , Chen Jianlin , Gu Yiren , Lv Xuebin , Zhang Xiuyue , Li Jiangling , Liu Hui , Gao Rong
Published: April 2023

To investigate a safe and effective approach for enhancing the in vivo expression of recombinant genes and improving the systemic immunity of animals against infectious diseases, we employed the interleukin-7 (IL-7) gene from Tibetan pigs to construct a recombinant eukaryotic plasmid (VRTPIL-7). We first examined VRTPIL-7’s bioactivity on porcine lymphocytes in vitro and then encapsulated it with polyethylenimine (PEI), chitosan copolymer (CS), PEG-modified galactosylated chitosan (CS-PEG-GAL) and methoxy poly (ethylene glycol) (PEG) and PEI-modified CS (CS-PEG-PEI) nanoparticles using the ionotropic gelation technique. Next, we intramuscularly or intraperitoneally injected mice with various nanoparticles containing VRTPIL-7 to evaluate their immunoregulatory effects in vivo. We observed a significant increase in neutralizing antibodies and specific IgG levels in response to the rabies vaccine in the treated mice compared to the controls. Treated mice also exhibited increased leukocytes, CD8+ and CD4+ T lymphocytes, and elevated mRNA levels of toll-like receptors (TLR1/4/6/9), IL-1, IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-7, IL-23, and transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β). Notably, the recombinant IL-7 gene encapsulated in CS-PEG-PEI induced the highest levels of immunoglobulins, CD4+ and CD8+ T cells, TLRs, and cytokines in the mice’s blood, suggesting that chitosan-PEG-PEI may be a promising carrier for in vivo IL-7 gene expression and enhanced innate and adaptive immunity for the prevention of animal diseases.
Osteosarcopenia and Pain: Do We Have a Way Out?
Authors: Bonanni Roberto , Gino Grillo Sonia , Cariati Ida , Tranquillo Lucia , Iundusi Riccardo , Gasbarra Elena , Tancredi Virginia , Tarantino Umberto
Published: April 2023

Osteosarcopenia (OSP) is a geriatric syndrome characterized by the coexistence of osteoporosis and sarcopenia and associated with an increased risk of fragility fractures, disability, and mortality. For patients with this syndrome, musculoskeletal pain represents the most significant challenge since, in addition to limiting the individual’s functionality and promoting disability, it has a huge psychological burden involving anxiety, depression, and social withdrawal. Unfortunately, the molecular mechanisms involved in the development and persistence of pain in OSP have not yet been fully elucidated, although immune cells are known to play a key role in these processes. Indeed, they release several molecules that promote persistent inflammation and nociceptive stimulation, resulting in the gating of ion channels responsible for the generation and propagation of the noxious stimulus. The adoption of countermeasures to counteract the OSP progression and reduce the algic component appears to be necessary, providing patients with a better quality of life and greater adherence to treatment. In addition, the development of multimodal therapies, based on an interdisciplinary approach, appears to be crucial, combining the use of anti-osteoporotic drugs with an educational programme, regular physical activity, and proper nutrition to eliminate risk factors. Based on this evidence, we conducted a narrative review using the PubMed and Google Scholar search engines to summarize the current knowledge on the molecular mechanisms involved in the pain development in OSP and the potential countermeasures to be taken. The lack of studies addressing this topic highlights the need to conduct new research into the resolution of an ever-expanding social problem.
En–DeNet Based Segmentation and Gradational Modular Network Classification for Liver Cancer Diagnosis
Authors: G Suganeshwari , Appadurai Jothi Prabha , Kavin Balasubramanian Prabhu , C Kavitha , Lai Wen-Cheng
Published: April 2023

Liver cancer ranks as the sixth most prevalent cancer among all cancers globally. Computed tomography (CT) scanning is a non-invasive analytic imaging sensory system that provides greater insight into human structures than traditional X-rays, which are typically used to make the diagnosis. Often, the final product of a CT scan is a three-dimensional image constructed from a series of interlaced two-dimensional slices. Remember that not all slices deliver useful information for tumor detection. Recently, CT scan images of the liver and its tumors have been segmented using deep learning techniques. The primary goal of this study is to develop a deep learning-based system for automatically segmenting the liver and its tumors from CT scan pictures, and also reduce the amount of time and labor required by speeding up the process of diagnosing liver cancer. At its core, an Encoder–Decoder Network (En–DeNet) uses a deep neural network built on UNet to serve as an encoder, and a pre-trained EfficientNet to serve as a decoder. In order to improve liver segmentation, we developed specialized preprocessing techniques, such as the production of multichannel pictures, de-noising, contrast enhancement, ensemble, and the union of model predictions. Then, we proposed the Gradational modular network (GraMNet), which is a unique and estimated efficient deep learning technique. In GraMNet, smaller networks called SubNets are used to construct larger and more robust networks using a variety of alternative configurations. Only one new SubNet modules is updated for learning at each level. This helps in the optimization of the network and minimizes the amount of computational resources needed for training. The segmentation and classification performance of this study is compared to the Liver Tumor Segmentation Benchmark (LiTS) and 3D Image Rebuilding for Comparison of Algorithms Database (3DIRCADb01). By breaking down the components of deep learning, a state-of-the-art level of performance can be attained in the scenarios used in the evaluation. In comparison to more conventional deep learning architectures, the GraMNets generated here have a low computational difficulty. When associated with the benchmark study methods, the straight forward GraMNet is trained faster, consumes less memory, and processes images more rapidly.
Aberrantly Expressed Hsa_circ_0060762 and CSE1L as Potential Peripheral Blood Biomarkers for ALS
Authors: Ravnik Glavač Metka , Mezzavilla Massimo , Dolinar Ana , Koritnik Blaž , Glavač Damjan
Published: April 2023

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a rapidly progressive adult-onset neurodegenerative disease that is often diagnosed with a delay due to initial non-specific symptoms. Therefore, reliable and easy-to-obtain biomarkers are an absolute necessity for earlier and more accurate diagnostics. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have already been proposed as potential biomarkers for several neurodegenerative diseases. In this study, we further investigated the usefulness of circRNAs as potential biomarkers for ALS. We first performed a microarray analysis of circRNAs on peripheral blood mononuclear cells of a subset of ALS patients and controls. Among the differently expressed circRNA by microarray analysis, we selected only the ones with a host gene that harbors the highest level of conservation and genetic constraints. This selection was based on the hypothesis that genes under selective pressure and genetic constraints could have a major role in determining a trait or disease. Then we performed a linear regression between ALS cases and controls using each circRNA as a predictor variable. With a False Discovery Rate (FDR) threshold of 0.1, only six circRNAs passed the filtering and only one of them remained statistically significant after Bonferroni correction: hsa_circ_0060762 and its host gene CSE1L. Finally, we observed a significant difference in expression levels between larger sets of patients and healthy controls for both hsa_circ_0060762 and CSE1L. CSE1L is a member of the importin β family and mediates inhibition of TDP-43 aggregation; the central pathogenicity in ALS and hsa_circ_0060762 has binding sites for several miRNAs that have been already proposed as biomarkers for ALS. In addition, receiver operating characteristics curve analysis showed diagnostic potential for CSE1L and hsa_circ_0060762. Hsa_circ_0060762 and CSE1L thus represent novel potential peripheral blood biomarkers and therapeutic targets for ALS.
Design, Modeling, and Control of a New Multi-Motion Mobile Robot Based on Spoked Mecanum Wheels
Authors: Leng Jie , Mou Haiming , Tang Jun , Li Qingdu , Zhang Jianwei
Published: April 2023

This paper presents an exciting and meaningful design to make mobile robots capable of adapting to various terrains. We designed a relatively simple and novel composite motion mechanism called the flexible spoked mecanum (FSM) wheel and created a mobile robot, LZ-1, with multiple motion modes based on the FSM wheel. Based on the motion analysis of the FSM wheel, we designed an omnidirectional motion mode for this robot, allowing it to move flexibly in all directions and successfully traverse rugged terrains. In addition, we designed a crawl motion mode for this robot, which can climb stairs effectively. We used a multilayer control method to move the robot according to the designed motion modes. Multiple experiments showed that these two motion modes for the robot are effective on various terrains.
Investigation of Surface Layers on Biological and Synthetic Hydroxyapatites Based on Bone Mineralization Process
Authors: Sugimoto Kazuto , Zhou Yanni , Galindo Tania Guadalupe Peñaflor , Kimura Reo , Tagaya Motohiro
Published: April 2023

In this review, the current status of the influence of added ions (i.e., SiO44−, CO32−, etc.) and surface states (i.e., hydrated and non-apatite layers) on the biocompatibility nature of hydroxyapatite (HA, Ca10(PO4)6(OH)2) is discussed. It is well known that HA is a type of calcium phosphate with high biocompatibility that is present in biological hard tissues such as bones and enamel. This biomedical material has been extensively studied due to its osteogenic properties. The chemical composition and crystalline structure of HA change depending on the synthetic method and the addition of other ions, thereby affecting the surface properties related to biocompatibility. This review illustrates the structural and surface properties of HA substituted with ions such as silicate, carbonate, and other elemental ions. The importance of the surface characteristics of HA and its components, the hydration layers, and the non-apatite layers for the effective control of biomedical function, as well as their relationship at the interface to improve biocompatibility, has been highlighted. Since the interfacial properties will affect protein adsorption and cell adhesion, the analysis of their properties may provide ideas for effective bone formation and regeneration mechanisms.
What Is the Mediating Role of Communication Skills and Sexual Satisfaction between Job and Life Satisfaction of Healthcare Employees?
Authors: Üstgörül Sema , Popescu Catalin
Published: April 2023

There are three areas of harmony in human life that are related to each other: “work environment”, “love-to be loved-sexual area” and “social environment”. Incompatibility and dissatisfaction in one area can also affect other areas. Therefore, the aim of this study is to examine the relationship between job satisfaction, life satisfaction, communication, and sexual satisfaction of healthcare employees. The data collected by questionnaires from 394 employees working in university hospitals in Turkey were analysed using SPSS and AMOS programs. The findings show that there is a positive relationship between the job and life satisfaction of employees of healthcare organizations. Additionally, the findings revealed that communication skills and sexual satisfaction have a mediating role between job satisfaction and life satisfaction of employees in healthcare organizations. Life satisfaction, sexual satisfaction, and relationships are some of the factors that should be considered by healthcare organizations. It would be beneficial to employees and the public if health policy makers implemented programmes to enhance job satisfaction.
Co-Design and Co-Manufacturing: A Multidisciplinary Approach through Small-Scale Architectural Experiences in Barcelona
Authors: Domènech-Rodríguez Marta , Cornadó Còssima , Vima-Grau Sara , Piasek Gonzalo , Varela-Conde Ainhoa , Ravetllat Mira Pere Joan
Published: April 2023

This article aims to explore the potential and limitations of participatory design and co-manufacturing processes, taking the city of Barcelona as a reference. It is characterized by an aging building stock, tourist pressure, and difficulties for citizens in accessing affordable housing. In this sense, a selection of six cases of co-design and co-manufacturing is presented, as a range of small-scale interventions that were shared and discussed in the “Debate sessions. Co-Design and Co-Fabrication in Architecture” within the Co-Hab-Raval project, which motivated this research. Thanks to these case studies, it has been possible to analyse a wide range of intervention practices. The article exposes the socioeconomic context of Barcelona and its lack of affordable housing, which motivated the practices presented. In addition, the cases are carrying out a comparative analysis based on the parameters of agents involved, the type of users’ participation, and materials resource management. Finally, the results obtained highlight the relationship between the construction systems and the self-construction and reuse strategies used, as well as the importance of the plurality of agents that intervened in the design process to enrich the proposals and empower users, especially in vulnerable environments.
The Effect of Aging on the Molecular Distribution of Crumb Rubber Modified Asphalt Based on the Gel Permeation Chromatography Test
Authors: Wang Tao , Chen Zixuan , Wang Yi , Cui Yaping , Sun Yunhong , Ning Ruiling , Tian Yu , Zhang Yi
Published: April 2023

Asphalt aging is one of the main causes of asphalt pavement cracking, loosening and other issues. On a macro level, the asphalt hardens and becomes more brittle, while on a micro level, the chemical composition and molecular weight distribution change. This is a very complicated physicochemical process. Gel permeation chromatography (GPC) is a powerful technical tool for understanding the mechanism of asphalt aging and expressing the asphalt aging process. GPC can be used to measure the distribution and content of each component in the asphalt aging process. The mechanism of action of crumb rubber modified asphalt has not been fully elucidated due to its complex composition. This study investigated the molecular weight of crumb rubber modified asphalt before and after aging, and filtered asphalt based on gel permeation chromatography. The results indicated that crumb rubber itself experiences severe degradation following PAV aging and that a significant number of macromolecular materials are incorporated into the asphalt phase, causing changes in key parameters. The average molecular weight (Mw) and dispersion (D) of crumb rubber modified asphalt are directly related. At the same time, the Mw of crumb rubber modified asphalt has a positive correlation with LMS content, while SMS content has a negative correlation with Mw. The increase in crumb rubber content has a positive impact on the material interaction, and the molecular weight distribution of crumb rubber modified asphalt is affected by the reaction degree of the crumb rubber in asphalt. The complex physical and chemical reaction of crumb rubber in asphalt has a direct impact on the external macro rheological properties of asphalt.
Sodium Methoxide Catalysed One-Pot Glycidol Synthesis via Trans-Esterification between Glycerol and Dimethyl Carbonate
Authors: Elhaj Elrasheed , Wang Huajun , Al-Harthi Enaam A. , Wani Waseem A. , Sallam Sahar , Zouli Nasser , Imran Mohd
Published: April 2023

In this work we demonstrate one-pot glycidol synthesis, via trans-esterification between glycerol and dimethyl carbonate, by making use of commercially available sodium methoxide as a catalyst. An excellent glycerol conversion (99%) and remarkable glycidol yield (75%) was obtained using dimethyl carbonate/glycerol (molar ratio 2:1) in the presence of 3 wt% catalyst amount (with respect to glycerol weight) at 85 °C for a reaction time of 120 min. Sodium methoxide was recycled and reused twice with only a slight decrease in glycerol conversion. The water content of the glycerol reached 2.5 wt%; this did not reduce the glycerol conversion efficiency of the catalyst. A plausible mechanism for the trans-esterification involved in the preparation of glycidol was proposed.
Recent Advances in N-Heterocyclic Carbene Coinage Metal Complexes in A3-Coupling and Carboxylation Reaction
Authors: D’Amato Assunta , Sirignano Marco , Russo Simona , Troiano Rubina , Mariconda Annaluisa , Longo Pasquale
Published: April 2023

Owing of their accessibility and wide range of reactivities, alkynes make for fascinating building blocks. Either a selective alkyne carbon-carbon triple bond reaction or activation of the terminal alkyne C-H bond may be employed to functionalize them. Monocationic coinage metal complexes with a d10 electronic configuration are effective catalysts for alkyne activation. Silver(I) and gold(I) N-heterocyclic (NHC) systems are emerging as promising catalysts in multicomponent alkyne activation reactions; this review paper focuses on A3 (aldehyde-amine-alkyne)-coupling reaction and carbon dioxide fixation, furnishing a systematic overview of the scientific advances achieved during the last two decades. This study will carefully compare the corresponding silver and gold complexes employed in the two processes. The differences in reaction routes brought about by the catalyst ligand structure will be investigated with an emphasis on evaluating the benefits provided by the easily tuneable NHC backbone, in terms of chemo- and stereo-selectivity.
Perovskite-Like Strontium Bismuth Oxyhalides: Synthesis, Characterisation, Photocatalytic Activity and Degradation Mechanism
Authors: Lin Yu-Yun , Lu Pei-Hsuan , Liu Fu-Yu , Lu Chung-Shin , Chen Chiing-Chang
Published: April 2023

Recent studies have demonstrated that bismuth oxyhalides with a 2D structure inhibit the recombination of electron–hole pairs. Further, perovskite-like strontium bismuth-based compounds with a special layered Sillen X1 structure have shown potential for use as effective visible-light photocatalysts. Here, a series of strontium bismuth oxyhalide composites were prepared under different calcination conditions. The sample compositions were controlled by modulating the calcination temperature and the secondary calcination time. The synthesised catalysts were characterised by various techniques to identify the product compositions. Under visible-light irradiation, the degradation efficiencies and photocatalytic activities of the different catalysts towards rhodamine B (RhB) and 2-hydroxybenzoic acid (2-HBA) were measured via UV–Vis PDA and electron paramagnetic resonance analyses. To explore the degradation mechanism, scavengers were utilised to detect the radicals produced in the photodegradation test. SrBiO2Cl exhibited the best RhB degradation efficiency, of 0.0685 h−1, and SrBiO2Br exhibited a rate of 0.0984 h−1. At 25 °C and 1 atm, the CO2–CH4 photocatalytic conversion efficiencies of the optimised SrBiO2Cl and SrBiO2Br samples increased to 0.037 and 0.053 μmol g−1 h−1, respectively. The findings confirm that the catalysts are highly recyclable and effective for environmental remediation, achieving the objectives of green chemistry.
Organic Semiconductor-Based Photoelectrochemical Cells for Efficient Solar-to-Chemical Conversion
Authors: Yu Je Min , Jang Ji-Wook
Published: April 2023

Organic semiconductor-based photoelectrodes are gaining significant attention in photoelectrochemical (PEC) value-added chemical production systems, which are promising architectures for solar energy harvesting. Organic semiconductors consisting of conjugated carbon–carbon bonds provide several advantages for PEC cells, including improved charge transfer, tunable band positions and band gaps, low cost, and facile fabrication using organic solvents. This review gives an overview of the recent advances in emerging single organic semiconductor-based photoelectrodes for PEC water splitting and the various strategies for enhancing their performance and stability. It highlights the importance of photoelectrodes based on donor–acceptor bulk heterojunction (BHJ) systems for fabricating efficient organic semiconductor-based solar energy-harvesting devices. Furthermore, it evaluates the recent progress in BHJ organic base photoelectrodes for producing highly efficient PEC value-added chemicals, such as hydrogen and hydrogen peroxide. Finally, this review highlights the potential of organic-based photoelectrodes for bias-free solar-to-chemical production, which is the ultimate goal of PEC systems and a step toward achieving reliable commercial technology.
Divalent Europium, NIR and Variable Emission of Trivalent Tm, Ho, Pr, Er, Nd, and Ce in 3D Frameworks and 2D Networks of Ln–Pyridylpyrazolates
Authors: Youssef Heba , Becker Jonathan , Pietzonka Clemens , Taydakov Ilya V. , Kraus Florian , Müller-Buschbaum Klaus
Published: April 2023

The redox reactions of various lanthanide metals with 3-(4-pyridyl)pyrazole (4-PyPzH) or 3-(3-pyridyl)pyrazole (3-PyPzH) ligands yield the 2D network ∞2[Eu(4-PyPz)2(Py)2] containing divalent europium, the 3D frameworks ∞3[Ln(4-PyPz)3] and ∞3[Ln(3-PyPz)3] for trivalent cerium, praseodymium, neodymium, holmium, erbium, and thulium as well as ∞3[La(4-PyPz)3], and the 2D networks ∞2[Ln(4-PyPz)3(Py)] for trivalent cerium and thulium and ∞2[Ln2(4-PyPz)6]·Py for trivalent ytterbium and lutetium. The 18 lanthanide coordination polymers were synthesized under solvothermal conditions in pyridine (Py), partly acting as a co-ligand for some networks. The compounds exhibit a variety of luminescence properties, including metal-centered 4f–4f/5d–4f emission in the visible and near-infrared spectral range, metal-to-ligand energy transfer, and ligand-centered fluorescence and phosphorescence. The anionic ligands 3-PyPz− and 4-PyPz− serve as suitable antennas for lanthanide-based luminescence in the visible and near-infrared range through effective sensitization followed by emission through intra–4f transitions of the trivalent thulium, holmium, praseodymium, erbium, and neodymium. ∞2[Ce(4-PyPz)3(Py)], ∞3[Ce(4-PyPz)3], and ∞3[Ce(3-PyPz)3] exhibit strong degrees of reduction in the 5d excited states that differ in intensity compared to the ligand-based emission, resulting in a distinct emission ranging from pink to orange. The direct current magnetic studies show magnetic isolation of the lanthanide centers in the crystal lattice of ∞3[Ln(3-PyPz)3], Ln = Dy, Ho, and Er.
Ethical Dilemmas in Neonatal Care at the Limit of Viability
Authors: Kornhauser Cerar Lilijana , Lucovnik Miha
Published: April 2023

Advances in neonatal care have pushed the limit of viability to incrementally lower gestations over the last decades. However, surviving extremely premature neonates are prone to long-term neurodevelopmental handicaps. This makes ethics a crucial dimension of periviable birth management. At 22 weeks, survival ranges from 1 to 15%, and profound disabilities in survivors are common. Consequently, there is no beneficence-based obligation to offer any aggressive perinatal management. At 23 weeks, survival ranges from 8 to 54%, and survival without severe handicap ranges from 7 to 23%. If fetal indication for cesarean delivery appears, the procedure may be offered when neonatal resuscitation is planned. At a gestational age ≥24 weeks, up to 51% neonates are expected to survive the neonatal period. Survival without profound neurologic disability ranges from 12 to 38%. Beneficence-based obligation to intervene is reasonable at these gestations. Nevertheless, autonomy of parents should also be respected, and parental consent should be sought prior to any intervention. Optimal counselling of parents involves harmonized cooperation of obstetric and neonatal care providers. Every fetus/neonate and every pregnant woman are different and have the right to be considered individually when treatment decisions are being made.
Psychological Burden during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Female Caregivers of Preterm versus Term Born Children
Authors: Brasseler Maire , Fink Madeleine , Mitschdörfer Barbara , Reimann Margarete , Skoda Eva-Maria , Bäuerle Alexander , Teufel Martin , Felderhoff-Müser Ursula , Hüning Britta
Published: April 2023

Background: during the COVID-19 pandemic, psychological burden increased. Contact restrictions were predominantly stressful for families. Parenthood was reported to be especially challenging for parents of preterm children. Material and Methods: a cross-sectional online-based survey on the psychological burden of parents of preterm and full-term born infants and toddlers during the second lockdown of the COVID-19 pandemic in Germany was offered by social media, webpages, etc. Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7), Patient Health Questionnaire-2 (PHQ-2), COVID-19 Anxiety (C-19-A), COVID-19-related child protection behavior (PB) were used. Results: 2742 parents—predominantly females—took part in the study, 2025 parents of full-term and 717 parents of preterm born children. Female caregivers of full-term children reported significantly more depression symptoms than those of preterm children during the second lockdown of the COVID-19 pandemic. The PB correlated with increased COVID-19 anxiety as well as with increased generalized anxiety and depression symptoms. Female caregivers of preterm children showed significantly more protection behavior than those of full-term born children.
Trends and Prevalence of Hospital Admissions Related to Deliberate Self-Poisoning and Used Substances in Romanian Adolescents between 2016 and 2022
Authors: Predescu Elena , Calugar Iulia , Bibu-Monus Cristian , Sipos Roxana
Published: April 2023

Rates of self-poisoning are increasing substantially all around the world, with self-poisoning being the most common form of self-harm leading to hospitalization in children and adolescents. This study aims to investigate the trends in the number of deliberate self-poisoning admissions in Romanian adolescents during the period of 2016–2022, as well as the most frequently used substances and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on hospital admissions due to self-poisoning and substance use in relation to these episodes. The sample included 178 patients admitted to the Clinic of Pediatric Psychiatry in Cluj-Napoca from 2016 to 2022 due to an episode of self-poisoning. Data were collected on patients’ sociodemographic characteristics, psychosocial characteristics, and medical histories. We report a slight overall increase in the self-poisoning admission rate during the studied period. There was a decrease during the initial period of the pandemic, with significantly increasing rates in the second year of the pandemic. The mean prevalence rate of hospital admissions due to self-poisoning episodes during the study period was 3.14% (95% CI 2.72, 3.63). Adolescent girls were identified as the most vulnerable group, with the female-to-male ratio increasing dramatically. In terms of substance use, benzodiazepines; over-the-counter analgesics, including paracetamol; and antidepressants were the most frequently used substances. We emphasize the importance of careful consideration in prescribing psychotropic drugs, as well as the need for regulation of over-the-counter drug dispensation.