bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of household access to water, sanitation, and hygiene services on under-five mortality in Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Gaffan Nicolas , Kpozehouen Alphonse , Degbey Cyriaque , Ahanhanzo Yolaine Glele , Paraïso Moussiliou Noël
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Sub-Saharan Africa has the highest under-five mortality rate and is among the regions where people have the least access to adequate Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) services. The work aimed to investigate the effects of WASH conditions faced by children on under-five mortality in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Methods

We carried out secondary analyses using the Demographic and Health Survey datasets of 30 countries in Sub-Saharan Africa. The study population consisted of children born within 5 years preceding the selected surveys. The dependent variable was the child’s status (1 = deceased versus 0 = alive) on the survey day. The individual WASH conditions in which children live were assessed in their immediate environment, i.e., at the level of their households of residence. The other explanatory variables were related to the child, mother, household, and environment. Following a description of the study variables, we identified the predictors of under-five mortality using a mixed logistic regression.

Results

The analyses involved 303,985 children. Overall, 6.36% (95% CI = 6.24–6.49) of children died before their fifth birthday. The percentage of children living in households with access to individual basic WASH services was 58.15% (95% CI = 57.51–58.78), 28.18% (95% CI = 27.74–28.63), and 17.06% (95% CI = 16.71–17.41), respectively. Children living in households using unimproved water facilities (aOR = 1.10; 95% CI = 1.04–1.16) or surface water (aOR = 1.11; 95% CI = 1.03–1.20) were more likely to die before five than those coming from households with basic water facilities. The risk of under-five mortality was 11% higher for children living in households with unimproved sanitation facilities (aOR = 1.11; 95% CI = 1.04–1.18) than for those with basic sanitation services. We found no evidence to support a relationship between household access to hygiene services and under-five mortality.

Conclusion

Interventions to reduce under-five mortality should focus on strengthening access to basic water and sanitation services. Further studies are needed to investigate the contribution of access to basic hygiene services on under-five mortality.
Land access, livelihoods, and dietary diversity in a fragile setting in northern Uganda
Authors: Kang Yunhee , Ganganaboina Sarika , Fang Theresa , Tran Andy , Suzuki Aki , Son Jeongeun , Roh Kyunghoo
Published: April 2023

Food systems in fragile contexts are hardly investigated. We examined the crop value chain activities, agriculture income, coping strategy, and food consumption score (FCS) among South Sudan refugees (n = 394; refugee HH) and Uganda host communities (n = 420; host HH) living on the northern border of Uganda. Secondary data analysis was conducted using baseline data collected from an NGO-supported project. Linear regression analysis was conducted to test the association between the type of crop for growing and selling, agriculture income, coping strategy, and FCS in the refugee HH and host HH, separately. The mean number of growing and selling crops was 2.7 (SD 1.7) and 0.6 (1.0) in the refugee HH and 3.6 (1.4) and 1.3 (1.1) in the host HH. Overall food insecurity and FCS was poor in both refugee and host HH. Larger land access was associated with diverse crop production and crop selling in both groups (p < 0.05). The greater number of crop types grown was marginally associated with FCS in host HH only (β = 1.00; p = 0.05). Selling more types of crops was associated with agriculture income in both groups (p < 0.05) and was not related to rCSI in either group, but marginally associated with FCS among only host HH (β = 0.84; p = 0.04). An inequitable food system existed between the host community and South Sudan refugees residing on the northern border of Uganda. The findings suggest that diversifying crops for selling and enhancing marketing channels could aid both host and refugee communities in establishing resilient food systems.
Recurrent paratesticular giant liposarcoma: A case report and literature review
Authors: Hua Runmiao , Zhao Liwei , Xu Li , Sun Ji , Huang Jiaguo , Hua Qiyan
Published: April 2023

Background

Primary paratesticular liposarcoma is rarely diagnosed among urinary tumors. In this study, through the retrospective analysis of clinical data and literature review, a case of recurrent paratesticular liposarcoma with lymph node metastasis after radical resection has been reported to explore novel strategies for the diagnosis, treatment and prognosis of this rare disease.

Case summary

The present case involved a patient who was misdiagnosed as a left inguinal hernia for the first time two years ago, but was later diagnosed as mixed liposarcoma by using postoperative pathology. Currently, he is readmitted to the hospital with a recurrence of the left scrotal mass for more than 1 year. Combined with the patient's past medical history, we performed radical resection of the left inguinal and scrotal tumors and lymphadenectomy of left femoral vein. The postoperative pathology indicated that well-differentiated liposarcoma was accompanied by mucinous liposarcoma (about 20%), and lymph node metastasis of left femoral vein both of which occurred at the same time. After the operation, we recommended the patient to receive further radiation therapy, but the patient and his family refused, hence we followed up the patient closely for a long time. During the recent follow-up, the patient reported no complaints of discomfort, and no recurrence of mass in the left scrotum and groin area.

Conclusion

After conducting extensive review of literature, we conclude that radical resection remains the key to treat primary paratesticular liposarcoma, while the significance of the lymph node metastasis is still unclear. The potential effects of postoperative adjuvant therapy depends on the pathological type, and hence close follow-up observation is essential.
Computation and Verification of Spatial Rate Equations for an Electro-Optically Q-Switched Laser-Diode Side-Pumped Nd:YAG Laser
Authors: Yan Renpeng , Xu Haobo , Li Xudong
Published: April 2023

In a side-pumped laser module, we simulate the pumping power distribution across the cross-section of Nd:YAG rods at varying diameters. The coupled rate equations with the spatial overlap efficiency for a four-level actively Q-switched side-pumped laser are considered complete. After a Q-switched pulse terminates, the expressions of laser output parameters are derived. We assess the single pulse energy, pulse width, and peak power using the analysis function. The 200 Hz Q-switched side-pumped Nd:YAG laser with a peak power of 103 kW and beam quality factors M2 = 1.67 is developed to the validity of theoretical models.
Transitional Justice Process and the Justice Theory of Roland Dworkin
Authors: Gyr Helen
Published: April 2023

The determination of truth in the aftermath of war aiming at establishing justice and peace is a key element of a transitional justice (TJ) process. The theory of justice of Roland Dworkin deals with an approach in which the interpretation of values such as equality, liberty or truth are paramount. Dworkin’s theory of justice is applied to constitutional states and lays out how democratic values are negotiated. The goal of a TJ process is to lead a state towards democracy after a war or internal armed conflict. TJ processes as well as Dworkin’s theory of justice are to be understood as dynamic, which implies that they are subject to constant change and thus to be considered in their respective social, cultural, political, and economic contexts. This paper explores the relationship between truth and justice in the framework of a TJ trial and Roland Dworkin’s theory of justice. The TJ process in Colombia serves as a case study because that was where I conducted field research in TJ in 2019.
Synthesis, Properties, and Application of Small-Molecule Hole-Transporting Materials Based on Acetylene-Linked Thiophene Core
Authors: Yu Hui-Juan , Xiao Jing , Chen Jian , Ren Xuefeng , Qi Ya-E , Min Xuemei , Shao Guang
Published: April 2023

Three small molecule organic compounds based on conjugated acetylene-linked methoxy triphenylamine terminal groups with different substituted thiophene cores were synthesized and firstly applied as hole-transporting materials (HTMs). The electron-deficient acetylene linkers can tune the energy levels of frontier molecular orbitals. The physical property measurements show that the HTMs (CJ-05, CJ-06, and CJ-07) possess good stability, hydrophobicity, and film-forming ability. Further, the HTMs were applied in the MAPbI3-based perovskite solar cells (PSCs), and the best power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 6.04%, 6.77%, and 6.48% was achieved, respectively, which implies that they exhibit great potential in photovoltaic applications.
A Potential Lead for Insect Growth Regulator: Design, Synthesis, and Biological Activity Evaluation of Novel Hexacyclic Pyrazolamide Derivatives
Authors: Guo Bingbo , Jiang Biaobiao , Wang Chunying , Jin Xiaoyu , Wang Liuyang , Yang Zhaokai , Luo Shihui , Yang Qing , Zhang Li , Yang Xinling
Published: April 2023

Ecdysone receptor (EcR) and chitinase play a critical role in the molting stage of insect pests. Each of them is considered a promising target for the development of novel insect growth regulators (IGRs). In the present paper, a total of 24 (23 novel) hexacyclic pyrazolamide derivatives were designed and synthesized by reducing the heptacycle and inserting small flexible linkers on the basis of the previously discovered dual-target compound D-27 acting simultaneously on EcR and Ostrinia furnacalis chitinase (OfChtI). Their insecticidal activities against Plutella xylostella, Spodoptera frugiperda, and Ostrinia furnacalis larvae were evaluated. The results revealed that the insecticidal activity was not significantly enhanced when the heptacycle on the pyrazole ring was reduced to a hexacycle. However, the insertion of an additional methylene spacer between the substituted phenyl ring and the amide bond can improve the insecticidal activity. Among the derivatives, the most potent compound, 6j, exhibited promising insecticidal activities against P. xylostella and S. frugiperda. Further protein binding assays and molecular docking indicated that 6j could target both EcR and OfChtI, and is a potential lead compound for IGRs. The present work provides valuable clues for the development of new dual-target IGRs.
Recent Advances in the Synthesis of 3,4-Dihydropyran-2-Ones Organocatalyzed by N-Heterocyclic Carbenes
Authors: Morales-Manrique Camilo , Baquero Edwin A. , Guevara-Pulido James
Published: April 2023

In recent years, N-heterocyclic carbenes (NHC) have gained recognition as versatile molecules capable of acting as organocatalysts in various reactions, particularly through the activation of aldehydes via Breslow-type adducts. This organocatalytic activation has enabled the production of numerous 3,4-dihydropyran-2-ones and related derivatives. In this review, we provide an overview of the production of 3,4-dihydropyran-2-ones and derivatives via organocatalytic processes involving NHCs over the past eight years. These processes involve the use of a diverse range of substrates, catalysts, and reaction conditions, which can be classified into [4+2]-and [3+3]-type cycloadditions, primarily aimed at synthesizing this skeleton due to its biological activity and multiple stereocenters. These processes are scaled up to the gram scale, and the resulting products are often directed towards epimerization and functionalization to produce more complex molecules with potential applications in the biological field. Finally, we provide a perspective and the future directions of this topic in organic synthesis.
Physical Mechanism of Nonlinear Spectra in Triangene
Authors: Zhang Na , Feng Weijian , Wen Hanbo , Feng Naixing , Sheng Hao , Huang Zhixiang , Wang Jingang
Published: April 2023

In this work, we theoretically investigate the linear and nonlinear optical absorption properties of open triangulene spin chains and cyclic triangulene spin chains in relation to their lengths and shapes. The physical mechanism of local excitation within the triangular alkene unit and the weak charge transfer between the units are discussed. The uniformly distributed electrostatic potential allows the system to have a small permanent dipole moment that blocks the electronic transition in the light excitation such that the electronic transition can only be carried out between adjacent carbon atoms. The one-photon absorption (OPA) spectra and two-photon absorption (TPA) spectra are red-shifted with the addition of triangulene units compared to N = 3TSCs (triangulene spin chains, TSCs). Here, TPA is mainly caused by the first step of the transition. The length of the spin chain has a significant adjustment effect on the photon cross-section. TSCs of different lengths and shapes can control chirality by adjusting the distribution of the electric dipole moment and transition magnetic dipole moment. These analyses reveal the photophysical properties of triangulene and provide a theoretical basis for studying the photophysical properties of triangulene and its derivatives.
Analysis of Dibenzyltoluene Mixtures: From Fast Analysis to In-Depth Characterization of the Compounds
Authors: Ji Xiaolong , Louarn Essyllt , Fache Fabienne , Vanoye Laurent , Bonhommé Anne , Pitault Isabelle , Meille Valérie
Published: April 2023

The so-called dibenzyltoluene (H0-DBT) heat transfer oil contains numerous isomers of dibenzyltoluene as well as (benzyl)benzyltoluene (methyl group on the central vs. the side aromatic ring). As it is used as a liquid organic hydrogen carrier (LOHC), a detailed analysis of its composition is crucial in assessing the kinetic rate of hydrogenation for each constituent and studying the mechanism of H0-DBT hydrogenation. To identify all of the compounds in the oil, an in-depth analysis of the GC–MS spectra was performed. To confirm peak attribution, we synthesized some DBTs and characterized the pure compounds using NMR and Raman spectroscopies. Moreover, a fast-GC analysis was developed to rapidly determine the degree of hydrogenation of the mixture.
Facile Synthesis of Quinolinecarboxylic Acid–Linked Covalent Organic Framework via One–Pot Reaction for Highly Efficient Removal of Water–Soluble Pollutants
Authors: Yang Mingzhu , Ji Wenhua
Published: April 2023

To efficiently eliminate highly polar organic pollutants from water has always been a difficult issue, especially in the case of ultralow concentrations. Herein, we present the facile synthesis of quinolinecarboxylic acid-linked COF (QCA–COF) via the Doebner multicomponent reaction, possessing multifunction, high specific surface area, robust physicochemical stability, and excellent crystallinity. The marked feature lies in the quinolinyl and carboxyl functions incorporated simultaneously to QCA–COF in one step. The major cis–orientation of carboxyl arms in QCA–COF was speculated by powder X–ray diffraction and total energy analysis. QCA–COF demonstrates excellent adsorption capacity for water–soluble organic pollutants such as rhodamine B (255.7 mg/g), methylene blue (306.1 mg/g), gentamycin (338.1 mg/g), and 2,4–dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (294.1 mg/g) in water. The kinetic adsorptions fit the pseudo–second order model and their adsorption isotherms are Langmuir model. Remarkably, QCA–COF can capture the above four water–soluble organic pollutants from real water samples at ppb level with higher than 95% removal efficiencies and excellent recycling performance.
Synthesis, Quality Control and Preliminary Activity Evaluation of a New Compound HM475
Authors: Guo Jieqing , Xie Luming , Zhang Jing , Cao Han , Wang Juanxia , Wu Xia , Feng Yifan
Published: April 2023

Based on the principle of molecular splicing and theory of traditional Chinese medicine pairs, a new multi-active compound (HM475) was synthesized by connecting metformin with honokiol, and its structure was characterized, which not only reduced the toxicity of raw materials, but also maintained the original activity, and had a certain significance in research and innovation. At the same time, quality control and preliminary activity evaluation were carried out, and the effect of HM475 on neuroinflammation was further explored, which provided a new idea for drug development of neurodegenerative diseases.
Dipsacus and Scabiosa Species—The Source of Specialized Metabolites with High Biological Relevance: A Review
Authors: Skała Ewa , Szopa Agnieszka
Published: April 2023

The genera Dipsacus L. and Scabiosa L. of the Caprifoliaceae family are widely distributed in Europe, Asia, and Africa. This work reviews the available literature on the phytochemical profiles, ethnomedicinal uses, and biological activities of the most popular species. These plants are rich sources of many valuable specialized metabolites with beneficial medicinal properties, such as triterpenoid derivatives, iridoids, phenolic acids, and flavonoids. They are also sources of essential oils. The genus Dipsacus has been used for centuries in Chinese and Korean folk medicines to treat bone (osteoporosis) and joint problems (rheumatic arthritis). The Korean Herbal Pharmacopoeia and Chinese Pharmacopoeia include Dipsaci radix, the dried roots of D. asperoides C.Y.Cheng & T.M.Ai. In addition, S. comosa Fisch. ex Roem & Schult. and S. tschiliiensis Grunning are used in traditional Mongolian medicine to treat liver diseases. The current scientific literature data indicate that these plants and their constituents have various biological properties, including inter alia antiarthritic, anti-neurodegenerative, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anticancer, and antimicrobial activities; they have also been found to strengthen tendon and bone tissue and protect the liver, heart, and kidney. The essential oils possess antibacterial, antifungal, and insecticidal properties. This paper reviews the key biological values of Dipsacus and Scabiosa species, as identified by in vitro and in vivo studies, and presents their potential pharmacological applications.
Microwave-Assisted Extraction Optimization and Effect of Drying Temperature on Catechins, Procyanidins and Theobromine in Cocoa Beans
Authors: Maldonado Yessenia E. , Figueroa Jorge G.
Published: April 2023

Cocoa beans (Theobroma cacao L.) are an important source of polyphenols. Nevertheless, the content of these compounds is influenced by post-harvest processes. In this sense, the concentration of polyphenols can decrease by more than 50% during drying. In this study, the process of procyanidins extraction was optimized and the stability of catechins, procyanidins, and theobromine to different drying temperatures was evaluated. First, the effectiveness of methanol, ethanol, acetone, and water as extract solvents was determined. A Box–Behnken design and response surface methodology were used to optimize the Microwave-Assisted Extraction (MAE) process. The ratios of methanol-water, time, and temperature of extraction were selected as independent variables, whereas the concentration of procyanidins was used as a response variable. Concerning the drying, the samples were dried using five temperatures, and a sample freeze-dried was used as a control. The quantitative analyses were carried out by HPLC-DAD-ESI-IT-MS. The optimal MAE conditions were 67 °C, 56 min, and 73% methanol. Regarding the drying, the maximum contents of procyanidins were obtained at 40 °C. To our knowledge, this is the first time that the stability of dimers, trimers, and tetramers of procyanidins on drying temperature was evaluated. In conclusion, drying at 40 °C presented better results than the freeze-drying method.
Realizing Ultrafast and Robust Sodium-Ion Storage of Iron Sulfide Enabled by Heteroatomic Doping and Regulable Interface Engineering
Authors: Shen Jinke , Wu Naiteng , Xie Wei , Li Qing , Guo Donglei , Li Jin , Liu Guilong , Liu Xianming , Mi Hongyu
Published: April 2023

Fe-based sulfides are a promising type of anode material for sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) due to their high theoretical capacities and affordability. However, these materials often suffer from issues such as capacity deterioration and poor conductivity during practical application. To address these challenges, an N-doped Fe7S8 anode with an N, S co-doped porous carbon framework (PPF-800) was synthesized using a template-assisted method. When serving as an anode for SIBs, it delivers a robust and ultrafast sodium storage performance, with a discharge capacity of 489 mAh g−1 after 500 cycles at 5 A g−1 and 371 mAh g−1 after 1000 cycles at 30 A g−1 in the ether-based electrolyte. This impressive performance is attributed to the combined influence of heteroatomic doping and adjustable interface engineering. The N, S co-doped carbon framework embedded with Fe7S8 nanoparticles effectively addresses the issues of volumetric expansion, reduces the impact of sodium polysulfides, improves intrinsic conductivity, and stimulates the dominant pseudocapacitive contribution (90.3% at 2 mV s−1). Moreover, the formation of a stable solid electrolyte interface (SEI) film by the effect of uniform pore structure in ether-based electrolyte produces a lower transfer resistance during the charge–discharge process, thereby boosting the rate performance of the electrode material. This work expands a facile strategy to optimize the electrochemical performance of other metal sulfides.
Carbocyanine-Based Optical Sensor Array for the Discrimination of Proteins and Rennet Samples Using Hypochlorite Oxidation
Authors: Shik Anna V. , Stepanova Irina A. , Doroshenko Irina A. , Podrugina Tatyana A. , Beklemishev Mikhail K.
Published: April 2023

Optical sensor arrays are widely used in obtaining fingerprints of samples, allowing for solutions of recognition and identification problems. An approach to extending the functionality of the sensor arrays is using a kinetic factor by conducting indicator reactions that proceed at measurable rates. In this study, we propose a method for the discrimination of proteins based on their oxidation by sodium hypochlorite with the formation of the products, which, in turn, feature oxidation properties. As reducing agents to visualize these products, carbocyanine dyes IR-783 and Cy5.5-COOH are added to the reaction mixture at pH 5.3, and different spectral characteristics are registered every several minutes (absorbance in the visible region and fluorescence under excitation by UV (254 and 365 nm) and red light). The intensities of the photographic images of the 96-well plate are processed by principal component analysis (PCA) and linear discriminant analysis (LDA). Six model proteins (bovine and human serum albumins, γ-globulin, lysozyme, pepsin, and proteinase K) and 10 rennet samples (mixtures of chymosin and pepsin from different manufacturers) are recognized by the proposed method. The method is rapid and simple and uses only commercially available reagents.
Individual Cell-Level Temperature Monitoring of a Lithium-Ion Battery Pack
Authors: Alcock Keith M. , González-Vila Álvaro , Beg Mustehsan , Vedreño-Santos Francisco , Cai Zuansi , Alwis Lourdes S. M. , Goh Keng
Published: April 2023

The work described herein details the deployment of an optical fibre strand with five fibre Bragg grating (FBG) sensors for individual cell-level temperature monitoring of a three-cell lithium-ion battery pack. A polymer guide tube with 3D printed plinths is employed, resulting in high precision temperature readings with an average error of 0.97 °C, 1.33 °C, and 1.27 °C for FBG sensors on each battery cell, surpassing traditional thermocouple and platinum resistance sensors in some circumstances. The temperature response of FBGs positioned between battery cells demonstrates that, in addition to sensing temperature at the cell level, temperature data can be effectively acquired between cells, suggesting that FBGs may be used to monitor the heat radiated from individual cells in a battery pack.
SPECTRA: A Novel Compact System for Surface Plasmon Resonance Measurements
Authors: Pasqualotto Elisabetta , Cretaio Erica , Franchin Lara , De Toni Alessandro , Paccagnella Alessandro , Bonaldo Stefano , Scaramuzza Matteo
Published: April 2023

Surface plasmon resonance (SPR) is a common and useful measurement technique to perform fast and sensitive optical detection. SPR instrumentations usually comprise optical systems of mirrors and lenses which are quite expensive and impractical for point-of-care applications. In this work, we presented a novel and compact SPR device called SPECTRA, designed as a spectrophotometer add-on with a grating coupling configuration. The device is conceived as a marketable solution to perform quick SPR measurements in grating configuration without the requirement of complex instrumentation. The device can be customized either in a vertical structure to reach lower incident light angles, or in a horizontal configuration, which is suitable for SPR analysis using liquid solutions. The SPECTRA performance was evaluated through SPR measurements in typical applications. The vertical SPECTRA system was employed to detect different functionalization molecules on gold 720 nm-period grating devices. Meanwhile, the horizontal SPECTRA configuration was exploited to carry out fluid-dynamic measurements using a microfluidic cell with glycerol solutions at increasing concentrations to account for different refractive indexes. The experimental tests confirmed that the SPECTRA design is suitable for SPR measurements, demonstrating its capability to detect the presence of analytes and changes in surface properties both in static and dynamic set-ups.
Frequency Response of a Six-Electrode MET Sensor at Extremely Low Temperatures
Authors: Agafonov Vadim , Egorov Ivan , Akinina Anna
Published: April 2023

Four-electrode electrochemical cells are widely used for signal conversion in molecular-electronic transfer (MET) motion sensors. The most used ACCA (anode–cathode–cathode–anode) configuration has proven its performance and usefulness for obtaining a superior conversion factor and a wider frequency range over standard geophones at room temperature. However, the MET sensor conversion factor decreases a thousand-fold or more when the temperature drops from room temperature to 233 K. In the design suggested is this paper, a pair of additional gate (G) electrodes has been added outside the standard ACCA cell. An experimental study of the temperature behavior of the resulting G-ACCA-G six-electrode configuration showed that the effects of temperature changes on the cell conversion factor are 5.2 times weaker compared with the standard ACCA configuration.
Performance of Active-Quenching SPAD Array Based on the Tri-State Gates of FPGA and Packaged with Bare Chip Stacking
Authors: Liu Liangliang , Lv Wenxing , Liu Jian , Zhang Xingan , Liang Kun , Yang Ru , Han Dejun
Published: April 2023

The performance of an active-quenching single-photon avalanche diode (SPAD) array that is based on the tri-state gates of a field programmable gate array (FPGA) is presented. The array is implemented by stacking a bare 4 × 4 N-on-P SPAD array on a bare FPGA die, and the electrodes of the SPAD pixels and the I/O ports of the FPGA are connected through wire bonding within the same package. The active quenching action on each SPAD pixel is performed by using the properties of the tri-state gates of the FPGA. Digital signal processing, such as pulse counters, data encoders, and command interactions, is also performed by using the same FPGA. The breakdown voltage of the SPAD pixels, with an active area of 60 μm × 60 μm, is 47.2–48.0 V. When the device is reverse biased at a voltage of ~50.4 V, a response delay of ~50 ns, a dead time of 157 ns, a dark count rate of 2.44 kHz, and an afterpulsing probability of 6.9% are obtained. Its peak photon detection probability (PDP) reaches 17.0% at a peak wavelength of 760 nm and remains above 10% at 900 nm. This hybrid integrated SPAD array is reconfigurable and cost effective.
A Sensitivity-Optimized Flexible Capacitive Pressure Sensor with Cylindrical Ladder Microstructural Dielectric Layers
Authors: Hua Tian , Xiang Ziyin , Xia Xiangling , Li Zhangling , Sun Dandan , Wu Yuanzhao , Liu Yiwei , Shang Jie , Chen Jun , Li Runwei
Published: April 2023

Flexible capacitive pressure sensors have attracted extensive attention due to their dynamic response and good sensing capability for static and small pressures. Using microstructural dielectric layers is an effective method for improving performance. However, the current state of microstructure design is primarily focused on basic shapes and is largely limited by simulation results; there is still a great deal of potential for further innovation and improvement. This paper innovatively proposes to increase the ladder structure based on the basic microstructures, for example, the long micro-ridge ladder, the cuboid ladder, and cylindrical ladder microstructures. By comparing 9 kinds of microstructures including ladder structure through finite element simulation, it is found that the sensor with a cylindrical ladder microstructure dielectric layer has the highest sensitivity. The dielectric layers with various microstructures are obtained by 3D printed molds, and the sensor with cylindrical ladder microstructure dielectric layer has the sensitivity of 0.12 kPa−1, which is about 3.9 times higher than that without microstructure. The flexible pressure sensor developed by us boasts sensitivity-optimized and operational stability, making it an ideal solution for monitoring rainfall frequency in real time.
Deep Learning Neural Network Performance on NDT Digital X-ray Radiography Images: Analyzing the Impact of Image Quality Parameters—An Experimental Study
Authors: Hena Bata , Wei Ziang , Castanedo Clemente Ibarra , Maldague Xavier
Published: April 2023

In response to the growing inspection demand exerted by process automation in component manufacturing, non-destructive testing (NDT) continues to explore automated approaches that utilize deep-learning algorithms for defect identification, including within digital X-ray radiography images. This necessitates a thorough understanding of the implication of image quality parameters on the performance of these deep-learning models. This study investigated the influence of two image-quality parameters, namely signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR), on the performance of a U-net deep-learning semantic segmentation model. Input images were acquired with varying combinations of exposure factors, such as kilovoltage, milli-ampere, and exposure time, which altered the resultant radiographic image quality. The data were sorted into five different datasets according to their measured SNR and CNR values. The deep-learning model was trained five distinct times, utilizing a unique dataset for each training session. Training the model with high CNR values yielded an intersection-over-union (IoU) metric of 0.9594 on test data of the same category but dropped to 0.5875 when tested on lower CNR test data. The result of this study emphasizes the importance of achieving a balance in training dataset according to the investigated quality parameters in order to enhance the performance of deep-learning segmentation models for NDT digital X-ray radiography applications.
An Explorative Study of Resilience Influence on Business Performance of Korean Manufacturing Venture Enterprise
Authors: Kim Boine , Kim Byoung-Goo
Published: April 2023

Due to the recent trend of sustainability and socio-economic changes and to expand the research on resilient supply chains in Korea, this study targets Korean venture companies to ensure their success and growth. This study aims to analyze the reliance factors affecting the business performance of Korean manufacturing venture enterprises by considering two types of business performance: technology and financial performance. Regarding the factors influencing business performance, this study analyzes five resilience factors: product structure intensity, brand intensity, research and development intensity, cooperation, and corporate social responsibility. Business years were used as control variables and the causal relationship between the factors was analyzed using SPSS 22. The results show that all resilience factors positively influenced technology performance. The results for the financial performance show research and development intensity and corporate social responsibility. However, cooperation only shows different results between technology performance and financial performance. Based on these results, this study provides implications and contributions for manufacturing venture enterprises.
The Impact of Urban Spatial Plan on Land Value: An Approach System to Relating Space Syntax Premises to the Land Price
Authors: Abdulla Hawnaz , Ibrahim Muammal
Published: April 2023

This research study explored the impact of an urban spatial plan on land value; it drew on the value model based on space syntax as a systematic technical piece of software that explains and analyzes the relationship between land use and land value. The study proposes a framework based on the urban spatial network. We selected the Kirkuk city master plan for evaluation purposes and hypothesized that there would be a relationship between the space syntax of the essence of urban spatial integration and the price of land. Therefore, the case selected was evaluated in three aspects of analysis: the urban spatial function, which involves the integration rates of the city’s street network and connectivity; the urban land price assessments in the context of the city’s spatial grids; and the expansion of land use distribution, including residential and commercial grounds, to explain the changing economic value of the spatial relationship in the land market. OSM, AutoCAD, depth map X8, QGIS 3.16, and SPSS were used for data cluster analysis, spatial network preparation and analysis, and correlation analysis. The results showed that the urban spatial plans and comprehensive urban socioeconomic and environmental factors had a significant impact on land price. This result can enhance the future spatial design and the economy of metropolitan areas.
Real-Time Risk Detection Method and Protection Strategy for Intelligent Ship Network Security Based on Cloud Computing
Authors: Guo Jian , Guo Hua
Published: April 2023

When studying an unfamiliar system, we first look for the symmetry that the system has, so that we can make many predictions about the possible properties of the system. The symmetry in ship network security needs to maintain a stable state and maintain a constant state of ship network security. With the rapid development of network information technology, smart ships have become a new hot spot in the international shipping industry. The smart ships cybersecurity discussion is also at the top of the list in the maritime field. More and more shipping companies feel that their smart ship systems need to be upgraded and the main reason behind this is that the systems are maliciously attacked by cyber hackers. Therefore, it is extremely important to detect and protect the security of intelligent ship network systems in real time. The issue of network security has always accompanied the whole process of the development of the Internet. At the same time, with the development of Internet technology, network hacking attacks against the Internet have never stopped developing, and traditional ship network security risk detection and protection cannot achieve good results. After understanding the operation mode of intelligent ship networks, this paper deeply studied the characteristics of cloud computing technology and proposed a real-time risk detection method and protection strategy for intelligent ship network security based on cloud computing. This paper mainly used multi-sensor nodes to analyze data containing malicious attack information and implemented self-execution protection strategy generation nodes to intercept and protect from the attack, so as to achieve the purpose of maintaining the network security of intelligent ships. Through experiments, the virus intrusion detection and defense rate of the algorithm proposed in this paper was able to reach 85% to 95%, while the virus intrusion detection defense rate of the traditional intelligent ship network security protection algorithm was 55% to 65%. The detection rate of the algorithm proposed in this paper was able to reach 96.95% and the false positive rate was 2.56%. The detection rate of the traditional algorithm was only 70.76%, while the false positive rate reached 4.69%. All of the proposed algorithm’s data were significantly better than that of traditional algorithms, which proved that the performance of cloud computing-based real-time risk detection and protection algorithms for intelligent ship network security was significantly better than that of traditional algorithms.
A case of successful treatment of a multimorphic form of nonspecific purulent-inflammator y disease of the spine
Authors:   FBHI Privolzhsky District Medical Center of the FMBA of Russia, Nizhny Novgorod, Yarikov A.V. ,   SBHI NR City Clinical Hospital No. 39, FSAEI HE Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod, Nizhny Novgorod, Kolesnikov V.A. ,   FBHI Privolzhsky District Medical Center of the FMBA of Russia, Nizhny Novgorod, Afanasieva A.V. ,   FBHI Privolzhsky District Medical Center of the FMBA of Russia, Nizhny Novgorod, Akifieva E.I. ,   FBHI Privolzhsky District Medical Center of the FMBA of Russia, Nizhny Novgorod, Lipatov K.S. ,   FBHI Privolzhsky District Medical Center of the FMBA of Russia, Nizhny Novgorod, Kim E.R. ,   FBHI Privolzhsky District Medical Center of the FMBA of Russia, Nizhny Novgorod, Kalinkin A.A. ,   4FSBI Federal Siberian Research Clinical Center of the FMBA of Russia, Krasnoyarsk,, Agapycheva E.A. ,   FBHI Privolzhsky District Medical Center of the FMBA of Russia, Nizhny Novgorod, Rumyantseva E.V. ,   FSAEI HE Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod, Nizhny Novgorod, Apostolova T.M. ,   FSAEI HE Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod, Nizhny Novgorod
Published: April 2023

The article presents a clinical case of surgical treatment of a patient with a multimorphic form of nonspecific purulent-inflammatory lesions of the spine. This patient had spinal epiduritis, paraspinal and subdural abscesses, and purulent meningitis; the course was complicated by bilateral lower lobe pneumonia, systemic inflammatory response syndrome, and sepsis. The main stages of surgical correction were laminectomy, sanitation, and drainage of paraspinal, epidural and subdural abscesses, tracheostomy, puncture and drainage of the psoas abscess on the left side under ultrasound navigation. In addition, the patient received targeted antibiotic therapy. After treatment in the neurosurgical department, the patient was transferred to rehabilitation treatment. Based on the results of surgical treatment, a conclusion was made about the clinical validity of using a combination of methods for the treatment of patients with a multimorphic form of nonspecific purulent-inflammatory lesions of the spine.
Admission to work and conclusion of an employment contract: issues of protection of labor rights of employees
Authors:   Kuban State Agrarian University named after I.T. Trubilin Russia, Krasnodar, Sapphirova A. A.
Published: April 2023

The article examines the issues of protecting the labor rights of workers during their admission to work and the subsequent conclusion of an employment contract. The article deals with the problems that arise when the employer does not have local regulations on admission to work, the issues of the employer’s self-examination, the introduction of labor compliance and a possible labor audit as an external independent verification of the actions (inaction) of the employer’s officials in compliance with labor law norms.
Employers' activities for the implementation of employment policy
Authors:   Department of Organizational Behavior and Human Resource Management, Graduate School of Business of the National Research University, Russia, Moscow, Pavlovskaya O.Y.
Published: April 2023

The article highlights the issues of employers’ assistance to employment of the population. Among them: participation in events for the organization and conduct of public works; creation of conditions for vocational education,vocational training and additional vocational education of employees, including women, during the period of parental leave until they reach the age of three years; compliance with quotas for the employment of disabled people. The author analyzes the problems of law enforcement practice, which give reason to believe that negative trends in the enforcement of existing norms in the sphere of the relations under consideration persist. This is especially true of the application of norms on job quotas. Special attention is paid to the novelties of legislation in the sphere of the relations under consideration.
Collective bargaining in the digital age in Germany
Authors:   Mari State University, Russia, Yoshkar-Ola, Izbienova T.A. , Vayman A.B. ,   Kazan Branch of the Russian State University of Justice, Russia, Kazan
Published: April 2023

The article examines the legal mechanisms for minimizing the effects of digitalization on staff employment using the experience of regulating collective bargaining relations in the Federal Republic of Germany as an example.
Türkçe Sesbilim Araştırmaları için Kapsamlı Bir Metin Arayışı: "Rüzgar ile Güneş" ve "Yalancı Çoban" Metinlerinin Karşılaştırılması
Authors: AKSU Bahar
Published: April 2023

Bu çalışmada sesbilim araştırmalarında yaygın olarak kullanılan iki İngilizce metnin Türkçe karşılıkları ve bu metinlerin Türkçenin ses yapısı göz önünde bulundurularak sesbilim deneyleri açısından uygunluğu değerlendirilmiştir. Bulgular, Yalancı Çoban metninin Rüzgâr ile Güneş metnine göre kısmen daha kapsamlı bir metin alternatifi sunmakla birlikte, Türkçenin kendine has sesbilgisi özelliklerinden ötürü daha kapsamlı bir metin ihtiyacının gerekliliğini ortaya çıkarmıştır. Sesbilim özelliklerini kapsayan genel bir metnin sesbilim araştırmalarında kullanılması ve yaygınlaştırılması, Türkçe sesbilim çalışmalarının karşılaştırılabilirliğini de artıracaktır. Sonuçlar, kapsamlı bir metinde Türkçenin ses yapısı bilgilerinden olması gereken özellikleri sıralayarak oluşturulacak bir metin veya alternatif metinler ihtiyacının altını çizmektedir.
Levantamento bibliográfico: principais fatores de lesões no ballet
Authors: De Souza Beatriz Rodrigues , Klimeki Eduarda Izabelle Fortes , Russo Fabricio da Silva , Chagas Gabriely Correia , Bueno Kawane , Da Silva Marielen Nayara , Safraiter Rodrigo Otavio
Published: April 2023

As lesões causadas pela pratica de ballet assim como seus fatores de influência tem levantado questionamentos há algum tempo, com isso em mente esse trabalho foi realizado.  Portanto, serão analisados artigos e pesquisas sobre esta temática, para melhor compreensão do assunto. Além disso, espera-se identificar a lesão com maior incidência e determinar suas características. Dessa forma, o estudo em questão é um levantamento de referencial teórico, com foco futuro no desenvolvimento de um artigo cientifico com pesquisa de campo, visando a identificação destes fatores na nossa região e na elaboração de meios de diminuição destes problemas.
O boom da violência doméstica na pandemia e o papel da estratégia da saúde da família: um insight para mudanças no futuro?
Authors: Minniti Giulia , Minniti Guilherme Almeida dos Santos , Bittencourt Mariana Ribeiro , Fock Monique Baptista , Araújo Victor Bruno Teodoro , Fassina Henrique Martins , Tavares Pedro Antonio , Gazetta Gabriela Henrica Abu Kamel
Published: April 2023

Considera-se violência, todas as situações que envolvam abuso ou agressão, sem a necessidade de haver qualquer contato físico. Os tipos de agressão mais comuns são: física, psicológica, sexual e negligência ou abandono; esta última, no entanto, ocorre com maior frequência entre crianças e idosos. Pesquisas na área da psicopatologia desenvolvimental, podem explicar o desencadeamento destes transtornos em pessoas em situação de violência doméstica. Por conseguinte, identificando a violência doméstica como um grave problema de saúde pública, principalmente com o agravamento desta situação no cenário de pandemia por Covid-19, a Atenção Básica, por meio da Estratégia de Saúde da Família (ESF), atua no cuidado integral destes pacientes, porém ainda há dificuldades a serem superadas. Foi realizada uma revisão bibliográfica, nas bases de dados Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde (BVS), Literatura Latino-Americana e do Caribe em Ciências da saúde (LILACS) e Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online (MEDLINE), utilizando os descritores: “violência doméstica”, “saúde mental” e “saúde da família”. Foram selecionados os artigos pertinentes a temática e, excluídos os não abordavam o interesse da pesquisa. Com a pandemia por Covid-19, houve uma maior contenção da população em suas residências, fazendo com que as pessoas permanecessem por mais tempo juntas, aumentando o índice de violência doméstica e acarretando também problemas a nível de saúde mental. Com isso, se faz necessário que os planos de combate a violência doméstica sejam amplamente explorados e trabalhados para além de um cenário pandêmico, sendo eles macroestruturais, comunitários, relacionais e individuais, devido à questão de violência doméstica ser muitas vezes negligenciadas na prática da Estratégia Saúde da Família. Observa-se a necessidade de que os planos de combate à violência doméstica que já existem sejam aplicados e cabe principalmente à ESF traçar novos planos em caráter progressivo, buscando dessa forma o combate a violência doméstica de forma eficaz, já que o exílio instaurado apenas refletiu e intensificou uma realidade já existente.
Monitoria acadêmica: a importância do ensino de neuropsicologia na formação do psicólogo
Authors: Da Silva Andreza Mariz , Santos Ida Celine Gonçalves , Ferreira Sandra de Fátima Barboza
Published: April 2023

Este trabalho constitui o relato de experiência das atividades de monitoria acadêmica realizadas na disciplina de Neuropsicologia do curso de Psicologia da Universidade Federal de Goiás. A monitoria acadêmica tem por objetivo o aprofundamento do aluno monitor em conhecimentos teórico-práticos dentro da disciplina vinculada; Incentivar e despertar o interesse pela docência, aperfeiçoando o desenvolvimento de competências; e auxiliar na interação dos estudantes e docentes nas atividades de ensino e aprendizagem. Tendo em vista que o objetivo da monitoria  acadêmica  é  auxiliar  os  alunos com dificuldades no processo de aprendizado em neuropsicologia, esse relato de experiência tem por objetivo  ressaltar  a  importância  da  monitoria  acadêmica  no ensino de neuropsicologia na formação do psicólogo bem como ressaltar práticas e alternativas utilizadas no acompanhamento de estudantes com necessidades específicas. Destacam-se aqui adaptações curriculares no nível da metodologia que permitem o acesso e acessibilidade desses alunos aos conteúdos da disciplina. Discute-se acerca do alcance e limites da atividade de monitoria. Conclui-se que, embora a adesão dos alunos não seja ampla, a monitoria permite ao aluno-monitor consolidar conhecimentos e experimentar o exercício de habilidades da docência, bem como cumprir a finalidade da monitoria no que tange ao apoio a alunos com necessidades específicas.