bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Speech Recognition for Air Traffic Control Utilizing a Multi-Head State-Space Model and Transfer Learning
Authors: Liang Haijun , Chang Hanwen , Kong Jianguo
Published: May 2024

In the present study, a novel end-to-end automatic speech recognition (ASR) framework, namely, ResNeXt-Mssm-CTC, has been developed for air traffic control (ATC) systems. This framework is built upon the Multi-Head State-Space Model (Mssm) and incorporates transfer learning techniques. Residual Networks with Cardinality (ResNeXt) employ multi-layered convolutions with residual connections to augment the extraction of intricate feature representations from speech signals. The Mssm is endowed with specialized gating mechanisms, which incorporate parallel heads that acquire knowledge of both local and global temporal dynamics in sequence data. Connectionist temporal classification (CTC) is utilized in the context of sequence labeling, eliminating the requirement for forced alignment and accommodating labels of varying lengths. Moreover, the utilization of transfer learning has been shown to improve performance on the target task by leveraging knowledge acquired from a source task. The experimental results indicate that the model proposed in this study exhibits superior performance compared to other baseline models. Specifically, when pretrained on the Aishell corpus, the model achieves a minimum character error rate (CER) of 7.2% and 8.3%. Furthermore, when applied to the ATC corpus, the CER is reduced to 5.5% and 6.7%.
Improving the Utilization of Flammulina velutipes Waste during Biochar-Amended Composting: Emphasis on Bacterial Communities
Authors: Chen Longjun , Lin Yu , Liu Cenwei , Zhang Hui , Lin Chenqiang
Published: May 2024

This study investigated the impacts of biochar addition on N conversion, humification, and bacterial community during Flammulina velutipes waste composting. The mixture of chicken manure and Flammulina velutipes waste was 4:6 (dry weight basis). The biochar was added into the mixture and mixed thoroughly at ratios of 0, 2.5, 5, and 7.5% (w/w) and labeled as CK, T1, T2, and T3, respectively. The results showed that the biochar treatment significantly improved the compost maturity by increasing humic substances and the conversion of NH4+-N to NO3−-N. With the increase in biochar supplemental level, the abundance, diversity, and uniformity of the microbial community were improved. The dominant taxa were Firmicutes, Bacteroidota, Actinobacteriota, Proteobacteria, and Gemmatimonadota, especially the Firmicutes and Bacteroidota. Biochar addition facilitated the proliferation of thermophilic bacteria such as Bacillus, Actinobacteriota, Parapedobacter, and Sphingobacterium, leading to enhanced organic decomposition to increase humus. The findings of this study highlighted the positive effects of biochar addition on the composting mixture of chicken manure and Flammulina velutipes waste. These results can help to produce high-quality biochar composting products by balancing organic decomposition and humification based on the bacterial community.
Pilot Clinical Trial to Evaluate In Situ Calcium Phosphate Cement Injection for Conservative Surgical Management of Appendicular Osteosarcoma in Dogs
Authors: Molle Céline , Villamonte-Chevalier Aquilino , Carabalona Julien , Klajer Aurélia , Letesson Julien , Ragetly Guillaume , Védrine Bertrand , Blondiau Juliette , Gauthier Olivier
Published: May 2024

Cementoplasty is a minimally invasive procedure that consists of injecting a bone substitute into the tumor lesion to provide bone reinforcement and alleviate pain. This study aimed to demonstrate the feasibility, safety, and efficacy of cementoplasty with a calcium phosphate cement in osteosarcoma to reduce pain and preserve limb function. Throughout the 6-month study, dogs received no adjuvant therapy, and dogs’ evaluations included a clinical examination, monitoring of postoperative complications, radiographic follow-up, and assessment of limb function and pain scores. Out of 12 dogs enrolled, 10 were withdrawn before study completion due to deterioration in their general condition. Nine (9) dogs were followed until D28, six until D56, and two until D183. Compared to D0, more than 50% of the dogs showed improvement in both veterinarian and owner scores at their final visit. Throughout the study, 10 major and 4 minor complications were reported, all unrelated to the procedure. This open non-controlled study provides first evidence of the feasibility, safety, and efficacy of cementoplasty procedure using a calcium phosphate bone cement to relieve pain and preserve limb function in dogs suffering from appendicular osteosarcoma.
Attention-Based Two-Branch Hybrid Fusion Network for Medical Image Segmentation
Authors: Liu Jie , Mao Songren , Pan Liangrui
Published: May 2024

Accurate segmentation of medical images is vital for disease detection and treatment. Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN) and Transformer models are widely used in medical image segmentation due to their exceptional capabilities in image recognition and segmentation. However, CNNs often lack an understanding of the global context and may lose spatial details of the target, while Transformers struggle with local information processing, leading to reduced geometric detail of the target. To address these issues, this research presents a Global-Local Fusion network model (GLFUnet) based on the U-Net framework and attention mechanisms. The model employs a dual-branch network that utilizes ConvNeXt and Swin Transformer to simultaneously extract multi-level features from pathological images. It enhances ConvNeXt’s local feature extraction with spatial and global attention up-sampling modules, while improving Swin Transformer’s global context dependency with channel attention. The Attention Feature Fusion module and skip connections efficiently merge local detailed and global coarse features from CNN and Transformer branches at various scales. The fused features are then progressively restored to the original image resolution for pixel-level prediction. Comprehensive experiments on datasets of stomach and liver cancer demonstrate GLFUnet’s superior performance and adaptability in medical image segmentation, holding promise for clinical analysis and disease diagnosis.
An Efficient Semantic Segmentation Method for Remote-Sensing Imagery Using Improved Coordinate Attention
Authors: Huo Yan , Gang Shuang , Dong Liang , Guan Chao
Published: May 2024

Semantic segmentation stands as a prominent domain within remote sensing that is currently garnering significant attention. This paper introduces a pioneering semantic segmentation model based on TransUNet architecture with improved coordinate attention for remote-sensing imagery. It is composed of an encoding stage and a decoding stage. Notably, an enhanced and improved coordinate attention module is employed by integrating two pooling methods to generate weights. Subsequently, the feature map undergoes reweighting to accentuate foreground information and suppress background information. To address the issue of time complexity, this paper introduces an improvement to the transformer model by sparsifying the attention matrix. This reduces the computing expense of calculating attention, making the model more efficient. Additionally, the paper uses a combined loss function that is designed to enhance the training performance of the model. The experimental results conducted on three public datasets manifest the efficiency of the proposed method. The results indicate that it excels in delivering outstanding performance for semantic segmentation tasks pertaining to remote-sensing images.
Optimization and Testing of the Technological Parameters for the Microwave Vacuum Drying of Mulberry Harvests
Authors: Cong Yuyang , Liu Yang , Tang Yurong , Ma Jiale , Ma Jiaxin , Liu Zhuoyang , Yang Xirui , Zhang Hong
Published: May 2024

This study focuses on mitigating the decrease in the quality of mulberry after harvest and increasing the value of mulberry products through microwave vacuum drying. The effects of mulberry moisture content on texture properties were investigated, and the test method was optimized through the membership function model and the central composite technique. The influences of the material surface temperature, vacuum degree, and microwave power on the quality of instant mulberry were analyzed comprehensively. A regression model was established to analyze the relationship between each test factor and quality index. The results show that, with increases in the moisture content, both the hardness and chewiness of mulberry present a decreasing trend; when elasticity increases gradually, adhesivity is presented in an inverted V-shaped variation trend, and the cohesiveness remains basically constant. Moreover, the moisture content of mulberry had significant correlations with elasticity, glueyness, chewiness, and hardness (R2 > 0.9). When the moisture content of the samples reached ≤44.07%, the total plate count reached a minimum and changed gradually; thus, the moisture content (44.07%) of mulberry was determined for the technological optimization test. The combination of optimal technological parameters was as follows: material surface temperature = 51.0 °C, vacuum degree = 0.07 MPa, and microwave power = 370 W. Under these optimal technological parameters, the soluble solid content was 42.37%, chewiness was 9.08, and the Vc content was 0.725 mg·(100 g)−1. The average error between the test results and software optimization parameters was 5.88%. The optimized microwave vacuum drying technological parameters improved the drying quality of mulberry significantly. The results can provide theoretical support for the microwave vacuum drying of berries.
AI-Driven Privacy in Elderly Care: Developing a Comprehensive Solution for Camera-Based Monitoring of Older Adults
Authors: Wang Chang-Yueh , Lin Fang-Suey
Published: May 2024

The need for privacy in elderly care is crucial, especially where constant monitoring can intrude on personal dignity. This research introduces the development of a unique camera-based monitoring system designed to address the dual objectives of elderly care: privacy and safety. At its core, the system employs an AI-driven technique for real-time subject anonymization. Unlike traditional methods such as pixelization or blurring, our proposed approach effectively removes the subject under monitoring from the scene, replacing them with a two-dimensional avatar. This is achieved through the use of YOLOv8, which facilitates accurate real-time person detection and pose estimation. Furthermore, the proposed system incorporates a fall detection algorithm that utilizes a residual causal convolutional network together with motion features of persons to identify emergency situations and promptly notify caregivers in the event of a fall. The effectiveness of the system is evaluated to emphasize its advanced privacy protection technique and fall detection capabilities using several metrics. This evaluation demonstrates the system’s proficiency in real-world applications and its potential to enhance both safety and privacy in elderly care environments.
Marine Stratus—A Boundary-Layer Model
Authors: Taylor Peter A.
Published: May 2024

A relatively simple 1D RANS model of the time evolution of the planetary boundary layer is extended to include water vapor and cloud droplets plus transfers between them. Radiative fluxes and flux divergence are also included. An underlying ocean surface is treated as a source of water vapor and as a sink for cloud or fog droplets. With a constant sea surface temperature and a steady wind, initially dry or relatively dry air will moisten, starting at the surface. Turbulent boundary layer mixing will then lead towards a layer with a well-mixed potential temperature (and so temperature decreasing with height) and well-mixed water vapor mixing ratio. As a result, the air will, sooner or later, become saturated at some level, and a stratus cloud will form.
Evaluation of Air Quality and Thermal Comfort in University Dormitories in China
Authors: Wu Yanpeng , Li Xiaoyu , Zhao Sheng , Wang Qianglong , Wang Shanxin , Yu Liyang , Wang Faming
Published: May 2024

Most studies on Chinese dormitories are carried out in summer, while few focus on a transition season or winter. This study evaluated the air quality of a student dormitory in a university in the Beijing area by using a questionnaire survey and on-site measurements. The CO2 concentration was used as an indoor air quality evaluation index to characterize the freshness of the air, and different window opening conditions in the dormitory were simulated, with corresponding improvement plans proposed. The results of this study revealed that the air quality and thermal comfort of the student dormitories during a transition season and winter fell short of expectations. According to the survey, students who opened their windows frequently had a better subjective perception of the air quality. However, due to the large temperature difference between day and night, more than 80% of the students felt too cold when opening the windows. For daytime conditions, the area of unilateral ventilation window opening should not be less than 0.39 m2, the area of bilateral ventilation window opening should not be less than 0.13 m2, and the time taken to close the windows and doors should not exceed the maximum ventilation interval. Empirical equations were fitted for nighttime conditions based on the CO2 concentration, number of people in the room, and window opening area, resulting in a reasonable window opening area of 0.349 m2~0.457 m2. In sum, this study assessed the air quality status within typical university dormitories across varying seasons, gaining a clear understanding of how different ventilation strategies and occupant densities influence air freshness and thermal comfort. Based on these insights, a practical and optimized window area recommendation was formulated to enhance the indoor environmental quality in these dormitories.
How Cloud Droplet Number Concentration Impacts Liquid Water Path and Precipitation in Marine Stratocumulus Clouds—A Satellite-Based Analysis Using Explainable Machine Learning
Authors: Zipfel Lukas , Andersen Hendrik , Grosvenor Daniel Peter , Cermak Jan
Published: May 2024

Aerosol–cloud–precipitation interactions (ACI) are a known major cause of uncertainties in simulations of the future climate. An improved understanding of the in-cloud processes accompanying ACI could help in advancing their implementation in global climate models. This is especially the case for marine stratocumulus clouds, which constitute the most common cloud type globally. In this work, a dataset composed of satellite observations and reanalysis data is used in explainable machine learning models to analyze the relationship between the cloud droplet number concentration (Nd), cloud liquid water path (LWP), and the fraction of precipitating clouds (PF) in five distinct marine stratocumulus regions. This framework makes use of Shapley additive explanation (SHAP) values, allowing to isolate the impact of Nd from other confounding factors, which proved to be very difficult in previous satellite-based studies. All regions display a decrease of PF and an increase in LWP with increasing Nd, despite marked inter-regional differences in the distribution of Nd. Polluted (high Nd) conditions are characterized by an increase of 12 gm−2 in LWP and a decrease of 0.13 in PF on average when compared to pristine (low Nd) conditions. The negative Nd–PF relationship is stronger in high LWP conditions, while the positive Nd–LWP relationship is amplified in precipitating clouds. These findings indicate that precipitation suppression plays an important role in MSC adjusting to aerosol-driven perturbations in Nd.
Future Projections of Precipitation Extremes for Greece Based on an Ensemble of High-Resolution Regional Climate Model Simulations
Authors: Zanis Prodromos , Georgoulias Aristeidis K. , Velikou Kondylia , Akritidis Dimitris , Kalisoras Alkiviadis , Melas Dimitris
Published: May 2024

An assessment of the projected changes in precipitation extremes for the 21st century is presented here for Greece and its individual administrative regions. The analysis relies on an ensemble of high-resolution Regional Climate Model (RCM) simulations following various Representative Concentration Pathways (RCP2.6, RCP4.5, and RCP8.5). The simulated changes in future annual total precipitation (PRTOT) under the examined scenarios are generally negative but statistically non-robust, except towards the end of the century (2071–2100) over high-altitude mountainous regions in Western Greece, Peloponnese, and Crete under RCP8.5. The pattern of change in the number of very heavy precipitation days (R20) is linked to the respective pattern of the PRTOT change with a statistically robust decrease of up to −5 days per year only over parts of the high-altitude mountainous regions in Western Greece, Peloponnese, and Crete for 2071–2100 under RCP8.5. Contrasting the future tendency for decrease in total precipitation and R20, the changes in the intensity of precipitation extremes show a tendency for intensification. However, these change patterns are non-robust for all periods and scenarios. Statistical significance is indicated for the highest 1-day precipitation amount in a year (Rx1day) for the administrative regions of Thessaly, Central Greece, Ionian Islands, and North Aegean under RCP8.5 in 2071–2100. The changes in the contribution of the wettest day per year to the annual total precipitation (RxTratio) are mainly positive but non-robust for most of Greece and all scenarios in the period 2021–2050, becoming more positive and robust in 2071–2100 for RCP8.5. This work highlights the necessity of taking into consideration high-resolution multi-model RCM estimates in future precipitation extremes with various scenarios, for assessing their potential impact on flood episodes and the strategic planning of structure resilience at national and regional level under the anticipated human-induced future climate change.
Real-World Weekly Efficacy Analysis of Faricimab in Patients with Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Authors: Muth Daniel R. , Fasler Katrin F. , Kvanta Anders , Rejdak Magdalena , Blaser Frank , Zweifel Sandrine A.
Published: May 2024

Objectives: This study entailed a weekly analysis of real-world data (RWD) on the safety and efficacy of intravitreal (IVT) faricimab in neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD). Methods: A retrospective, single-centre clinical trial was conducted at the Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Switzerland, approved by the Cantonal Ethics Committee of Zurich, Switzerland. Patients with nAMD were included. Data from patient charts and imaging were analysed. The safety and efficacy of the first faricimab injection were evaluated weekly until 4 weeks after injection. Results: Sixty-three eyes with a complete 4-week follow-up were enrolled. Six eyes were treatment-naïve; fifty-seven eyes were switched to faricimab from another treatment. Neither group showed signs of retinal vasculitis during the 4 weeks after injection. Central subfield thickness (CST) and volume (CSV) showed a statistically significant decrease compared to the baseline in the switched group (CST: p = 0.00383; CSV: p = 0.00702) after 4 weeks. The corrected visual acuity returned to the baseline level in both groups. The macular neovascularization area decreased in both groups, but this was not statistically significant. A complete resolution of sub- and intraretinal fluid after 4 weeks was found in 40% (switched) and 75% (naïve) of the treated patients. Conclusions: The weekly follow-ups reflect the structure–function relationship beginning with a fast functional improvement within two weeks after injection followed by a return to near-baseline levels after week 3. The first faricimab injection in our cohort showed a high safety profile and a statistically significant reduction in macular oedema in switched nAMD patients.
Cholinergic Interneurons in the Accumbal Shell Region Regulate Binge Alcohol Self-Administration in Mice: An In Vivo Calcium Imaging Study
Authors: Sharma Rishi , Chischolm Abigail , Parikh Meet , Kempuraj Deepak , Thakkar Mahesh
Published: May 2024

Recently, we and others have shown that manipulating the activity of cholinergic interneurons (CIN) present in the NAc can modulate binge alcohol consumption. The present study is designed to examine the relationship between binge alcohol consumption and the activity of the CIN in real time by using an in vivo microendoscopic technique. We hypothesized that mice exposed to Drinking in the Dark (DID)—a recognized mouse model for binge drinking—would exhibit increased activity in the accumbal shell region (NAcSh). To test this hypothesis, male mice expressing Cre-recombinase in the cholinergic neurons were exposed to binge alcohol consumption (alcohol group), employing the DID method, and utilized in vivo calcium imaging to observe CIN activity in real time during alcohol consumption. The control (sucrose) group was exposed to 10% (w/v) sucrose. As compared to sucrose, mice in the alcohol group displayed a significant increase in the frequency and amplitude of discharge activity, which was measured using calcium transients in the CIN present in the NAcSh. In summary, our findings suggest that the activity of CIN in the NAcSh plays a crucial role in alcohol self-administration. These results emphasize the potential significance of targeting CIN activity as a therapeutic approach for addressing AUD.
Specific Salivary Neuropeptides Shift Synchronously during Acute Stress in Fire Recruits
Authors: Ryznar Rebecca , Andrews Nathan , Emery Kyle , Snow Michaela , Payton Mark , Towne Francina , Gubler Dean
Published: May 2024

Once thought of as an immune-privileged site, we now know that the nervous system communicates in a bidirectional manner with the immune system via the neuroimmune axis. Neuropeptides constitute a component of this axis, playing critical roles in the brain and periphery. The function of salivary neuropeptides in the acute stress response is not well understood. The purpose of this study is to investigate salivary neuropeptide levels during acute stress. Salivary samples were collected from fire recruits engaged in a stress training exercise previously shown to induce acute stress, at three separate timepoints during the exercise and levels of oxytocin, neurotensin, Substance P, α-MSH, and β-Endorphin were measured using the Human Neuropeptide 5-Plex Custom Assay Eve Technologies. All neuropeptides increased throughout the acute stress simulation and during the recovery phase. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) identified one factor contributing to baseline values across five neuropeptides and Pairwise Pearson Correlation Coefficient analysis showed positive correlations >0.9 for almost all neuropeptide combinations at the pre-stress timepoint. Further analysis identified negative and positive correlations between past-life trauma and self-assessed hardiness, respectively. Calculated neuropeptide scores showed an overall positive correlation to self-assessed hardiness. Altogether, our results suggest that salivary neuropeptides increase synchronously during acute stress and higher levels correlate with an increase in self-assessed hardiness. Further study is required to determine if interventions designed to enhance neuropeptide activity can increase stress resilience, especially in high-stress occupations such as firefighting.
Assessing the Relationship between Surgical Timing and Postoperative Seizure Outcomes in Cavernoma-Related Epilepsy: A Single-Institution Retrospective Analysis of 63 Patients with a Review of the Literature
Authors: Nico Elsa , Adereti Christopher O. , Hackett Ashia M. , Bianconi Andrea , Naik Anant , Eberle Adam T. , Cifre Serra Pere J. , Koester Stefan W. , Malnik Samuel L. , Fox Brandon M. , Hartke Joelle N. , Winkler Ethan A. , Catapano Joshua S. , Lawton Michael T.
Published: May 2024

Background: Patients with supratentorial cavernous malformations (SCMs) commonly present with seizures. First-line treatments for cavernoma-related epilepsy (CRE) include conservative management (antiepileptic drugs (AEDs)) and surgery. We compared seizure outcomes of CRE patients after early (≤6 months) vs. delayed (>6 months) surgery. Methods: We compared outcomes of CRE patients with SCMs surgically treated at our large-volume cerebrovascular center (1 January 2010–31 July 2020). Patients with 1 sporadic SCM and ≥1-year follow-up were included. Primary outcomes were International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) class 1 seizure freedom and AED independence. Results: Of 63 CRE patients (26 women, 37 men; mean ± SD age, 36.1 ± 14.6 years), 48 (76%) vs. 15 (24%) underwent early (mean ± SD, 2.1 ± 1.7 months) vs. delayed (mean ± SD, 6.2 ± 7.1 years) surgery. Most (32 (67%)) with early surgery presented after 1 seizure; all with delayed surgery had ≥2 seizures. Seven (47%) with delayed surgery had drug-resistant epilepsy. At follow-up (mean ± SD, 5.4 ± 3.3 years), CRE patients with early surgery were more likely to have ILAE class 1 seizure freedom and AED independence than those with delayed surgery (92% (44/48) vs. 53% (8/15), p = 0.002; and 65% (31/48) vs. 33% (5/15), p = 0.03, respectively). Conclusions: Early CRE surgery demonstrated better seizure outcomes than delayed surgery. Multicenter prospective studies are needed to validate these findings.
Jesters of Well-Being: Examining the Relationship between Clown Doctors and Patients
Authors: Dionigi Alberto , Fermani Alessandra , Canestrari Carla
Published: May 2024

Clown doctors play a crucial role in enhancing the well-being of patients through the use of humor. However, little is known about how the use of humor by clown doctors changes in relation to the developmental age of patients. This research explores the interplay between the type of humor used by clown doctors, their experience (in terms of years of clowning and type of clowning), and the developmental age of the patients (children, adolescents, adults, elderly). Data for this cross-sectional study were collected through an online survey distributed to 210 Italian clown doctors (143 females, 67 males), aged between 18 and 75 years (M = 47.34, SD = 12.31), affiliated with different Clown Care Units. The survey included the Comic Styles Markers, questions on the patients’ developmental age, type of clowning (Auguste vs. Whiteface), and years of experience. The findings enhance our understanding on how clown doctors interact with patients of different developmental ages. The discussion draws connections to previous studies conducted on groups of clown doctors, providing a broader context for understanding the implications of humorous interactions in this unique healthcare domain.
Trust in Acquaintances, Strangers and Institutions among Individuals of Different Socioeconomic Statuses during Public Health Emergencies: The Moderation of Family Structure and Policy Perception
Authors: Li Xueyan , Sun Xiaoli , Shao Qianqian
Published: May 2024

Trust plays a crucial role in effectively responding to public health emergencies. Drawing on COVID-19 survey data conducted in Hubei, China, during August 2020 with a sample size of 5494, this study investigated the influence of individuals’ socioeconomic status on trust in acquaintances, strangers and institutions, and how this relationship is moderated by epidemic prevention, policy perception and family structure. The findings showed that individuals with higher socioeconomic status tend to have higher levels of trust. Those with higher income but being married demonstrate higher trust. When perceiving epidemic prevention policies as stringent, those with higher income display increased trust in acquaintances and institutions; similarly, those with lower education levels exhibit heightened trust in acquaintances and strangers. Individuals working in social organizations express higher trust in strangers; however, their trust is compromised under stringent epidemic prevention policies due to potentially heavier work burdens.
Exploring Aggressive Behaviors in Greek Secondary Schools: Prevalence, Sociodemographic Factors, and Comparative Analysis with Elementary School Students
Authors: Bourou Argyro , Karkalousos Petros , Kriebardis Anastasios G. , Papageorgiou Effie
Published: May 2024

The main objectives of this study are to determine the prevalence of bullying in Greek secondary schools and detect the possible characteristics of bullies’ profiles in Greek school settings. A structured questionnaire was given to one hundred ninety-two (n = 192) educators at Greek junior high schools in urban and rural areas. The educators were asked to report the frequencies and forms of aggressive behavior observed during the 2022–2023 school year, the bullies’ sociodemographic characteristics, and ways of dealing with bullying episodes. The data are presented, after conducting statistical analyses, in comparison with data for elementary school students. The results revealed that higher rates of bullying were reported compared with elementary school children. Moreover, according to teachers’ observations, aggressive behavior is independent of a pupil’s diagnosis, but specific types are correlated significantly with a pupil’s gender, nationality, low academic performance, and popularity. Factor analysis showed two main factors of aggression types, where common points and differences with elementary school students are mentioned. Implementations for the prevention of school bullying are discussed.
Understanding the Complexities of Student Learning Progress in Texas: A Study of COVID-19 and Rural vs. Non-Rural Districts
Authors: Tang Shifang , Wang Zhuoying , Zhang Lei , Jimenez David
Published: May 2024

In this study, we investigate the impact of COVID-19 on academic achievement in Texas public schools. Demographic and Grade 5 STAAR test data were collected from 1155 public school districts for 2018–2019 and 2020–2021. Multiple regression was adopted to analyze the differences between rural and non-rural districts, as well as the impact of demographic characteristics on students’ achievement. The results reveal significant differences in demographic characteristics between the two academic years, with non-rural districts exhibiting a greater decline in academic achievement than rural districts. Additionally, the findings suggest that higher teacher salaries correlate with better academic performance across various subjects and that English learners require additional support to acquire content knowledge and skills. We further confirm that the COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted the academic learning experience of Texas students, with rural districts displaying more resilience than non-rural districts.
Experimental Study on Grouting Quality Detection in Prestressed Pipeline Based on Scattered Wave Method
Authors: Ye Yushan , Wu Wenqi , Wang Qingshan , Song Minghao , Cai Yingchun , Guo Pan
Published: May 2024

The grouting quality of prestressed pipelines directly affects the safety and durability of prestressed reinforced concrete bridge structures, attracting wide attention from the engineering community. Based on the principles of the scattering wave method, this paper designs and manufactures a large-scale model to simulate the actual construction testing environment. Several sets of design defects with significantly distributed spans in the prestressing ducts were pre-set, and the Engineering Geophysical Instrument System–Pipeline Grouting Profile (EGS-PGP) equipment developed was used to detect the grouting quality of the prestressed pipelines under different conditions, obtaining the frequency attenuation values at defect locations. The study shows that stability of the peak frequency throughout the test can indicate compact grouting, while a large fluctuation in the peak frequency range with no regular changes can indicate non-compact grouting; a sudden increase or decrease in peak frequency can effectively indicate the location of grouting defects along the pipeline. The number of sudden changes in frequency can indicate the number of gaps inside the pipeline. The chirp signal, compared to the hammer impact signal, shows greater stability and engineering application value in detecting defects using the scatter wave method. This study provides technical support for the detection of grouting quality in prestressed pipelines based on chirp signals.
Investigation on the Natural Convection Inside Thermal Corridors of Industrial Buildings
Authors: Pu Jing , Zhu Aixin , Wu Junqiu , Xie Fuzhong , Jiang Fujian
Published: May 2024

The installation of successional heating devices in industrial buildings will result in thermal corridors. To improve the thermal environment in and around these corridors, buoyancy-driven ventilation is commonly utilized to dissipate heat, which is based on the natural convection design for buildings. However, the flow and heat exchange patterns of natural convection related to thermal corridors have not been clearly clarified, and no relevant correlations have been established to quantify them. The conducted numerical study aimed to analyze the flow and heat transfer characteristics of natural convection within thermal corridors in industrial buildings. Experimental data were utilized to validate a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model developed for this purpose. The study considered the influence of various parameters on the results obtained. In the side corridor, the prevalence of reverse flow dominates much of the channel, while in the middle corridor, reverse flow near the bottom corner is observed. The ambient air temperature significantly impacts the temperature distribution in both corridors. Increasing the ambient air temperature at the inlet from 22 to 28 °C results in a substantial temperature rise within the corridor, by approximately 6–7 °C. When the outlet size is constant and the inlet size drops by 30%, the air temperature in the corridor increases by 3 °C. Finally, correlations were established based on the simulation data to predict the surface-averaged Nu¯ of the heated wall and the induced mass flow rate, m˙, of the natural convection. The correlations have relative errors of less than 16% when compared to the simulation data.
Industrialization in Construction Companies—A Benchmark Study on Manufacturing Companies
Authors: Mansoori Solmaz , Harkonen Janne , Haapasalo Harri , Annunen Petteri
Published: May 2024

Productivity has been modest in construction due to many reasons, especially project-specific operations and fragmentation. The main aim of this research is to map the challenges toward industrialization in construction through a comparative study of the manufacturing industry. An inductive approach and a qualitative method are followed by applying semi-structured interviews and node-based thematic analysis. The key elements of industrialization in mature manufacturing companies are benchmarked. The findings indicate a specific order of steps for industrialization in construction. Data and information management with achieved systematization have been sources of productivity in manufacturing companies. However, the systematization starts from the offering, and construction companies need to define their offering, that is, their products, and define their respective data. Only accurate and good quality data on products enable the systematization of order delivery processes, which are the engine for a company’s success or failure. Continuous efficiency improvement is only possible with systematized processes and the respective data related to these processes. The originality involves clarifying the industrialization of construction companies via products, respective data, and processes, considering industrialized manufacturing companies.
The Effects of National Insurance Coverage Expansion and Genetic Counseling’s Role on BRCA1/2 Mutation Tests in Breast Cancer Patients
Authors: Jang Sung Yoon , Kwak Youngji , Choi Joon Young , Shin Dong Seung , Lee Hyunjun , Kim Mina , Jung Boo Yeon , Chae Byung Joo , Yu Jonghan , Lee Jeong Eon , Kim Seok Won , Nam Seok Jin , Ryu Jai Min
Published: May 2024

Purpose: This study aims to evaluate the impact of South Korea’s national insurance coverage (NIC) expansion and the addition of genetic counselors on BRCA1/2 mutation testing rates in breast cancer patients. Materials and Methods: A retrospective review was conducted at the Samsung Medical Center (SMC), dividing patients into three groups: pre-NIC expansion, post-NIC expansion, and post-extra genetic counselor involvement. The number of BRCA1/2 tests performed and the detection rates among newly diagnosed and follow-up patients, particularly focusing on triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cases, were analyzed. Results: Post-NIC expansion, there was a significant increase in BRCA1/2 testing rates, with a gradual rise in detection rates while maintaining statistical significance. TNBC patients under 60 experienced substantial increases in testing rates. The number of follow-up patients recalled for testing also rose significantly after the extra genetic counselor involvement. Additionally, NIC expansion increased insurance coverage for TNBC patients, enhancing accessibility to testing. Conclusion: The study highlights the positive impact of NIC expansion and genetic counselor involvement on BRCA1/2 mutation testing rates and subsequent patient management. Addressing financial barriers to testing and incorporating genetic counseling significantly improve patient outcomes. This model provides a potential strategy for enhancing early detection and personalized treatment for breast cancer patients with BRCA1/2 mutations, contributing to global cancer management efforts.
Unsatisfactory Neurological Outcome in an Intramedullary Thoracic Intermediate-Grade Melanocytoma—Systematic Review and Illustrative Case
Authors: Battistelli Marco , Grilli Fulvio , Rapisarda Alessandro , Di Domenico Michele , Montano Nicola , Gessi Marco , Olivi Alessandro , Albanese Alessio , Polli Filippo Maria
Published: May 2024

Background: Intramedullary melanocytomas are exceedingly rare, with only twenty-four cases reported up to now. They present as local invasive tumors despite their benign biological behavior. Attempting a complete safe resection often results in severe post-operative neurological deficits, as in our case presented here. Methods: A systematic review was conducted across the PubMed and Scopus databases including studies published till February 2024. Results: A total of 19 studies were included, encompassing 24 cases. A similar distribution between sexes was noted (M:F 13:11), with ages ranging from 19 to 79 years. The thoracic segment was most affected, and intermediate-grade melanocytoma (19 cases) was the most common histotype. Radiographically, intramedullary melanocytomas usually appear as hyperintense hemorrhagic lesions peripheral to the central canal with focal nodular enhancement. Intraoperatively, they are black–reddish to tan and are tenaciously adherent lesions. In the sampled studies, IONM employment was uncommon, and post-operative new-onset neurological deficits were described in 16 cases. Adjuvant RT was used in four cases and its value is debatable. Recurrence is common (10 cases), and adjuvant therapies (RT or repeated surgery) seem to play a palliative role. Case presentation: A 68-year-old woman presented with a three-year history of worsening spastic paraparesis and loss of independence in daily activities (McCormick grade 4). An MRI revealed an intramedullary tumor from Th5 to Th7, characterized by T1-weighted hyperintensity and signs of recent intralesional hemorrhage. Multimodal neuromonitoring, comprising the D-Wave, guided the resection of a black–tan-colored tumor with hyper-vascularization and strong adherence to the white matter. During final dissection of the lesion to obtain gross total resection (GTR), a steep decline in MEPs and D-Wave signals was recorded. Post-operatively, the patient had severe hypoesthesia with Th9 level and segmental motor deficits, with some improvement during neurorehabilitation. Histopathology revealed an intermediate-grade melanocytoma (CNS WHO 2021 classification). A four-month follow-up documented the absence of relapse. Conclusions: This literature review highlights that intramedullary T1 hyperintense hemorrhagic thoracic lesions in an adult patient should raise the suspicion of intramedullary melanocytoma. They present as locally aggressive tumors, due to local invasiveness, which often lead to post-operative neurological deficits, and frequent relapses, which overwhelm therapeutic strategies leading to palliative care after several years.
Histologically Overt Stromal Response and the Risk of Progression after Radical Prostatectomy for Prostate Cancer
Authors: Sayan Mutlay , Tuac Yetkin , Kucukcolak Samet , Rowan Mary D. , Pratt Grace K. , Aktan Cagdas , Tjio Elza , Akbulut Dilara , Moningi Shalini , Leeman Jonathan E. , Orio Peter F. , Nguyen Paul L. , D’Amico Anthony V. , Akgul Mahmut
Published: May 2024

Purpose: Given the variable clinical course of prostate cancer and the limitations of current prognostic factors, this study was conducted to investigate the impact of a histologically overt stromal response (HOST-response) to prostate cancer on clinical outcomes after radical prostatectomy. Methods: This retrospective analysis utilized The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) to evaluate data from individuals with a confirmed diagnosis of prostate cancer who underwent radical prostatectomy and had available pathology slides. These slides were assessed for the presence of a HOST-response, similar to desmoplasia. The primary endpoint was progression-free survival (PFS). A multivariable competing risk regression analysis was used to assess whether a significant association existed between HOST-response and PFS, adjusting for known prostate cancer prognostic factors. Results: Among the 348 patients analyzed, 166 (47.70%) demonstrated a HOST-response. After a median follow-up of 37.87 months (IQR: 21.20, 65.50), the presence of a HOST-response was significantly associated with a shorter PFS (SDHR, 2.10; 95% CI, 1.26 to 3.50; p = 0.004), after adjusting for covariates. Conclusions: HOST-response in prostate cancer patients treated with radical prostatectomy is significantly associated with reduced PFS, suggesting a potential benefit from adjuvant therapy and highlighting the need for further investigation in a prospective randomized clinical trial.
Mechanical Properties and Microstructural Evolution of 6082 Aluminum Alloy with Different Heat Treatment Methods
Authors: Xia Erli , Ye Tuo , Qiu Sawei , Liu Jie , Luo Jiahao , Sun Longtao , Wu Yuanzhi
Published: May 2024

The influence of solid solution treatment (SST), artificial aging treatment (AAT), and deep cryogenic-aging treatment (DCAT) on the mechanical properties and microstructure evolution of 6082 aluminum alloy was investigated. The tensile test was performed to obtain the true stress–strain curves through an electronic universal testing machine. The results show that the yield strengths of the SST specimens in all three directions are the lowest, of less than 200 MPa. In addition, the maximum elongation of the SST specimen is over 16% and the value of in-plane anisotropy (IPA) is 5.40%. For the AAT specimen, the yield strengths of the AAT alloy in three directions have distinct improvements, which are beyond 340 MPa. However, the maximum elongation and the IPA were evidently reduced. The yield strength and elongation of the DCAT alloy exhibit a slight enhancement compared with those in the AAT condition, and the corresponding IPA is 0.61%. The studied alloy specimens in all conditions exhibit ductile fracture. The DCAT alloy has the highest density of precipitates with the smallest size. Therefore, the dislocation pinning effect of the DCAT specimens are the strongest, which exhibit the highest yield strength accordingly. In addition, the uniformly distributed precipitates in the matrix with a large ratio of long and short axes can suppress the anisotropy caused by elongated grains.
The Scratch Resistance of a Plasma-Assisted DUPLEX-Treated 17-4 Precipitation-Hardened Stainless Steel Additively Manufactured by Laser Powder Bed Fusion
Authors: Gómez-Ortega Arturo , Pinilla-Bedoya Julián Andrés , Ortega-Portilla Carolina , Félix-Martínez Christian , Mondragón-Rodríguez Guillermo César , Espinosa-Arbeláez Diego Germán , Pérez-Barrera James , González-Carmona Juan Manuel , Franco Urquiza Edgar Adrián
Published: May 2024

Additive manufacturing (AM) or 3D printing of metals is gaining popularity due to its flexibility when fabricating parts with highly complex designs, as well as when simplifying manufacturing steps and optimizing process times. In this investigation, 17-4 PH stainless steel was additively manufactured using Laser Powder Bed Fusion (L-PBF), followed by functionalization through a DUPLEX treatment. This treatment involved a plasma-assisted nitriding process, followed by the deposition of an arc-PVD c-Al0.7Cr0.3N hard coating. The microstructural modifications resulting from plasma nitriding (such as the formation of Fe2,3N and Fe4N and the αN or expanded martensite phases) and the surface improvements with the c-Al0.7Cr0.3N coating on the 3D-printed 17-4 PH steel are evaluated in comparison to conventionally manufactured 17-4 PH steel. These microstructural characteristics are correlated with the mechanical response of the treated surfaces. As a result of the plasma nitriding process, the hardness of the 3D-printed 17-4 PH SS increased by approximately 260%. The wear, measured through dynamic and static scratch testing, was reduced by approximately 31%. This improvement was attributed to the modification of adhesive failure mechanisms, leading to a reduction in wear volume, improved coating adhesion, and enhanced scratch resistance.
Optimized Functionalization of Graphene Oxide for Enhanced Mechanical Properties in Epoxy Resin Composites
Authors: Li Xin , Yu Bing , Chen Jie , Huo Dongxia , Liu Jun , Nan Ding
Published: May 2024

Epoxy resins have widespread applications across various industries, such as anticorrosive coatings, owing to their exceptional attributes. However, there is a constant demand for enhancements to their mechanical characteristics to cater to the requirements of unique and specialized conditions. In this work, graphene oxide modified by 4,4′-Oxydianiline (MGO) was prepared using a covalent grafting reaction. The MGO in epoxy resin composites exhibited a rougher morphology and thin layers with a superior tensile strength (38 MPa), elastic modulus (358 MPa), flexural strength (85 MPa), flexural modulus (957 MPa), and hardness (62 HD). The results indicated that the mechanical properties of epoxy resin are significantly improved by MGO and the improved mechanical properties of epoxy resin composites are due to the strong interfacial bonding between MGO and epoxy.