bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identifying Effect of Car Fire Blankets on Chosen Fire Parameter Using Large-Scale Fire Tests of Internal Combustion Engine Vehicle and High-Voltage Traction Battery—Comparative Slovak Case Study
Authors: Slašťan Kristián , Svetlík Jozef , Konárik Milan , Boroš Martin
Published: June 2024

Firefighting units in the Slovak Republic are well prepared for extinguishing fires of vehicles with internal combustion engines. However, the expansion of electromobility is also coming to Slovakia. It is essential to pay attention to this topic from the point of view of repression. This article deals with car fire blankets. The main objective is to verify and compare the effectiveness of extinguishing internal combustion engine vehicle (ICEV) fires and high-voltage traction battery (HTB) fires using car fire blankets. The effectiveness of a car fire blanket was determined based on the analysis of temperature drops during large-scale fire tests of ICEVs and HTBs. The temperature was recorded by four thermocouples. Two thermocouples were placed at 0.7 m from the ICEV and HTB; one thermocouple was placed in the interior of the ICEV and inside the HTB; one thermocouple was placed on the roof of the ICEV and the surface of the HTB. Subsequently, the results were compared based on temperature–time curves obtained from experimental measurements. Applying the car fire blanket to the ICEV fire caused a drop in temperature on all thermocouples. The most significant temperature drop was recorded in the interior of the vehicle. Specifically, the temperature dropped from 724 °C to 140 °C. However, the application of the car fire blanket had a different effect on the HTB fire. There was a minimal temperature change in the thermocouple on the right side at a 0.7 distance. The other thermocouples identified a slight increase in temperature.
The Development of an Efficient Simplified Technique to Estimate Diffusivity in a Completely Mixed Batch Reactor
Authors: Koike Yuya , Fan Huan-Jung , Seida Yoshimi , Sonetaka Noriyoshi , Furuya Eiji
Published: June 2024

Liquid-phase adsorption technology has been widely applied to address environmental problems related to the removal of pollutants from aqueous streams. Simple and effective methods for determining mass transfer parameters, including intra-particle and fluid-to-solid film resistances, are crucial for designing adsorption processes. The efficient simplified diffusion technique (ES technique), based on a completely mixed batch reactor (CMBR), is proposed in this study to address these needs. In this study, we compare three diffusivity (Ds) determination methods: the rigorous diffusion technique (R technique), the simplified diffusion technique (S technique), and the ES technique. Although the simulation results from the R technique are excellent, it is a very complicated and time-consuming approach that is not convenient for practical use. The S technique provides a much simpler approach, but its results are only valid in cases where the contribution of fluid film resistance is negligible (Biot number > 40). The ES technique proposed in this study can overcome those limitations. The estimation errors of the ES technique are significantly smaller than that of the S technique when compared with the R technique. The proposed ES technique would be very useful for field applications to determine diffusivity for aqueous adsorption systems.
Research on Six-Degree-of-Freedom Refueling Robotic Arm Positioning and Docking Based on RGB-D Visual Guidance
Authors: Yang Mingbo , Liu Jiapeng
Published: June 2024

The main contribution of this paper is the proposal of a six-degree-of-freedom (6-DoF) refueling robotic arm positioning and docking technology guided by RGB-D camera visual guidance, as well as conducting in-depth research and experimental validation on the technology. We have integrated the YOLOv8 algorithm with the Perspective-n-Point (PnP) algorithm to achieve precise detection and pose estimation of the target refueling interface. The focus is on resolving the recognition and positioning challenges of a specialized refueling interface by the 6-DoF robotic arm during the automated refueling process. To capture the unique characteristics of the refueling interface, we developed a dedicated dataset for the specialized refueling connectors, ensuring the YOLO algorithm’s accurate identification of the target interfaces. Subsequently, the detected interface information is converted into precise 6-DoF pose data using the PnP algorithm. These data are used to determine the desired end-effector pose of the robotic arm. The robotic arm’s movements are controlled through a trajectory planning algorithm to complete the refueling gun docking process. An experimental setup was established in the laboratory to validate the accuracy of the visual recognition and the applicability of the robotic arm’s docking posture. The experimental results demonstrate that under general lighting conditions, the recognition accuracy of this docking interface method meets the docking requirements. Compared to traditional vision-guided methods based on OpenCV, this visual guidance algorithm exhibits better adaptability and effectively provides pose information for the robotic arm.
Acute Effects of Caffeine and Taurine on Linear and Nonlinear Measures of the Cardiovascular System in Young Adults
Authors: Çalışkan Şerife Gökçe
Published: June 2024

The use of beverages containing caffeine has increased significantly in recent years due to their stimulant effects. The aim of this study was to determine the possible adverse effects of caffeine and taurine on young adults’ cardiovascular systems using linear and nonlinear parameters for this analysis. This study was carried out with 56 students from Aydın Adnan Menderes University. The participants were divided into four main groups: caffeine, taurine, caffeine + taurine, and a control. Blood pressure and electrocardiogram measurements were performed before the ingredients were consumed. After 30 and 60 min, the measurements were repeated. Linear and nonlinear analyses were performed on the heart rate variability data 60 min after consumption. Compared with taurine and the combination of caffeine + taurine, caffeine was found to have the most adverse effects on the hemodynamic parameters and the linear and nonlinear parameters of heart rate variability in the young adult participants. It was also found that the presence of taurine may have repressed the adverse effects of caffeine.
Short-Term and Long-Term Travel Time Prediction Using Transformer-Based Techniques
Authors: Lin Hui-Ting Christine , Dai Hao , Tseng Vincent S.
Published: June 2024

In the evolving field of Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITSs), accurate and reliable traffic prediction is essential in enhancing management and planning capabilities. Accurately predicting traffic conditions over both short-term and long-term intervals is vital for the practical application of ITS. The integration of deep learning into traffic prediction has proven crucial in advancing traffic prediction beyond traditional approaches, particularly in analyzing and forecasting complex traffic scenarios. Despite these advancements, the existing methods are unable to effectively handle both short-term and long-term traffic patterns given their complex nature, revealing a need for more comprehensive forecasting solutions. To address this need, we propose a new approach named the Short-Term and Long-Term Integrated Transformer (SLIT). SLIT is a Transformer-based encoder–decoder architecture, designed for the effective prediction of both short-term and long-term travel time durations. The architecture integrates the Enhanced Data Preprocessing (EDP) with the Short-Term and Long-Term Integrated Encoder–Decoder (SLIED). This harmonious combination enables SLIT to effectively capture the complexities of traffic data over varying time horizons. Extensive evaluations on a large-scale real-world traffic dataset demonstrate the excellence of SLIT compared with existing competitive methods in both short- and long-term travel time predictions across various metrics. SLIT exhibits significant improvements in prediction results, particularly in short-term forecasting. Remarkable improvements are observed in SLIT, with enhancements of up to 9.67% in terms of all evaluation metrics across various time horizons. Furthermore, SLIT demonstrates the capability to analyze traffic patterns across various road complexities, proving its adaptability and effectiveness in diverse traffic scenarios with improvements of up to 10.83% in different road conditions. The results of this study highlight the high potential of SLIT in significantly enhancing traffic prediction within ITS.
16S rRNA Analysis of Electrogenic Bacterial Communities from Soil Microbial Fuel Cells
Authors: Rumora Ana , Hopkins Liliana , Yim Kayla , Baykus Melissa F. , Martinez Luisa , Jimenez Luis
Published: June 2024

Electrogenic bacteria present in bioelectrical devices such as soil microbial fuel cells (SMFCs) are powered by the oxidation of organic and inorganic compounds due to microbial activity. Fourteen soils randomly selected from Bergen Community College or areas nearby, located in the state of New Jersey, USA, were used to screen for the presence of electrogenic bacteria. SMFCs were incubated at 35–37 °C. Of the 14 samples, 11 generated electricity and enriched electrogenic bacteria. The average optimal electricity production by the top 3 SMFCs was 152 microwatts. The highest electrical production was produced by SMFC-B1C and SMFC-B1B, with 162 and 152 microwatts, respectively. Microbial DNA was extracted from the biofilm grown on the anodes, followed by PCR analysis of the 16S rRNA V3–V4 region. Next-generation sequencing was performed to determine the structure and diversity of the electrogenic microbial community. The top 3 MFCs with the highest electricity production showed a bacterial community predominantly composed of bacteria belonging to the Bacillota and Pseudomonadota phyla with a significant presence of Euryarcheota members of methanogenic archaea. SMFC-B1C showed a more diverse electrogenic community, followed by SMFC-B1B and SMFC-B1. When analyzing the top 10 bacteria in the SMFCs, 67 percent belonged to the class Clostridia, indicating that anaerobic conditions were required to enrich electrogenic bacterial numbers and optimize electrical production. The ongoing optimization of SMFCs will provide better production of electricity and continuous enhancement of microbial activity to sustain longer operational times and higher levels of electrogenesis. The characterization of electrogenic microbial communities will provide valuable information to understand the contribution of different populations to the production of electricity in bioelectrical devices.
Development of X-Band Geophysical Model Function for Sea Surface Wind Speed Retrieval with ASNARO-2
Authors: Takeyama Yuko , Kurokawa Shota
Published: June 2024

In the present study, a new geophysical model function (GMF) is developed for the X-band synthetic aperture radar (SAR) on board the Advanced Satellite with New System Architecture for Observation-2 (ASNARO-2) to retrieve accurate offshore wind speeds. Equivalent neutral wind speeds based on the local forecast model (LFM) are employed as reference wind vectors, and 12,259 matching points from 502 SAR images obtained with horizontal transmitting, horizontal receiving polarization around Japan are collected. To ensure convergence of the calculation, 8129 points are selected from the matching points to determine the basic formula for the GMF and 23 coefficients based on the relationships among the normalized radar cross section, wind speed, incidence angle, and relative wind direction. Compared with the reference wind speeds, the GMF wind speeds showed reproducibility with a bias of −0.10 m/s and an RMSD of 1.37 m/s. Additionally, it can be confirmed that the retrieved wind speed has the bias of 0.03 and the RMSD of 1.68 m/s when compared to the in situ wind speed from the Kuroshio Extension Observatory (KEO) buoy. The accuracy of these retrieved wind speeds is comparable to previous studies, and it is indicated that the developed GMF can be used to retrieve offshore winds from ASNARO-2 images.
Analytical and Numerical Investigation for the Inhomogeneous Pantograph Equation
Authors: Aldosari Faten , Ebaid Abdelhalim
Published: June 2024

This paper investigates the inhomogeneous version of the pantograph equation. The current model includes the exponential function as the inhomogeneous part of the pantograph equation. The Maclaurin series expansion (MSE) is a well-known standard method for solving initial value problems; it may be easier than any other approaches. Moreover, the MSE can be used in a straightforward manner in contrast to the other analytical methods. Thus, the MSE is extended in this paper to treat the inhomogeneous pantograph equation. The solution is obtained in a closed series form with an explicit formula for the series coefficients and the convergence of the series is proved. Also, the analytic solutions of some models in the literature are recovered as special cases of the present work. The accuracy of the results is examined through several comparisons with the available exact solutions of some classes in the relevant literature. Finally, the residuals are calculated and then used to validate the accuracy of the present approximations for some classes which have no exact solutions.
A Proportional–Integral Observer-Based Dynamic Event-Triggered Consensus Protocol for Nonlinear Positive Multi-Agent Systems
Authors: Yang Xiaogang , Huang Mengxing , Wu Yuanyuan , Tan Xuegang
Published: June 2024

This paper investigates the state estimation and event-triggered control for positive nonlinear multi-agent systems. Firstly, a proportional–integral observer is established to estimate the states of the considered nonlinear positive multi-agent systems based on the matrix decomposition method. Then, a dynamic event-triggered mechanism is constructed, and a control protocol is proposed based on the proportional–integral observer and event-triggered mechanism. By combining linear programming with linear co-positive Lyapunov functions, the considered multi-agent systems are guaranteed to be positive and achieve consensus. Moreover, by introducing three new variables and a finite vector, the final convergence point can be changed based on the given vector. Finally, two illustrative examples demonstrate the validity of the proposed theoretical results.
Immunonutrition, Metabolism, and Programmed Cell Death in Lung Cancer: Translating Bench to Bedside
Authors: Fedele Palma , Santoro Anna Natalizia , Pini Francesca , Pellegrino Marcello , Polito Giuseppe , De Luca Maria Chiara , Pignatelli Antonietta , Tancredi Michele , Lagattolla Valeria , Anglani Alessandro , Guarini Chiara , Pinto Antonello , Bracciale Pietro
Published: June 2024

Lung cancer presents significant therapeutic challenges, motivating the exploration of novel treatment strategies. Programmed cell death (PCD) mechanisms, encompassing apoptosis, autophagy, and programmed necrosis, are pivotal in lung cancer pathogenesis and the treatment response. Dysregulation of these pathways contributes to tumor progression and therapy resistance. Immunonutrition, employing specific nutrients to modulate immune function, and metabolic reprogramming, a hallmark of cancer cells, offer promising avenues for intervention. Nutritional interventions, such as omega-3 fatty acids, exert modulatory effects on PCD pathways in cancer cells, while targeting metabolic pathways implicated in apoptosis regulation represents a compelling therapeutic approach. Clinical evidence supports the role of immunonutritional interventions, including omega-3 fatty acids, in augmenting PCD and enhancing treatment outcomes in patients with lung cancer. Furthermore, synthetic analogs of natural compounds, such as resveratrol, demonstrate promising anticancer properties by modulating apoptotic signaling pathways. This review underscores the convergence of immunonutrition, metabolism, and PCD pathways in lung cancer biology, emphasizing the potential for therapeutic exploration in this complex disease. Further elucidation of the specific molecular mechanisms governing these interactions is imperative for translating these findings into clinical practice and improving lung cancer management.
CopG1, a Novel Transcriptional Regulator Affecting Symbiosis in Bradyrhizobium sp. SUTN9-2
Authors: Wangthaisong Praneet , Piromyou Pongdet , Songwattana Pongpan , Phimphong Tarnee , Songsaeng Apisit , Pruksametanan Natcha , Boonchuen Pakpoom , Wongdee Jenjira , Teamtaisong Kamonluck , Boonkerd Nantakorn , Sato Shusei , Tittabutr Panlada , Teaumroong Neung
Published: June 2024

The symbiotic interaction between leguminous and Bradyrhizobium sp. SUTN9-2 mainly relies on the nodulation process through Nod factors (NFs), while the type IV secretion system (T4SS) acts as an alternative pathway in this symbiosis. Two copies of T4SS (T4SS1 and T4SS2) are located on the chromosome of SUTN9-2. ΔT4SS1 reduces both nodule number and nitrogenase activity in all SUTN9-2 nodulating legumes. The functions of three selected genes (copG1, traG1, and virD21) within the region of T4SS1 were examined. We generated deleted mutants and tested them in Vigna radiata cv. SUT4. ΔtraG1 and ΔvirD21 exhibited lower invasion efficiency at the early stages of root infection but could be recently restored. In contrast, ΔcopG1 completely hindered nodule organogenesis and nitrogenase activity in all tested legumes. ΔcopG1 showed low expression of the nodulation gene and ttsI but exhibited high expression levels of the T4SS genes, traG1 and trbE1. The secreted proteins from ΔT4SS1 were down-regulated compared to the wild-type. Although ΔcopG1 secreted several proteins after flavonoid induction, T3SS (nopP and nopX) and the C4-dicarboxylate transporter (dct) were not detected. These results confirm the crucial role of the copG1 gene as a novel key regulator in the symbiotic relationship between SUTN9-2 and legumes.
A Review on Indigenous Goats of East Africa: A Case for Conservation and Management
Authors: Kichamu Nelly , Astuti Putri Kusuma , Wanjala George , Strausz Péter , Bagi Zoltán , Kusza Szilvia
Published: June 2024

Indigenous goats are important in the livelihoods of rural households in East African countries. This is due to their ability to produce and reproduce in different environments and climatic conditions. Even though these indigenous goats are important, there is little available information on the genetic characterization of these breeds in Africa and at the international level. This paper reviews the status of indigenous goats, highlighting their production systems, phenotypic and genetic characteristics, and genetic diversity, and proposes potential ways for sustainable improvement and conservation in East African countries. Most households use traditional production systems with various uncharacterized goat breeds and ecotypes, which are hence named after the tribe or locality in which they are found. Most of these goats are classified as small East African breeds, with significant variability in morphological features. Some of the challenges to goat production in this region are indiscriminate crossbreeding, lack of pedigree records, parasites and disease incidences, low-quality pastures, and low levels of management. There is a need for a collaborative approach amongst the actors in goat breeding value chains as well as integrating modern genomic tools into breeding programs to enhance selection. This will ensure the resilience and sustainability of these unique indigenous goat populations in East Africa
Correction: Yi et al. An Innovative Inducer of Platelet Production, Isochlorogenic Acid A, Is Uncovered through the Application of Deep Neural Networks. Biomolecules 2024, 14, 267
Authors: Yi Taian , Luo Jiesi , Liao Ruixue , Wang Long , Wu Anguo , Li Yueyue , Zhou Ling , Ni Chengyang , Wang Kai , Tang Xiaoqin , Zou Wenjun , Wu Jianming
Published: June 2024

Error in Figure [...]
Molecular Mechanisms in Tumorigenesis of Hepatocellular Carcinoma and in Target Treatments—An Overview
Authors: Szilveszter Raluca-Margit , Muntean Mara , Florea Adrian
Published: June 2024

Hepatocellular carcinoma is the most common primary malignancy of the liver, with hepatocellular differentiation. It is ranked sixth among the most common cancers worldwide and is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths. The most important etiological factors discussed here are viral infection (HBV, HCV), exposure to aflatoxin B1, metabolic syndrome, and obesity (as an independent factor). Directly or indirectly, they induce chromosomal aberrations, mutations, and epigenetic changes in specific genes involved in intracellular signaling pathways, responsible for synthesis of growth factors, cell proliferation, differentiation, survival, the metastasis process (including the epithelial–mesenchymal transition and the expression of adhesion molecules), and angiogenesis. All these disrupted molecular mechanisms contribute to hepatocarcinogenesis. Furthermore, equally important is the interaction between tumor cells and the components of the tumor microenvironment: inflammatory cells and macrophages—predominantly with a pro-tumoral role—hepatic stellate cells, tumor-associated fibroblasts, cancer stem cells, extracellular vesicles, and the extracellular matrix. In this paper, we reviewed the molecular biology of hepatocellular carcinoma and the intricate mechanisms involved in hepatocarcinogenesis, and we highlighted how certain signaling pathways can be pharmacologically influenced at various levels with specific molecules. Additionally, we mentioned several examples of recent clinical trials and briefly described the current treatment protocol according to the NCCN guidelines.
Identification of Prospective Ebola Virus VP35 and VP40 Protein Inhibitors from Myxobacterial Natural Products
Authors: Hayat Muhammad , Gao Tian , Cao Ying , Rafiq Muhammad , Zhuo Li , Li Yue-Zhong
Published: June 2024

The Ebola virus (EBOV) is a lethal pathogen causing hemorrhagic fever syndrome which remains a global health challenge. In the EBOV, two multifunctional proteins, VP35 and VP40, have significant roles in replication, virion assembly, and budding from the cell and have been identified as druggable targets. In this study, we employed in silico methods comprising molecular docking, molecular dynamic simulations, and pharmacological properties to identify prospective drugs for inhibiting VP35 and VP40 proteins from the myxobacterial bioactive natural product repertoire. Cystobactamid 934-2, Cystobactamid 919-1, and Cittilin A bound firmly to VP35. Meanwhile, 2-Hydroxysorangiadenosine, Enhypyrazinone B, and Sorangiadenosine showed strong binding to the matrix protein VP40. Molecular dynamic simulations revealed that, among these compounds, Cystobactamid 919-1 and 2-Hydroxysorangiadenosine had stable interactions with their respective targets. Similarly, molecular mechanics Poisson–Boltzmann surface area (MMPBSA) calculations indicated close-fitting receptor binding with VP35 or VP40. These two compounds also exhibited good pharmacological properties. In conclusion, we identified Cystobactamid 919-1 and 2-Hydroxysorangiadenosine as potential ligands for EBOV that target VP35 and VP40 proteins. These findings signify an essential step in vitro and in vivo to validate their potential for EBOV inhibition.
Current Prognostic Biomarkers for Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm: A Comprehensive Scoping Review of the Literature
Authors: Khan Hamzah , Abu-Raisi Mohamed , Feasson Manon , Shaikh Farah , Saposnik Gustavo , Mamdani Muhammad , Qadura Mohammad
Published: June 2024

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a progressive dilatation of the aorta that can lead to aortic rupture. The pathophysiology of the disease is not well characterized but is known to be caused by the general breakdown of the extracellular matrix within the aortic wall. In this comprehensive literature review, all current research on proteins that have been investigated for their potential prognostic capabilities in patients with AAA was included. A total of 45 proteins were found to be potential prognostic biomarkers for AAA, predicting incidence of AAA, AAA rupture, AAA growth, endoleak, and post-surgical mortality. The 45 proteins fell into the following seven general categories based on their primary function: (1) cardiovascular health, (2) hemostasis, (3) transport proteins, (4) inflammation and immunity, (5) kidney function, (6) cellular structure, (7) and hormones and growth factors. This is the most up-to-date literature review on current prognostic markers for AAA and their functions. This review outlines the wide pathophysiological processes that are implicated in AAA disease progression.
Multifunctional Three-in-One Sensor on t-ZnO for Ultraviolet and VOC Sensing for Bioengineering Applications
Authors: Nagpal Rajat , Lupan Cristian , Bîrnaz Adrian , Sereacov Alexandr , Greve Erik , Gronenberg Monja , Siebert Leonard , Adelung Rainer , Lupan Oleg
Published: June 2024

Zinc oxide (ZnO) is considered to be one of the most explored and reliable sensing materials for UV detection due to its excellent properties, like a wide band gap and high exciton energy. Our current study on a photodetector based on tetrapodal ZnO (t-ZnO) reported an extremely high UV response of ~9200 for 394 nm UV illumination at 25 °C. The t-ZnO network structure and morphology were investigated using XRD and SEM. The sensor showed a UV/visible ratio of ~12 at 25 °C for 394 nm UV illumination and 443 nm visible illumination. By increasing the temperature, monotonic decreases in response and recovery time were observed. By increasing the bias voltage, the response time was found to decrease while the recovery time was increased. The maximum responsivity shifted to higher wavelengths from 394 nm to 400 nm by increasing the operating temperature from 25 °C to 100 °C. The t-ZnO networks exhibited gas-sensing performances at temperatures above 250 °C, and a maximum response of ~1.35 was recorded at 350 °C with a good repeatability and fast recovery in 16 s for 100 ppm of n-butanol vapor. This study demonstrated that t-ZnO networks are good biosensors that can be used for diverse biomedical applications like the sensing of VOCs (volatile organic compounds) and ultraviolet detection under a wide range of temperatures, and may find new possibilities in biosensing applications.
Novel Multiparametric Bioelectronic Measurement System for Monitoring Virus-Induced Alterations in Functional Neuronal Networks
Authors: Jahnke Heinz-Georg , te Kamp Verena , Prönnecke Christoph , Schmidt Sabine , Azendorf Ronny , Klupp Barbara , Robitzki Andrea A. , Finke Stefan
Published: June 2024

Development and optimisation of bioelectronic monitoring techniques like microelectrode array-based field potential measurement and impedance spectroscopy for the functional, label-free and non-invasive monitoring of in vitro neuronal networks is widely investigated in the field of biosensors. Thus, these techniques were individually used to demonstrate the capabilities of, e.g., detecting compound-induced toxicity in neuronal culture models. In contrast, extended application for investigating the effects of central nervous system infecting viruses are rarely described. In this context, we wanted to analyse the effect of herpesviruses on functional neuronal networks. Therefore, we developed a unique hybrid bioelectronic monitoring platform that allows for performing field potential monitoring and impedance spectroscopy on the same microelectrode. In the first step, a neuronal culture model based on primary hippocampal cells from neonatal rats was established with reproducible and stable synchronised electrophysiological network activity after 21 days of cultivation on microelectrode arrays. For a proof of concept, the pseudorabies model virus PrV Kaplan-ΔgG-GFP was applied and the effect on the neuronal networks was monitored by impedance spectroscopy and field potential measurement for 72 h in a multiparametric mode. Analysis of several bioelectronic parameters revealed a virus concentration-dependent degeneration of the neuronal network within 24–48 h, with a significant early change in electrophysiological activity, subsequently leading to a loss of activity and network synchronicity. In conclusion, we successfully developed a microelectrode array-based hybrid bioelectronic measurement platform for quantitative monitoring of pathologic effects of a herpesvirus on electrophysiological active neuronal networks.
Optical Devices for the Diagnosis and Management of Spinal Cord Injuries: A Review
Authors: Sharma Sonika , Kalyani Neeti , Dutta Taposhree , Velázquez-González Jesús Salvador , Llamas-Garro Ignacio , Ung Bora , Bas Joan , Dubey Rakesh , Mishra Satyendra K.
Published: June 2024

Throughout the central nervous system, the spinal cord plays a very important role, namely, transmitting sensory and motor information inwardly so that it can be processed by the brain. There are many different ways this structure can be damaged, such as through traumatic injury or surgery, such as scoliosis correction, for instance. Consequently, damage may be caused to the nervous system as a result of this. There is no doubt that optical devices such as microscopes and cameras can have a significant impact on research, diagnosis, and treatment planning for patients with spinal cord injuries (SCIs). Additionally, these technologies contribute a great deal to our understanding of these injuries, and they are also essential in enhancing the quality of life of individuals with spinal cord injuries. Through increasingly powerful, accurate, and minimally invasive technologies that have been developed over the last decade or so, several new optical devices have been introduced that are capable of improving the accuracy of SCI diagnosis and treatment and promoting a better quality of life after surgery. We aim in this paper to present a timely overview of the various research fields that have been conducted on optical devices that can be used to diagnose spinal cord injuries as well as to manage the associated health complications that affected individuals may experience.
Social Activity in Schizotypy: Measuring Frequency and Enjoyment of Social Events
Authors: DeBats Candice C. , Abel Danielle B. , Sullivan Morgan M. , Koesterer Sophia C. , Linton Imani S. , Mickens Jessica L. , Russell Madisen T. , Hammer Lillian A. , Minor Kyle S.
Published: June 2024

Improving social functioning deficits—a core characteristic of schizophrenia-spectrum disorders—is often listed by patients as a key recovery goal. Evidence suggests that social deficits also extend to people with schizotypy, a group at heightened risk for psychotic and other psychopathological disorders. One challenge of social functioning research in schizotypy is understanding whether social deficits arise from receiving less pleasure from social activities or from participating less in high-pleasure activities. However, limited information exists on what constitutes highly pleasurable, common social activities. In this study, 357 college students rated the frequency and enjoyment of 38 social activities. Our aims were to categorize activities based on their frequency and enjoyment, and whether these correlated with validated social functioning and schizotypy measures. We found that social activities could be characterized based on their frequency and enjoyment and created a frequency–enjoyment matrix that could be useful for future studies. Activities were correlated with social functioning, generally reaching a small effect size level, with increasing frequency and enjoyment showing associations with greater social functioning. Further, negative and disorganized—but not positive—traits were associated with less engagement and pleasure. Although follow-up studies in community samples are needed, our findings have the potential to help researchers and clinicians better understand which activities participants are more likely to engage in and derive pleasure from. The findings may also illustrate the extent to which social deficits may be due to less engagement or less pleasure from social activities, as well as which aspects of schizophrenia-spectrum disorders are associated with these facets of social functioning.
Study of Acoustic Prototypes Based on Plastic Cap Waste
Authors: Del Rey Romina , Crespo Amorós José Enrique , Escales Tur Joan , Alba Jesús
Published: June 2024

This paper presents the initial prototypes of solutions designed using plastic caps, seeking acoustic applications for both airborne sound insulation and the acoustic conditioning of rooms. Plastic caps are a waste product from the packaging sector and they constitute a major waste problem, given that, if they are not attached to the packaging, they get lost during the recycling cycle and end up in landfill. Finding an application for this waste that can provide acoustic improvements is a sustainable alternative. This paper shows the results of airborne sound insulation measurements obtained in a scaled transmission chamber and sound absorption measurements obtained in a scaled reverberation chamber for different combinations of single and double plastic caps and combinations with thin sheets of sustainable materials, such as jute weaving, textile waste, hemp felt and cork board. Tests have shown that obtaining sound reduction index values of up to 20 dB is possible with plastic cap configurations, or even up to 30 dB is possible at some frequencies with combinations of caps and certain eco-materials. With regard to the sound absorption coefficient tests, close to unity absorption values have been achieved with the appropriate configuration at frequencies that can also be selected. The results indicate that these panels can be eco-solutions for airborne sound insulation as lightweight elements, or they can be used for the conditioning of rooms, tailoring the sound absorption maximums to the desired frequencies.
The Risk of Alkali–Carbonate Reaction and the Freeze–Thaw Resistance of Waste Dolomite Slag-Based Concrete
Authors: Chen Yulin , Xiong Xuefei , Wang Ding , Zhou Xianliang , Liu Changwu , Xu Zhipeng
Published: June 2024

The alkali–carbonate reaction (ACR) is a type of alkali–aggregate reaction (AAR) that may lead to serious damage in concrete construction. There is sufficient research on the effect of the ACR on dolomite limestone; however, research on the effect of the ACR on pure dolomite is absent, and there are a large number of dolomite resources that cannot be effectively utilized in civil engineering. This study aims to investigate whether the ACR occurs in pure dolomite spoil and to determine the freeze–thaw resistance of pure waste dolomite slag-based concrete (PWDSC). In this study, X-ray diffraction (XRD) and the lithofacies method (LM) confirmed that the tested samples were pure dolomite. The rock cylinder method (RCM) and rapid preliminary screening testing for carbonate aggregates (AAR-5) were employed to determine the alkali activity of pure dolomite: the RCM indicated a variation of −0.09% in length during the 84-day test period, the AAR-5 exhibited a length expansion rate of 0.03% within 28 days, and the expansion rates were less than 0.1%. These findings suggest that pure waste dolomite slag (PWDS) does not possess alkali activity. The freeze–thaw cycle test showed no significant spalling on the concrete surface, the inside of the cement produced few micro-cracks according to scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and the uniaxial compressive strength (UCS) test showed a decrease of approximately 20% after 200 freeze–thaw cycles. The results verified that ACR does not occur in PWDS and that it can withstand freeze–thaw damage, to a certain extent, when used as concrete coarse aggregate.
3D Printing of Fiber-Reinforced Calcined Clay-Limestone-Based Cementitious Materials: From Mixture Design to Printability Evaluation
Authors: Li Haodao , Wei Jingjie , Khayat Kamal H.
Published: June 2024

Sustainability and limitations in embedded reinforcement are the main obstacles in digital fabrication with concrete. This study proposed a 3D printable fiber-reinforced calcined clay-limestone-based cementitious material (FR-LC3). The binder systems incorporating calcined clay (CC) and limestone filler (LF) were optimized by determining the flow characteristics and water retention ability of the paste. The effect of fiber volume on the key fresh and mechanical properties of the fiber-reinforced mortars made with the optimized binder was evaluated. A combination of offline assessments and inline printing were employed to investigate the printability of the FR-LC3 with various binder systems and viscosity-modifying admixture (VMA) dosages. The results revealed that the binary system with 20% CC and the ternary system containing 30% CC and 15% LF were highly advantageous, with enhanced packing density, robustness, and water retention ability. Incorporating 2% 6-mm steel fiber contributed to the highest 28-day compressive and flexural strengths and toughness without significantly compromising the fluidity. Finally, the developed FR-LC3 mixtures were successfully printed using an extrusion-based 3D printer. The LF addition in the ternary system decreased the maximum buildable height of a single-wall printed object while reducing the SP/VMA ratio significantly increased the height due to enhanced yield stress and thixotropy.
A Bibliometric Analysis of Supply Chain Management within Modular Integrated Construction in Complex Project Management
Authors: Zhang Yuhang , Shen Geoffrey Qiping , Xue Jin
Published: June 2024

As construction projects become increasingly complex, modular integrated construction (MiC) has emerged as a pivotal solution, driving integrated development in complex projects. However, the reliance on prefabricated modules underscores the crucial role of supply chain management (SCM) in MiC, necessitating strategic planning and operational control. This study aimed to use bibliometric analysis to map the SCM knowledge domain within MiC. Through the use of keywords related to “supply chain” and “MiC”, 196 relevant papers were extracted from the Web of Science database. These papers were subjected to co-citation analysis, keyword co-occurrence analysis, and time span analysis to elucidate the historical evolution, multidisciplinary domains, and future directions in planning and control within SCM-MiC. The research identified two milestones in SCM-MiC’s historical trajectory, enhancing our understanding of its foundations. Moreover, 11 clusters were identified, illustrating the multidisciplinary nature of SCM-MiC. Dividing the literature into seven stages of the supply chain, the research outlined four research directions aligned with project complexity and technological development, highlighting current hotspots and gaps of the strategic planning and control. These directions bridge the construction management and information technology domains, guiding future SCM-MiC research within complex project management.
Development and Field Analysis of a Novel Servo Concrete Bracing System for Deep Foundation Pit Excavation
Authors: Wang Shaochun , Xu Lei , Zhang Xuehui , Long Luyuan , Zhuang Xiaoying
Published: June 2024

This study demonstrates the design and field implementation of an innovative servo concrete bracing system in foundation pit excavation. The bracing system comprises concrete struts, revised purlins, and hydraulic jacks, and its field performance is evaluated in a deep foundation pit project in Shanghai, China. The field measurements demonstrate that the servo bracing system effectively reduces the maximum lateral displacement of the retaining wall by up to 31%. Moreover, the servo jacks modify the wall’s flexural behavior by introducing local inflection points at certain depths and driving the displacement peak upward. Furthermore, the system’s performance varies with strut configuration, and servo forces influence not only the corresponding acting strut but also the adjacent struts’ behavior, implying that the monitoring scope should be expanded when applying the servo bracing system in actual engineering. This study provides a meaningful technical reference for future servo concrete bracing system applications in foundation pit engineering.
Research on Work Performance of Monolithic Precast Concrete Shear Walls with Post-Cast Epoxy Resin Concrete
Authors: Chen Peiqi , Liu Zihao , Zhou Xiaojie , Xu Shuo , Wang Junyi
Published: June 2024

Precast concrete structures are popular in the building industry because of their high efficiency and environmental friendliness. In this paper, the U-type reinforcement ferrule connection technique was applied to study the seismic performance of precast concrete shear walls. Five shear wall finite element models and four shear wall specimens were prepared. Both experiments and finite element analysis were conducted to explore the impact of parameters on the work performance of precast reinforced concrete shear walls, such as the variety of post-cast concrete, the form of horizontal joints, and the buckle length of U-type reinforcements. On this basis, the mechanism of failure as well as the characteristics of hysteresis, ductility, and energy dissipation capacity were analyzed. According to the analytical results, the cast in situ reinforced concrete shear wall is inferior to the precast shear wall with post-cast epoxy resin concrete in terms of seismic performance. In addition, the specimen with a keyway on the horizontal joint interface outperforms the specimen without a keyway. With an increase in the buckle length of the U-type reinforcement, there is a rise in the sectional height and stiffness of the hidden beam at the bottom of the wall, while the horizontal load-bearing capacity of the wall is improved. However, its ductility and energy dissipation capacity are decreased. As revealed by a thorough analysis, the construction scheme most suitable for precast shear wall horizontal joints adopts epoxy resin concrete as the post-cast material, the buckle length of U-type reinforcements is approximately one-third the height of the horizontal joint, and there is a keyway at the interface of the joint.
Construction Noise Reduction Research on Rail Transit Projects: A Case Study in China
Authors: Zhang Jinming , Huang Jun , Wu Zezhou , Li Zhangmiao
Published: June 2024

With the advancement of China’s construction industry and the rapid pace of urbanization, there has been heightened concern about and demand for improved construction environments. Rail transit projects commonly experience noise levels that exceed standard limits, resulting in a significant challenge posed by construction noise pollution. This issue not only disrupts the normal operations of construction sites but also profoundly impacts the mental well-being, auditory health, and nervous system of both construction workers and nearby residents. Consequently, effectively addressing construction noise pollution has emerged as a pressing issue. This study systematically reviewed domestic and international construction noise standards, integrating field research and noise monitoring data from construction sites. It provided a detailed analysis of the sources and hazards of construction noise and explored the source and propagation characteristics of construction noise from rail transit projects. The feasibility of controlling construction noise from various perspectives was investigated. Finally, the study analyzed the causes of construction noise exceeding standard limits, proposed layout strategies and control methods tailored to the stages of construction, and offered comprehensive noise control recommendations, culminating in a complete control process. This study fills a gap in research related to construction noise for rail transit projects, provides a valuable foundation for developing construction noise control objectives, and offers practical guidance on the implementation of measurement and control methods. These insights will help advance the field of construction noise control and management, and provide valuable insights for similar domestic rail transit projects.
Three-Dimension Epithelial Segmentation in Optical Coherence Tomography of the Oral Cavity Using Deep Learning
Authors: Hill Chloe , Malone Jeanie , Liu Kelly , Ng Samson Pak-Yan , MacAulay Calum , Poh Catherine , Lane Pierre
Published: June 2024

This paper aims to simplify the application of optical coherence tomography (OCT) for the examination of subsurface morphology in the oral cavity and reduce barriers towards the adoption of OCT as a biopsy guidance device. The aim of this work was to develop automated software tools for the simplified analysis of the large volume of data collected during OCT. Imaging and corresponding histopathology were acquired in-clinic using a wide-field endoscopic OCT system. An annotated dataset (n = 294 images) from 60 patients (34 male and 26 female) was assembled to train four unique neural networks. A deep learning pipeline was built using convolutional and modified u-net models to detect the imaging field of view (network 1), detect artifacts (network 2), identify the tissue surface (network 3), and identify the presence and location of the epithelial–stromal boundary (network 4). The area under the curve of the image and artifact detection networks was 1.00 and 0.94, respectively. The Dice similarity score for the surface and epithelial–stromal boundary segmentation networks was 0.98 and 0.83, respectively. Deep learning (DL) techniques can identify the location and variations in the epithelial surface and epithelial–stromal boundary in OCT images of the oral mucosa. Segmentation results can be synthesized into accessible en face maps to allow easier visualization of changes.
Spheno-Orbital Meningiomas: The Rationale behind the Decision-Making Process of Treatment Strategy
Authors: Mariniello Giuseppe , Corvino Sergio , Corazzelli Giuseppe , de Divitiis Oreste , Fusco Giancarlo , Iuliano Adriana , Strianese Diego , Briganti Francesco , Elefante Andrea
Published: June 2024

Surgery stands as the primary treatment for spheno-orbital meningiomas, following a symptoms-oriented approach. We discussed the decision-making process behind surgical strategies through a review of medical records from 80 patients who underwent surgical resection at the University of Naples Federico II. Different surgical approaches were employed based on the tumor’s location relative to the optic nerve’s long axis, categorized into lateral (type I), medial (type II), and diffuse (type III). We examined clinical, neuroradiological, surgical, pathological, and outcome factors. Proptosis emerged as the most frequent symptom (97%), followed by visual impairment (59%) and ocular motility issues (35%). Type I represented 20%, type II 43%, and type III 17%. Growth primarily affected the optic canal (74%), superior orbital fissure (65%), anterior clinoid (60%), and orbital apex (59%). The resection outcomes varied, with Simpson grades I and II achieved in all type I cases, 67.5% of type II, and 18% of type III. Recurrence rates were highest in type II (41.8%) and type III (59%). Improvement was notable in proptosis (68%) and visual function (51%, predominantly type I). Surgery for spheno-orbital meningiomas should be tailored to each patient, considering individual characteristics and tumor features to improve quality of life by addressing primary symptoms like proptosis and visual deficits.