bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ferritin and Ferritin-to-Hemoglobin Ratio as Promising Prognostic Biomarkers of Severity in Acute Pancreatitis—A Cohort Study
Authors: Pavalean Mihaela Cristina , Ionita-Radu Florentina , Jinga Mariana , Costache Raluca Simona , Balaban Daniel Vasile , Patrasescu Mihaita , Chirvase Mirela , Maniu Ionela , Gaman Laura , Bucurica Sandica
Published: January 2024

Background: Acute pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas with variable outcomes depending on its severity. Multiple systems of prediction have been proposed, each with variable specificity and sensitivity and with uneven clinical use. Ferritin is a versatile protein associated with various acute and chronic conditions. Aims: In our study, we aimed to assess the association of serum ferritin and the ferritin-to-hemoglobin ratio (FHR) with the severity of acute pancreatitis. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted in our hospital from January 2020 to September 2022 and included 116 patients with acute pancreatitis (graded according to the revised Atlanta classification). Serum ferritin and FHR were determined next to established laboratory parameters in the first 24 h following admission (hematological parameters, amylase, lipase, C-reactive protein, D-dimers, lactate dehydrogenase). We performed a receiver operating characteristic curve analysis for potential predictors. Also, we made correlations and conducted univariate and multivariate analyses for all potential severity biomarkers. Results: The median values of serum ferritin and FHR differed significantly between patients with severe acute pancreatitis and mild cases (serum ferritin: 352.40 vs. 197.35 ng/mL, p = 0.011; FHR: 23.73 vs. 13.74, p = 0.002) and between patients with organ failure and those without organ failure (serum ferritin: 613.45 vs. 279.65 ng/mL, p = 0.000; FHR: 48.12 vs. 18.64, p = 0.000). The medians of the serum ferritin and FHR levels were significantly higher in non-survivors compared with survivors (serum ferritin: 717.71 vs. 305.67 ng/mL, p = 0.013; FHR: 52.73 vs. 19.58, p = 0.016). Serum ferritin and FHR were good predictors for organ failure and mortality, next to D-dimers and procalcitonin (AUC > 0.753 for organ failure and AUC > 0.794 for mortality). In univariate regression analysis, serum ferritin and FHR were independent variables for moderate–severe forms of acute pancreatitis. Still, adjusting the multivariate analysis, only FHR remained a significant predictor. The cut-offs for serum ferritin and FHR for predicting organ failure were 437.81 ng/mL (sensitivity, 71%; specificity, 75%) and 45.63 (sensitivity, 61%; specificity, 88%), and those for mortality during hospitalization were 516 ng/mL (sensitivity, 83%; specificity, 74%) and 51.58 (sensitivity, 66%; specificity, 86%). Conclusions: Serum ferritin and the ferritin-to-hemoglobin ratio stood out in this study as valuable and accessible predictors of disease severity in the early assessment of acute pancreatitis, next to established severity serum markers (CRP, fibrinogen, D-dimers).
Activation and Regulation of Pancreatic Stellate Cells in Chronic Pancreatic Fibrosis: A Potential Therapeutic Approach for Chronic Pancreatitis
Authors: Kong Fanyi , Pan Yingyu , Wu Dong
Published: January 2024

In the complex progression of fibrosis in chronic pancreatitis, pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs) emerge as central figures. These cells, initially in a dormant state characterized by the storage of vitamin A lipid droplets within the chronic pancreatitis microenvironment, undergo a profound transformation into an activated state, typified by the secretion of an abundant extracellular matrix, including α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA). This review delves into the myriad factors that trigger PSC activation within the context of chronic pancreatitis. These factors encompass alcohol, cigarette smoke, hyperglycemia, mechanical stress, acinar cell injury, and inflammatory cells, with a focus on elucidating their underlying mechanisms. Additionally, we explore the regulatory factors that play significant roles during PSC activation, such as TGF-β, CTGF, IL-10, PDGF, among others. The investigation into these regulatory factors and pathways involved in PSC activation holds promise in identifying potential therapeutic targets for ameliorating fibrosis in chronic pancreatitis. We provide a summary of recent research findings pertaining to the modulation of PSC activation, covering essential genes and innovative regulatory mediators designed to counteract PSC activation. We anticipate that this research will stimulate further insights into PSC activation and the mechanisms of pancreatic fibrosis, ultimately leading to the discovery of groundbreaking therapies targeting cellular and molecular responses within these processes.
Advances in Slime Mould Algorithm: A Comprehensive Survey
Authors: Wei Yuanfei , Othman Zalinda , Daud Kauthar Mohd , Luo Qifang , Zhou Yongquan
Published: January 2024

The slime mould algorithm (SMA) is a new swarm intelligence algorithm inspired by the oscillatory behavior of slime moulds during foraging. Numerous researchers have widely applied the SMA and its variants in various domains in the field and proved its value by conducting various literatures. In this paper, a comprehensive review of the SMA is introduced, which is based on 130 articles obtained from Google Scholar between 2022 and 2023. In this study, firstly, the SMA theory is described. Secondly, the improved SMA variants are provided and categorized according to the approach used to apply them. Finally, we also discuss the main applications domains of the SMA, such as engineering optimization, energy optimization, machine learning, network, scheduling optimization, and image segmentation. This review presents some research suggestions for researchers interested in this algorithm, such as conducting additional research on multi-objective and discrete SMAs and extending this to neural networks and extreme learning machining.
Optimizing the Probabilistic Neural Network Model with the Improved Manta Ray Foraging Optimization Algorithm to Identify Pressure Fluctuation Signal Features
Authors: Liu Xiyuan , Wang Liying , Yan Hongyan , Cao Qingjiao , Zhang Luyao , Zhao Weiguo
Published: January 2024

To improve the identification accuracy of pressure fluctuation signals in the draft tube of hydraulic turbines, this study proposes an improved manta ray foraging optimization (ITMRFO) algorithm to optimize the identification method of a probabilistic neural network (PNN). Specifically, first, discrete wavelet transform was used to extract features from vibration signals, and then, fuzzy c-means algorithm (FCM) clustering was used to automatically classify the collected information. In order to solve the local optimization problem of the manta ray foraging optimization (MRFO) algorithm, four optimization strategies were proposed. These included optimizing the initial population of the MRFO algorithm based on the elite opposition learning algorithm and using adaptive t distribution to replace its chain factor to optimize individual update strategies and other improvement strategies. The ITMRFO algorithm was compared with three algorithms on 23 test functions to verify its superiority. In order to improve the classification accuracy of the probabilistic neural network (PNN) affected by smoothing factors, an improved manta ray foraging optimization (ITMRFO) algorithm was used to optimize them. An ITMRFO-PNN model was established and compared with the PNN and MRFO-PNN models to evaluate their performance in identifying pressure fluctuation signals in turbine draft tubes. The evaluation indicators include confusion matrix, accuracy, precision, recall rate, F1-score, and accuracy and error rate. The experimental results confirm the correctness and effectiveness of the ITMRFO-PNN model, providing a solid theoretical foundation for identifying pressure fluctuation signals in hydraulic turbine draft tubes.
Discussion of So-Called “Architectural Heritage DNA” via a Case Study of the Conservation of the Nara Palace Site, Japan
Authors: Le Vinh An , Nguyen Thi Kim Nhung
Published: January 2024

This study introduces a brief history of the discovery of and conservation efforts to preserve the Nara Palace Site in Japan, which brought about the recognition of this heritage site as a World Cultural Heritage location by UNESCO in 1996. Accordingly, the 1994 Nara Document on Authenticity plays an important role in contributing to Japanese cultural heritage conservation achievements, with the expansion of cultural diversity and heritage diversity and the concepts of values and authenticity, which proposed a new orientation in terms of awareness and openness to develop a broader vision when identifying architectural heritage values. Against this background, we first discuss the newly proposed concept of so-called “architectural heritage DNA” and its potential structure, providing a simple formula for appraising the authentic values of architectural heritage conservation works. Working within conservation theory, besides the doctrinal study of the 1994 Nara Document on Authenticity, this study also focuses on other important international conventions, such as the 1964 Venice Charter and the 1999 Burra Charter, to clarify the concepts of conservation, restoration, and reconstruction, adding the concept of inheritance between conservation and development, which addresses the lack of international conventions regarding cultural heritage conservation. The viewpoints expressed in this paper are based on the most common concepts of these international conventions but are interpreted in a novel, understandable, practical, and highly applicable approach suited to both the current socio-political situation and future scenarios.
Influence of the Exposure Degree on the Degradation of Facades of Buildings in Brasília—Brazil
Authors: de Souza Ana Luiza Rocha , Romeiro Thalia R. de Lima Meneses , Bauer Elton
Published: January 2024

Facades play an important role in building performance and durability since these systems, one of the most external elements, are highly exposed to climatic degradation agents. The degradation process evolves over time, causing anomalies and performance failures, ultimately reducing the building’s service life. When directly influenced by the agents and mechanisms, the expected degradation of the systems that constitute the facade depends on the degree of exposure to the agents and how the degradation mechanisms act under different conditions. Given the relevance of the topic and the need for information on the degradation process of facade elements, this investigation aims to evaluate the relationship between the degradation measured in buildings in Brasília and the exposure degree of the facades, focusing on climatic degradation agents. The facades are evaluated regarding exposure to driving rain and solar radiation and classified into two groups: high exposure and low exposure. The sample degradation was quantified using the Degradation Measurement Method (DMM) and the General Degradation Factor (FGD). This methodology showed both the behavior models for the different exposure groups and allowed us to calculate estimated service life (ESL) values of approximately 26 and 35 years for facades with high and low exposures, respectively. The FGD values are higher for facades with high exposure compared to those with lower exposure. Additionally, North-oriented facades are the most critical, exhibiting the highest degradation levels due to the greater intensity of driving rain and incident solar radiation.
Preoperative 18F-FDG PET/CT in Patients with Presumed Localized Colon Cancer: A Prospective Study with Long-Term Follow-Up
Authors: Aymard Samuel , Rust Edmond , Kaseb Ashjan , Liu David , Hubele Fabrice , Romain Benoit , Averous Gerlinde , Brigand Cecile , Imperiale Alessio
Published: January 2024

We analyzed whether preoperative 18F-FDG PET/CT adds to conventional primary staging in patients with presumed non-metastatic colonic cancer (CC). The prognostic role of 18F-FDG uptake in the primary tumor was evaluated after a mean follow-up of 15 years. Patients with a new diagnosis of presumed localized CC were prospectively enrolled and underwent presurgical 18F-FDG PET/CT. For each colon lesion, SUVmax, SUVpeak, TLG, and MTV were assessed and tested as prognostic factors. Forty-eight patients were included. Post-surgery pathology identified a total of 103 colon lesions, including 58 invasive adenocarcinomas, 4 in situ adenocarcinomas, 3 adenomas with high-grade dysplasia, and 38 adenomas with low-grade dysplasia. Per lesion sensitivity, specificity, positive (PPVs) and negative predictive values (NPVs) for colonic primary tumor detection were 78%, 97%, 98%, and 73% for conventional workup, and 94%, 87%, 92%, and 89% for 18F-FDG PET/CT. Only sensitivity was significantly different between 18F-FDG PET/CT and conventional workup. PET detected an additional ten pathological colonic lesions in seven patients. SUVmax, SUVpeak, and TLG showed significant differences between invasive adenocarcinomas, in situ adenocarcinomas, and high-grade dysplasia compared to low-grade dysplasia. There was a statistically significant difference between pT1-pT2 and pT3-pT4 adenocarcinomas. On patient-based analysis, sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV for nodal staging were 22%, 84%, 44%, and 65% for CECT, and 33%, 90%, 67%, and 70% for 18F-FDG PET/CT, without a statistically significant difference. PET/CT also identified unknown metastatic spread and one synchronous lung cancer in four patients. Overall, 18F-FDG PETCT had an additional diagnostic value in 11 out of 48 patients (23%). 18F-FDG uptake of the primary tumor did not predict nodal or distant metastases. The difference in disease-free survival categorized by median SUVmax, SUVpeak, TLG, and MTV was not significant. Finally, preoperative 18F-FDG PET/CT is valuable in detecting potential colon lesions not visualized by conventional workups, especially in cases of incomplete colonoscopy. It effectively highlights distant metastases but exhibits limitations for N staging. Mainly due to the relatively small sample size, the quantitative analysis of 18F-FDG uptake in the primary tumor did not reveal any association with recurrence or disease-free survival, adding no significant prognostic information.
Plasma-Deposited CoO–(Carbon Matrix) Thin-Film Nanocatalysts: The Impact of Nanoscale p-n Heterojunctions on Activity in CO2 Methanation
Authors: Mohammadpour Niloofar , Kierzkowska-Pawlak Hanna , Balcerzak Jacek , Uznański Paweł , Tyczkowski Jacek
Published: January 2024

Addressing the challenges associated with the highly exothermic nature of CO2 methanation, there is considerable interest in innovative catalyst designs on structural metallic supports. One promising solution in this regard involves thin films containing cobalt oxide within a carbon matrix, fabricated using the cold plasma deposition method (PECVD). The objective of this study was to search for a relationship between the molecular structure, nanostructure, and electronic structure of such films and their catalytic activity. The investigations employed various techniques, including X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), ultraviolet photoelectron spectroscopy (UPS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), UV-VIS absorption, and catalytic tests in the CO2 methanation process. Three types of films were tested: untreated as-deposited (ad-CoO), thermally post-treated (TT-CoO), and argon plasma post-treated (PT-CoO) films. Among these, TT-CoO exhibited the most favorable catalytic properties, demonstrating a CO2 conversion rate of 83%, CH4 selectivity of 98% at 400 °C, and stability during the catalytic process. This superior performance was attributed to the formation of nanoscale heterojunctions in the TT-CoO film, where p-type CoO nanocrystallites interacted with the n-type carbon matrix. This work provides compelling evidence highlighting the key role of nanoscale heterojunctions in shaping the properties of nanocatalysts in thermal catalysis. These findings suggest promising prospects for designing new catalytic systems by manipulating interactions at the nanoscale.
Chimeric Antigen Receptor T Cell Therapy for Pancreatic Cancer: A Review of Current Evidence
Authors: Czaplicka Agata , Lachota Mieszko , Pączek Leszek , Zagożdżon Radosław , Kaleta Beata
Published: January 2024

Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy has revolutionized the treatment of malignant and non-malignant disorders. CARs are synthetic transmembrane receptors expressed on genetically modified immune effector cells, including T cells, natural killer (NK) cells, or macrophages, which are able to recognize specific surface antigens on target cells and eliminate them. CAR-modified immune cells mediate cytotoxic antitumor effects via numerous mechanisms, including the perforin and granzyme pathway, Fas and Fas Ligand (FasL) pathway, and cytokine secretion. High hopes are associated with the prospective use of the CAR-T strategy against solid cancers, especially the ones resistant to standard oncological therapies, such as pancreatic cancer (PC). Herein, we summarize the current pre-clinical and clinical studies evaluating potential tumor-associated antigens (TAA), CAR-T cell toxicities, and their efficacy in PC.
Investigating Cox-2 and EGFR as Biomarkers in Canine Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Implications for Diagnosis and Therapy
Authors: Files Rita , Santos Catarina , Queiroga Felisbina L. , Silva Filipe , Delgado Leonor , Pires Isabel , Prada Justina
Published: January 2024

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is a common and highly aggressive dog tumor known for its local invasiveness and metastatic potential. Understanding the molecular mechanisms driving the development and progression of OSCC is crucial for improving diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. Additionally, spontaneous oral squamous cell carcinomas in dogs are an excellent model for studying human counterparts. In this study, we aimed to investigate the significance of two key molecular components, Cox-2 and EGFR, in canine OSCC. We examined 34 tumor sections from various dog breeds to assess the immunoexpression of Cox-2 and EGFR. Our findings revealed that Cox-2 was highly expressed in 70.6% of cases, while EGFR overexpression was observed in 44.1%. Cox-2 overexpression showed association with histological grade of malignancy (HGM) (p = 0.006) and EGFR with vascular invasion (p = 0.006). COX-2 and EGFR concurrent expression was associated with HGM (p = 0.002), as well as with the presence of vascular invasion (p = 0.002). These data suggest that Cox-2 and EGFR could be promising biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets, opening avenues for developing novel treatment strategies for dogs affected by OSCC. Further studies are warranted to delve deeper into these findings and translate them into clinical practice.
Study on the Performance of SBS/Polyphosphoric Acid Composite Modified Asphalt
Authors: Li Chaojie , Li Zhenxia , Guo Tengteng , Chen Yuanzhao , Liu Qi , Wang Jing , Jin Lihui
Published: January 2024

To address the issue of bad compatibility between a single polymer modifier and asphalt and high preparation cost, the composite modified asphalt with polyphosphoric acid (PPA) and SBS as a modifier was prepared. Basic properties, viscosity characteristics, high-temperature and low-temperature rheological performance, and aging-resistant performance of SBS/PPA composite modified asphalt were comprehensively evaluated, and the best content of PPA was obtained through the experimental results below. By performing an infrared spectrum test and a scanning electron microscope test, structural changes and modifying mechanisms of composite modified asphalt were analyzed. The results indicate the optimal PPA content is 0.75%. After adding PPA, the penetration and ductility of composite modified asphalt were reduced, while the softening point increased. At 135 °C, the viscosity was 1.2 times that of SBS modified asphalt. The average weight loss ratio was 0.163%. When the content of PPA was 0.75% and 1%, the rutting factor increased significantly. Therefore, PPA can not only improve the thermal oxidation aging resistance of asphalt, it can also improve the shear resistance, high-temperature performance, and temperature sensitivity of asphalt. Between 1027 and 1150 cm−1, the composite modified asphalt forms a new absorption peak, and from 1610 cm−1, the absorption peak presents an upward trend, suggesting that PPA reacts chemically with asphalt, produces the new substance, and also increases a large number of hydrocarbon components with chain structure. The surface appearance of the compound modified asphalt gradually presents a smooth wrinkle state due to the increase of PPA, so the issue of easy segregation of SBS in asphalt is improved.
Leveraging Ecosystem Services and Well-Being in Urban Landscape Planning for Nature Conservation: A Case Study of Peri-Urban Dynamics
Authors: Nevzati Fiona , Veldi Martti , Storie Joanna , Külvik Mart
Published: January 2024

Within peri-urban landscapes, this research investigated the complexity of the balance between urban development and green infrastructure preservation, with a specific focus on Harku municipality, Estonia. This study aimed to understand the interplay between cultural ecosystem services (CESs) and residents’ well-being. Aligned with the EU Nature Restoration Law, this research explored long-term dynamics in peri-urban areas’ CES conservation. The methodology included creating scenarios by combining new secondary data with the author’s prior studies, which covered landscape belts, CES values, and residents’ perceptions of satisfaction with the environment and recreation opportunities collected through a municipal survey. While residents expressed satisfaction in coastal and green spaces, a distinct decline was evident near villages with industrial and agricultural features, highlighting the landscape’s impact on well-being. This study identified case-study-specific threats related to rapid urbanisation and put forward constructive policy recommendations. The goal was to develop effective and sustainable strategies for preserving nature through ecosystem service-based frameworks, enhance community well-being, and account for landscape dynamics through scenario planning.
A Sequent of Gram-Negative Co-Infectome-Induced Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome Are Potentially Subtle Aggravators Associated to the SARS-CoV-2 Evolution of Virulence
Authors: Said Kamaleldin B. , Alsolami Ahmed , Alshammari Khalid F. , Alshammari Fawaz , Alhallabi Sulaf A. , Alafnan Shahad F. , Moussa Safia , Bashir Abdelhafiz I. , Alshurtan Kareemah S. , Aboras Rana , Sogeir Ehab K. , Alnajib Alfatih M. A. , Alotaibi Abdullah D. , Ahmed Ruba M. Elsaid
Published: January 2024

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is one of the major problems in COVID-19 that is not well understood. ARDS is usually complicated by co-infections in hospitals. Although ARDS is inherited by Europeans and Africans, this is not clear for those from the Middle East. There are severe limitations in correlations made between COVID-19, ARDS, co-infectome, and patient demographics. We investigated 298 patients for associations of ARDS, coinfections, and patient demographics on COVID-19 patients’ outcomes. Of the 149 patients examined for ARDS during COVID-19, 16 had an incidence with a higher case fatality rate (CFR) of 75.0% compared to those without ARDS (27.0%) (p value = 0.0001). The co-infectome association showed a CFR of 31.3% in co-infected patients; meanwhile, only 4.8% of those without co-infections (p value = 0.01) died. The major bacteria were Acinetobacter baumannii and Escherichia coli, either alone or in a mixed infection with Klebsiella pneumoniae. Kaplan–Meier survival analysis of COVID-19 patients with and without ARDS revealed a significant difference in the survival time of patients with ARDS (58.8 +/− 2.7 days) and without ARDS (41.9 +/− 1.8 days) (p value = 0.0002). These findings prove that increased hospital time was risky for co-infectome-induced SDRS later on. This also explained that while empiric therapy and lethal ventilations delayed the mortality in 75% of patients, they potentially did not help those without co-infection or ARDS who stayed for shorter times. In addition, the age of patients (n = 298) was significantly associated with ARDS (72.9 +/− 8.9) compared to those without it (56.2 +/− 15.1) and was irrespective of gender. However, there were no significant differences neither in the age of admitted patients before COVID-19 (58.5 +/− 15.3) and during COVID-19 (57.2 +/− 15.5) nor in the gender and COVID-19 fatality (p value 0.546). Thus, Gram-negative co-infectome potentially induced fatal ARDS, aggravating the COVID-19 outcome. These findings are important for the specific differential diagnosis of patients with and without ARDS and co-infections. Future vertical investigations on mechanisms of Gram-negative-induced ARDS are imperative since hypervirulent strains are rapidly circulating. This study was limited as it was a single-center study confined to Ha’il hospitals; a large-scale investigation in major national hospitals would gain more insights.
Joint Trajectory Design and Resource Optimization in UAV-Assisted Caching-Enabled Networks with Finite Blocklength Transmissions
Authors: Yang Yang , Gursoy Mustafa
Published: January 2024

In this study, we design and analyze a reliability-oriented downlink wireless network assisted by unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). This network employs non-orthogonal multiple access (NOMA) transmission and finite blocklength (FBL) codes. In the network, ground user equipments (GUEs) request content from a remote base station (BS), and there are no direct connections between the BS and the GUEs. To address this, we employ a UAV with a limited caching capacity to assist the BS in completing the communication. The UAV can either request uncached content from the BS and then serve the GUEs or directly transmit cached content to the GUEs. In this paper, we first introduce the decoding error rate within the FBL regime and explore caching policies for the UAV. Subsequently, we formulate an optimization problem aimed at minimizing the average maximum end-to-end decoding error rate across all GUEs while considering the coding length and maximum UAV transmission power constraints. We propose a two-step alternating optimization scheme embedded within a deep deterministic policy gradient (DDPG) algorithm to jointly determine the UAV trajectory and transmission power allocations, as well as blocklength of downloading phase, and our numerical results show that the combined learning-optimization algorithm efficiently addresses the considered problem. In particular, it is shown that a well-designed UAV trajectory, relaxing the FBL constraint, increasing the cache size, and providing a higher UAV transmission power budget all lead to improved performance.
Grid-Based Non-Uniform Probabilistic Roadmap-Based AGV Path Planning in Narrow Passages and Complex Environments
Authors: Zhou Yaozhe , Lu Yujun , Lv Liye
Published: January 2024

In this paper, we propose a Grid-based Non-uniform Probability Density Sampling Probabilistic Roadmap algorithm (GN-PRM) in response to the challenges of difficult sampling in narrow passages and low-probability map generation in traditional Probabilistic Roadmap algorithms (PRM). The improved algorithm incorporates grid-based processing for map segmentation, employing non-uniform probability density sampling based on the different attributes of each block to enhance sampling probability in narrow passages. Additionally, considering the computational cost and frequent ineffective searches in traditional PRM algorithms during pathfinding, this paper optimizes the time required for query route planning by altering connection strategies to improve the algorithm’s runtime. Finally, the simulation results indicate that, with a reduction of over 50% in undirected line segments and a reduction of over 85% in runtime, the GN-PRM algorithm achieves a 100% success rate in complex planning scenarios with a sampling point value of K = 500. In comparison, the traditional PRM algorithm has a success rate of no more than 10%, with a sampling point value of K = 500.
Deep-Learning-Based Seismic-Signal P-Wave First-Arrival Picking Detection Using Spectrogram Images
Authors: Choi Sugi , Lee Bohee , Kim Junkyeong , Jung Haiyoung
Published: January 2024

The accurate detection of P-wave FAP (First-Arrival Picking) in seismic signals is crucial across various industrial domains, including coal and oil exploration, tunnel construction, hydraulic fracturing, and earthquake early warning systems. At present, P-wave FAP detection relies on manual identification by experts and automated methods using Short-Term Average to Long-Term Average algorithms. However, these approaches encounter significant performance challenges, especially in the presence of real-time background noise. To overcome this limitation, this study proposes a novel P-wave FAP detection method that employs the U-Net model and incorporates spectrogram transformation techniques for seismic signals. Seismic signals, similar to those encountered in South Korea, were generated using the stochastic model simulation program. Synthesized WGN (White Gaussian Noise) was added to replicate background noise. The resulting signals were transformed into 2D spectrogram images and used as input data for the U-Net model, ensuring precise P-wave FAP detection. In the experimental result, it demonstrated strong performance metrics, achieving an MSE of 0.0031 and an MAE of 0.0177, and an RMSE of 0.0195. Additionally, it exhibited precise FAP detection capabilities in image prediction. The developed U-Net-based model exhibited exceptional performance in accurately detecting P-wave FAP in seismic signals with varying amplitudes. Through the developed model, we aim to contribute to the advancement of microseismic monitoring technology used in various industrial fields.
YOLOv8-CB: Dense Pedestrian Detection Algorithm Based on In-Vehicle Camera
Authors: Liu Qiuli , Ye Haixiong , Wang Shiming , Xu Zhe
Published: January 2024

Recently, the field of vehicle-mounted visual intelligence technology has witnessed a surge of interest in pedestrian detection. Existing algorithms for dense pedestrian detection at intersections face challenges such as high computational weight, complex models that are difficult to deploy, and suboptimal detection accuracy for small targets and highly occluded pedestrians. To address these issues, this paper proposes an improved lightweight multi-scale pedestrian detection algorithm, YOLOv8-CB. The algorithm introduces a lightweight cascade fusion network, CFNet (cascade fusion network), and a CBAM attention module to improve the characterization of multi-scale feature semantics and location information, and it superimposes a bidirectional weighted feature fusion path BIFPN structure to fuse more effective features and improve pedestrian detection performance. It is experimentally verified that compared with the YOLOv8n algorithm, the accuracy of the improved model is increased by 2.4%, the number of model parameters is reduced by 6.45%, and the computational load is reduced by 6.74%. The inference time for a single image is 10.8 ms. The cascade fusion algorithm YOLOv8-CB has higher detection accuracy and is a lighter model for multi-scale pedestrian detection in complex scenes such as streets or intersections. This proposed algorithm presents a valuable approach for device-side pedestrian detection with limited computational resources.
Thermal Performance of Lignocellulose’s By-Product Wallboards with Bio-Based Microencapsulated Phase Change Materials
Authors: Zotova Inga , Gendelis Staņislavs , Kirilovs Edgars , Štefanec Dejan
Published: January 2024

The growing availability and decreasing cost of microencapsulated phase change materials (PCMs) present an opportunity to develop innovative insulation materials for latent heat energy storage. By integrating PCMs with traditional insulation materials, it is possible to enhance the thermal capacity of a building by up to 2.5-times, virtually without increasing the building’s mass. To improve buildings’ indoor structural performance, as well as improving their energy performance, microencapsulated PCMs are integrated into wallboards. The integration of microencapsulated PCMs into the wallboard solves the PCM leakage problem and assures a good bond with the building materials to achieve better structural performance. The novelty of this research is the application of encapsulated phase change material dispersion and technology for its incorporation into the structure of hemp shives and longitudinally milled wood chip-based insulation boards, using cold pressing technology to reduce the energy consumption of board production. As a result, low-density insulation boards for indoor application were produced by varying their structure and the amount of phase change materials in the range of 5% to 15% by board mass. The obtained board prototypes can be used as microclimate and thermoregulation elements of interiors, as well as functional aesthetic elements of interior design.
Optimizing Formic Acid-Assisted Co-HTL of Digested Sewage Sludge and Lignocellulosic Waste for Enhanced Bio-Crude Yield and Energy Recovery
Authors: Herdlevær Kristoffer Mega , Barth Tanja
Published: January 2024

In recent years, hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL) has gained attention as a means of enhancing and increasing the production of biofuels from biomass. Co-HTL involves the simultaneous processing of two or more feedstocks, with the potential for interactions that can affect the overall yield and quality of the resulting biofuels. This study investigates the bio-crude yield, chemical composition, and energy content of bio-crudes obtained through formic acid-assisted hydrothermal liquefaction of combined digested sewage sludge (DSS) and lignocellulose (LC). The bio-crude yields are in the range of 26.8–58.9 wt%, with a higher heating value (HHV) of approximately 32 MJ/kg. The best experiment shows that mixtures with more DSS and high levels of process condition variables (350 °C, formic acid present, and 50 wt% EtOH) give high bio-crude yields with a maximum value of 58.9 wt%. For comparison, pure DSS and LC run at these process conditions resulted in a bio-crude yield of 52.5 wt% and 48.3 wt%, respectively. Partial least squares (PLS) regression reveals a synergistic effect from mixing the feedstocks, as the quadratic term of the regression equation for mixture ratio shows a negative coefficient. GC–MS data show that combining feedstocks results in the formation of new compounds, mostly phenols, that are not present in the bio-crudes from the separate feedstocks. Thus, combining feedstocks will not only increase the resource availability for hydrothermal liquefaction and streamline the process but will also increase the overall production of bio-crude with its synergistic effect.
Flue Gas Recirculation System for Biomass Heating Boilers—Research and Technical Applications for Reductions in Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) Emissions
Authors: Ciupek Bartosz , Urbaniak Rafał , Kinalska Dobrosława , Nadolny Zbigniew
Published: January 2024

The paper discusses the results of investigations of the change in thermal and emission-related parameters of a heating boiler fueled with biomass after a modification with a proprietary flue gas recirculation system made for this type of equipment. The results provide insight into the combustion process with a multistage flue gas recirculation that materially affected the boiler operation: a reduction in the mass concentration of nitrogen oxides (NOx) by reducing the combustion temperature. The authors also observed a reduction in the emission of particulate matters (PM) and carbon monoxide (CO). For the investigations, the authors used a heating boiler fitted with an automatic fuel feed (timber pellets) and a proprietary patented flue gas recirculation system (Polish patent Pat. 243395) for low power solid fuel heating boilers. Aside from the measurement of the mass concentration of the emitted pollutants, the research focused on the measurements of the temperature inside the combustion chamber, the temperature of the flue gas and the level of oxygen in the flue gas. The aim of the research was to confirm the validity of using the flue gas recirculation technique to reduce emissions of harmful substances from biomass heating boilers, as a technique not previously used for this group of devices. Moreover, the aim of the research was to test an original engineering solution, in the form of a flue gas distribution valve, and investigate its effect on reducing NOx emissions and improving other thermal and emission parameters of the boiler. The obtained research results confirm the validity of the chosen actions and provide a positive premise for the practical use of this technology in solid fuel heating boilers.
Weather Forecast Control for Heating of Multi-Family Buildings in Comparison with Feedback and Feedforward Control
Authors: Olsson Daniel , Filipsson Peter , Trüschel Anders
Published: January 2024

Our joint environmental and energy commitments mean we must reduce the building’s energy use. Improved central heating control can play a role in how this is accomplished. There are three common control strategies: feedforward (traditional), feedback, and model predictive control (MPC). The latter two often work in parallel, where feedback uses indoor temperature sensors to adjust the supply water temperature. In contrast, the supply temperature setpoint is continuously calculated in MPC, fed with weather forecasts. The weather forecasts are often highlighted as essential ingredients in MPC, but at the same time, it is emphasized that temperature sensors are used to ensure a pleasant indoor temperature. To an outside observer, it is difficult to determine what is what in such combined control arrangements. Is energy saved because of the room sensors or because of the model? And what role do the weather forecasts play? This study quantifies the impact of the control strategy on energy use and indoor temperature. It concludes that PI-based feedback heating control saves approximately as much energy as MPC, and weather forecasts do not save significantly more energy than real-time weather data but are easier to obtain. The overall results for both control strategies align with the lower end of the result ranges of previous studies. The novelty is that the impact of weather forecasts has been studied separately and that different control strategies are compared against each other based on a model of a typical Swedish multi-family building.
The Effect of Internal Combustion Engine Nozzle Needle Profile on Fuel Atomization Quality
Authors: Klyus Oleh , Szczepanek Marcin , Kidacki Grzegorz , Krause Paweł , Olszowski Sławomir , Chybowski Leszek
Published: January 2024

This article presents the results of research on the impact of changing the cross-section of an atomizer’s flow channel, which is caused by changing the flow geometry of the passive part of the needle on the drop diameter distribution of the fuel spray. A three-hole type H1LMK, 148/1 atomizer with hole diameters, dN, equal to 0.34 mm, is analyzed. A nozzle with a standard (i.e., unmodified) needle and three nozzles using needles with a modified profile in the flow part of the needle, marked by the code signatures 1L, 2L, and 3L, are tested. An increasing level of fuel turbulence characterizes the needles during the flow along their flow part due to the use of one (1L), two (2L), and three (3L) de Laval toroidal nozzles, respectively, obtained by mechanically shaping the outer surface of the flow part of the spray needle. The spray produced is tested using the Malvern Spraytec STP 500 device cooperating with the dedicated Malvern version 4.0. During the tests, measurements and an analysis of the spray droplet size distribution over the entire injection duration, equal to 7 ± 2 ms, are made for each nozzle. The experiment makes it possible to determine the effect of the nozzle needles’ profiles on the time distribution of the actual droplet diameters; the time distribution of the Sauter mean droplet diameters, D[3,2]; the percentile shares of the droplet diameters Dv (10), Dv (50), and Dv (90); the distribution span during the development of the spray stream; and the time distribution of the shares of the droplets with diameters belonging to selected diameter classes D[x1−x2] in the spray. The results of the measurements of the drop diameter distribution indicate that using atomizers with a modification to the flow channel allows for an increase in the share of droplets with smaller diameters compared to the standard atomizer.
An Energy Storage Capacity Configuration Method for a Provincial Power System Considering Flexible Adjustment of the Tie-Line
Authors: Sun Bing , Zhang Zheng , Hu Jing , Meng Zihan , Huang Bibin , Li Nana
Published: January 2024

A high proportion of renewable generators are widely integrated into the power system. Due to the output uncertainty of renewable energy, the demand for flexible resources is greatly increased in order to meet the real-time balance of the system. But the investment cost of flexible resources, such as energy storage equipment, is still high. It is necessary to propose a method for determining the capacity of energy storage scientifically. An optimization and planning method of energy storage capacity is proposed. It is characterized by determining the optimal capacity of energy storage by carrying out 8760 hours of time series simulation for a provincial power grid with energy storage. Firstly, the current situation of power supply and demand for provincial power grids is analyzed. The difficulty of realizing a power balance at different time scales is analyzed. Then, the source load balancing solutions at different time scales are proposed. The difficulty of a long-term power balance can be alleviated by flexibly adjusting the power on the tie-line of the provincial power grid. And the difficulty of a short-term power balance can be met through energy storage. In addition, an optimal planning model of an energy storage system is established with the power supply cost as the objective function. The optimal capacity of the energy storage is determined by comparing the objective function of different planning schemes. Finally, a case study is carried out. It is found that flexible adjustment of interprovincial interconnection lines can reduce the maximum demand for electricity from 8.439 billion kWh to 2.299 billion kWh. At the same time, the curtailment ratio of renewable electricity can be decreased from 12.6% to 5.0% by using energy storage. However, the average power supply cost of the system gradually increases from 0.307 CNY/kWh to 0.485 CNY/kWh. It is necessary to fully tap into the various values of energy storage equipment.
The Impact of Exposure to Hexavalent Chromium on the Incidence and Mortality of Oral and Gastrointestinal Cancers and Benign Diseases: A Systematic Review of Observational Studies, Reviews and Meta-Analyses
Authors: Katsas Konstantinos , Diamantis Dimitrios V. , Linos Athena , Psaltopoulou Theodora , Triantafyllou Konstantinos
Published: January 2024

Background: Limited evidence suggests a possible connection between natural or occupational exposure to chromium and an increased risk of gastrointestinal cancer. The main objective of this study is to investigate the literature regarding chromium exposure and gastrointestinal health issues (i.e., cancer). Methods: A systematic literature search was performed using PubMed, Google Scholar and ScienceDirect. Included observational studies were assessed for their risk of bias. Results: 16 observational studies and 7 reviews and meta-analyses met the inclusion criteria. Most of the studies investigated gastric and hepatocellular cancer, followed by colorectal, oral, esophageal and pancreatic cancer. There is a limited amount of evidence regarding non-malignant gastrointestinal diseases. Chromium exposure is suspected to increase gastric and colorectal cancer risks. We did not find any convincing indications for increases in oral, esophageal and hepatocellular cancer. Pancreatic, gallbladder and extrahepatic bile ducts carcinogenesis is likely not associated with chromium exposure. Conclusion: We found weak evidence that chromium exposure is associated with gastric and colorectal cancer. Our review also highlights the existing controversial evidence regarding oral, esophageal and hepatocellular cancer, as well as the gap in studies investigating small intestinal cancer and non-malignant gastrointestinal health issues.
Improvement of Moso Bamboo (Phyllostachys pubescens) Properties Using a Heat Treatment Process for Landscaping Materials and Evaluation of Its Durability against Biotic/Abiotic Factors
Authors: Kim Yesun , Kim Byeongho , Park Hanna , Choi Yong-Hui , Kim Kyoung-Jung , Park Se-Yeong
Published: January 2024

This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of large-scale heat treatment on Moso bamboo (Phyllostachys pubescens) grown in South Korea. The process involved multiple stages, including pretreatment, boiling, steaming, heating, and cooling. Heat treatment successfully reduced the water content to below 3% and increased the specific gravity from 0.62 to 1.12, thereby enhancing dimensional stability and strength. Following an ultraviolet-accelerated weathering test, the heated Moso bamboo exhibited improved color stability (ΔE 5.84) compared to untreated bamboo (ΔE 9.92). Furthermore, the heat-treated bamboo demonstrated high resistance against wood-rot fungi (weight loss < 10%) and termites (weight loss approximately 2%). In contrast to small lab-scale drying processes, this study employed a pilot-scale kiln for mass production, resulting in large-sized Moso bamboo with enhanced properties. This study revealed that distinct results, including extractives and lignin-degraded compounds, persisted in heated Moso bamboo cells after the heat treatment. The overall improvement in deterioration resistance, achieved through heat treatment, significantly contributes to the durability and longevity of bamboo materials in outdoor settings, such as landscape facilities.
Preliminary Study on Screening and Genetic Characterization of Lactic Acid Bacteria Strains with Cadmium, Lead, and Chromium Removal Potentials
Authors: Xu Yunli , Shu Guowei , Liu Zhengxin , Wang Zifei , Lei Huan , Zheng Qiqi , Kang Hongjuan , Chen Li
Published: January 2024

Due to industrial development, heavy metal pollution has become a severe global health hazard. The bioadsorption method represented by the adsorption of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) has been widely employed. The purpose of this study is to screen LAB strains that can remove cadmium, lead, and chromium. Through the heavy metal resistance tests, four strains with significant growth inhibition rate were identified. After 16S rDNA sequencing, these resistant strains were identified by Lactobacillus helveticus KD-3 (Cd2+ removal rate 37.54 ± 0.85%), Limosilactobacillus fermentum B27 (Pb2+ removal rate 69.41 ± 0.19%), Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus 7469 (Cr6+ removal rate 71.13 ± 0.97%), and Lb. helveticus K5. Three encoding genes were identified in our screen strains, namely resistance gene czcD, chromium resistance gene chrA, and lead resistance gene pbrT. L.helveticus KD-3 exhibited the best comprehensive performance. Given the diverse types of heavy metal pollution at present, the current research mainly focuses on the removal of a single heavy metal by one strain. The four strains enrich the absorption resources of LAB for heavy metals, paving a new way for the biosorption of various heavy metals in food by LABs.