bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Case report: Maintaining altered states of consciousness over repeated ketamine infusions may be key to facilitate long-lasting antidepressant effects: some initial lessons from a personalized-dosing single-case study
Authors: Reissmann Steffen , Hartmann Matthias , Kist Andreas , Liechti Matthias E. , Stocker Kurt
Published: October 2023

Background

The interest in psychoactive agents for treating mental disorders has gathered a growing body of scientific interest. However, research on the relationship between altered states of consciousness (ASCs) and ketamine’s antidepressant properties is still limited. Likewise, approaches to sustain early treatment success for the long-term are needed. Taking both aspects into account, the question arises whether the persistence of recurrent ASCs during the subsequent infusion sessions is crucial for the preservation of antidepressant effects during prolonged continued ketamine therapy.

Aim

In this case study we explored whether recurrent ASC experiences across a large number of infusions are associated with improved antidepressant effects in a single case study.

Methods

A 62-year-old patient with treatment-resistant depression, who has been suffering from depressive episodes for over 20 years, was observed for 12 consecutive infusions across 16 weeks. ASCs during ketamine sessions were measured with the 5D-ASC, and pre/post-infusion depression scores with the BDI-II questionnaire. To emphasize psychoactive experiences a personalized antidepressant dose regimen was used.

Results

We found a strong correlation between the experienced ASCs during ketamine infusions and the antidepressant effect: the stronger the ASCs overall, the stronger the resulting antidepressant effect. This correlation was consistently observed throughout the infusion series, independent of the number of ketamine sessions completed before. However, despite a personalized dose regimen, neither peri-infusion ASCs nor antidepressant effects could be established on a regular basis, leading overall to no improvement in treatment outcome.

Conclusion

Maintaining psychoactive effects over repeated ketamine infusions may be key to facilitate long-lasting antidepressant effects. However, for some depressed individuals maintenance of antidepressant effects and/or peri-infusion ASCs might not be achieved, even when personalized dosing is used.
From brain to worksite: the role of fNIRS in cognitive studies and worker safety
Authors: Han Yang , Huang Jianling , Yin Yang , Chen Huihua
Published: October 2023

Effective hazard recognition and decision-making are crucial factors in ensuring workplace safety in the construction industry. Workers’ cognition closely relates to that hazard-handling behavior. Functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) is a neurotechique tool that can evaluate the concentration vibration of oxygenated hemoglobin [HbO2] and deoxygenated hemoglobin [HbR] to reflect the cognition process. It is essential to monitor workers’ brain activity by fNIRS to analyze their cognitive status and reveal the mechanism in hazard recognition and decision-making process, providing guidance for capability evaluation and management enhancement. This review offers a systematic assessment of fNIRS, encompassing the basic theory, experiment analysis, data analysis, and discussion. A literature search and content analysis are conducted to identify the application of fNIRS in construction safety research, the limitations of selected studies, and the prospects of fNIRS in future research. This article serves as a guide for researchers keen on harnessing fNIRS to bolster construction safety standards and forwards insightful recommendations for subsequent studies.
Economic uncertainty and population health: insights from emerging markets and developing countries
Authors: Liu Lin
Published: October 2023

This study employs a Bayesian panel vector autoregressive model to examine the impact of economic uncertainty on public health, using an annual, country-level panel dataset of 103 emerging markets and developing countries spanning the years 1995 through 2019. The results from the full sample suggest that the immediate effects of heightened economic uncertainty on health are marginal, yet it may engender prolonged life expectancy and lowered mortality rates. The analysis unveils considerable heterogeneities among various country classifications. The health-enhancing effects of economic uncertainty are predominantly discernible in emerging markets, low-income and upper-middle-income countries. Additionally, a diminution in suicide rates, attributed to escalated economic uncertainty, is uniquely detected in upper-middle-income countries. Furthermore, economic growth and healthcare expenditure emerge as paramount determinants in bolstering overall population health, particularly in lower-middle-income countries. The detrimental effect of environmental pollution on health is more pronounced in emerging markets and middle-income nations. Excluding high-income countries, it is essential to emphasize the beneficial health outcomes resulting from financial development and globalization, as well as the deleterious effects of environmental pollution. Lastly, several policy implications aligned with the findings are outlined, providing a roadmap for decision-makers in these diverse economies to promote better health outcomes.
The energy challenges of artificial superintelligence
Authors: Stiefel Klaus M. , Coggan Jay S.
Published: October 2023

We argue here that contemporary semiconductor computing technology poses a significant if not insurmountable barrier to the emergence of any artificial general intelligence system, let alone one anticipated by many to be “superintelligent”. This limit on artificial superintelligence (ASI) emerges from the energy requirements of a system that would be more intelligent but orders of magnitude less efficient in energy use than human brains. An ASI would have to supersede not only a single brain but a large population given the effects of collective behavior on the advancement of societies, further multiplying the energy requirement. A hypothetical ASI would likely consume orders of magnitude more energy than what is available in highly-industrialized nations. We estimate the energy use of ASI with an equation we term the “Erasi equation”, for the Energy Requirement for Artificial SuperIntelligence. Additional efficiency consequences will emerge from the current unfocussed and scattered developmental trajectory of AI research. Taken together, these arguments suggest that the emergence of an ASI is highly unlikely in the foreseeable future based on current computer architectures, primarily due to energy constraints, with biomimicry or other new technologies being possible solutions.
Foliar nutrient content responses to bio-inoculation of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi and Rhizobium on three herbaceous forage legumes
Authors: Mpongwana Sanele , Manyevere Alen , Mupangwa Johnfisher , Mpendulo Conference Thando , Mashamaite Chuene Victor
Published: October 2023

Smallholder livestock production in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa has been hampered by a lack of high-quality feed. As such, improving ruminant nutrition using optimized production of herbaceous forage legumes has been suggested. However, the production of forage legumes for livestock feed is poor in communal areas in the province due to the necessity to use high levels of chemical fertilizers to provide high-quality feed that meets animal nutrient demands. The current study aimed at investigating the effects of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and Rhizobium inoculation on the chemical composition of three herbaceous forage legumes, namely, Vigna unguiculata (cowpea), Lablab purpureus (lablab), and Mucuna pruriens (mucuna). The field trials were established over two growing seasons (2017/2018 and 2018/2019) at the University of Fort Hare Research Farm (South Africa) and were carried out as a 3 x 2 x 2 factorial experiment arranged in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with 12 treatments that were replicated 4 times. The 12 treatments included three legume species (cowpea, lablab, and mucuna), two AMF (with and without AMF inoculation), and two Rhizobia inoculations (with or without). The results showed that the dual inoculation of AMF and Rhizobia bacteria significantly (p < 0.05) increased the contents of crude protein, neutral detergent fiber and acid detergent fiber, hemicellulose, ash, magnesium (Mg), phosphorus (P), calcium (Ca), zinc (Zn), and iron (Fe) of three herbaceous forage legumes. Furthermore, solo inoculation with AMF or Rhizobia bacteria resulted in substantially higher potassium (K), Ca, and Mg cation ions, and Ca/P, Zn, manganese (Mn), and Fe concentrations in forage legumes than in other treatments. In conclusion, the dual inoculation produced optimal nutrient accumulation in both growing seasons when compared to single inoculation and uninoculated forages. Therefore, this could assist in alleviating livestock malnutrition in smallholder farming.
Apple Quality during Shelf-Life after Long-Term Storage and Simulated Transport
Authors: Małachowska Maria , Tomala Kazimierz
Published: October 2023

With the high production of apples in Poland, the priority actions include increasing their export volume. The main objective of the presented research was to maintain sufficient firmness in the apple cultivar Gala Schniga® SchniCo Red(s) transported to distant markets immediately after harvest or after long-term storage under ULO conditions (1.2% CO2 and 1.2% O2). In the study conducted during the 2021/2022 storage season on apples from the experimental orchard of the Warsaw University of Life Sciences (SGGW-WULS; Warsaw-52°14′ N, 21°1′ E), the effect of the pre- and post-harvest application of 1-MCP, harvest date, and simulated transport duration on the quality of apples in target retail trading conditions was evaluated. Apples collected on a given harvest date were divided into four samples: control (without the use of 1-MCP), Harvista™-sprayed, SmartFresh™-treated, and Harvista™-sprayed + SmartFresh™-treated. Immediately after harvest and after 9 months of storage, the apples were packed in boxes and stored at 1 °C for 6 and 8 weeks (simulated transport conditions). Directly after the simulated transport and after an additional 7 and 14 days at 25 °C (handling conditions in hot countries), the following parameters were determined: firmness, SSC, TA, and ethylene production. The study noted a significant effect of the use of 1-MCP, harvest time, and simulated transport period on all tested parameters. Apples from trees sprayed with Harvista™ maintained a firmness of >55 N for 14 days of shelf-life only if they were harvested at the optimal date and transported immediately after harvest, and if their shipping lasted 6 weeks. Such firmness could be preserved after 8 weeks of the transport of SmartFresh™-treated apples harvested at the optimal date, and of Harvista™-sprayed + SmartFresh™-treated apples harvested at a delayed date. In the latter combination, apples also maintained the desired firmness after 9 months of storage + 6 weeks of transport regardless of the harvest date.
Developing an Evaluation Framework for Circular Agriculture: A Pathway to Sustainable Farming
Authors: Rodino Steliana , Pop Ruxandra , Sterie Cristina , Giuca Andreea , Dumitru Eduard
Published: October 2023

This article examines how circularity can be measured and evaluated in the agricultural sector. Circularity represents a key approach for promoting sustainability in agriculture and for the efficient management of resources. Through a comprehensive review of the scientific literature and employing rigorous selection methods, we identify the relevant indicators and tools for assessing circularity in the agri-food chain. The initial bibliometric analysis was performed by using a Biblioshiny instrument from R package tool Bibliometrics. Additionally, this article analyzes the methodologies based on the indicators and metrics that can be applied to measure the restorative capacity and effectiveness of the agricultural system. Most current research follows the 3R principles of the circular economy and establishes an evaluation index system based on the regional characteristics. Methods such as the multi-criteria decision analysis, data envelopment analysis, and life cycle assessment are the most used to date. For the micro-level analysis, system dynamics, material flow analysis, and emergy analysis were the most suitable. Our results provide a clear perspective on the current state of the research in the field of measuring circularity in agriculture and lay the groundwork for the future development of effective strategies for implementing the circular economy in this crucial sector.
Canine Pyometra: A Short Review of Current Advances
Authors: Xavier Rafael Gariglio Clark , Santana Clarissa Helena , de Castro Yasmin Gonçalves , de Souza Thayanne Gabryelle Viana , do Amarante Victor Santos , Santos Renato Lima , Silva Rodrigo Otávio Silveira
Published: October 2023

Pyometra, characterized by the accumulation of purulent exudate in the uterus, is the most prevalent reproductive disease in canines. While the disease often begins with mild local symptoms, it can escalate into peritonitis, sepsis, and multi-organ dysfunction, thereby posing a significant threat to life. Despite the high incidence and recognized significance of canine pyometra, gaps persist in our understanding of its epidemiology, etiology, and pathogenesis. Recent studies have, however, broadened our comprehension of this disease, shedding light on potential new infection sources, etiologies, and the application of clinical predictive biomarkers and new therapeutic protocols. This study aimed to review the current understanding of canine pyometra, with particular emphasis on the latest research concerning its etiology and epidemiology. Furthermore, it addressed key research questions and proposed directions for future investigations into various facets of canine pyometra.
In Vitro Evaluation of the Adsorption Efficacy of Biochar Materials on Aflatoxin B1, Ochratoxin A, and Zearalenone
Authors: Appell Michael , Wegener Evan C. , Sharma Brajendra K. , Eller Fred J. , Evans Kervin O. , Compton David L.
Published: October 2023

Mycotoxin sequestration materials are important tools to reduce mycotoxin illness and enable proper handling of mycotoxin-contaminated commodities. Three food-grade bentonite clays and four generally recognized as safe (GRAS) charcoal/biochar carbon materials that are marketed as feed additives and supplements were evaluated for their ability to sequester the mycotoxins aflatoxin B1, ochratoxin A, and zearalenone. The surface area of the clays varied between 32.1 to 51.4 mg2/g, and the surface area of the carbon-based materials varied from 1.7 to 1735 mg2/g. In vitro, gastric fluid studies indicated that certain pine biochar and activated coconut charcoal could sequester high amounts (85+%) of the mycotoxins at 1 ppm levels or below. However, some biochar materials with lower surface area properties lacked binding capacity. The coconut shell charcoal and pine biochar utilize agricultural waste products in a manner that significantly reduces carbon emissions and provides valuable materials to minimize exposure to toxins found in food and feed.
Apgar Score for Newborn Dog Viability Assessment: Differences between English and French Bulldogs Born via Cesarean Section
Authors: Veronesi Maria Cristina , Bucci Roberta , Probo Monica , Faustini Massimo , Fusi Jasmine
Published: October 2023

Even if largely used in canine neonatology, some questions about the Apgar Score (AS) arose. Notably, considering the breed-oriented modifications of the score are needed, slight changes of the score were reported for English (EBs) and French bulldogs (FBs). The present study aimed to evaluate the possible differences between neonatal viability of the two breeds assessed by AS in puppies born via cesarean section. The results obtained from 99 puppies born alive and without malformations (EB = 47, FB = 52) showed significant (p < 0.001) differences in the median AS (seven in EB vs. eight in FB), with Grimace (p < 0.05 for sub-score 0 and p < 0.001 for sub-score 2) and Attitude (p < 0.05) being differently sub-scored between the two breeds. In the 89 alive puppies at 7 days of age, the same difference in the median AS was observed (p < 0.001), and only Grimace was differently sub-scored between the two breeds (p < 0.05 for sub-score 0 and p < 0.01 for sub-score 2). These results suggest that low Grimace could be an intrinsic characteristic of EB newborns, but it could negatively affect the neonatal adaptation process of EBs, providing an indication for focused neonatal assistance. Neonatal mortality at 7 days of age was higher in EBs than in FBs (17 vs. 3.8%, respectively), which deserves further investigations. The study provides further evidence that breed-oriented ASs are needed for a better evaluation and assistance of purebred puppies at birth.
Sensitization of Gram-Negative Bacteria to Aminoglycosides with 2-Aminoimidazole Adjuvants
Authors: Crotteau Ashley N. , Hubble Veronica B. , Marrujo Santiana A. , Mattingly Anne E. , Melander Roberta J. , Melander Christian
Published: October 2023

In 2019, five million deaths associated with antimicrobial resistance were reported by The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Acinetobacter baumannii, a Gram-negative bacterial pathogen, is among the list of urgent threats. Previously, we reported 2-aminoimidazole (2-AI) adjuvants that potentiate macrolide activity against A. baumannii. In this study, we identify several of these adjuvants that sensitize A. baumannii to aminoglycoside antibiotics. Lead compounds 1 and 7 lower the tobramycin (TOB) minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) against the TOB-resistant strain AB5075 from 128 μg/mL to 2 μg/mL at 30 μM. In addition, the lead compounds lower the TOB MIC against the TOB-susceptible strain AB19606 from 4 μg/mL to 1 μg/mL and 0.5 μg/mL, respectively, at 30 μM and 15 μM. The evolution of resistance to TOB and 1 in AB5075 revealed mutations in genes related to protein synthesis, the survival of bacteria under environmental stressors, bacteriophages, and proteins containing Ig-like domains.
Effects of Harvest Timing on Phytochemical Composition in Lamiaceae Plants under an Environment-Controlled System
Authors: Ryu Da-Hye , Cho Jwa-Yeong , Yang Seung-Hoon , Kim Ho-Youn
Published: October 2023

The Lamiaceae family is widely recognized for its production of essential oils and phenolic compounds that have promising value as pharmaceutical materials. However, the impact of environmental conditions and different harvest stages on the phytochemical composition of Lamiaceae plants remains poorly understood. This study aimed to investigate the effects of harvest time on the phytochemical composition, including rosmarinic acid (RA) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), of four Lamiaceae plants—Korean mint (AR), lemon balm (MO), opal basil (OBP), and sage (SO)—and was conducted under an environment-controlled system. Although all four plants had RA as the dominant compound, its distribution varied by species. The flowered plants, including AR and OBP, exhibited a rapid increase of RA during the transition from the vegetative stage to the reproductive stage. In contrast, non-flowered groups, including MO and SO, showed a steady increase in the content of total phenolics and RA. The main components of VOCs also differed depending on the plant, with characteristic fragrance compounds identified for each one (AR: estragole; MO: (Z)-neral and geranial; OBP: methyl eugenol, eugenol, and linalool; and SO: (Z)-thujone, camphor, and humulene). The total VOCs content was highest on the 60th day after transplanting regardless of the species, while the trends of total phenolics, RA content, and antioxidant activities were different depending on whether plant species flowered during the cultivation cycle. There was a steady increase in species that had not flowered, and the highest content and activity of the flowering period were confirmed in the flowering plant species.
Soil Erosion in a Changing Environment over 40 Years in the Merguellil Catchment Area of Central Tunisia
Authors: Hermassi Taoufik , Kotti Mohamed Lassaad , Jarray Fathia
Published: October 2023

Soil degradation and erosion in semi-arid regions can significantly impact agricultural development, environmental sustainability, and hydrological balance. Understanding the impacts of land use changes and soil and water conservation (SWC) technique implementation on soil erosion and sediment yield is critical to planning effective watershed management. This study aims to evaluate the impacts of environmental changes in the Merguellil watershed (Central Tunisia) over the last forty years. To achieve this, remote sensing techniques and a geographic information system (GIS) will be employed to classify Landsat images from 1980 to 2020. Additionally, the Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation model will be utilized to estimate soil erosion rates, while the sediment delivery distributed model will be employed for sediment yield modeling. Spatiotemporal changes in land use and land cover and in areas treated with SWC techniques were analyzed as the main factors influencing changes in erosion and sediment yield. The combined impact of land use change and SWC techniques resulted in a decrease in the annual soil erosion rate from 18 to 16 t/ha/year between 1980 and 2020 and in sediment yield from 9.65 to 8.95 t/ha/year for the same period. According to the model’s predictions, both soil erosion and sediment yield will experience a slight increase with further degradation of natural vegetation and a reduction in the efficiency of SWC works. This emphasizes the importance of continued efforts in adopting and sustaining SWC techniques, as well as preserving natural vegetation cover, to proactively combat soil degradation and its adverse effects on the environment and communities. Continuous dedication to these measures is crucial to preserving our ecosystem, promoting sustainable practices, and protecting the well-being of both the environment and society.
Effect of Augmented Reality Support on Quality Inspection of Welded Structures
Authors: Havlíková Kristýna , Hořejší Petr , Kopeček Pavel
Published: October 2023

With the increasing complexity of production systems and manufactured products, operators face high demands for professional expertise and long-term concentration. Augmented reality (AR) can support users in their work by displaying relevant virtual data in their field of view. In contrast to the extensive research on AR assistance in assembly, maintenance, and training, AR support in quality inspection has received less attention in the industrial context. Quality inspection is an essential part of industrial processes; thus, it is important to verify whether AR assistance can support users in these tasks. This work proposes an AR-based approach for quality inspection. For this, pilot AR software was designed and developed. The proposed AR approach was tested with end users. The task efficiency, the error rate, the perceived mental workload, and the usability of the AR approach were analysed and compared to the conventional paper-based support. The field research confirmed the positive effect on user efficiency during quality inspection while decreasing the perceived mental workload. This work extends the research on the potential of AR assistance in industrial applications and provides experimental validation to confirm the benefits of AR support on user performance during quality inspection tasks.
Mechanical and Acoustic Emission Characteristics of Grouted Reinforcement in Fissure-Containing Rock-like Specimens
Authors: Yu Zhonglin , Song Chenchen
Published: October 2023

In order to study the reinforcing effect of the different grouting materials applied in fissure rock engineering, ultra-fine cement slurry, cement–silicate slurry, and MARITHAN® were used to carry out grouting tests on specimens of fissure-containing rocks. With the help of a uniaxial compression acoustic emission test system, the mechanical characteristics of the grouted specimens were obtained, and the damage process of the specimens was revealed by using the acoustic emission signals. The tested results showed the following: the residual strength of the grouted specimens using the three grouting materials increased by 16.931%, 13.075%, and 39.998%, respectively; the ultra-fine cement grouting and cement–silicate grouting specimens showed damage patterns of shear-slip damage along the original rupture surface; the specimens of MARITHAN® grouting cracked from a position near the end of the specimen with no damage to the grouted body portion; the cumulative acoustic emission energy curves of the grouted specimens showed obvious stage characteristics; and the acoustic emission energy distribution characteristics of the grouted specimens differed depending on the grouting materials.
Impact of Transition Areas on Driving Workload and Driving Behavior in Work Zones: A Naturalistic Driving Study
Authors: Ma Sen , Hu Jiangbi , Wang Ronghua
Published: October 2023

Significant changes in road and traffic conditions in transition areas are key to traffic organization and guaranteeing safety in freeway work zones. Currently, most of the related studies on transition area use theoretical calculations, traffic and driving simulations, and the impact of different transition area conditions on drivers’ psychophysiological indicators and driving behavior are unclear. In this paper, the gap acceptance theory was used to establish a calculation method of the transition area length, and the transition area length was calculated under different closed lane widths, speed limits, and traffic volumes. Based on the results of our theoretical calculations, naturalistic driving experiments were conducted with 48 participants in 12 scenarios involving 3 lane closure forms and 4 transition area lengths, and the relationship of transition area with driving workload and vehicle speed was determined. A transition area that was too short or too long increased traffic safety risks. The overall experimental results were consistent with the theoretical calculation length, and the theoretical calculation model was reliable. Compared to unaffected straight-through vehicles, merging vehicles and vehicles affected by merging have lower speeds, higher driving workloads, and increased traffic safety risks. An increase in the number of lanes in the transition area will result in increased driving workloads and vehicle speeds. Based on the changes in vehicle deceleration points and driving workloads, the affected area of the transition area was measured. When the speed limit was 60 km/h, the upstream affected areas of the transition areas with four, three, and two lanes were 1000 m, 850 m, and 700 m, and the downstream affected areas were 450 m, 400 m, and 350 m. These research results can provide a reference for improving traffic organization and guaranteeing safety in freeway work zones.
Agrigenomic Diversity Unleashed: Current Single Nucleotide Polymorphism Genotyping Methods for the Agricultural Sciences
Authors: Lawrie Roger D. , Massey Steven E.
Published: October 2023

Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) are variations that occur at single nucleotides in the genome and are present at an appreciable level in a population. SNPs can be linked to phenotypes of interest, for example diseases, recent adaptations, or species hybridization. They can also be used to study phylogeny and evolutionary history. Technologies that rapidly identify and catalog the presence of SNPs in a DNA sample are known as SNP genotyping panels, and they continue to undergo rapid development. Such methods have great utility across the agricultural sciences in diverse areas such as plant and animal breeding, pathogen and pesticide resistance identification, outbreak tracing, and hybridization detection. Here, we provide an overview of 14 different SNP genotyping technologies and weigh some of the pros and cons associated with each platform. This review is not comprehensive or technical, nor does it aim to be. Rather, the objective is to provide an introduction to the landscape of genotyping technologies for researchers who do not have experience with these methods. Three classes of SNP genotyping methods are Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)-based (nine different methods), microarray-based (one method), and Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS)-based (four different methods). We discuss how each genotyping class is suited for different niches; PCR-based has a low SNP count and high sample number, microarray-based has a very high SNP count and a moderate sample number, and Next-Generation Sequencing-based has a moderate SNP count and moderate number of samples. Included are basics about how the methods function and example use cases of each method. Additionally, we introduce and discuss the potential for the MinION sequencer in SNP genotyping. For each technology, we provide insights into cost, equipment needs, labor costs, experimental complexity, data output complexity, and accessibility. These considerations address the feasibility of deploying the technologies in an agricultural science environment.
A Review of Urban Heat Studies in Recife—PE (Brazil): Urban Heat Scales, Landscape Inequalities and Future Perspectives
Authors: Moreira Ayobami Badiru , Duarte Cristiana Coutinho , Matzarakis Andreas
Published: October 2023

The objective of this article is to discuss the main studies related to urban heat in the city of Recife, the capital of the state of Pernambuco in Brazil, and contribute to providing theoretical and methodological perspectives for future research and the understanding of the history of these studies. Recife is the core of the largest metropolitan region in the northeastern region of Brazil, characterized by a complex urban landscape marked by inequalities and socio-spatial challenges. Moreover, it is recognized as one of the most vulnerable cities to climate change in the world. Analyzing urban heat in Recife through a descriptive review has the potential to provide a comprehensive analysis of the interactions between physical, social, and environmental elements with urban heat in this city, as well as to identify shortcomings and trends in ongoing initiatives and future perspectives. The discussions encompass the following themes: (a) urban heat scales, ranging from macro to global, in both temporal and spatial aspects; (b) the regional and local contexts of urban growth in Recife; (c) the challenges in urban heat studies in the city, including difficulties in data acquisition and integration of approaches; and (d) current efforts and future perspectives in addressing urban heat in this city. The main challenges for future heat studies include developing means for applicability in urban planning, enhancing observations of the interaction with the urban landscape, overcoming the lack of data sources, and understanding the interaction between scales to develop approaches that integrate the social and physical dimensions of urban climate and its relationship with climate change. Such reflections can also be extended to other geographic areas that share similar patterns of urban growth and socio-spatial complexities, helping to enhance the representation of the Global South in this field.
Alterations in Brain Activity Induced by Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation and Their Relation to Decision Making
Authors: Lawson Lexie , Spivak Stephanie , Webber Heather , Yasin Saeed , Goncalves Briana , Tarrio Olivia , Ash Sydney , Ferrol Maria , Ibragimov Athenia , Olivares Alejandro Gili , Keenan Julian Paul
Published: October 2023

Understanding the intricate dynamics between conscious choice and neural processes is crucial for unraveling the complexity of human decision-making. This study investigates the effects of inhibitory Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) on choice bias, shedding light on the malleability of cognitive-motor functions involved in decisions. While reaction times remained unaffected, inhibitory TMS to either the left or right motor cortex led to a significant bias in screen side preference during a choice task. These findings suggest that our cognitive-motor processes underlying decision-making can be unconsciously influenced by TMS. Furthermore, analysis of choice attribution categories revealed individual variability, emphasizing the complex nature of the decision-making process. These insights contribute to the ongoing exploration of the neural mechanisms governing human choice. As the neural basis of free will continues to captivate scientific inquiry, this research advances our understanding of the intricate relationship between neural circuits and conscious intention.
The Role of Exosome-Derived microRNA on Lung Cancer Metastasis Progression
Authors: Martinez-Espinosa Israel , Serrato José Antonio , Ortiz-Quintero Blanca
Published: October 2023

The high mortality from lung cancer is mainly attributed to the presence of metastases at the time of diagnosis. Despite being the leading cause of lung cancer death, the underlying molecular mechanisms driving metastasis progression are still not fully understood. Recent studies suggest that tumor cell exosomes play a significant role in tumor progression through intercellular communication between tumor cells, the microenvironment, and distant organs. Furthermore, evidence shows that exosomes release biologically active components to distant sites and organs, which direct metastasis by preparing metastatic pre-niche and stimulating tumorigenesis. As a result, identifying the active components of exosome cargo has become a critical area of research in recent years. Among these components are microRNAs, which are associated with tumor progression and metastasis in lung cancer. Although research into exosome-derived microRNA (exosomal miRNAs) is still in its early stages, it holds promise as a potential target for lung cancer therapy. Understanding how exosomal microRNAs promote metastasis will provide evidence for developing new targeted treatments. This review summarizes current research on exosomal miRNAs’ role in metastasis progression mechanisms, focusing on lung cancer.
Development of an Optically Induced Dielectrophoresis (ODEP) Microfluidic System for High-Performance Isolation and Purification of Bacteria
Authors: Chu Po-Yu , Yang Chia-Ming , Huang Kai-Lin , Wu Ai-Yun , Hsieh Chia-Hsun , Chao A-Ching , Wu Min-Hsien
Published: October 2023

For the rapid detection of bacteria in a blood sample, nucleic acid amplification-based assays are believed to be promising. Nevertheless, the nucleic acids released from the dead blood cells or bacteria could affect the assay performance. This highlights the importance of the isolation of live bacteria from blood samples. To address this issue, this study proposes a two-step process. First, a blood sample was treated with the immuno-magnetic microbeads-based separation to remove the majority of blood cells. Second, an optically induced dielectrophoresis (ODEP) microfluidic system with an integrated dynamic circular light image array was utilized to further isolate and purify the live bacteria from the remaining blood cells based on their size difference. In this work, the ODEP microfluidic system was developed. Its performance for the isolation and purification of bacteria was evaluated. The results revealed that the method was able to harvest the live bacteria in a high purity (90.5~99.2%) manner. Overall, the proposed method was proven to be capable of isolating and purifying high-purity live bacteria without causing damage to the co-existing cells. This technical feature was found to be valuable for the subsequent nucleic-acid-based bacteria detection, in which the interferences caused by the nontarget nucleic acids could be eliminated.
Differences in Help-Seeking Behavior among University Students during the COVID-19 Pandemic Depending on Mental Health Status: Results from a Cross-Sectional Survey
Authors: Guenthner Lukas , Baldofski Sabrina , Kohls Elisabeth , Schuhr Jan , Brock Tanja , Rummel-Kluge Christine
Published: October 2023

Background: Current evidence suggests that a significant proportion of university students are affected by mental disorders and suicidal ideation. Despite this, a treatment gap exists. Therefore, the present study assessed students’ knowledge and past use of on- and off-campus mental health services and help-seeking intentions. Furthermore, resilience was investigated as a potential barrier to help-seeking behavior. Methods: Data were collected between April and May 2022 from N = 5510 students from Saxony, Germany. To compare dependent variables, subgroups were computed according to students’ mental health status. Variables were assessed using standardized questionnaires. Chi-square tests were used for comparisons between groups. Multiple regression models were used to investigate the influence of resilience on help-seeking behavior. Results: Between 34 and 38% (depending on the subgroup) of participants indicated that they were not aware of their universities’ psychosocial counseling services. Furthermore, between 17 and 19% of participants indicated that they were not willing to seek help from professional mental health services. Finally, the previously found negative effect of resilience on help-seeking behavior was confirmed. Conclusion: The results showed a lack of awareness regarding universities’ mental health services and a treatment gap among university students. Universities and healthcare providers need to educate students about mental health services and how to access them. Further research is needed to elucidate the differential impact of resilience on mental health and help-seeking.
Last Planner System Framework to Assess Planning Reliability in Architectural Design
Authors: Shehab Lynn , Al Hattab Malak , Khalife Salam , El Samad Ghali , Abbas Yara , Hamzeh Farook
Published: October 2023

The Last Planner System (LPS) aims to enhance planning reliability by reducing variability in construction processes. While LPS applications have been explored in construction and detailed design, its application in architectural design remains underrepresented due to its abstract nature. This study addresses this gap by proposing an LPS framework tailored for architectural design, utilizing LPS metrics to assess planning reliability. Key issues hindering formal planning methods’ implementation are identified, and relevant LPS principles are aligned with these challenges, culminating in a conceptual LPS model designed for architectural projects. Building upon the conceptual model, an implementation model was developed and put into practice within an architectural design company in the United States, resulting in measured improvements in planning reliability and responsiveness. Additionally, it unveils hidden challenges associated with emerging tasks, guiding future design process enhancements. This study demonstrates how tracking design planning performance with LPS metrics can promote LPS adoption in architectural design, offering a benchmark for necessary interventions to achieve desired performance in architectural design.
Outdoor Microclimate in Courtyard Buildings: Impact of Building Perimeter Configuration and Tree Density
Authors: Marchi Lia , Gaspari Jacopo , Fabbri Kristian
Published: October 2023

As the effects of climate change and urbanisation intensify, liveability and comfort in outdoor spaces decrease. Because of large spaces exposed to solar radiation and low crossing of airflows, courtyard buildings are extremely vulnerable in this regard. However, there are significant gaps in the literature on outdoor comfort in courtyards, especially regarding the effect of border configuration (including gap position and features), as well that of tree density. The study proposes a methodology—to be used during preliminary design—to compare the effect of alternative scenarios for courtyard buildings on outdoor microclimate, varying both the building perimeter configuration and courtyard vegetation layout. A matrix is set to combine the two variables and select relevant scenarios, which are then simulated in ENVI-met focusing on air temperature, wind speed and physiological equivalent temperature (PET). A case study in Bologna, Italy (humid subtropical climate) is presented as an example of the implementation. The resulting outdoor microclimate maps and frequency diagrams are compared and discussed. It emerges that both variables have a role in outdoor comfort: while gap configuration affects air temperature more (up to a difference of 1 °C), tree density impacts PET by up to 2 °C difference. The methodology can be replicated in several other contexts to support the optimisation of courtyard building design from the early stages.
Deciphering Building Information Modeling Evolution: A Comprehensive Scientometric Analysis across Lifecycle Stages
Authors: Kuai Xi , Liu Yu , Bi Mingyan , Luo Qinyao
Published: October 2023

Building Information Modeling (BIM) has catalyzed transformative shifts across various industries, which has sparked broader research interests in the BIM lifecycle. However, studies that specify the stated requirements for different technologies and methodologies from the perspective of the BIM lifecycle and analyze research hotspots and future research trends at each stage are scarce. Employing scientometric theories and methods, this study conducts an in-depth comparative analysis of BIM lifecycle stages. The analysis encompasses several aspects like annual research output and knowledge flows, in the aim of unveiling disparities in the technological requirements, defining research boundaries, and illuminating lifecycle research trends. Findings indicate an ongoing surge in research across all BIM lifecycle stages with technologies like digital twins and artificial intelligence becoming prevailing trends. The cooperative design of BIM components, virtual-real world coordination, interactions among buildings, individuals, and environments, as well as the in-depth integration of BIM with the multifaceted fields of urban management have emerged as focal points in the planning, construction, management, and maintenance of BIM, respectively. Future BIM lifecycle research will necessitate interdisciplinary collaboration, emphasizing technological integration, common data environment (CDE) information sharing, open-source BIM/historic building information modeling (HBIM) system, and impactful exploration in areas like urban construction and historical preservation.
How Does the Alienation of Project Digital Responsibility Form? Perspectives from Fraud Risk Factor Theory and Information Asymmetry Theory
Authors: Gu Jianglin , Guo Feng
Published: October 2023

During the digital transformation of construction projects, the significant volume of project data raise a multitude of data responsibility issues. Project stakeholders, often motivated by financial interests and other considerations, frequently engage in data fraud, namely the alienation of project digital responsibility (APDR), which ultimately hinders the benefits released by the digital transformation of projects. However, the causes of APDR are still unclear. This study aims to bridge this knowledge gap by empirically investigating the factors influencing APDR and delineating their pathways. A model outlining the mechanism of APDR formation, rooted in fraud risk factor theory (FRFT) and information asymmetry theory (IAT), is proposed. To collect data from 276 Chinese construction project practitioners, a questionnaire was meticulously designed. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was subsequently applied to assess the validity of the proposed model. Finally, the proposed model consisting of six variables was examined using structural equation modeling (SEM). The results showed that opportunity (OPP), motivation (MOT), and information asymmetry (INF) had a positive effect on APDR, while exposure probability (EXP), penalty strength (PEN), and ethics (ETH) had a negative effect on APDR. Through revealing the formation mechanism of APDR, the findings are beneficial for understanding why stakeholders adopt APDR at the risk of being penalized. This study aims at deepening the systematic understanding of APDR and enriches the relevant theories on project digital responsibility (PDR). Such knowledge would also contribute to project managers proposing effective interventions to inhibit APDR and promote PDR.
A Comparative Analysis of Slope Failure Prediction Using a Statistical and Machine Learning Approach on Displacement Data: Introducing a Tailored Performance Metric
Authors: Chaulagain Suresh , Choi Junhyuk , Kim Yongjin , Yeon Jaeheum , Kim Yongseong , Ji Bongjun
Published: October 2023

Slope failures pose significant threats to human safety and vital infrastructure. The urgent need for the accurate prediction of these geotechnical events is driven by two main goals: advancing our understanding of the underlying geophysical mechanisms and establishing efficient evacuation protocols. Although traditional physics-based models offer in-depth insights, their reliance on numerous assumptions and parameters limits their practical usability. In our study, we constructed an experimental artificial slope and monitored it until failure, generating an in-depth displacement dataset. Leveraging this dataset, we developed and compared prediction models rooted in both statistical and machine learning paradigms. Furthermore, to bridge the gap between generic evaluation metrics and the specific needs of slope failure prediction, we introduced a bespoke performance. Our results indicate that while the statistical approach did not effectively provide early warnings, the machine learning models, when assessed with our bespoke performance metric, showed significant promise as reliable early warning systems. These findings hold potential to fortify disaster prevention measures and prioritize human safety.
Regression Models for the Description of the Behaviour of Modern Timber Joints
Authors: Caprio Dorotea , Jockwer Robert
Published: October 2023

Joints in timber structures are today typically designed in a simplistic manner, i.e., by assuming linear elastic behaviour or neglecting their real stiffness by assuming ideal pinned or fixed conditions. While such assumptions may be acceptable for simple structures, they do not reflect the real behaviour of joints in complex structures, and could, in some cases, lead either to an over-conservative or even unsafe design. Therefore, a more accurate and realistic representation of the nonlinear behaviour of joints with mechanical fasteners is needed. The most common modern timber joints with mechanical fasteners are realized with dowels, bolts, glued-in rods, or self-tapping screws. In this paper, an overview of the impact of the most influential parameters on the shape of the load-displacement curves of these joints under common static loading is given. The joints were differentiated according to the characteristics of their nonlinear load-displacement behaviour. Different analytical models from the literature for the description of the load-displacement curves of timber joints were reviewed. The performance and suitability of these models for describing the variety of nonlinear load-displacement behaviours of joints were evaluated and the advantages and limitations of each model were identified. It was found that the Richard–Abbott model is the most suitable to parametrize a variety of timber joints and to capture the variability of the test data by its parameters. Such an analytical model can be used to incorporate a parametrized, more realistic, nonlinear load-displacement representation of the behaviour of joints in reliability analyses, structural design software, and design guidance for modern timber structures.