bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Crystallization on Electrochemical and Tribological Properties of High-Velocity Oxygen Fuel (HVOF)-Sprayed Fe-Based Amorphous Coatings
Authors: Abbas Abdul Qadir , Hafeez Muhammad Arslan , Zhang Cheng , Atiq-ur-Rehman Muhammad , Yasir Muhammad
Published: August 2024

An Fe-based amorphous coating, with the composition Fe48Cr15Mo14C15B6Y2, was synthesized by the high-velocity oxygen fuel spray (HVOF) process on a substrate of AISI 1035. The effect of crystallization on the electrochemical and tribological properties of the HVOF-sprayed Fe-based coating was systematically studied. The XRD results validated the fully amorphous nature of the as-sprayed coating by showing a broad peak at 43.44° and crystallization of this coating after heat-treatment at 700 °C by demonstrating sharp peaks of Fe-, Mo-, and Cr-based carbides. After crystallization, an increase in the corrosion current density from 4.95 μAcm−2 to 11.57 μAcm−2 and in the corrosion rate from 4.28 mpy to 9.99 mpy, as well as a decrease in the polarization resistance from 120 Ωcm2 to 65.12 Ωcm2, were observed, indicating the deterioration of the corrosion resistance of the as-sprayed Fe-based coating. This can be attributed to the formation of porous ferrous oxide, providing an easy channel for charge transfer and promoting pit formation. However, a decrease in the coefficient of friction from 0.1 to 0.05 was observed, highlighting the significant improvement in the wear resistance of the Fe-based coating after crystallization. This can be associated with the precipitation of hard carbides (MxCy) at the boundaries of the crystallized regions.
Optimizing Daylight Performance of Digital Fabricated Adobe Walls
Authors: Gonidakis Dimitrios N. , Frangedaki Evangelia I. , Lagaros Nikos D.
Published: August 2024

The construction industry faces a growing challenge in reducing its environmental impact through sustainable design and practices. Buildings are responsible for a significant share of CO2 emissions and pollution, with lighting alone accounting for roughly 15% of global electricity consumption according to the International Energy Agency (IEA). A key element in achieving sustainability is optimizing daylight penetration within buildings, reducing reliance on artificial lighting and associated energy demands. This research introduces a novel approach by optimizing the geometry of a building’s exterior skin fabricated with adobe by 3D-printed molds. This method aims to achieve a balance between structural integrity, improved daylight availability within the building, and the inherent sustainability benefits of using adobe, an earth-based material. The proposed design procedure starts with a 2D geometry and applies it to the building’s exterior. The framework then optimizes the geometry to maintain structural stability while maximizing daylight penetration into the interior. Importantly, this optimization considers the specific material properties of adobe walls created using 3D-printed metal molds. By integrating 3D-printed adobe molds and daylight optimization, a framework is offered with a potential path towards sustainable building design with improved energy efficiency and reduced environmental impact.
Periods of Outbursts and Standstills and Variations in Parameters of Two Z Cam Stars: Z Cam and AT Cnc
Authors: Boneva Daniela , Yankova Krasimira , Rusev Denislav
Published: August 2024

We present our results on two Z Cam stars: Z Cam and AT Cnc. We apply observational data for the periods that cover the states of outbursts and standstills, which are typical for this type of object. We report an appearance of periodic oscillations in brightness during the standstill in AT Cnc, with small-amplitude variations of 0.03–0.04 mag and periodicity of ≈20–30 min. Based on the estimated dereddened color index (B − V)0, we calculate the color temperature for both states of the two objects. During the transition from the outburst to the standstill state, Z Cam varies from bluer to redder, while AT Cnc stays redder in both states. We calculate some of the stars’ parameters as the radii of the primary and secondary components and the orbital separation for both objects. We construct the profiles of the effective temperature in the discs of the two objects. Comparing the parameters of both systems, we see that Z Cam is definitely the hotter object and we conclude that it has a more active accretion disc.
Neural Hierarchical Interpolation for Standardized Precipitation Index Forecasting
Authors: Magallanes-Quintanar Rafael , Galván-Tejada Carlos Eric , Galván-Tejada Jorge Isaac , Gamboa-Rosales Hamurabi , Méndez-Gallegos Santiago de Jesús , García-Domínguez Antonio
Published: August 2024

In the context of climate change, studying changes in rainfall patterns is a crucial area of research, remarkably so in arid and semi-arid regions due to the susceptibility of human activities to extreme events such as droughts. Employing predictive models to calculate drought indices can be a useful method for the effective characterization of drought conditions. This study applies two type of machine learning methods—long short-term memory (LSTM) and Neural Hierarchical Interpolation for Time Series Forecasting (N-HiTS)—to develop and deploy artificial neural network models with the aim of predicting the regional standardized precipitation index (SPI) in four regions of Zacatecas, Mexico. The predictor variables were a set of climatological time series data spanning from 1964 to 2020. The results suggest that the N-HiTS model outperforms the LSTM model in the prediction and forecasting of SPI time series for all regions in terms of performance metrics: the Mean Squared Error, Mean Absolute Error, Coefficient of Determination and ξ correlation coefficient range from 0.0455 to 0.5472, from 0.1696 to 0.6661, from 0.9162 to 0.9684 and from 0.9222 to 0.9368, respectively, for the regions under study. Consequently, the outcomes revealed the successful performance of the N-HiTS models in accurately predicting the SPI across the four examined regions.
Earthquake Lights Observed in Japan—Possible Underlying Mechanisms
Authors: Enomoto Yuji
Published: August 2024

In Japan, a country prone to earthquakes, numerous damaging earthquakes have been recorded throughout history, often accompanied by descriptions of mysterious earthquake lights (EQL), which may involve various mechanisms. In this article, the possible mechanisms for different types of EQL in 11 cases are reviewed among 21 selected earthquakes. These involve preseismic physicochemical variations in the geological structure of the fault in the lithosphere, which contains deep Earth gases such as radon, methane, and others, as a primary factor for EQL generation. Additionally, various seismic, atmospheric, hydrospheric, and ionospheric variations interact with each other, resulting in the visualization of characteristic anomalous phenomena, such as glowing or shining ground, mountains, offshore areas, and skies of various colors. These phenomena appear momentarily but can sometimes last for extended periods. Because EQL often appear just before an earthquake, their study might be significant for earthquake prediction. Additionally, EQL involving methane flames in the ground is an important research topic as it relates to public safety. Was what they witnessed paranormal?
Urban Climate Dynamics: Analyzing the Impact of Green Cover and Air Pollution on Land Surface Temperature—A Comparative Study Across Chicago, San Francisco, and Phoenix, USA
Authors: Azizi Sepideh , Azizi Tahmineh
Published: August 2024

Rapid urbanization worldwide has significantly altered urban climates, creating a need to balance urban growth with thermal environmental quality for sustainable development. This study examines the relationship between land surface temperature (LST) and urban characteristics, particularly focusing on how green cover can mitigate urban heat and how air pollution can increase temperatures. Recognizing the predictive value of LST for urban heat island (UHI) intensity, we analyzed three distinct U.S. cities—Chicago, San Francisco, and Phoenix—each characterized by unique climate and urban planning features. This study investigates the relationship between atmospheric pollutants (SO2, NO2, CO, O3) and the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) with land surface temperature (LST) using regression and correlation analyses. The analysis aims to elucidate how changes in atmospheric pollutants and NDVI affect variations in land surface temperature. Regression analysis is employed to estimate the coefficients of independent variables and quantify their impact on LST. Correlation analysis assesses the linear relationships between variables, providing insights into their pairwise associations. The study also examines multicollinearity between independent variables to identify potential confounding factors. The results reveal significant associations between atmospheric pollutants, NDVI, and land surface temperature, contributing to our understanding of the environmental factors influencing LST dynamics and informing climate change mitigation strategies. The observed inconsistencies in correlations across cities highlight the importance of the local context in environmental studies. Understanding these variations can aid in developing tailored urban planning policies that consider unique city characteristics for more effective climate resilience. Furthermore, a positive association was consistently obtained between pollutants and LST, indicating that increased pollution levels contribute to higher surface temperatures across different urban settings.
Construction of Linear Models for the Normalized Vegetation Index (NDVI) for Coffee Crops in Peru Based on Historical Atmospheric Variables from the Climate Engine Platform
Authors: García Ligia , Veneros Jaris , Oliva-Cruz Manuel , Olivares Neiro , Chavez Segundo G. , Rojas-Briceño Nilton B.
Published: August 2024

The rapid development of digital tools for crop management offers new opportunities to mitigate the effects of climate change on agriculture. This study examines the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) in coffee-growing areas of the province of Rodriguez de Mendoza, southern Peru, from 2001 to 2022. The objectives were the following: (a) to analyze NDVI trends in these areas; (b) to investigate trends in climatic variables and their correlations with altitude and NDVI; and c) to develop linear models tailored to each coffee-growing area. The study identified significant differences in NDVI trends among coffee plants, with mean NDVI values ranging from about 0.6 to 0.8. These values suggest the presence of stress conditions that should be monitored to improve crop quality, particularly in Huambo. Variability in rainfall, maximum and minimum temperatures, relative humidity, and altitude was also observed, with NDVI values showing a strong negative correlation with altitude. These results are crucial for making informed strategic decisions in integrated crop management and for monitoring crop health using vegetation indices.
Integrating Machine Learning with Intelligent Control Systems for Flow Rate Forecasting in Oil Well Operations
Authors: Amangeldy Bibars , Tasmurzayev Nurdaulet , Shinassylov Shona , Mukhanbet Aksultan , Nurakhov Yedil
Published: August 2024

This study addresses the integration of machine learning (ML) with supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems to enhance predictive maintenance and operational efficiency in oil well monitoring. We investigated the applicability of advanced ML models, including Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM), Bidirectional LSTM (BiLSTM), and Momentum LSTM (MLSTM), on a dataset of 21,644 operational records. These models were trained to predict a critical operational parameter, FlowRate, which is essential for operational integrity and efficiency. Our results demonstrate substantial improvements in predictive accuracy: the LSTM model achieved an R2 score of 0.9720, the BiLSTM model reached 0.9725, and the MLSTM model topped at 0.9726, all with exceptionally low Mean Absolute Errors (MAEs) around 0.0090 for LSTM and 0.0089 for BiLSTM and MLSTM. These high R2 values indicate that our models can explain over 97% of the variance in the dataset, reflecting significant predictive accuracy. Such performance underscores the potential of integrating ML with SCADA systems for real-time applications in the oil and gas industry. This study quantifies ML’s integration benefits and sets the stage for further advancements in autonomous well-monitoring systems.
Proteomic Profile of Endometrial Cancer: A Scoping Review
Authors: Serambeque Beatriz , Mestre Catarina , Hundarova Kristina , Marto Carlos Miguel , Oliveiros Bárbara , Gomes Ana Rita , Teixo Ricardo , Carvalho Ana Sofia , Botelho Maria Filomena , Matthiesen Rune , Carvalho Maria João , Laranjo Mafalda
Published: August 2024

Proteomics can be a robust tool in protein identification and regulation, allowing the discovery of potential biomarkers. In clinical practice, the management of endometrial cancer can be challenging. Thus, identifying promising markers could be beneficial, helping both in diagnosis and prognostic stratification, even predicting the response to therapy. Therefore, this manuscript systematically reviews the existing evidence of the proteomic profile of human endometrial cancer. The literature search was conducted via Medline (through PubMed) and the Web of Science. The inclusion criteria were clinical, in vitro, and in vivo original studies reporting proteomic analysis using all types of samples to map the human endometrial cancer proteome. A total of 55 publications were included in this review. Most of the articles carried out a proteomic analysis on endometrial tissue, serum and plasma samples, which enabled the identification of several potential diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers. In addition, eight articles were analyzed regarding the identified proteins, where three studies showed a strong correlation, sharing forty-five proteins. This analysis also allowed the identification of the 10 most frequently reported proteins in these studies: EGFR, PGRMC1, CSE1L, MYDGF, STMN1, CASP3 ANXA2, YBX1, ANXA1, and MYH11. Proteomics-based approaches pointed out potential diagnostic and prognostic candidates for endometrial cancer. However, there is a lack of studies exploring novel therapeutic targets.
Editorial on the Research Topic ‘Cell Differentiation, Oxidative Stress, and Oxygen Radicals—In Honor of Prof. Michael Breitenbach’
Authors: Ralser Markus , Rinnerthaler Mark
Published: August 2024

This Special Issue of Biomolecules is dedicated to the life and work of our mentor and outstanding scientist, Michael Breitenbach, and marks his 80th birthday, which he celebrated in 2023 [...]
The Potential Mechanisms Involved in the Disruption of Spermatogenesis in Mice by Nanoplastics and Microplastics
Authors: Wen Yixian , Cai Jing , Zhang Huilian , Li Yi , Yu Manyao , Liu Jinyi , Han Fei
Published: August 2024

Background: Plastic-based products are ubiquitous due to their tremendous utility in our daily lives. Nanoplastic (NP) and microplastic (MP) pollution has become a severe threat to the planet and is a growing concern. It has been widely reported that polystyrene (PS) MPs are severely toxic to the male reproduction system, with effects including decreased sperm parameters, impaired spermatogenesis, and damaged testicular structures. However, the molecular mechanisms for impaired spermatogenesis remain poorly understood. Methods: C57BL/6 male mice were treated with PS-NPs (80 nm) and PS-MPs (5 μm) by oral gavage every day for 60 days. A series of morphological analyses were completed to explore the influence of PS-NP and PS-MP exposure on the testes. Compared to other cell types in the seminiferous tubule, PS-NP and PS-MP exposure can lead to decreased spermatocytes. Then, more refined molecular typing was further performed based on gene expression profiles to better understand the common and specific molecular characteristics after exposure to PS-NPs and PS-MPs. Results: There were 1794 common DEGs across the PS-NP groups at three different doses and 1433 common DEGs across the PS-MP groups at three different doses. GO and KEGG analyses of the common DEGs in the PS-NP and PS-MP groups were performed to enrich the common and specific functional progress and signaling pathways, including 349 co-enriched GO entries and 13 co-enriched pathways. Moreover, 348 GO entries and 33 pathways were specifically enriched in the PS-NP group, while 526 GO entries and 15 pathways were specifically enriched in the PS-MPs group. Conclusions: PS-NPs were predominantly involved in regulating retinoic acid metabolism, whereas PS-MPs primarily influenced pyruvate metabolism and thyroid hormone metabolism. Our results highlight the different molecular mechanisms of PS-NPs and PS-MPs in the impairment of spermatogenesis in male mammals for the first time, providing valuable insights into the precise mechanisms of PS-NPs and PS-MPs in male reproduction.
Assessing Biocompatibility of Composite Cements by Peri/Intramuscular and Subcutaneous Implantation in Rats
Authors: Ardelean Alina Ioana , Marza Sorin Marian , Negoescu Andrada , Dragomir Madalina Florina , Sarosi Codruta , Moldovan Marioara , Ene Razvan , Oana Liviu
Published: August 2024

This study’s goal was to evaluate the biocompatibility of two composite cements over a 90-day period by analyzing the individuals’ behavior as well as conducting macroscopic and histological examinations and Computed Tomography (CT) scans. We conducted the cytotoxicity test by placing the materials subcutaneously and peri/intramuscularly. Days 30 and 90 were crucial for our research. On those days, we harvested the implants, kidneys and liver to search for any toxic deposits. The biomaterial’s uniformity, color and texture remained unaltered despite being in intimate contact with the tissue. Although a slight inflammatory response was observed in the placement location, we observed an improved outcome of the interaction between the material and its insertion area. There were no notable discoveries in the liver and kidneys. According to the obtained results, the biomaterials did not produce any clinical changes nor specific irritation during the research, demonstrating that they are biocompatible with biological tissues.
Heart–Brain Axis: A Narrative Review of the Interaction between Depression and Arrhythmia
Authors: Fang Shuping , Zhang Wei
Published: August 2024

Arrhythmias and depression are recognized as diseases of the heart and brain, respectively, and both are major health threats that often co-occur with a bidirectional causal relationship. The autonomic nervous system (ANS) serves as a crucial component of the heart–brain axis (HBA) and the pathway of interoception. Cardiac activity can influence emotional states through ascending interoceptive pathways, while psychological stress can precipitate arrhythmias via the ANS. However, the HBA and interoception frameworks are often considered overly broad, and the precise mechanisms underlying the bidirectional relationship between depression and arrhythmias remain unclear. This narrative review aims to synthesize the existing literature, focusing on the pathological mechanisms of the ANS in depression and arrhythmia while integrating other potential mechanisms to detail heart–brain interactions. In the bidirectional communication between the heart and brain, we emphasize considering various internal factors such as genes, personality traits, stress, the endocrine system, inflammation, 5-hydroxytryptamine, and behavioral factors. Current research employs multidisciplinary knowledge to elucidate heart–brain relationships, and a deeper understanding of these interactions can help optimize clinical treatment strategies. From a broader perspective, this study emphasizes the importance of considering the body as a complex, interconnected system rather than treating organs in isolation. Investigating heart–brain interactions enhance our understanding of disease pathogenesis and advances medical science, ultimately improving human quality of life.
Removal of Cadmium (II) from Aqueous Solution Using Galdieria sulphuraria CCMEE 5587.1
Authors: Kharel Hari Lal , Jha Lina , Tan Melissa , Selvaratnam Thinesh
Published: August 2024

The release of cadmium into the environment is a significant global concern due to its toxicity, non-biodegradability, and persistence in nature. There is an urgent need for effective, eco-friendly, and cost-effective systems for removing Cd because of the many drawbacks of conventional physicochemical techniques. This study investigated the ability of the extremophile red microalgal strain Galdieria sulphuraria CCMEE 5587.1 to tolerate and remove Cd (II) ions at acidic pH in a controlled laboratory environment. Three distinct concentrations of Cd (1.5 mg L−1, 3 mg L−1, and 6 mg L−1) were introduced to the cyanidium medium, and G. sulphuraria cells were introduced in the medium and grown for ten days. Four distinct aspects were identified regarding Cd removal: time course Cd removal, total Cd removal, extracellular Cd removal, and intracellular Cd removal. The inhibitory effects of Cd on G. sulphuraria growth were observed using a daily growth profile. Initial incubation days showed an inhibition of G. sulphuraria growth. In addition, increasing the Cd concentration in the medium decreased the growth rate of G. sulphuraria. Rapid Cd removal occurred on the first day of the experiment, followed by a steady removal of Cd until the last day. The highest total removal efficiency occurred in a medium containing 3 mg L−1 of Cd ions, which was 30%. In contrast, the highest sorption capacity occurred in a medium containing 6 mg L−1 of Cd ions, which was 1.59 mg g−1 of dry biomass. In all media compositions, a major fraction (>80%) of Cd removal occurred via adsorption on the cell surface (extracellular). These results showed that G. sulphuraria cells can remove Cd ions from aqueous solution, which makes them a potential bioremediation option for heavy metal removal.
Clinical and Biological Correlates of Emotional Dysregulation in Children and Adolescents: A Transdiagnostic Approach to Developmental Psychopathology
Authors: Milone Annarita , Sesso Gianluca
Published: August 2024

Emotion regulation may be defined as the ability to regulate behavioral and physiological reactivity to sensory stimuli and environmental situations [...]
Stress, Coping, and Adjustment of International Students during COVID-19: A Quantitative Study
Authors: Wu Ying , Ding Yi , Ridgard Tamique , Zusho Akane , Hu Xiaoyan
Published: August 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 caused unexpected and unprecedented disruptions worldwide. University students, especially international students, underwent unique challenges during this volatile era. This secondary quantitative data analysis study aimed to investigate the experiences, stress, adjustment, and ways of coping of university students during the COVID-19 pandemic. Data from 112 international university students and 112 domestic American university students were included in the statistical analyses. The differences in Student Adaptation to College Questionnaire (SACQ), Ways of Coping Questionnaire (WAYS), COVID-19-related questionnaire, and Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) between international and domestic students were analyzed using independent samples t-tests. Multiple regression models predicting PSS by SACQ, WAYS, and COVID-19-related questionnaire subscales were estimated for international and domestic students separately. The results showed that international students and American students did not report significant differences in their university adjustment, usage of coping strategy, and perceived stress level during the peak of the pandemic. Additionally, American students reported more factors impacting their perceived stress than international students. Implications of the findings as well as limitations and future directions were discussed.
Parenting Styles and Suicidal Behaviors among College Students: Examining the Mediating Roles of Coping, Self-Esteem, and Depression
Authors: Liu Ruishen , Zhao Qun , Li Shengchang , Gui Hongyu , Zhang Tianyu , Wang Jie , Sui Jing
Published: August 2024

Background: Suicide is influenced by multiple factors. However, the mechanisms through which these factors influence suicide remain understudied. This study aims to examine the relationship between parenting styles (warmth, control, indulgence, humiliation, and neglect), coping, self-esteem, depression, and suicidality (suicidal ideation and suicide attempts) among college students. Methods: Cross-sectional data were collected from 2369 undergraduates (mean age = 20.10 years) including 1201 women (50.7%) at four Chinese colleges. Results: Students reported high rates of suicidal behaviors (12.7% suicidal ideation, 6.4% suicidal attempts) and depression (37%). Structural equation modeling indicated that warmth (+) had associations with coping. Coping was linked to self-esteem and depression. Depression (+), self-esteem (−), warmth (−), and neglect (+) had direct correlations with suicidality. Self-esteem mediated the relationships between warmth and depression. Conclusions: Future prevention intervention efforts aimed at reducing depression and suicidal behaviors should prioritize the promotion of positive parenting styles and the avoidance of negative ones. College mental health services should emphasize positive and optimistic coping strategies to enhance students’ self-esteem.
Evolutionary Game Analysis for Promoting the Realization of Construction Waste Recycling and Resource Utilization: Based on a Multi-Agent Collaboration Perspective
Authors: Song Wenxuan , Hou Guisheng , Yang Lei , Wang Pengmin , Guo Yanlu
Published: August 2024

Excessive growth or improper disposal of construction waste can lead to negative consequences such as environmental destruction and waste of resources. The policy practice of construction waste reduction and resource utilization is facing challenging issues. Construction enterprises (also constructors of construction waste) and building material manufacturers (also recyclers of construction waste) play significant roles in the system of construction waste recycling and resource utilization. However, they are often absent or out of position in most cases. Therefore, this study constructs an evolutionary game model and conducts numerical simulation analysis, aiming to clarify the interactive relationship between their interests and government policy implementation, promote the formation of a cooperative system for construction waste management, and facilitate the achievement of ultimate governance objectives. The research results show that: (1) Current collaboration in construction waste management has fallen into a dilemma of relying solely on government efforts, resulting in inefficient or ineffective policy implementation. (2) The government can change the current situation and achieve better policy outcomes by taking measures such as increasing the income of recycled construction waste products, increasing fines for violations, and lowering industry entry barriers. (3) Different optimization measures vary in the speed at which they promote the evolutionary game system to evolve into a stable and ideal strategic combination. In comparison, increasing the market price of recycled products and increasing their sales volume are more effective optimization strategies. The process and conclusions of this study provide valuable reference and inspiration for the government to formulate construction waste management policies and optimize their policy implementation plans.
Assessment of the Optimal Energy Generation and Storage Systems to Feed a Districting Heating Network
Authors: Pompei Laura , Nardecchia Fabio , Miliozzi Adio , Groppi Daniele , Astiaso Garcia Davide , De Santoli Livio
Published: August 2024

Employing sustainable energy systems is a must fact of the current years. Urban districts can lead the decarbonization process of cities to allow the development of decentralization energy systems such as district heating. On the other hand, the exergy analysis combined with energy evaluation can be a suitable way to investigate the efficiency and flexibility of an energy system. In this framework, this study investigates the optimal energy and storage systems to feed a district heating network. Four types of energy systems were analyzed, such as boilers, cogeneration plants, solar systems and the combination of them. The size of the thermal energy storage of the network is investigated in terms of volume and temperature. In parallel, the exergy efficiency of all the systems was calculated. The optimal heating system configuration to feed the studied district heating is the cogeneration plant with solar collectors, according to both the temperature trend fluctuation and exergy efficiency of the system. Moreover, the employment of thermal energy storage is crucial to face the renewable energy source’s variability. As a further investigation, additional exergy indicators can be studied to underline the performances of such an decentralized energy system to increase the quality of the built environment.
Identification of Damage Modes and Critical States for FRP/Steel-Concrete Composite Beams Based on Acoustic Emission Signal Analysis
Authors: Du Fangzhu , Yang Dong , Li Dongsheng
Published: August 2024

This paper applied the prevalent acoustic emission (AE) technology to identify the damage modes and critical conditions for FRP/steel-concrete composite beams during the failure process. AE signals generated by the structural damages were classified efficiently by using a novel self-adaptive real-time clustering (SARTC) method; damage modes corresponding to each clustering category were recognized and analyzed, and the dominant damage type at different stages was obtained by comparing the AE activities and feature values. By conducting the AE intensity analysis, the dynamic evolutionary mechanisms and critical conditions of composite beams were identified; the increase in intensity value from 0.2 to 0.3 reflects the process from critical yielding to major fracture. By establishing the non-linear fitting model between local response and cumulative AE energy, the instantaneous status at arbitrary local position of the composite beam can be inverted and predicted quantitatively by independent AE testing.
Space Efficiency in North American Skyscrapers
Authors: Ilgın Hüseyin Emre , Aslantamer Özlem Nur
Published: August 2024

Space efficiency in North American skyscrapers is crucial due to financial, societal, and ecological reasons. High land prices in major cities require maximizing every square foot for financial viability. Skyscrapers must accommodate growing populations within limited spaces, reducing urban sprawl and its associated issues. Efficient designs also support environmental sustainability and enhance city aesthetics, while optimizing infrastructure and services. However, no comprehensive study has examined the key architectural and structural features impacting the space efficiency of these towers in North America. This paper fills this gap by analyzing data from 31 case study skyscrapers. Findings indicated that (1) central core was frequently employed in the organization of service core; (2) most common forms were setback, prismatic, and tapered configurations; (3) outriggered frame and shear walled frame systems were mostly used; (4) concrete was the material in most cases; and (5) average space efficiency was 76%, and the percentage of core area to gross floor area (GFA) averaged 21%, from the lowest of 62% and 13% to the highest of 84% and 31%. It is expected that this paper will aid architectural and structural designers, and builders involved in shaping skyscrapers in North America.
Socioeconomic Effects of Land Use Change for Industrialization: Evidence-Informed Learnings from Sri City India
Authors: Aggarwal Aradhna , Garg Ankita
Published: August 2024

This study examines the socioeconomic impacts of large-scale land conversion from agriculture to industry on affected households, focusing on Sri City, an industrial hub in South India established under the SEZ Act 2005. Data from 250 households in and around Sri City were collected on socioeconomic indicators aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals using a structured survey method. Quasi-experimental methods, specifically nearest neighbor matching based on the Mahalanobis distance model, were employed for analysis. The findings indicate that affected households experience benefits, but these are not unequivocal. The study underscores the importance of project-specific factors, land acquisition strategies, and approaches to business leadership in shaping the socially sustainable outcomes of land conversion, from agriculture to industry.
Improving Hepatocellular Carcinoma Surveillance Outcomes in Patients with Cirrhosis after Hepatitis C Cure: A Modelling Study
Authors: Cumming Jacob , Scott Nick , Howell Jessica , Flores Joan Ericka , Pavlyshyn Damian , Hellard Margaret E. , Winata Leon Shin-han , Ryan Marno , Sutherland Tom , Thompson Alexander J. , Doyle Joseph S. , Sacks-Davis Rachel
Published: August 2024

Background & Aims: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) presents a significant global health challenge, particularly among individuals with liver cirrhosis, with hepatitis C (HCV) a major cause. In people with HCV-related cirrhosis, an increased risk of HCC remains after cure. HCC surveillance with six monthly ultrasounds has been shown to improve survival. However, adherence to biannual screening is currently suboptimal. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of increased HCC surveillance uptake and improved ultrasound sensitivity on mortality among people with HCV-related cirrhosis post HCV cure. Methods: This study utilized mathematical modelling to assess HCC progression, surveillance, diagnosis, and treatment among individuals with cirrhosis who had successfully been treated for HCV. The deterministic compartmental model incorporated Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) stages to simulate disease progression and diagnosis probabilities in 100 people with cirrhosis who had successfully been treated for hepatitis C over 10 years. Four interventions were modelled to assess their potential for improving life expectancy: realistic improvements to surveillance adherence, optimistic improvements to surveillance adherence, diagnosis sensitivity enhancements, and improved treatment efficacy Results: Realistic adherence improvements resulted in 9.8 (95% CI 7.9, 11.6) life years gained per cohort of 100 over a 10-year intervention period; 17.2 (13.9, 20.3) life years were achieved in optimistic adherence improvements. Diagnosis sensitivity improvements led to a 7.0 (3.6, 13.8) year gain in life years, and treatment improvements improved life years by 9.0 (7.5, 10.3) years. Conclusions: Regular HCC ultrasound surveillance remains crucial to reduce mortality among people with cured hepatitis C and cirrhosis. Our study highlights that even minor enhancements to adherence to ultrasound surveillance can significantly boost life expectancy across populations more effectively than strategies that increase surveillance sensitivity or treatment efficacy.
Advanced Catalytic Materials for Renewable Energy Sources
Authors: Kepenienė Virginija , Tamašauskaitė-Tamašiūnaitė Loreta
Published: August 2024

The accelerating global economy requires a substantial quantity of energy, and the emissions resulting from the combustion of fossil fuels are contributing to the exacerbation of climate-related issues due to the greenhouse effect [...]
MicroRNA Profile of Mouse Adipocyte-Derived Extracellular Vesicles
Authors: Röszer Tamás
Published: August 2024

The post-transcriptional control of gene expression is a complex and evolving field in adipocyte biology, with the premise that the delivery of microRNA (miRNA) species to the obese adipose tissue may facilitate weight loss. Cells shed extracellular vesicles (EVs) that may deliver miRNAs as intercellular messengers. However, we know little about the miRNA profile of EVs secreted by adipocytes during postnatal development. Here, we defined the miRNA cargo of EVs secreted by mouse adipocytes in two distinct phases of development: on postnatal day 6, when adipocytes are lipolytic and thermogenic, and on postnatal day 56, when adipocytes have active lipogenesis. EVs were collected from cell culture supernatants, and their miRNA profile was defined by small RNA sequencing. The most abundant miRNA of mouse adipocyte-derived EVs was mmu-miR-148a-3p. Adipocyte EVs on postnatal day 6 were hallmarked with mmu-miR-98-5p, and some miRNAs were specific to this developmental stage, such as mmu-miR-466i-5p and 12 novel miRNAs. Adipocytes on postnatal day 56 secreted mmu-miR-365-3p, and 16 miRNAs were specific to this developmental stage. The miRNA cargo of adipocyte EVs targeted gene networks of cell proliferation, insulin signaling, interferon response, thermogenesis, and lipogenesis. We provided here a database of miRNAs secreted by developing mouse adipocytes, which may be a tool for further studies on the regulation of gene networks that control mouse adipocyte development.
The Direct Cold Sintering of α-Al2O3 Ceramics in a Pure Water Medium
Authors: Kholodkova Anastasia A. , Kornyushin Maxim V. , Khrustalev Arseniy N. , Arbanas Levko A. , Smirnov Andrey V. , Ivakin Yurii D.
Published: August 2024

Porous α-Al2O3 ceramics are a highly sought-after material with a multitude of applications; for example, they are used as filters, substrates, biomedicine materials, etc. Despite the availability of raw materials, a challenge associated with this technology is the high energy budget caused by sintering above 1500 °C. For the cold sintering processing (CSP) of ceramics, lowering the α-Al2O3 sintering temperature is one of the most urgent challenges in the background of its rapid development. This paper is the first to demonstrate a solution to this problem using the CSP of α-alumina ceramics in the presence of pure water as a transient liquid. The manufactured materials were examined using XRD analysis; the evolution of their microstructures during CSP was revealed by SEM; and the porosity was evaluated using the Archimedes method. Ceramics with an open porosity up to 36% were produced at 380–450 °C and 220 MPa in 30 min. An increase in the pressure was found to impede α-Al2O3 formation from γ-AlOOH. The development of the microstructure was discussed within the framework of the dissolution–precipitation model and homogenous nucleation. The results of the SEM study pointed to the coalescence of γ-AlOOH grains during CSP.
Excellent Energy Storage and Photovoltaic Performances in Bi0.45Na0.45Ba0.1TiO3-Based Lead-Free Ferroelectricity Thin Film
Authors: Wu Jianhua , Zhang Tiantian , Gao Xing , Ning Lei , Hu Yanhua , Lou Xiaojie , Liu Yunying , Sun Ningning , Li Yong
Published: August 2024

Inorganic dielectric films have attracted extensive attention in the field of microelectronic and electrical devices because of their wide operating temperature range, small size, and easy integration. Here, we designed and prepared eco-friendly (1-x)Bi0.45Na0.45Ba0.1TiO3-xBi(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3 multifunctional ferroelectric thin films for energy storage and photovoltaic. The results show that Bi(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3 can effectively improve the energy storage performance. At x = 0.05, the energy storage density and efficiency are as high as 73.1 J/cm3 and 86.2%, respectively, and can operate stably in a wide temperature range. The breakdown field strength of the thin films increased significantly, and the analysis showed that the addition of Bi(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3 caused a change in the internal conduction mechanism. At the same time, the generation of polar nanoregions increases the relaxation characteristics, thus improving the energy storage properties. In addition, the thin film material also has excellent ferroelectric photovoltaic properties. This work represents a new design paradigm that can serve as an effective strategy for developing advanced multi-functional materials.
Arsenic in Water: Understanding the Chemistry, Health Implications, Quantification and Removal Strategies
Authors: Chaudhary Muhammad Murtaza , Hussain Saqib , Du Chenyu , Conway Barbara R. , Ghori Muhammad Usman
Published: August 2024

Arsenic, the 20th most common element in Earth’s crust and historically regarded as the King of Poisons, occurs naturally in two oxidation states, Arsenate (V) and Arsenite (III), and is prevalent worldwide through natural and anthropogenic means. The cations of the metalloid exhibit unique chemical behaviour in water and are found to be components of approximately 245 natural minerals, making its occurrence in drinking water a compelling challenge, especially in groundwater. This comprehensive review collates information regarding the prevalence of arsenic contamination in water worldwide and its impact on human health, its chemical behaviour, methods for detection and quantification, and treatment strategies. A comprehensive search was conducted, and the selection of eligible studies was carried out using the PRISMA (the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses) guidelines. Essential characteristics of eligible research studies were extracted based on geographical areas, origins, concentration levels and the magnitude of populations vulnerable to arsenic contamination in groundwater sources. Arsenic contamination of water affects over 100 countries including Canada, the United States, Pakistan, China, India, Brazil and Bangladesh, where hydrogeological conditions favour prevalence and groundwater is the primary water source for food preparation, irrigation of food crops and drinking water. This leads to human exposure through absorption, ingestion and inhalation, causing numerous health disorders affecting nearly all systems within the human body, with acute and chronic toxicity including cancers. The presence of arsenic in water poses a considerable challenge to humanity, prompting scientists to devise diverse mitigation approaches categorized as (a) oxidation processes, (b) precipitation methods, (c) membrane technologies, (d) adsorption and ion exchange methods, and (e) social interventions. This comprehensive review is expected to be a valuable source for professionals in the water industry, public management, and policymaking, aiding their ongoing and future research and development efforts.
Impact of a Primary School Health Promotion Programme on Adolescents’ Health Behaviour and Well-Being
Authors: Nagy-Pénzes Gabriella , Vincze Ferenc , Víghné Arany Ágnes , Bíró Éva
Published: August 2024

Background/Objectives: Schools can play a key role in promoting health among adolescents, and Hungarian legislation gives them sufficient space to do so. In our study, we examined the impact of a multiyear school health promotion programme on pupils’ health behaviour and well-being. Methods: We carried out our investigation in an intervention and a control primary school in Hungary. All 5th and 7th grade pupils were invited to participate in the questionnaire-based survey between 2017 and 2021. The effect of the intervention was quantified using univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses. Results: Our results show that for those behaviours where pupils’ personal choices had a greater influence (unhealthy eating, smoking, screen time), the health promotion programme was more effective. For those behaviours where family background and parental influence were more pronounced (healthy eating, physical activity), the intervention had less impact. Self-perceived health was better in the 7th-grade intervention group. Conclusions: Our findings are in line with the conclusion of systematic reviews that more intensive, longer-term, multi-behavioural school health promotion programmes can be effective in promoting positive behaviour. To be more effective, it would be worth using a well-structured curriculum, well-developed teaching materials, and greater involvement of teachers, parents, and various local organisations.
Contributions of Artificial Intelligence to Analysis of Gut Microbiota in Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Systematic Review
Authors: Climent-Pérez Pau , Martínez-González Agustín Ernesto , Andreo-Martínez Pedro
Published: August 2024

Background: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a highly heterogeneous neurodevelopmental disorder whose etiology is not known today, but everything indicates that it is multifactorial. For example, genetic and epigenetic factors seem to be involved in the etiology of ASD. In recent years, there has been an increase in studies on the implications of gut microbiota (GM) on the behavior of children with ASD given that dysbiosis in GM may trigger the onset, development and progression of ASD through the microbiota–gut–brain axis. At the same time, significant progress has occurred in the development of artificial intelligence (AI). Methods: The aim of the present study was to perform a systematic review of articles using AI to analyze GM in individuals with ASD. In line with the PRISMA model, 12 articles using AI to analyze GM in ASD were selected. Results: Outcomes reveal that the majority of relevant studies on this topic have been conducted in China (33.3%) and Italy (25%), followed by the Netherlands (16.6%), Mexico (16.6%) and South Korea (8.3%). Conclusions: The bacteria Bifidobacterium is the most relevant biomarker with regard to ASD. Although AI provides a very promising approach to data analysis, caution is needed to avoid the over-interpretation of preliminary findings. A first step must be taken to analyze GM in a representative general population and ASD samples in order to obtain a GM standard according to age, sex and country. Thus, more work is required to bridge the gap between AI in mental health research and clinical care in ASD.
The Mechanical Behavior of High-Strength Concrete-Filled Steel Tubes: A Review
Authors: Pinto Clemente , Fonseca João
Published: August 2024

This review explores the mechanical behavior of high-strength concrete-filled steel tubes (CFSTs), focusing on their structural integrity and failure mechanisms. This study highlights the crucial role of the steel tube in providing passive confinement, which limits crack progression and enhances the ductility of the concrete. The concept of concrete as a structural system composed of micro- and mini-pillars, derived from rock mechanics, can be a useful approach to understanding CFST behavior. The review identifies that the strength index (SI) can, in some cases, decrease with an increase in the confinement factor (ξ), particularly in high-strength and ultrahigh-strength concrete (HSC and UHSC), which seems to be different to the common understanding of confinement. The experimental results show that different crack patterns and concrete compositions significantly impact the CFST performance. For example, silica fume in concrete mixtures can reduce the strength enhancement despite increasing the unconfined compressive strength. This work advocates for a mechanistic approach to better comprehend the interaction between concrete and steel tubes, emphasizing the need for optimized concrete mixtures and improved mechanical interaction. Future research should focus on the potential of HSC and UHSC in CFST, addressing factors such as crack progression, confinement effects, and concrete–steel interaction.