bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatial Distribution and Accessibility Measurements for Elderly Day Care Centers in China’s Urban Built-up Area: The Case of Tianjin Nankai District
Authors: Wan Da , Liu Hui , Guo Jiaxing , Guo Lian , Qi Dongchen , Zhang Sheng , Li Pengbo , Fukuda Hiroatsu
Published: September 2022

The elderly community day care model is an emergent solution to the aging problem influenced by the Eastern perspective of family in China. Due to the structural problem of spatial disorder in most of China’s urban built-up areas, the planning and construction of elderly day care centers (EDCCs) is facing great challenges. This study aims to comprehensively compare the spatial distribution and accessibility measurement methods for elderly residents and EDCCs in typical Chinese urban built-up areas based on the accessibility theory and spatial analysis methods from the community living circle perspective. The results show that different spatial distribution analysis methods have their own emphases and limitations, requiring comprehensive application in practice. The potential model method is most suitable for the accessibility measurement in this scenario. The threshold setting of service distance for the urban built-up areas public service facilities in the current Chinese standard needs to be further optimized. The existing EDCCs suffer from serious quantity deficiencies and misplaced supplies in the region. These findings can reveal the EDCCs distribution characteristics of typical Chinese urban built-up areas and provide new insights for urban planners and policy makers who are assessing the equity and efficiency of public service facilities.
Photocatalytic Applications of g-C3N4 Based on Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Guo Yaoguang , Sun Xiaohu , Chen Qianqian , Liu Yujing , Lou Xiaoyi , Zhang Li , Zhang Xiaojiao , Li Yingshun , Guan Jie
Published: September 2022

To further understand the application of g-C3N4 in the field of photocatalysis, this study focuses on the visualization and analysis of articles in this field using VOSviewer and Citespace. These articles were analyzed in terms of number of articles, journals, authors, countries and keywords, respectively. The results show that there is little collaboration among the core authors in this field and insufficient cross-directional communication; the current applications of g-C3N4 are concentrated on hydrogen evolution, CO2 reduction and water treatment. The developing trend is in the direction of constructing Z-scheme structures, regulating the separation of photogenerated carriers and reducing the recombination rate, to which more and more attention is being paid. In the future, cross-directional communication among scholars can be strengthened to promote faster development of the field of photocatalytic applications of g-C3N4.
Synthesis of Zinc-Titanium Oxide Nanocomposites by Plasma Jet and Its Application to Photocatalyst
Authors: Seo Hyeon-Jin , Yu Jung-Hoon , Ananth Antony , Jeong Rak-Hyun , Boo Jin-Hyo
Published: September 2022

In order to synthesize the zinc-titanium (Zn-Ti) oxide nanocomposites using an atmospheric soft plasma jet, in this study mixtures of Zn and Ti precursors such as zinc nitrate and titanium butoxide were first prepared with different molar ratios; the mixed precursors then stirred at 700 rpm for two hours with atmospheric plasma, while maintaining a temperature of 25 °C. All the synthesized Zn-Ti oxide nanocomposites were post-heat-treated at 600 °C for six hours in an electrical furnace. The morphology, particle shape and size, crystal structure, oxidation state, and composition ratio were analyzed using FE-SEM, XRD, SEM-EDS, and Raman spectroscopy. BET was measured to calculate the specific surface area of the Zn-Ti oxide nanocomposites. Photocatalytic activity tests were performed for an application study, with 10 mL of 10 ppm methylene blue dye. UV-visible spectroscopy was performed on five different samples in order to analyze the changes of photocatalytic reactions. When the composition ratio of Zn/Ti was 2/1, maximum photocatalytic efficiency was obtained. We also carried out a theoretical kinetic study.
Defect Engineering and Surface Polarization of TiO2 Nanorod Arrays toward Efficient Photoelectrochemical Oxygen Evolution
Authors: Li Yueying , Liang Shiyu , Sun Huanhuan , Hua Wei , Wang Jian-Gan
Published: September 2022

The relatively low photo-conversion efficiencies of semiconductors greatly restrict their real-world practices toward photoelectrochemical water splitting. In this work, we demonstrate the fabrication of TiO2-x nanorod arrays enriched with oxygen defects and surface-polarized hydroxyl groups by a facile surface reduction method. The oxygen defects located in the bulk/surface of TiO2-x enable fast charge transport and act as catalytically active sites to accelerate the water oxidation kinetics. Meanwhile, the hydroxyl groups could establish a surface electric field by polarization, for efficient charge separation. The as-optimized TiO2-x nanorod photoanode achieves a high photocurrent density of 2.62 mA cm−2 without any cocatalyst loading at 1.23 VRHE under 100 mW cm−2, which is almost double that of the bare TiO2 counterpart. Notably, the surface charge separation and injection efficiency of the TiO2-x photoanode reach as high as 80% and 97% at 1.23 VRHE, respectively, and the maximum incident photon-to-current efficiency reaches 90% at 400 nm. This work provides a new surface treatment strategy for the development of high-performance photoanodes in photoelectrochemical water splitting.
From Molecular Mechanisms to Therapeutics: Understanding MicroRNA-21 in Cancer
Authors: Rhim Jiho , Baek Woosun , Seo Yoona , Kim Jong Heon
Published: September 2022

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small noncoding RNAs that play an important role in regulating gene expression at a posttranscriptional level. As one of the first discovered oncogenic miRNAs, microRNA-21 (miR-21) has been highlighted for its critical role in cancers, such as glioblastoma, pancreatic adenocarcinoma, non-small cell lung cancer, and many others. MiR-21 targets many vital components in a wide range of cancers and acts on various cellular processes ranging from cancer stemness to cell death. Expression of miR-21 is elevated within cancer tissues and circulating miR-21 is readily detectable in biofluids, making it valuable as a cancer biomarker with significant potential for use in diagnosis and prognosis. Advances in RNA-based therapeutics have revealed additional avenues by which miR-21 can be utilized as a promising target in cancer. The purpose of this review is to outline the roles of miR-21 as a key modulator in various cancers and its potential as a therapeutic target.
Botanicals and Oral Stem Cell Mediated Regeneration: A Paradigm Shift from Artificial to Biological Replacement
Authors: Ahuja Anami , Tyagi Pankaj Kumar , Kumar Manoj , Sharma Naveen , Prakash Suraj , Radha  , Chandran Deepak , Dhumal Sangram , Rais Nadeem , Singh Surinder , Dey Abhijit , Senapathy Marisennayya , Saleena Lejaniya Abdul Kalam , Shanavas Arjun , Mohankumar Pran , Rajalingam Sureshkumar , Murugesan Yasodha , Vishvanathan Marthandan , Sathyaseelan Sangeetha Kizhakkumkara , Viswanathan Sabareeshwari , Kumar Keerthana Krishna , Natta Suman , Mekhemar Mohamed
Published: September 2022

Stem cells are a well-known autologous pluripotent cell source, having excellent potential to develop into specialized cells, such as brain, skin, and bone marrow cells. The oral cavity is reported to be a rich source of multiple types of oral stem cells, including the dental pulp, mucosal soft tissues, periodontal ligament, and apical papilla. Oral stem cells were useful for both the regeneration of soft tissue components in the dental pulp and mineralized structure regeneration, such as bone or dentin, and can be a viable substitute for traditionally used bone marrow stem cells. In recent years, several studies have reported that plant extracts or compounds promoted the proliferation, differentiation, and survival of different oral stem cells. This review is carried out by following the PRISMA guidelines and focusing mainly on the effects of bioactive compounds on oral stem cell-mediated dental, bone, and neural regeneration. It is observed that in recent years studies were mainly focused on the utilization of oral stem cell-mediated regeneration of bone or dental mesenchymal cells, however, the utility of bioactive compounds on oral stem cell-mediated regeneration requires additional assessment beyond in vitro and in vivo studies, and requires more randomized clinical trials and case studies.
MicroRNA-4516 in Urinary Exosomes as a Biomarker of Premature Ovarian Insufficiency
Authors: Umair Zobia , Baek Mi-Ock , Song Jisue , An Seona , Chon Seung Joo , Yoon Mee-Sup
Published: September 2022

Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) is a typical disorder of amenorrhea that lasts for a minimum of four months in women < 40 years old and is typically characterized by reduced estrogen levels and elevated serum concentrations of follicle-stimulating hormone. We collected urine samples from two participant cohorts from Gil Hospital of Gachon University (Incheon, Korea): a sequencing cohort of 19 participants (seven patients with POI (POI patients without Turner syndrome), seven patients with Turner syndrome (POI patients with Turner syndrome), and five control individuals (age-matched controls with confirmed ovarian sufficiency)) and a validation cohort of 46 participants (15 patients with POI, 11 patients with Turner syndrome, and 20 control individuals). Among differentially expressed miRNAs, hsa-miR-4516 was significantly upregulated in patients with POI in both cohorts, independent of the presence of Turner syndrome. Moreover, the upregulation of miR-4516 was confirmed in the ovary—but not in the uterus—of a cyclophosphamide and busulfan-induced POI mouse model. This was accompanied by a decrease in STAT3 protein level, a predicted target of miR-4516, via miRTarBase2020. Our study provides compelling evidence that miR-4516 is highly expressed in patients with POI and POI mouse models, suggesting that miR-4516 is a diagnostic marker of POI.
Cerebral Organoids as an Experimental Platform for Human Neurogenomics
Authors: Nowakowski Tomasz J. , Salama Sofie R.
Published: September 2022

The cerebral cortex forms early in development according to a series of heritable neurodevelopmental instructions. Despite deep evolutionary conservation of the cerebral cortex and its foundational six-layered architecture, significant variations in cortical size and folding can be found across mammals, including a disproportionate expansion of the prefrontal cortex in humans. Yet our mechanistic understanding of neurodevelopmental processes is derived overwhelmingly from rodent models, which fail to capture many human-enriched features of cortical development. With the advent of pluripotent stem cells and technologies for differentiating three-dimensional cultures of neural tissue in vitro, cerebral organoids have emerged as an experimental platform that recapitulates several hallmarks of human brain development. In this review, we discuss the merits and limitations of cerebral organoids as experimental models of the developing human brain. We highlight innovations in technology development that seek to increase its fidelity to brain development in vivo and discuss recent efforts to use cerebral organoids to study regeneration and brain evolution as well as to develop neurological and neuropsychiatric disease models.
Computational Insights into the Sequence-Activity Relationships of the NGF(1–14) Peptide by Molecular Dynamics Simulations
Authors: Vittorio Serena , Manelfi Candida , Gervasoni Silvia , Beccari Andrea R. , Pedretti Alessandro , Vistoli Giulio , Talarico Carmine
Published: September 2022

The Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) belongs to the neurothrophins protein family involved in the survival of neurons in the nervous system. The interaction of NGF with its high-affinity receptor TrkA mediates different cellular pathways related to Alzheimer’s disease, pain, ocular dysfunction, and cancer. Therefore, targeting NGF-TrkA interaction represents a valuable strategy for the development of new therapeutic agents. In recent years, experimental studies have revealed that peptides belonging to the N-terminal domain of NGF are able to partly mimic the biological activity of the whole protein paving the way towards the development of small peptides that can selectively target specific signaling pathways. Hence, understanding the molecular basis of the interaction between the N-terminal segment of NGF and TrkA is fundamental for the rational design of new peptides mimicking the NGF N-terminal domain. In this study, molecular dynamics simulation, binding free energy calculations and per-residue energy decomposition analysis were combined in order to explore the molecular recognition pattern between the experimentally active NGF(1–14) peptide and TrkA. The results highlighted the importance of His4, Arg9 and Glu11 as crucial residues for the stabilization of NGF(1–14)-TrkA interaction, thus suggesting useful insights for the structure-based design of new therapeutic peptides able to modulate NGF-TrkA interaction.
Regulation of cGAS Activity and Downstream Signaling
Authors: Joshi Bhagwati , Joshi Jagdish Chandra , Mehta Dolly
Published: September 2022

Cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS) is a predominant and ubiquitously expressed cytosolic onfirmedDNA sensor that activates innate immune responses by producing a second messenger, cyclic GMP-AMP (cGAMP), and the stimulator of interferon genes (STING). cGAS contains a highly disordered N-terminus, which can sense genomic/chromatin DNA, while the C terminal of cGAS binds dsDNA liberated from various sources, including mitochondria, pathogens, and dead cells. Furthermore, cGAS cellular localization dictates its response to foreign versus self-DNA. Recent evidence has also highlighted the importance of dsDNA-induced post-translational modifications of cGAS in modulating inflammatory responses. This review summarizes and analyzes cGAS activity regulation based on structure, sub-cellular localization, post-translational mechanisms, and Ca2+ signaling. We also discussed the role of cGAS activation in different diseases and clinical outcomes.
Fabrication of Complex Three-Dimensional Structures of Mica through Digital Light Processing-Based Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Zhang Sinuo , Sutejo Imam Akbar , Kim Jeehwan , Choi Yeong-Jin , Gal Chang Woo , Yun Hui-suk
Published: September 2022

Mica is a group of clay minerals that are frequently used to fabricate electrical and thermal insulators and as adsorbents for the treatment of cationic pollutants. However, conventional subtractive manufacturing has the drawback of poor three-dimensional (3D) shape control, which limits its application. In this study, we propose digital light processing (DLP)-based additive manufacturing (AM) as one of the most effective ways to address this drawback. Two major challenges for the ceramic DLP process are the production of a homogeneous and stable slurry with the required rheological properties and the maintenance of printing precision. The mica green body was fabricated using a 53 vol.% solid loading slurry through DLP, which exhibited good dimensional resolution under an exposure energy dose of 10 mJ/cm2. The precise, complex 3D structure was maintained without any defects after debinding and sintering at 1000 °C. The use of ceramic AM to overcome the shape-control limitations of mica demonstrated in this study offers great potential for expanding the applications of mica.
Sustainable PVP-Capped Silver Nanoparticles as a Free-Standing Nanozyme Sensor for Visual and Spectrophotometric Detection of Hg2+ in Water Samples: A Green Analytical Method
Authors: Abdel-Lateef Mohamed A. , Almahri Albandary , Alzahrani Eman , Pashameah Rami Adel , Abu-Hassan Ahmed A. , El Hamd Mohamed A.
Published: September 2022

In the proposed method, microwave-assist heating and AgNO3/trisodium citrate were used to create the polyvinylpyrrolidone-capped silver nanoparticles (PVP-AgNPs) sensor. This sensor had a peroxidase-like activity that could catalytically oxidize O-phenylenediamine (OPD, colourless) into 2,3-diaminophenazine (ox-OPD, greenish-yellow colour) in the presence of H2O2, otherwise, in the presence of Hg2+, this pass has been effectively inhibited. The degree of colour fading was directly correlated with Hg2+ concentration. These results indicated the selectivity of Hg2+ ions toward PVP-AgNPs after establishing the PVP-AgNPs/OPD/H2O2 system. This selectivity was proved by the negative results obtained from other mon-, di-, and trivalent ions such as Na+, K+, Ca2+, Mg2+, Ba2+, Co2+, Ni2+, Cd2+, and Cr3+, instead of Hg2+. Consequently, a reliable, selective, and eco-effective spectrophotometric approach was designed for the detection of Hg2+ in various types of water samples. LOD was extended to lower than 0.1 µM, and a fading in the obtained colour was shown by the naked eye at a concentration higher than 1.5 µM of Hg2+. The elemental details for preparing the used PVP-AgNPs, such as particle size, morphology, polydispersity index (PdI), and their UV-visible spectrum, were identified by SEM technique, TEM, UV-visible spectrophotometer, and zeta-sizer device. Thus, the peroxidase mimicking the activity of OPD/H2O2 was confirmed by a fluorescence technique. The greenness profile of this work was confirmed after applying a reported assessment tool.
Pd@Pt Nanodendrites as Peroxidase Nanomimics for Enhanced Colorimetric ELISA of Cytokines with Femtomolar Sensitivity
Authors: Gao Zhuangqiang , Wang Chuanyu , He Jiacheng , Chen Pengyu
Published: September 2022

Colorimetric enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) has been widely applied as the gold-standard method for cytokine detection for decades. However, it has become a critical challenge to further improve the detection sensitivity of ELISA, as it is limited by the catalytic activity of enzymes. Herein, we report an enhanced colorimetric ELISA for ultrasensitive detection of interleukin-6 (IL-6, as a model cytokine for demonstration) using Pd@Pt core@shell nanodendrites (Pd@Pt NDs) as peroxidase nanomimics (named “Pd@Pt ND ELISA”), pushing the sensitivity up to femtomolar level. Specifically, the Pd@Pt NDs are rationally engineered by depositing Pt atoms on Pd nanocubes (NCs) to generate rough dendrite-like Pt skins on the Pd surfaces via Volmer–Weber growth mode. They can be produced on a large scale with highly uniform size, shape, composition, and structure. They exhibit significantly enhanced peroxidase-like catalytic activity with catalytic constants (Kcat) more than 2000-fold higher than those of horseradish peroxidase (HRP, an enzyme commonly used in ELISA). Using Pd@Pt NDs as the signal labels, the Pd@Pt ND ELISA presents strong colorimetric signals for the quantitative determination of IL-6 with a wide dynamic range of 0.05–100 pg mL−1 and an ultralow detection limit of 0.044 pg mL−1 (1.7 fM). This detection limit is 21-fold lower than that of conventional HRP-based ELISA. The reproducibility and specificity of the Pd@Pt ND ELISA are excellent. More significantly, the Pd@Pt ND ELISA was validated for analyzing IL-6 in human serum samples with high accuracy and reliability through recovery tests. Our results demonstrate that the colorimetric Pd@Pt ND ELISA is a promising biosensing tool for ultrasensitive determination of cytokines and thus is expected to be applied in a variety of clinical diagnoses and fundamental biomedical studies.
Parenting Stress in Fathers: Do We Need Father Specific Reference Samples? And Do They Differ in Regard of Taking Parental Leave?
Authors: Krüger Nina , Rüther Johanna Nuria
Published: September 2022

The German version of the Parenting stress Index from Abidin, the Eltern-Belastungs-Inventar (EBI) merely provides reference samples of 538 mothers of children in toddlers and preschool age. Although meant to measure parenting stress, there are no father specific reference samples provided. The aim was to investigate differences in parenting stress between fathers and the provided reference samples of German mothers. Furthermore, the aim was to examine potential differences in the perceived stress between fathers who did and those who did not take parental leave. A total of 497 fathers living in Germany, of which more than half took parental leave, filled out the questionnaire via an online survey or the paper-pencil-version. All fathers completed the EBI and provided socio-economic data. The collected data were analyzed in terms of test quality, such as mean and standard deviation, corrected item–total correlation and reliability. Moreover, differences between the provided norm data and our sample were calculated. Analyses showed that fathers reported significantly higher levels of parenting stress than mothers. Furthermore, fathers taking parental leave did not differ significantly from those who did not, regarding their level of education or their perceived parenting stress. In conclusion, as it stands right now, the EBI does not adequately measure parenting stress in fathers, and father specific norms are needed to properly assess their levels of parenting stress. The results concerning parenting stress and parental leave were thus inconclusive. Furthermore, since reducing parenting stress in fathers is beneficial for the child’s development and the welfare of the parents, further studies focusing on fathers’ parenting stress are needed.
Minority Stress and Positive Identity Aspects in Members of LGBTQ+ Parent Families: Literature Review and a Study Protocol for a Mixed-Methods Evidence Synthesis
Authors: Siegel Magdalena , Legler Muriel , Neziraj Fortese , Goldberg Abbie E. , Zemp Martina
Published: September 2022

Background: Parents and children in LGBTQ+ parent families face unique stressors (i.e., minority stress), but also possess unique resources (i.e., positive identity aspects) related to their family identity. Empirical evidence and theory suggest that these minority stressors and positive identity aspects are situated on the individual, couple, and family level and may be associated with key outcomes, including parent and child health, family functioning, and school-related outcomes. A systematic evidence synthesis and a theoretical placement are currently lacking. The aims of the systematic review outlined in this protocol are thus to (1) map minority stressors and positive identity aspects according to multiple levels in the family system, and (2) to synthesize evidence on their associations with key outcomes. Methods: We will conduct a PRISMA-conform mixed-methods systematic review. Studies will be retrieved using a multi-tiered search strategy, including database searches (PsycInfo, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science), cited literature searches, authors’ publication lists, and study requests. The mixed-methods synthesis will follow a parallel-results convergent synthesis design, where quantitative results will be synthesized via meta-analysis and qualitative results via thematic synthesis. Conclusions: Our proposed systematic review may add to the theoretical understanding of LGBTQ+ parent family functioning and advance social inclusion of LGBTQ+ parent families.
Synthesis and Antibacterial Activity Evaluation of Biphenyl and Dibenzofuran Derivatives as Potential Antimicrobial Agents against Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria
Authors: Wang Xing , Fu Hao-Yu , He Wei , Xiang Yu-Ting , Yang Ze-Cheng , Kuang Yi , Yang Sheng-Xiang
Published: September 2022

The escalating prevalence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria has led to a serious global public health problem; therefore, there is an urgent need for the development of structurally innovative antibacterial agents. In our study, a series of biphenyl and dibenzofuran derivatives were designed and synthesized by Suzuki-coupling and demethylation reactions in moderate to excellent yields (51–94% yield). Eleven compounds exhibited potent antibacterial activities against the prevalent antibiotic-resistant Gram-positive and Gram-negative pathogens, among which compounds 4′-(trifluoromethyl)-[1,1′-biphenyl]-3,4,5-triol (6i) and 5-(9H-carbazol-2-yl) benzene-1,2,3-triol (6m) showed the most potent inhibitory activities against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and multidrug-resistant Enterococcus faecalis with MIC (minimum inhibitory concentration) values as low as 3.13 and 6.25 μg/mL, respectively. Compounds 3′,5′-dimethyl-[1,1′-biphenyl]-3,4,4′,5-tetraol (6e), 4′-fluoro-[1,1′-biphenyl]-3,4,5-triol (6g), and 4′-(trifluoromethyl)-[1,1′-biphenyl]-3,4,5-triol (6i) showed comparable inhibitory activities with ciprofloxacin to Gram-negative bacterium carbapenems-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii. Study of the structure–activity relationship indicated that a strong electron-withdrawing group on the A ring and hydroxyl groups on the B ring of biphenyls were beneficial to their antibacterial activities, and for benzo-heterocycles, N-heterocycle exhibited optimal antibacterial activity. These results can provide novel structures of antibacterial drugs chemically different from currently known antibiotics and broaden prospects for the development of effective antibiotics against antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
An Exploratory Study on Information Manipulation by Doctors: Awareness, Actual State, and Ethical Tolerance
Authors: Maeda Shoichi , Nakazawa Eisuke , Kamishiraki Etsuko , Ishikawa Eri , Murata Maho , Mori Katsumi , Akabayashi Akira
Published: September 2022

(1) Background: To what extent is information manipulation by doctors acceptable? To answer this question, we conducted an exploratory study aimed at obtaining basic data on descriptive ethics for considering this issue. (2) Methods: A self-administered questionnaire survey was conducted on a large sample (n = 3305) of doctors. The participants were queried on (1) whether they consider that information manipulation is necessary (awareness), (2) whether they have actually manipulated information (actual state), and (3) their ethical tolerance. (3) Result: The response rate was 28.7%. Sixty percent of the doctors responded that information manipulation to avoid harm to patients is necessary (awareness), that they have actually manipulated information (actual state), and that information manipulation is ethically acceptable. (4) Conclusion: While the present survey was conducted among doctors in Japan, previous studies have reported similar findings in the United States and Europe. Based on our analysis, we hypothesize that a relationship of trust between patients and medical personnel is crucial and that information manipulation is not needed when such a relationship has been established.
Reliability Enhancement of 14 nm HPC ASIC Using Al2O3 Thin Film Coated with Room-Temperature Atomic Layer Deposition
Authors: Chen Po-Chou , Chang Shu-Mei , Kuo Hao-Chung , Chang Fu-Cheng , Li Yu-An , Ting Chao-Cheng
Published: September 2022

In this research, a 14 nm high-performance computing application-specific integrated circuit was coated with a 5–20 nm Al2O3 thin film by atomic layer deposition in room-temperature conditions to study its performance in terms of reliability with different thicknesses. An open/short test, standby current measurement, interface input/output performance test, and phase-locked loops functional test were used to verify chip performance. Furthermore, an unbiased highly accelerated temperature and humidity stress test and a 72 h wear-out test were used to study the effects of the atomic layer deposition coating. The results showed that the coating thickness of 15 nm provided the best performance in the wear-out test, as well as the unbiased highly accelerated temperature humidity stress. This study demonstrates that room-temperature atomic layer deposition is a promising technique for enhancing the reliability of advanced node semiconductor chips.
Hydrothermal Synthesis of Nitrogen-Doped and Excitation-Dependent Carbon Quantum Dots for Selective Detection of Fe3+ in Blood Plasma
Authors: Aydin Selin , Ustun Oguzhan , Ghosigharehaghaji Atena , Tavaci Taha , Yilmaz Asli , Yilmaz Mehmet
Published: September 2022

In the last two decades, fluorescent carbon quantum dots (CQDs) have attracted intense interest as a new fluorescent nanomaterial with unique properties. This material offers significant advantages compared with conventional dyes and inorganic QD systems, and is used extensively in many different fields, especially in bioimaging and sensor applications. Despite all the positive values they offer, the production of CQD systems with excitation wavelength-dependent nature and high quantum yield (QY) is still a scientific challenge. In this study, we proposed the fabrication of CQD through a facile and easy-to-tune hydrothermal method using cheap and biocompatible precursors such as urea and lactic acid. The effect of experimental parameters including synthesis time, temperature, and mass ratio of the precursors, were determined to obtain the highest QY (48%). The as-prepared nitrogen-doped (N-doped) CQDs exhibited robust stability in the dark and in a wide range of pH values with excitation wavelength-dependent properties. Additionally, CQDs showed remarkable sensitivity and selectivity in the sensing of Fe3+ in blood plasma with a linear correlation in the range of 0–1000 μM, indicating the high potential of CQDs in practical applications. Lastly, cytotoxicity and antibacterial activity tests demonstrated the low toxicity and high biocompatibility of proposed CQDs. Considering the facile and efficient synthetic method, easy-to-tune optical properties, excitation-dependent nature, high fluorescence activity, and low cytotoxicity, we strongly anticipate that N-doped CQDs could provide unique advantages in various biomedical applications including diagnosis, bioimaging, and biosensors.
Preparation and Application of Graphene and Derived Carbon Materials in Supercapacitors: A Review
Authors: Fang Haiqiu , Yang Dongfang , Su Zizhen , Sun Xinwei , Ren Jiahui , Li Liwei , Wang Kai
Published: September 2022

Graphene has recently attracted a wide range of research interests due to its rigorous two-dimensional structure and extraordinary electrical, thermal and mechanical properties. As a conductive agent, an activated carbon supercapacitor can obtain better performance. This paper summarizes the latest research progress, mainly from two aspects: (1) the preparation of an activated carbon base for a supercapacitor based on waste sugar solution and the relationship between pore structure and activation parameters, and (2) the application of the two-dimensional materials graphene and its composite materials in electric double-layer capacitors, graphene–polymer composite tantalum capacitors, graphene–transition metal oxide composite tantalum capacitors, and asymmetric super capacitors. The studies found that graphene and its composite materials have obvious advantages in improving the cycle efficiency, conversion rate, and energy density of supercapacitors, the overall energy efficiency of mechanical systems, and the chemical properties of nanoelectronics. Therefore, it is urgent to summarize these works in order to promote the next development. Graphene is expected to be effectively and environmentally quantified in the near future, and its application in supercapacitors will be further expanded and matured.
Neonatal Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome (MIS-N): The First Case Report in Thailand
Authors: Sojisirikul Nophathai , Lapphra Keswadee , Ngerncham Sopapan , Charuvanij Sirirat , Durongpisitkul Kritvikrom , Curlin Marcel E. , Chokephaibulkit Kulkanya
Published: September 2022

Cases of multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C-like disease), have rarely been reported in neonates. A 33-week gestational age twin B female neonate presented with respiratory distress, tachycardia, and abdominal distention at 15 days of age. Echocardiogram found reduced left ventricular ejection fraction to 33%. Cardiac enzyme levels were all elevated: creatine kinase-MB 6.1 ng/mL (normal 0–4.5 ng/mL), troponin-T 170 ng/L (normal < 14 ng/L) and NT-proBNP > 35,000 pg/mL (normal 250.0 to 3987.0 pg/mL). Multiplex PCR of nasopharyngeal swab material was negative for respiratory pathogens. Serological tests revealed negative anti-spike SARS-CoV-2 IgM but positive anti-nucleocapsid SARS-CoV-2 IgG in both the mother and the patient. The mother provided a history of COVID-19 during pregnancy at 19 weeks gestation. The patient was diagnosed with neonatal multisystem inflammatory syndrome (MIS-N) and successfully treated with intravenous immunoglobulin (two doses of 1 gm/kg/dose) and methylprednisolone (2 mg/kg/day for 5 days then tapered off). She later developed coronary vessel (LMCA and RCA) dilation. The non-identical twin A did not develop MIS-N, suggesting a role of host genetic background. Newborn infants born to SARS-CoV-2-infected mothers at any time during pregnancy should be closely monitored for MIS-N. The optimal treatment approaches to this syndrome and the prognosis require further study.
Abstracts of the 5th SFCNS Congress—Swiss Federation of Clinical Neuro-Societies Basel, Switzerland, September 28–30, 2022
Authors:   Swiss Federation of Clinical Neuro-Societies
Published: September 2022

On behalf of the SFCNS, Swiss Federation of Clinical Neuro-Societies, we are pleased to present the abstracts of the 5th SFCNS Congress, which is held in Basel, Switzerland, September 28–30, 2022. In total, 169 abstracts were selected for an ePoster, of which 55 were presented as short presentations during the ePoster Sessions and 5 were presented at the YouCliN Research Award Session. We congratulate all the presenters on their research work and contribution.
In Memoriam—Martin C. Mihm, Jr.
Authors: Kupper Thomas , Piris Adriano , Kroshinsky Daniela , Kaya Gürkan
Published: September 2022

Martin C [...]
A Prospective Comparative Evaluation of Handheld Ultrasound Examination (HHUS) or Automated Ultrasound Examination (ABVS) in Women with Dense Breast
Authors: Brunetti Nicole , De Giorgis Sara , Tosto Simona , Garlaschi Alessandro , Rescinito Giuseppe , Massa Barbara , Calabrese Massimo , Tagliafico Alberto Stefano
Published: September 2022

Mammography is the gold standard examination for breast cancer screening. In women with high breast density, mammography has reduced sensitivity. In these women, an additional screening option is often recommended. This study prospectively compared ABVS and HHUS in women with mammography-negative examinations and dense breasts. Materials and methods: N = 222 women were evaluated prospectively and consecutively between January 2019 and June 2019 (average age 53 years; range 39–89). McNemar’s test and ROC analysis were used with standard statistical software. We included in the study both symptomatic and asymptomatic women with dense breasts. Women included underwent both HHUS and ABVS after mammography with independent reading. Results: N = 33/222 (15%) women resulted in having breast cancer. Both ABVS and HHUS identified more cancers than standard mammography, and both HHUS and ABVS had false-positive examinations: n = 13 for HHUS and n = 12 for ABVS. We found that HHUS had better accuracy than ABVS. The AUC of the ROC was 0.788 (95% CI 0.687–0.890) for ABVS and 0.930 (95% CI 0.868–0.993) for HHUS. This difference was statistically significant (p < 0.05). Conclusions: HHUS was more accurate in breast cancer detection than ABVS. Multicentric studies must confirm these data for supplemental imaging in women with dense breasts.
Mesiodistal Measurements for Dental Implant Planning: A Prospective Clinical Study of Linear Measurements on Cone-Beam Computed Tomography Images in Comparison with Caliper-Based Measurements on Plaster Casts
Authors: Vazquez Lydia , Buser Ramona , Carrel Jean-Pierre
Published: September 2022

Althouh cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) is popular for dental implant planning, the horizontal mesiodistal space of the edentulous ridge is still conventionally measured with a handheld sliding caliper in the oral cavity or on a plaster cast. For clinical application in implant planning, our aim was to evaluate the accuracy of CBCT horizontal mesiodistal linear measurements in comparison with conventionally obtained direct measurements on plaster casts. Postoperative CBCT acquisitions and plaster casts of 27 patients with adjacent posterior mandibular implants were analyzed in a prospective clinical study. On CBCT images, two observers assessed the inter-implant distances on axial and sagittal views. On plaster casts, the inter-implant distances were measured with a digital caliper. CBCT measurements on axial and sagittal views were, on average, 0.2 mm larger than measurements on plaster casts. Correlation was perfect between measurements of the same inter-implant distance performed by the observers on CBCT images and on plaster casts. When compared with conventionally obtained direct measurements on plaster casts, CBCT views slightly overestimated (mean 0.2 mm) the horizontal mesiodistal measurements between two implants as reference points. CBCT imaging is sufficiently accurate to evaluate mesiodistal distances on axial and sagittal views for dental implant planning in clinical practice.
Non-Cosmological, Non-Doppler Relativistic Frequency Shift over Astronomical Distances
Authors: D’Abramo Germano
Published: September 2022

We investigate in detail an apparently unnoticed consequence of special relativity. It consists in time dilation/contraction and frequency shift for emitted light affecting accelerated reference frames at astronomical distances from an inertial observer. The frequency shift is non-cosmological and non-Doppler in nature. We derive the main formulae and compare their predictions with the astronomical data available for Proxima Centauri. We found no correspondence with observations. Since the implications of the new time dilation/contraction and frequency shift are blatantly paradoxical, we do not expect to find one. By all indications, we are dealing with a genuine, and not a merely apparent, relativity paradox.
Taxation of the Digital Economy and Direct Digital Service Taxes: Opportunities, Challenges, and Implications for African Countries
Authors: Mpofu Favourate Y.
Published: September 2022

Digitalization has intensified globalization and economic interactivity between countries both developed and developing, increasing the complexity and lack of transparency in economic activities. The increase in digital transactions poses a remarkable challenge for tax authorities yet the digital economy is slowly replacing traditional commercialization and transactions. Conventional international tax legislation has not kept abreast with the growth and complexity of the digital economy and its accompanying challenges with respect to taxation. In view of the infant nature of digital tax legislation in African countries as well as the auspicious possibility of increasing tax revenue to fund public expenditure together with the probability of contradictory outcomes of digital tax policy, through a critical literature review this paper assesses digital taxation through direct digital service taxes (DSTs) in Africa. The findings were mixed. While the possibility of tax revenue maximization and improved economic growth were persuasive, the arguments pointing to negative externalities emanating from poor digital service tax policy design were equally pragmatic.
Geometric Integral Attitude Control on SO(3)
Authors: Eslamiat Hossein , Wang Ningshan , Hamrah Reza , Sanyal Amit K.
Published: September 2022

This article proposes a novel integral geometric control attitude tracking scheme, utilizing a coordinate-free representation of attitude on the Lie group of rigid body rotations, SO(3). This scheme exhibits almost global asymptotic stability in tracking a reference attitude profile. The stability and robustness properties of this integral tracking control scheme are shown using Lyapunov stability analysis. A numerical simulation study, utilizing a Lie Group Variational Integrator (LGVI), verifies the stability of this tracking control scheme, as well as its robustness to a disturbance torque. In addition, a numerical comparison study shows the effectiveness of the proposed geometric integral term, when compared to other state-of-the-art attitude controllers. In addition, software-in-the-loop (SITL) simulations show the advantages of utilizing the proposed attitude controller in PX4 autopilot compared to using PX4’s original attitude controller.
An Effective Model of Confidentiality Management of Digital Archives in a Cloud Environment
Authors: Xie Jian , Xuan Shaolong , You Weijun , Wu Zongda , Chen Huiling
Published: September 2022

Aiming at the problem of confidentiality management of digital archives on the cloud, this paper presents an effective solution. The basic idea is to deploy a local server between the cloud and each client of an archive system to run a confidentiality management model of digital archives on the cloud, which includes an archive release model, and an archive search model. (1) The archive release model is used to strictly encrypt each archive file and archive data released by an administrator and generate feature data for the archive data, and then submit them to the cloud for storage to ensure the security of archive-sensitive data. (2) The archive search model is used to transform each query operation defined on the archive data submitted by a searcher, so that it can be correctly executed on feature data on the cloud, to ensure the accuracy and efficiency of archive search. Finally, both theoretical analysis and experimental evaluation demonstrate the good performance of the proposed solution. The result shows that compared with others, our solution has better overall performance in terms of confidentiality, accuracy, efficiency and availability, which can improve the security of archive-sensitive data on the untrusted cloud without compromising the performance of an existing archive management system.
Control and Research Based on Improved LADRC in Wind Power Inverter Systems
Authors: Sun Jiahui , Wu Tao , Ren Jianxin , Li Mingshuo , Jiang Huayang
Published: September 2022

In the context of global ecological degradation and the gradual depletion of fossil energy sources, the importance of new energy power in production and development is rising year by year. In order to reduce the impact of fluctuations in wind power systems on the grid due to various reasons during grid connection, this paper proposes an improved Linear Active Disturbance Rejection Control (LADRC) combined with a neural network based grid-side inverter control method, which, based on the analysis of the characteristics of permanent magnet motors and the current situation of their use, enables the converter to show better control characteristics in terms of DC-side voltage fluctuation amplitude and recovery time during operation. Simulation results show that the controller is more robust and adaptable to the uncertainty and external disturbance changes of the converter under different operating conditions than the traditional control method. The system has good dynamic response performance.
XML-Based Automatic NIOS II Multi-Processor System Generation for Intel FPGAs
Authors: Cao Haotian , Meyer-Baese Uwe
Published: September 2022

Many embedded systems are introducing processing units to accelerate the processing speed of tasks, such as for multi-media applications. The units are mostly customized designs. Another method of designing multi-unit systems is using pre-defined standard intellectual properties. However, the procedure of arranging IP cores in a system and maintaining a high performance as well are the remaining challenges. Implementing softcore processors on field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) is a relatively fast and inexpensive choice to design and validate a desired system. This paper describes the rapid prototyping of hardware/software co-design based on FPGAs. A novel system generator to effortlessly design a multiple NIOS II soft-processor core systems is also purposed. The NIOS II CPU is a configurable RISC processor designed by Altera/Intel and can be trimmed to complete specific tasks. The error-prone and time-consuming process of designing an IP block-based system is improved by the new novel system generator. The detail of the implementation of such system is discussed. To test the performance of a multi-NIOS II system, a parallel application is executed on 1-, 2-, 5-, and 10-core NIOS II systems separately. Test results prove the feasibility of the proposed methodology (for an FIR filter, a dual-core system is 29% faster than a single-core system; a 5-core system is 28% faster than the dual-core system).
Prediction of Bucket Fill Factor of Loader Based on Three-Dimensional Information of Material Surface
Authors: Wang Shaojie , Yu Shengfeng , Hou Liang , Wu Binyun , Wu Yanfeng
Published: September 2022

The bucket fill factor is a core evaluation indicator for the optimization of the loader’s autonomous shoveling operation. Accurately predicting the bucket fill factor of the loader after different excavation trajectories is fundamental for optimizing the loader’s efficiency and energy cost. Therefore, this paper proposes a method for predicting the bucket fill factor of the loader based on the three-dimensional information of the material surface. Firstly, the co-simulation model of loader shoveling material is established based on the multi-body dynamics software RecurDyn and the discrete element method software (DEMS) EDEM, and the co-simulation is conducted under different excavation trajectories. Then, the three-dimensional material surface information before shovel excavation is obtained from DEMS, and the surface function of the material contour is fitted based on the corresponding shovel excavation trajectory information. Meanwhile, the volume of the material excavated by the loader is obtained by the numerical integration method, and it is divided by the rated bucket volume to obtain the estimated bucket fill factor. Finally, the actual volume of the material after the shovel excavation is divided by the rated bucket volume to obtain the accurate bucket fill factor. Based on this, the prediction model of the bucket fill factor is built. The experimental results show that the proposed method is feasible, with a maximum error of 4.3%, a root mean square error of 0.025 and an average absolute error of 0.021. The research work lays the foundation for predicting the bucket fill factor of construction machinery such as loaders and excavators under real working conditions, which is conducive to promoting the development of autonomous, unmanned, and intelligent construction machinery.
Current Trends in Biological Valorization of Waste-Derived Biomass: The Critical Role of VFAs to Fuel A Biorefinery
Authors: Nzeteu Corine , Coelho Fabiana , Davis Emily , Trego Anna , O’Flaherty Vincent
Published: September 2022

The looming climate and energy crises, exacerbated by increased waste generation, are driving research and development of sustainable resource management systems. Research suggests that organic materials, such as food waste, grass, and manure, have potential for biotransformation into a range of products, including: high-value volatile fatty acids (VFAs); various carboxylic acids; bioenergy; and bioplastics. Valorizing these organic residues would additionally reduce the increasing burden on waste management systems. Here, we review the valorization potential of various sustainably sourced feedstocks, particularly food wastes and agricultural and animal residues. Such feedstocks are often micro-organism-rich and well-suited to mixed culture fermentations. Additionally, we touch on the technologies, mainly biological systems including anaerobic digestion, that are being developed for this purpose. In particular, we provide a synthesis of VFA recovery techniques, which remain a significant technological barrier. Furthermore, we highlight a range of challenges and opportunities which will continue to drive research and discovery within the field. Analysis of the literature reveals growing interest in the development of a circular bioeconomy, built upon a biorefinery framework, which utilizes biogenic VFAs for chemical, material, and energy applications.