bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Segment Shards: Cross-Prompt Adversarial Attacks against the Segment Anything Model
Authors: Huang Shize , Fan Qianhui , Zhang Zhaoxin , Liu Xiaowen , Song Guanqun , Qin Jinzhe
Published: April 2024

Foundation models play an increasingly pivotal role in the field of deep neural networks. Given that deep neural networks are widely used in real-world systems and are generally susceptible to adversarial attacks, securing foundation models becomes a key research issue. However, research on adversarial attacks against the Segment Anything Model (SAM), a visual foundation model, is still in its infancy. In this paper, we propose the prompt batch attack (PBA), which can effectively attack SAM, making it unable to capture valid objects or even generate fake shards. Extensive experiments were conducted to compare the adversarial attack performance among optimizing without prompts, optimizing all prompts, and optimizing batches of prompts as in PBA. Numerical results on multiple datasets show that the cross-prompt attack success rate (ASR∗) of the PBA method is 17.83% higher on average, and the attack success rate (ASR) is 20.84% higher. It is proven that PBA possesses the best attack capability as well as the highest cross-prompt transferability. Additionally, we introduce a metric to evaluate the cross-prompt transferability of adversarial attacks, effectively fostering research on cross-prompt attacks. Our work unveils the pivotal role of the batched prompts technique in cross-prompt adversarial attacks, marking an early and intriguing exploration into this area against SAM.
A Flexible Hardware Accelerator for Booth Polynomial Multiplier
Authors: Sonbul Omar S.
Published: April 2024

This article presents a parameterized/flexible hardware accelerator design tailored for the Booth polynomial multiplication method. The flexibility is achieved by allowing users to compute multiplication operations across various operand lengths, reaching up to 212 or 4096 bits. Our optimization strategy involves resource reuse, effectively minimizing the overall area cost of the Booth accelerator design. A comprehensive evaluation compares the proposed multiplier design with several non-digitized bit-serial polynomial multiplication accelerators. Implementation is realized in Verilog HDL using the Vivado IDE tool, featuring diverse operand sizes, and post-place and route assessments are performed on the Xilinx Virtex-7 field-programmable gate array device. For the largest considered operand size of 1024 × 1024, our Booth accelerator utilizes 1434 slices and can operate on a maximum frequency of 523.56 MHz. A single polynomial multiplication operation requires 0.977 μs and the total power consumption is 927 mW. Moreover, a comparison to state-of-the-art accelerators reveals that the proposed flexible accelerator is 1.34× faster in computation time and 1.05× more area-efficient than the recent dedicated polynomial multiplication design. Therefore, the implementation results and comparison to the state of the art show that the proposed accelerator is suitable for a wide range of cryptographic applications.
Solid Foam Insertion to Increase PCM-Based Thermal Energy Storage System Efficiency: Experimental Test and Numerical Simulation of Spherical Macrocapsules
Authors: Menale Carla , Mancino Antonio Nicolò , Vellucci Francesco , Bubbico Roberto
Published: April 2024

Phase change materials (PCMs) are an interesting solution to increase the efficiency of thermal energy storage (TES) systems. The present work explores, with an experimental and computational study, the behavior of a paraffin wax encapsulated in a spherical containment system during the melting and solidification phases. The experimental tests were conducted by immersing the spherical capsule in a thermostatic water bath at different temperatures and measuring the temperatures at four different points inside the capsule. A two-dimensional CFD model of the sphere was then applied to investigate the effect of the insertion of a solid foam into the sphere to increase the system’s responsiveness under demanding conditions. In addition, an analysis of the solidification process considering two different wall materials (HDPE and aluminum) with different thermal conductivity was performed. The results suggest that embedded foams can represent a useful tool to increase the efficiency of a PCM-based TES, but, at the same time, they also highlight that a considerable increase in thermal conductivity is required to achieve significant advantages with respect to pure PCM systems.
Analysis of Soil–Water Characteristic Curve and Microstructure of Undisturbed Loess
Authors: Tan Ye , Dai Fuchu , Zhao Zhiqiang , Zhou Jian , Cheng Wei
Published: April 2024

Long-term irrigation promotes the infiltration of water in the thick, stratified loess layer, significantly raising the groundwater table and triggering a series of landslides in loess platform areas. The soil–water characteristic curve (SWCC) of loess buried at different depths affects the unsaturated infiltration process and is intricately connected to the soil’s microstructure. The SWCCs, scanning electron microscope (SEMs), and pore size distributions (PSDs) for five sets of undisturbed loess samples at depths ranging from 3.4 to 51.9 m are shown in this paper. The results indicate that the fitting parameter air entry value (AEV) of the SWCC rises from 13.67 kPa to 40.19 kPa as the depth increases from 3.4 to 51.9 m. And the saturated volumetric water content drops by 10.9%, with a notable SWCC shape difference between the transition and residual zones observed. Additionally, the total porosity of undisturbed loess falls by 12% when the depth increases from 3.4 to 51.9 m, while the macropores and mesopores reduce by 3.6% and 12.1%, respectively. These findings highlight the control of the pore structure on the SWCC and emphasize the correspondence between the SWCC and PSD. The conclusions also illustrate that the compaction effect changes the microstructure characteristics of loess, thereby affecting the soil’s water retention behavior.
Prevalence Distribution of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) in the City of Osorno (Chile) in 2018, and Its Association with Fine Particulate Matter PM2.5 Air Pollution
Authors: Fernández Ricardo , Peña Romina , Bravo-Alvarado Jaime , Maisey Kevin R. , Reyes Edison P. , Ruiz-Plaza De Los Reyes Daniel , Márquez-Reyes Rodrigo
Published: April 2024

Outdoor air pollution and biomass smoke exposure are related to the prevalence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Since Osorno, Chile, is saturated with fine particulate matter (PM2.5), the aim of this work is to determine the prevalence distribution of COPD patients in the Primary Health Care (PHC) system in the city of Osorno, and its relationship with PM2.5. A cross-sectional descriptive study was carried out on COPD patients enrolled in the six PHC centers (PHCCs) of the city to assess the adjusted prevalence (population over 40 years). Gender- and territory-associated odds ratios (ORs) were also determined. In addition, an urban analysis of the distribution of PM2.5 and an exploratory analysis of the spatial behavior of enrolled COPD patients through featured binning were carried out. In 2018, the city of Osorno had 809 enrolled COPD patients in the PHC system (55.1% female), with a 1.3% age-adjusted prevalence (inhabitants over 40 years old), which was 11.7% after underdiagnosis correction. The COPD patients were mainly between 70 and 79 years old (34.3%). The urban area under the administration of the PHCC Rahue Alto (PHCC-RA) had a higher OR (1.98 [1.73–2.26]) compared to the situation of the city. Also, air pollution (PM2.5) was the highest in the PHCC-RA area, which could account for the observed prevalence. The number of COPD patients in this area is the highest in the commune, which increases the risk of complications derived from the disease and air pollution. Thus, territories with the highest COPD prevalence have the largest OR, which could complicate patients’ condition due to the high levels of outdoor air pollution.
The Impact of the Hunga Tonga–Hunga Ha’apai Volcanic Eruption on the Stratospheric Environment
Authors: Sun Qian , Lu Taojun , Li Dan , Xu Jingyuan
Published: April 2024

In this study, an overview of two years of research findings concerning the 2022 Hunga Tonga–Hunga Ha’apai (HTHH) volcanic eruption in the stratospheric environment is provided, focusing on water vapor, aerosols, and ozone. Additionally, the potential impacts of these changes on aviation equipment materials are discussed. The HTHH volcanic eruption released a large amount of particles (e.g., ash and ice) and gases (e.g., H2O, SO2, and HCl), significantly affecting the redistribution of stratospheric water vapor and aerosols. Stratospheric water vapor increased by approximately 140–150 Tg (8–10%), with a concentration peak observed in the height range of 22.2–27 km (38–17 hPa). Satellite measurements indicate that the HTHH volcano injected approximately 0.2–0.5 Tg of sulfur dioxide into the stratosphere, which was partially converted into sulfate aerosols. In-situ observations revealed that the volcanic aerosols exhibit hygroscopic characteristics, with particle sizes ranging from 0.22–0.42 μm under background conditions to 0.42–1.27 μm. The moist stratospheric conditions increased the aerosol surface area, inducing heterogeneous chlorine chemical reactions on the aerosol surface, resulting in stratospheric ozone depletion in the HTHH plume within one week. In addition, atmospheric disturbances and ionospheric disruptions triggered by volcanic eruptions may adversely affect aircraft and communication systems. Further research is required to understand the evolution of volcanic aerosols and the impact of volcanic activity on aviation equipment materials.
The Spatiotemporal Evolution of the Growing Degree Days Agroclimatic Index for Viticulture over the Northern Mediterranean Basin
Authors: Charalampopoulos Ioannis , Polychroni Iliana , Droulia Fotoula , Nastos Panagiotis T.
Published: April 2024

The agricultural sector faces significant challenges worldwide due to climate change. The pressure exerted by altered thermal conditions drives the zonal shift for various cultivations. This study aims to analyze and present the spatiotemporal evolution of the growing degree days (GDD) index in the northern Mediterranean Basin (NMB). More specifically, this research presents the multiyear analysis of the GDD index, which is focused on a high-value vine cultivation derived from the E-OBS dataset. The investigated time period spans from 1969 to 2018, and the performed analysis indicates a broad shift/expansion in areas with GDDs exceeding 2000 heat units. This is present in traditional winemaker countries such as France and Italy. Still, it is also evident that there is a high positive change in countries such as Serbia, Bulgaria, and other Balkans countries. The findings may be helpful in the strategic planning of the agricultural sector in these countries or on a vinery scale.
Impact of Climate Change on Extreme Rainfall Events and Pluvial Flooding Risk in the Vojvodina Region (North Serbia)
Authors: Bezdan Jovana , Bezdan Atila , Blagojević Boško , Antić Sanja , Greksa Amela , Milić Dragan , Lipovac Aleksa
Published: April 2024

Extreme precipitation events, which are common natural hazards, are expected to increase in frequency due to global warming, leading to various types of floods, including pluvial floods. In this study, we investigated the probabilities of maximum 3-day precipitation amount (Rx3day) occurrences during spring in the Vojvodina region, covering both past (1971–2019) and future (2020–2100) periods. We utilized an ensemble of eight downscaled, bias-corrected regional climate models from the EURO-CORDEX project database, selecting the RCP8.5 scenario to examine future Rx3day amounts. The probabilities of occurrences of Rx3day were modeled using the GEV distribution, while the number of events where Rx3day in spring exceeds specific thresholds was modeled using the Poisson distribution. The results indicate that Rx3day with a ten-year return period during the spring months is expected to increase by 19% to 33%. Additionally, the probabilities of having more than one event where Rx3day exceeds thresholds are projected to rise by 105.6% to 200.0% in the future compared to the historical period. The analysis comparing the design values of Rx3day with future projections for the period 2020–2100 revealed that 51 drainage systems are likely to function without difficulties under future climate conditions. However, for the remaining 235 drainage systems, an increased risk of pluvial flooding was identified, as their design precipitation amounts are lower than the future projections. This study reveals that analyzing extreme rainfall events in the context of climate change yields crucial information that facilitates effective planning and policy making in water management, particularly flood protection.
Comparison of Polymerase Chain Reaction and Urine Culture in the Evaluation of Patients with Complex Urinary Tract Infections
Authors: Kapoor Deepak A. , Holton Mara R. , Hafron Jason , Aljundi Rima , Zwaans Bernadette , Hollander Mitchell
Published: April 2024

To compare organism identification using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and urine culture (UC) in patients with complex urinary tract infections (cUTIs), we reviewed the results of 3395 patients seen during 2022 with cUTI who underwent concomitant PCR and UC testing. We compared the overall positivity rates as well as the ability of each test to identify fastidious organisms (FOs) and the presence of polymicrobial infections (PMOs) and conducted concordance analysis between the tests. PCR detected 36.4% more organisms than UC and was 20 and nearly 36 times more likely to detect PMOs and FOs, respectively. PCR identified 90.6% of organisms found in UC, whereas UC identified 40.7% of organisms found in PCR testing. We found that 62.4% of organisms found in PCR were not found in urine culture, while UC found 9.4% of organisms not identified in polymerase chain reaction. All these differences were statistically significant (p < 0.05). Although we found that PCR was superior to UC in overall pathogen detection, and detection of both PMOs and FOs, both identified potentially pathogenic organisms not found in the corresponding test. Our data strongly suggest that the evaluation of patients with cUTI is best accomplished using PCR in conjunction with UC.
Activation of Cryptochrome 4 from Atlantic Herring
Authors: Frederiksen Anders , Aldag Mandus , Solov’yov Ilia A. , Gerhards Luca
Published: April 2024

Marine fish migrate long distances up to hundreds or even thousands of kilometers for various reasons that include seasonal dependencies, feeding, or reproduction. The ability to perceive the geomagnetic field, called magnetoreception, is one of the many mechanisms allowing some fish to navigate reliably in the aquatic realm. While it is believed that the photoreceptor protein cryptochrome 4 (Cry4) is the key component for the radical pair-based magnetoreception mechanism in night migratory songbirds, the Cry4 mechanism in fish is still largely unexplored. The present study aims to investigate properties of the fish Cry4 protein in order to understand the potential involvement in a radical pair-based magnetoreception. Specifically, a computationally reconstructed atomistic model of Cry4 from the Atlantic herring (Clupea harengus) was studied employing classical molecular dynamics (MD) and quantum mechanics/molecular mechanics (QM/MM) methods to investigate internal electron transfers and the radical pair formation. The QM/MM simulations reveal that electron transfers occur similarly to those found experimentally and computationally in Cry4 from European robin (Erithacus rubecula). It is therefore plausible that the investigated Atlantic herring Cry4 has the physical and chemical properties to form radical pairs that in turn could provide fish with a radical pair-based magnetic field compass sensor.
Bactericidal Permeability-Increasing Protein (BPI) Inhibits Mycobacterium tuberculosis Growth
Authors: Guzmán-Beltrán Silvia , Juárez Esmeralda , Cruz-Muñoz Brenda L. , Páez-Cisneros Cesar A. , Sarabia Carmen , González Yolanda
Published: April 2024

Bactericidal permeability-increasing protein (BPI) is a multifunctional cationic protein produced by neutrophils, eosinophils, fibroblasts, and macrophages with antibacterial anti-inflammatory properties. In the context of Gram-negative infection, BPI kills bacteria, neutralizes the endotoxic activity of lipopolysaccharides (LPSs), and, thus, avoids immune hyperactivation. Interestingly, BPI increases in patients with Gram-positive meningitis, interacts with lipopeptides and lipoteichoic acids of Gram-positive bacteria, and significantly enhances the immune response in peripheral blood mononuclear cells. We evaluated the antimycobacterial and immunoregulatory properties of BPI in human macrophages infected with Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Our results showed that recombinant BPI entered macrophages, significantly reduced the intracellular growth of M. tuberculosis, and inhibited the production of the proinflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α). Furthermore, BPI decreased bacterial growth directly in vitro. These data suggest that BPI has direct and indirect bactericidal effects inhibiting bacterial growth and potentiating the immune response in human macrophages and support that this new protein’s broad-spectrum antibacterial activity has the potential for fighting tuberculosis.
Analysis of Pollination Process between Flowers and Honeybees to Derive Insights for the Design of Microrobots
Authors: Sundar Pratap Sriram , Chowdhury Chandan , Kamarthi Sagar
Published: April 2024

Pollination is a crucial ecological process with far-reaching impacts on natural and agricultural systems. Approximately 85% of flowering plants depend on animal pollinators for successful reproduction. Over 75% of global food crops rely on pollinators, making them indispensable for sustaining human populations. Wind, water, insects, birds, bats, mammals, amphibians, and mollusks accomplish the pollination process. The design features of flowers and pollinators in angiosperms make the pollination process functionally effective and efficient. In this paper, we analyze the design aspects of the honeybee-enabled flower pollination process using the axiomatic design methodology. We tabulate functional requirements (FRs) of flower and honeybee components and map them onto nature-chosen design parameters (DPs). We apply the “independence axiom” of the axiomatic design methodology to identify couplings and to evaluate if the features of a flower and a honeybee form a good design (i.e., uncoupled design) or an underperforming design (i.e., coupled design). We also apply the axiomatic design methodology’s “information axiom” to assess the pollination process’s robustness and reliability. Through this exploration, we observed that the pollination process is not only a good design but also a robust design. This approach to assessing whether nature’s processes are good or bad designs can be valuable for biomimicry studies. This approach can also inform design considerations for bio-inspired innovations such as microrobots.
Electronic Tongues and Noses: A General Overview
Authors: Tibaduiza Diego , Anaya Maribel , Gómez Johan , Sarmiento Juan , Perez Maria , Lara Cristhian , Ruiz Johan , Osorio Nicolas , Rodriguez Katerin , Hernandez Isaac , Sanchez Carlos
Published: April 2024

As technology advances, electronic tongues and noses are becoming increasingly important in various industries. These devices can accurately detect and identify different substances and gases based on their chemical composition. This can be incredibly useful in fields such as environmental monitoring and industrial food applications, where the quality and safety of products or ecosystems should be ensured through a precise analysis. Traditionally, this task is performed by an expert panel or by using laboratory tests but sometimes becomes a bottleneck because of time and other human factors that can be solved with technologies such as the provided by electronic tongue and nose devices. Additionally, these devices can be used in medical diagnosis, quality monitoring, and even in the automotive industry to detect gas leaks. The possibilities are endless, and as these technologies continue to improve, they will undoubtedly play an increasingly important role in improving our lives and ensuring our safety. Because of the multiple applications and developments in this field in the last years, this work will present an overview of the electronic tongues and noses from the point of view of the approaches developed and the methodologies used in the data analysis and steps to this aim. In the same manner, this work shows some of the applications that can be found in the use of these devices and ends with some conclusions about the current state of these technologies.
Live Cell Monitoring of Separase Activity, a Key Enzymatic Reaction for Chromosome Segregation, with Chimeric FRET-Based Molecular Sensor upon Cell Cycle Progression
Authors: Rahman Md. Shazadur , Shindo Yutaka , Oka Kotaro , Ikeda Wataru , Suzuki Miho
Published: April 2024

Separase is a key cysteine protease in the separation of sister chromatids through the digestion of the cohesin ring that inhibits chromosome segregation as a trigger of the metaphase–anaphase transition in eukaryotes. Its activity is highly regulated by binding with securin and cyclinB-CDK1 complex. These bindings prevent the proteolytic activity of separase until the onset of anaphase. Chromosome missegregation and aneuploidy are frequently observed in malignancies. However, there are some difficulties in biochemical examinations due to the instability of separase in vitro and the fact that few spatiotemporal resolution approaches exist for monitoring live separase activity throughout mitotic processes. Here, we have developed FRET-based molecular sensors, including GFP variants, with separase-cleavable sequences as donors and covalently attached fluorescent dyes as acceptor molecules. These are applicable to conventional live cell imaging and flow cytometric analysis because of efficient live cell uptake. We investigated the performance of equivalent molecular sensors, either localized or not localized inside the nucleus under cell cycle control, using flow cytometry. Synchronized cell cycle progression rendered significant separase activity detections in both molecular sensors. We obtained consistent outcomes with localized molecular sensor introduction and cell cycle control by fluorescent microscopic observations. We thus established live cell separase activity monitoring systems that can be used specifically or statistically, which could lead to the elucidation of separase properties in detail.
Enhanced Detection of Estrogen-like Compounds by Genetically Engineered Yeast Sensor Strains
Authors: Abu-Rmailah Nidaa , Moscovici Liat , Riegraf Carolin , Atias Hadas , Buchinger Sebastian , Reifferscheid Georg , Belkin Shimshon
Published: April 2024

The release of endocrine-disrupting compounds (EDCs) to the environment poses a health hazard to both humans and wildlife. EDCs can activate or inhibit endogenous endocrine functions by binding hormone receptors, leading to potentially adverse effects. Conventional analytical methods can detect EDCs at a high sensitivity and precision, but are blind to the biological activity of the detected compounds. To overcome this limitation, yeast-based bioassays have previously been developed as a pre-screening method, providing an effect-based overview of hormonal-disruptive activity within the sample prior to the application of analytical methods. These yeast biosensors express human endocrine-specific receptors, co-transfected with the relevant response element fused to the specific fluorescent protein reporter gene. We describe several molecular manipulations of the sensor/reporter circuit in a Saccharomyces cerevisiae bioreporter strain that have yielded an enhanced detection of estrogenic-like compounds. Improved responses were displayed both in liquid culture (96-well plate format) as well as in conjunction with sample separation using high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC). The latter approach allows for an assessment of the biological effect of individual sample components without the need for their chemical identification at the screening stage.
Physical and Mental Health Characteristics of Hospitalized COVID-19 Patients with and without Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in Turkey
Authors: Bener Abdulbari , Atmaca Murat , Al-Hamaq Abdulla O. A. A. , Ventriglio Antonio
Published: April 2024

The aim of this study was to assess the rates of depression, anxiety, and stress and quality of sleeping among COVID-19 patients with and without type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). A case and control design has been employed, involving patients affected by COVID-19 infection (884 with T2DM vs. 884 controls without T2DM) and hospitalized in Istanbul (Turkey) from January to December 2021. A multivariate stepwise regression approach was used to test the associations between sociodemographic, metabolic, serum markers, mental health scores, and T2DM/COVID-19 patients’ clinical presentation. A statistically significant difference between T2DM and non-T2DM was found with respect to age, gender, BMI (body mass index), smoking, physical exercise, and physical comorbidities as well as levels of depression, anxiety, stress, and sleeping disorders (0.0003 ≤ all p = 0.025). With regard to serum biomarkers, vitamin D and ferritin were identified as useful parameters of reduction of glycated hemoglobin as well as COVID-19 infection among T2DM patients. This study detected that 25% of patients with COVID-19 and T2DM experienced mental distress, with sleeping disturbances and lifestyle changes markedly impacting their clinical outcome alongside metabolic and serum parameters.
Prevalence and Correlates of the Concurrence of Autism Spectrum Disorder and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder in Children and Adolescents: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Aymerich Claudia , Pacho Malein , Catalan Ana , Yousaf Noorulain , Pérez-Rodríguez Violeta , Hollocks Matthew J. , Parellada Mara , Krebs Georgina , Clark Bruce , Salazar de Pablo Gonzalo
Published: April 2024

Background: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) are two common and impairing neurodevelopmental conditions with partial symptomatic overlap. The aim of this study is to systematically and meta-analytically examine the following: (i) the prevalence of an OCD diagnosis among young people with ASD, (ii) the prevalence of an ASD diagnosis among young people with OCD, and (iii) the clinical and therapeutic implications of such comorbidity. Method: A multistep literature search was performed from database inception until 17 November 2023. This PRISMA/MOOSE-compliant systematic review, registered in PROSPERO (CRD42023480543), identified studies reporting on the prevalence, sociodemographic, psychopathologic, prognostic, and therapeutic correlates of OCD and ASD concurrence in children and adolescents. A quantitative meta-analysis with random effects was conducted to analyse the pooled prevalence of OCD among samples with a mean age of < 18 years old with ASD and the prevalence of ASD among individuals under 18 with OCD. Sensitivity analyses were performed to investigate the effect of diagnostic criteria and different continents. Meta-regression analyses were conducted to examine the effect of gender, age, IQ, and OCD severity scores. A narrative review of the clinical and therapeutical implications of the comorbidity was provided. Results: 42 studies were selected for the systematic review (SR), and 31 of them were also included in one of the meta-analyses. The pooled prevalence of OCD among ASD youth samples (n = 8916, mean age = 10.6 ± 1.6; 16.4% female) was 11.6% (95% confidence intervals [CI] = 6.9%; 18.8%), and the pooled prevalence of ASD among OCD children and adolescent samples (n = 6209, mean age = 14.1 ± 1.4; 45.7% female) was 9.5% (95% CI = 6.0%; 14.7%). Meta-regressions found a statistically higher prevalence of ASD among samples with a lower prevalence of females (β = −4.7; 95%CI = −8.6; −0.8). Children with both OCD and ASD present higher rates of functional impairment, psychopathology, and other comorbidities, compared to youth with either of the disorders alone. Conclusions: OCD and ASD are highly concurrent conditions in youth, with symptomatic, prognostic, severity, and therapeutic implications. Future research should focus on conducting longitudinal cohort studies prospectively to determine development trajectories, along with randomized controlled trials to assess the efficacy of specific therapeutic interventions.
The Role of p38 Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase-Mediated F-Actin in the Acupuncture-Induced Mitigation of Inflammatory Pain in Arthritic Rats
Authors: Zhou Xu , Zhang Yu-Chen , Lu Kai-Qiu , Xiao Ran , Tang Wen-Chao , Wang Fan
Published: April 2024

The analgesic efficacy of acupuncture has been widely recognized. However, the mechanism by which manual acupuncture-generated mechanical stimuli translate into biological signals remains unclear. This study employed a CFA-induced inflammatory pain rat model. Acupuncture intervention was then performed following standardized procedures. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) assessed inflammatory cytokines levels, while immunofluorescence and qRT-PCR screened the level of p38 and F-actin expression in the ST36 acupoint area of rats. Results indicated increased inflammatory factors, including IL-1β and TNFα, with reduced paw withdrawal mechanical threshold (PWMT) and paw withdrawal thermal latency (PWTL) in CFA rats compared to unmodeled rats. After acupuncture intervention, the heightened expression level of F-actin and p38 mRNA and the phosphorylation of p38 in the acupoint area was observed alongside decreased inflammatory factors in diseased ankle joints. The application of lifting and thrusting manipulations further enhanced the effect of acupuncture, in which the molecular expression level of muscle and connective tissue increased most significantly, indicating that these two tissues play a major role in the transformation of acupuncture stimulation. Moreover, antagonizing p38 expression hindered acupuncture efficacy, supporting the hypothesis that p38 MAPK-mediated F-actin transduces mechanical signals generated by acupuncture and related manipulation into biological signals.
Interplay among Anxiety, Digital Environmental Exposure, and Cognitive Control: Implications of Natural Settings
Authors: Benedetti Viola , Giganti Fiorenza , Cotugno Maria , Noferini Chiara , Gavazzi Gioele , Gronchi Giorgio , Righi Stefania , Meneguzzo Francesco , Becheri Francesco Riccardo , Li Qing , Viggiano Maria Pia
Published: April 2024

Inhibitory control performance may differ greatly as a function of individual differences such as anxiety. Nonetheless, how cognitive control proficiency might be influenced by exposure to various environments and how anxiety traits might impact these effects remain unexplored. A cohort of thirty healthy volunteers participated in the study. Participants performed a Go/No-Go task before exposure to a ‘forest’ and ‘urban’ virtual environment, in a counterbalanced design, before repeating the GNG task. The State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) was finally filled-in. Our findings unveiled an initial negative correlation between anxiety trait levels and GNG task performance, consistent with the established literature attributing difficulties in inhibitory functionality to anxiety. Additionally, different environmental exposures reported opposite trends. Exposure to the ‘forest’ environment distinctly improved the GNG performance in relation to anxiety traits, while the ‘urban’ setting demonstrated adverse effects on task performance. These results underscore the intricate relationship among cognitive control, environmental exposure, and trait anxiety. In particular, our findings highlight the potential of natural settings, such as forests, to mitigate the impact of anxiety on inhibition. This might have implications for interventions aimed at improving cognitive control.
The Effects of Peer Competition-Induced Anxiety on Massive Open Online Course Learning: The Mediating Role of the Behavioral Inhibition System
Authors: Liu Cui , Fang Mengzhen , Wang Min , Wu Yifang , Chen Wen , Cheng Yahua
Published: April 2024

With the increased emphasis on competition in academic settings, anxiety is becoming more common, which inevitably has some impact on students’ learning processes and results. This study aimed to explore how competition-induced anxiety influences students’ subjective cognitive load (SCL), attention levels, and test scores. We also investigated the mediating role of the behavioral inhibition system/behavioral activation system (BIS/BAS) in those factors. A total of 101 college students were recruited in Study 1 to learn from five micro-lectures from massive open online courses (MOOCs) under competitive and non-competitive conditions. The results showed that participants’ state anxiety (SA) scores were higher after the experiment, participants under the competition condition had higher test scores, and the relationship between SA/ trait anxiety (TA) and SCL could be mediated by the BIS. To obtain more objective data on learning processes (attention levels), we conducted Study 2, which collected behavioral and EEG data from 42 college students during the online learning. The results showed that the competition group had higher SA, lower attention levels, and worse test scores, and the relationship between SA/TA and attention levels could be mediated through the BIS. The present study not only expands previous research by finding that BIS functioning plays an important role in the effects of anxiety on cognitive load and attention but also offers implications for using competitive strategies to motivate students according to their aptitudes.
A Recovery-Oriented Approach: Application of Metacognitive Reflection and Insight Therapy (MERIT) for Youth with Clinical High Risk (CHR) for Psychosis
Authors: Leonhardt Bethany L. , Visco Andrew C. , Hamm Jay A. , Vohs Jenifer L.
Published: April 2024

Clinical High Risk for psychosis (CHR) refers to a phase of heightened risk for developing overt psychosis. CHR often emerges during adolescence or early adulthood. CHR has been identified as a group to target for intervention, with the hope that early intervention can both stave off prolonged suffering and intervene before mental health challenges become part of an individual’s identity. However, there are few treatment modalities that can address some of the specific needs of CHR. Metacognitive Reflection and Insight Therapy (MERIT) is an integrative psychotherapy that can be applied to the CHR population. MERIT offers unique advantages to working with the CHR population as it aims to improve self-direction and recovery through stimulation of metacognitive capacity, a phenomenon that has been associated with recovery. This paper explores unique aspects of the CHR population and how MERIT can address barriers to recovery for individuals experiencing psychosis-like symptoms. Several case examples and a clinical vignette using MERIT to support patients with CHR are offered to exemplify this approach. MERIT offers a way to assist persons with CHR to address barriers to their personal recovery and to develop nuanced understandings of ways to master challenges.
Needs of Family Caregivers of People with Lower Limb Amputations: A Scoping Review
Authors: Rodrigues Diana , Silva Rosa , Castanheira Sofia , Carvalho Luís , Pinto Cristina
Published: April 2024

Lower limb amputation affects several parameters of a patient’s life. Family caregivers providing care for these patients experience multiple feelings and needs; knowing caregivers’ needs is essential to prepare them for this new role, as well as the health planning of this type of care. This scoping review aimed to identify and map the needs of family caregivers of people with lower limb amputations. This scoping review was conducted in accordance with the JBI methodological framework and the PRISMA-ScR reporting guidelines. A bibliographical search was carried out on the needs of family caregivers of lower limb amputees in 15 databases. Two independent reviewers extracted data using a data extraction tool developed for this scoping review. Eight studies were included in the present review (n = 6 quantitative studies; n = 2 reviews). Results indicate that family caregivers of people with lower limb amputations may experience an extensive range of needs, as follows: (i) mental health and psychological support, (ii) physical health, (iii) health and well-being, (iv) supportive care, (v) social support, and (vi) educational/informational support. The needs identified in this review can help to develop interventions and programs that provide better support during the situational transition process.
Effects of Physical Activity on Cognition, Behavior, and Motor Skills in Youth with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Systematic Review of Intervention Studies
Authors: Suárez-Manzano Sara , Ruiz-Ariza Alberto , de Loureiro Nuno Eduardo Marques , Martínez-López Emilio J.
Published: April 2024

The aim of this paper was to analyze the acute and chronic effects of physical activity (PA) on cognition, behavior, and motor skill in youth with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), taking into account potential confounders. In addition, it was intended to elaborate a guide of educational applications with strategies for PA use. Studies were identified in four databases from January 2010 to June 2023. A total of 19 interventional studies met the inclusion criteria. PA programs ranged from two weeks to one year in duration, with a frequency of one to five sessions per week. More than 58% of the studies showed positive effects of PA on cognition, and 45.5% on behavior and motor skill. Moderate–vigorous PA for 15–30 min has shown acute effects on cognition, general behavior, and stereotypic/repetitive behaviors in youth with ASD. A total of 9 out of 14 studies showed chronic effects on general behavior and stereotypic behaviors, and only 6 on motor skills.
Appraising the Feasibility of 3D Printing Construction in New Zealand Housing
Authors: Khan Mohammad , Dani Aflah Alamsah , Lim James B. P. , Roy Krishanu
Published: April 2024

The construction industry in New Zealand is significantly impacted by the importance of housing, particularly as urbanisation continues to grow in major cities. Modern construction methods, such as offsite construction and building automation, evolving into digital manufacturing and construction in the industry, have become prominent. Despite the global recognition of 3D printing technology, its adoption in the construction industry in New Zealand is still relatively limited. This study aims to examine the feasibility of 3D printing construction in response to current market challenges, innovation, and the 2050 net-zero carbon goal. Utilising Building Information Modelling (BIM) and Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) approaches, this study investigated the environmental impacts of three housing types: 3D printing (3DP), light steel framed (LSF), and timber. This study used cradle-to-cradle as the system boundary. The results indicate that the 3DP house emits 20% fewer carbon emissions than the traditional timber house and 25% less than the LSF house. Additionally, the 3DP house exhibits a 19% lower annual electric energy consumption than the timber house. Therefore, in response to the growing housing demand in New Zealand, the construction industry must innovate and embrace digital and advanced construction methods, including the adoption of 3D printing.
Genetic Algorithm-Driven Optimization of Pattern for Parametric Facade Design Based on Support Position Data to Increase Visual Quality
Authors: Rezakhani Mojgan , Kim Sung-Ah
Published: April 2024

One of the most critical challenges for architects in façade design is providing an effective view from the indoors to the outdoors of a building for users, although the main role of the parametric façade is covering openings to control daylight and temperature. This study uses a genetic algorithm to optimize and evaluate the number and place of nodes and the position of supports required for a parametric façade based on the geometric patterns. Using the dataset with genetic algorithms is effective in reducing or replacing the nodes and supports of the façade. It also creates broader and irregular patterns just around the windows, which decreases the visual disturbance experienced by occupants. Accordingly, optimal building facade operation in terms of both building aesthetics and performance is important. The method used in this study, validated through three geometric grid patterns based on node positions, can be used to analyze dataset-incorporated patterns for potential irregular façade extensions. The nodes are considered by analyzing the cross-section optimization using the Galapagos program, and then data are obtained with Karamba based on reaction force, node force, and the deformation energy. The results show that among the three grid patterns, i.e., triangular, square, and hexagonal, the hexagonal grid is most efficient, exhibiting up to 60% lower reaction force, 40% lower node force, and 30% less deformation energy than the square grid pattern. The proposed GA also shows its effectiveness in enhancing the performance of parametric façades with patterns, thereby improving the occupants’ visual experience.
An Investigation on the Seismic Behavior of the End-Plate Connection between a Steel Beam and the Weak-Axis of an H-Shaped Column Using a U-Shaped Connector
Authors: Nie Shaofeng , Chen Siyuan , Wu Weijie , Jiang Xin , Wang Shuo , Lin Yongzhen , Liu Mengxue
Published: April 2024

The seismic behavior of the end-plate connections between a steel beam and the weak axis of the H-shaped steel column using a U-shaped connector was investigated using numerical analysis. Finite element (FE) models were established using ABAQUS 6.14 software, and the applicability of the modeling approach was verified by comparing the numerical results with the relevant experimental results. This parametric study of the joint was carried out to analyze the effects of the thickness of the U-shaped connectors, the thickness of the end-plates, the axial compression ratio of the columns, and the linear stiffness ratio of the beam to the column. The results show that the U-shaped connector set in the weak axis of the H-shaped column can form a box-shaped panel zone with the column flange and web. The volume of the panel zone and its resistance to shear deformation are increased through this connection. Finally, the recommended reasonable ranges for the thickness of the U-shaped connector, the thickness of the end-plates, the axial compression ratio of the columns, and the linear stiffness ratio of the beam to the column are proposed in this paper.
Impact of Insulation Strategies of Cross-Laminated Timber Assemblies on Energy Use, Peak Demand, and Carbon Emissions
Authors: Salonvaara Mikael , Desjarlais André
Published: April 2024

Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) panels have many structural benefits but do not have much thermal resistance. We have developed a solution to insulate CLT structures that uses high-performance insulation panels that provide R-values up to R40/inch. The CLT panels are made of layers of wood laminates (three, five, seven or more). The solution replaces some of the wood laminates in the CLT production with the insulation panels in a staggered fashion so that the wood laminates maintain contact throughout the panel, ensuring the CLT panel’s structural integrity. The insulated CLT panels have factory-installed water-resistive barriers reducing the installation time by eliminating installing insulation and water-resistive barriers on site. Per simulations, the CLT/insulation panel achieved code-required insulation levels with commonly available insulation materials. The significance of the thermal mass of CLT/insulation hybrid building envelopes was quantified by comparing the whole building energy performance and peak demand of traditional low mass and CLT wall assemblies resulting in up to 7% reduction in peak demand for cooling in Knoxville, TN, in a multifamily building. Buildings contribute over 40 percent of carbon emissions. The proposed CLT/insulation hybrid building envelope addresses both operational and embodied carbon by having high thermal resistances due to the embedded insulation sections and eliminating the use of high embodied carbon materials such as steel and concrete. The carbon benefit is estimated.
Predictive Modeling and Experimental Validation for Assessing the Mechanical Properties of Cementitious Composites Made with Silica Fume and Ground Granulated Blast Furnace Slag
Authors: Asif Usama , Memon Shazim Ali , Javed Muhammad Faisal , Kim Jong
Published: April 2024

Using sustainable cement-based alternatives, such as secondary cementitious raw materials (SCMs), could be a viable option to decrease CO2 emissions resulting from cement production. Previously conducted studies to determine the optimal mix designs of concrete primarily focused on either experimental approaches or empirical modeling techniques. However, in these experimental approaches, few tests could be performed for optimization due to time restrictions and lack of resources, and empirical modeling methods cannot be relied on without external validation. The machine learning-based approaches are further characterized by certain shortcomings, including a smaller number of data points, a less robust connection among the controlling factors, and a lack of comparative analyses among machine learning models. Furthermore, the literature on predicting the performance of concrete utilizing binary SCMs (silica fume (SF) and ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS)) is not available. Therefore, to address these drawbacks, this research aimed to integrate ML-based models with experimental validations for accurate predictions of the compressive strength (CS) and tensile strength (TS) of concrete that includes SF and GGBS as SCMs. Three soft computing techniques, namely the ANN, ANFIS, and GEP methods, were used for prediction purposes. Eight major input parameters, including the W/B ratio, cement, GGBS, SF, coarse aggregates, fine aggregates, superplasticizer, and the age of the specimens, were considered for modeling. The validity of the established models was assessed by using external experimental validation criteria, statistical metrics, and performance measures. In addition, sensitivity and parametric analyses were performed. Based on statistical measures, the ANFIS models outperformed other models with higher correlation and lower statistical error values. However, the GEP models exhibited superior performance compared to ANFIS and ANN with respect to the closeness of the RMSE, MAE, RSE, and R2 values between the training, validation, and testing sets for both the CS and TS models. Experimental validation showed strong evidence for the applicability of the proposed models with an R2 of 0.88 and error percentages of less than 10%. Sensitivity and parametric investigations demonstrated that the input variables exhibited the patterns described in the experimental dataset and the available literature. Hence, the proposed models are accurate, have better prediction performance, and can be used for design purposes.