bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of Planar Double-Layer Timber Spatial Frames by Using Parametric Tools
Authors: Manterola-Ubillos Maddi , Gonzalez-Quintial Francisco , Rico-Martinez Jose Miguel , Benito Ayucar Josu , Begiristain-Mitxelena Jon Andoni
Published: July 2024

It is in the preliminary design phase of a project that the designer makes decisions concerning the global geometry of the structure. When working with space frames, the choice of the frame topology is key for the structural behavior. It is difficult to find manuals that provide guidance on which of the most common topologies is the right one for the project, let alone in wood construction. In response to this shortcoming, the use of parametric software is proposed (Grasshopper build1.0.0007 and Karamba 3D 2.2.0.16-220828). The aim is to create a dynamic catalog that responds instantaneously to changes in the parameters to provide information on structural behavior, pre-dimensioning and metrics. With the display of all this information, the architect will have enough technical argumentation to choose or reject options. The proposal is developed through a case study: the early design and analysis stages of flat double-layer timber spatial frames as for rectangular medium-span roofs.
X-ray Pulsar-Based Navigation Using Pulse Phase Delay between Spacecraft and Verification with Real Data
Authors: Jiang Kun , Wang Yusong , Yang Hui , Yuan Hong
Published: July 2024

Pulsars are neutron stars with high rotation speeds and have extraordinary long-term rotational stability. X-ray pulsar-based navigation (XNAV) is a navigation method that estimates the position and velocity of a spacecraft using the X-ray radiation from pulsars. Flight experiments on Insight-Hard X-ray Modulation Telescope (Insight-HXMT) and Neutron Star Interior Composition Explorer (NICER) have successfully verified the feasibility of using XNAV for a single spacecraft. For spacecraft in formation, a pulsar-based navigation method that uses the pulse phase delay between spacecraft is derived. Moreover, a direct estimation method for pulse phase delay, which is independent from the pulsar template, is proposed. The proposed method is verified with simulation data of the Crab pulsar and real data of the same pulsar obtained from Insight-HXMT and NICER.
State-of-the-Art Research on Loess Microstructure Based on X-ray Computer Tomography
Authors: Yao Xiaoliang , Yu Lin , Ke Yixin , Jin Long , Wang Wenli
Published: July 2024

Computer tomography (CT), combined with advanced image processing techniques, can be used to visualize the complex internal structures of living and non-living media in a non-destructive, intuitive, and precise manner in both two and three-dimensional spaces. Beyond its clinical uses, CT has been extensively employed within the field of geotechnical engineering to provide both qualitative and quantitative analyses of the microstructural properties of loess. This technology has been successfully applied in many fields. However, with the rapid development of CT technology and the expansion of its application scope, a reassessment is necessary. In recent years, only a few documents have attempted to organize and review the application cases of CT in the field of loess microstructure research. Therefore, the objectives of this work are as follows: (1) to briefly introduce the development process of CT equipment and the basic principles of CT and image processing; (2) to determine the current state and hotspots of CT technology research based on a bibliometric analysis of the literature from the past three decades in the Web of Science Core Collection and CNKI databases; and (3) to comprehensively review the application of CT to explore the microstructural characteristics (such as particle size, shape, arrangement, and the connectivity, orientation, and pore throats of pores, etc.) and the evolution of structural damage in loess within geotechnical science. In addition, the progress and deficiencies of CT applications in the field of loess microstructure are summarized, and future prospects are proposed.
Decision Support System for Mining Machinery Risk Mitigation Driven by Ergonomics and Contextual Theory
Authors: Misita Mirjana , Brkić Aleksandar , Mihajlović Ivan , Đurić Goran , Stanojević Nada , Bugarić Uglješa , Spasojević Brkić Vesna
Published: July 2024

Despite being very old, the mining industry continues to be one of the major sources of pollution, with more people killed or injured than in all other industries. Prevention of incidents/accidents on machinery in mining pits and the issues of operator safety on mining machinery largely depend on the ergonomic adaptation of the workplace, compliance with safety procedures and policies, and organizational and other influential factors. Evidently, scarce consideration of those factors in the available literature has not given satisfactory results till now. The aim of this paper is to first set up a comprehensive model based on ergonomic factors and contextual theory, which takes into account all the influencing factors on the occurrence of incidents/accidents and represents a complex system of interdependence of influential variables of diverse, mostly stochastic nature, and then design a software solution on the given basis. In this research, based on the extensive data collected, a model was generated using the structural equations modelling methodology, which was then used to design the reasoning logic in the expert system for mitigating the risks of the operation of mining machines. An innovative solution incorporating a mathematical model of the interdependence of influential variables into the stored knowledge base offers a decision support system that provides recommendations for the maintenance of a particular mining machine, depending on the assessment of model factors in a specific decision-making situation at the higher organizational level and ergonomic suitability for the operator at the lower organizational level, and, in that manner, enables the mitigating of risky/unwanted events.
Improving Air Quality Prediction via Self-Supervision Masked Air Modeling
Authors: Chen Shuang , He Li , Shen Shinan , Zhang Yan , Ma Weichun
Published: July 2024

Presently, the harm to human health created by air pollution has greatly drawn public attention, in particular, vehicle emissions including nitrogen oxides as well as particulate matter. How to predict air quality, e.g., pollutant concentration, efficiently and accurately is a core problem in environmental research. Developing a robust air quality predictive model has become an increasingly important task, holding practical significance in the formulation of effective control policies. Recently, deep learning has progressed significantly in air quality prediction. In this paper, we go one step further and present a neat scheme of masked autoencoders, termed as masked air modeling (MAM), for sequence data self-supervised learning, which addresses the challenges posed by missing data. Specifically, the front end of our pipeline integrates a WRF-CAMx numerical model, which can simulate the process of emission, diffusion, transformation, and removal of pollutants based on atmospheric physics and chemical reactions. Then, the predicted results of WRF-CAMx are concatenated into a time series, and fed into an asymmetric Transformer-based encoder–decoder architecture for pre-training via random masking. Finally, we fine-tune an additional regression network, based on the pre-trained encoder, to predict ozone (O 3) concentration. Coupling these two designs enables us to consider the atmospheric physics and chemical reactions of pollutants while inheriting the long-range dependency modeling capabilities of the Transformer. The experimental results indicated that our approach effectively enhances the WRF-CAMx model’s predictive capabilities and outperforms pure supervised network solutions. Overall, using advanced self-supervision approaches, our work provides a novel perspective for further improving air quality forecasting, which allows us to increase the smartness and resilience of the air prediction systems. This is due to the fact that accurate prediction of air pollutant concentrations is essential for detecting pollution events and implementing effective response strategies, thereby promoting environmentally sustainable development.
Occurrence of Microplastics in the Atmosphere: An Overview on Sources, Analytical Challenges, and Human Health Effects
Authors: Carriera Fabiana , Di Fiore Cristina , Avino Pasquale
Published: July 2024

The rapid spread and accumulation of microplastics (MPs) in environmental ecosystems result from extensive plastic usage. MPs have been found in both indoor and outdoor air. Outdoor MP levels vary widely across global cities, with reported ranges from 36 to 118 MPs m−2 day−1. However, differing measurement units complicate comparisons. Indoor MPs are particularly concerning due to the significant amount of time people spend indoors. For instance, MP concentrations in workplaces like reception areas and nail salons were found to be 309 ± 214 and 46 ± 55 MPs m−3, respectively. Technological limitations hinder the identification of MPs, with methods like µ-ATR-FTIR, µ-FTIR, and µ-Raman identifying MPs of different sizes. MPs smaller than 0.3 µm pose a health risk as they can be internalized in lung cells, while MPs larger than 10 µm are too large to enter alveolar macrophages. This review highlights the current understanding of airborne MPs, focusing on their sources, transport, and deposition mechanisms. It aims to provide a foundation for further studies to deeply assess the presence, abundance, and occurrence of MPs in aerosols, a subject that remains underexplored.
Assessing the Potential Impacts of Climate Change on Drought in Uzbekistan: Findings from RCP and SSP Scenarios
Authors: Rakhmatova Natella , Nishonov Bakhriddin E. , Kholmatjanov Bakhtiyar M. , Rakhmatova Valeriya , Toderich Kristina N. , Khasankhanova Gulchekhra M. , Shardakova Lyudmila , Khujanazarov Temur , Ungalov Akmal N. , Belikov Dmitry A.
Published: July 2024

Future climate change and its impact on drought is critical for Uzbekistan, located in Central Asia, the world’s largest arid zone. This study examines the evolving intensity of climate change and drought events using multi-model ensembles (MMEs) derived from the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 5 and 6 (CMIP5 and CMIP6) simulated under the Representative Concentration Pathway and Shared Socioeconomic Pathway (RCP and SSP) scenarios. The projections show different rates of increase in temperature and precipitation under the RCPs and SSPs. Projected temperature increases are expected to reach up to 2–2.5 °C under SSP1-2.6, SSP2-4.5, and SSP3-7.0, by mid-century. By 2080–2099, an increase is projected of 2–3 °C in monthly mean temperatures throughout the year (SSP1-2.6), and a more pronounced increase in summer up to 3–4 °C (SSP2-4.5) and 4–6 °C (SSP3-7.0), with a marked contrast in conditions between the mountainous and desert regions of Uzbekistan. Regional changes in precipitation over the study periods show relatively little variability, except for FD, where notable trends are found. Under SSP1-2.6 and SSP2-4.5, the increase in precipitation is relatively modest, whereas the changes in SSP3-7.0 are more substantial, with some regions experiencing variations of up to 10–20 mm per period. The Standardized Precipitation Evapotranspiration Index (SPEI), calculated based on the projected temperature and precipitation, provides an estimate of future drought trends. Our results show increasing aridity under all scenarios by mid-century, with longer-term projections indicating stabilization around different SPEI values by 2100: RCP2.6 and SSP1-1.9 stabilize around −1.0; RCP4.5, RCP6.0, SSP2-4.5, and SSP3-7.0 stabilize around −1.5; while RCP8.5 and SSP5-8.5 scenarios project values of −2 or less by 2100. Notable differences in the SPEI index are found between lowland and foothill regions. In view of Uzbekistan’s heavy reliance on agriculture and irrigation, which are the sectors that are expected to be mostly affected by climate change, our study provides a scientific basis for informed policy decision-making. This includes various aspects such as planning and management water resources, as well as the broader socioeconomic development of the country.
A New Post-Processing Method for Improving Track and Rainfall Ensemble Forecasts for Typhoons over Eastern China
Authors: Liu Chun , Deng Hanqing , Qiu Xuexing , Lu Yanyu , Li Jiayun
Published: July 2024

This paper proposes a new post-processing method for model data in order to improve typhoon track and rainfall forecasts. The model data used in the article include low-resolution ensemble forecasts and high-resolution forecasts. The entire improvement method contains the following three steps. The first step is to correct the typhoon track forecast: three ensemble member optimization methods are applied to the low-resolution ensemble forecasts, and then the best optimization method is selected with the principle of the smallest average distance error. The results of rainfall forecasts show that the corrected rainfall forecast performs better than the original forecasts. The second step is to derive the high-resolution probability rainfall forecast: the neighborhood method is applied to the deterministic high-resolution rainfall forecast. The last step is to correct the typhoon rainfall forecast: the low- and high-resolution forecasts are blended using the probability-matching method with two different schemes. The results show that the forecasts of the two schemes perform better than the original forecast under all rainfall thresholds and all forecast lead times. In terms of bias score, a rain forecast from one scheme corrects the rainfall deviation from observation better for light and moderate rainfall, whereas a rain forecast from another scheme corrects the rainfall deviation better for heavy and torrential rainfall. The better performance of corrected rain forecasts in the case of Typhoon Lekima and Rumbia over eastern China is demonstrated.
Impact of Meteorological Factors on the Wire Icing Thickness and Growth Rate in Mountain Areas under Dry and Wet Growth Patterns
Authors: Zhou Fangrong , Zhang Haipeng , Pan Hao , Li Hao , Geng Hao , Lu Zhengqi , Han Yongxiang , Liu Weijia
Published: July 2024

Wire icing events pose a significant threat to the southern power grid’s transmission lines in China. Fifteen such events were identified from 2018 to 2020 on the Guilin-Haiyang Mountain transmission line. Hourly measurements of ice thickness and concurrent meteorological data were analyzed using the Makkonen model’s freezing rate formula to categorize the events into distinct growth patterns: dry and wet. The relationship between wire icing and meteorological factors across different micro-topography (windward slope, leeward slope, and pass) was further explored. Several key conclusions can be drawn. First, the altitude is positively correlated to the icing thickness, but relatively independent of the icing rate; however, such independence between the icing rate and altitude cannot be interpreted by the negative correlation of altitude with temperature and the positive relationship between wind speed and liquid water content. Second, a pronounced connection of the icing rate with meteorological factors is not shown until the wet and dry patterns are separated. Notably, the correlations differ between these two patterns, with icing rate being negatively correlated with temperature for the wet growth process, but positively correlated with wind speed and liquid water content for the dry growth process. Third, both wet and dry growth processes exist across the icing events. A shift from wet to dry growth was evident with increasing altitude. At the mountain’s base, wet growth predominates, with the icing rate determined by the temperature close to the freezing point, whereas the higher temperature and lower liquid water flux account for the shorter wire icing duration, lower icing rate, and thus the thinner icing thickness at the leeward slope compared to the windward slope at a similar altitude. This study sheds light on the variations in icing rates under different micro-topographies and the underlying physical mechanisms governing icing growth patterns and provides a much-needed understanding of these distinct growth processes on the development of a more sophisticated predictive model for conductor icing.
Encapsulation of Bovine Primordial Follicles in Rigid Alginate Does Not Affect Growth Dynamics
Authors: McElhinney Kathryn L. , Rowell Erin E. , Laronda Monica M.
Published: July 2024

The only fertility preservation and subsequent restoration option for many patients facing gonadotoxic treatments is ovarian tissue cryopreservation and transplantation. While this process is successful for some, there is significant room for improvement to extend the life of the transplant and to make it safe for patients that may have metastatic disease within their ovarian tissue. We need a deeper understanding of how the physical properties of the ovarian microenvironment may affect folliculogenesis to engineer an environment that supports isolated follicles and maintains primordial follicle quiescence. Bovine ovaries were used here as a monovulatory model of folliculogenesis to examine the effects of primordial follicle activation and growth under different physical conditions. We found that there were no differences in activation, growth or survival when primordial follicles were cultured in isolation or in situ (remaining in the tissue) under two significantly differently rigid alginate gels. To determine if the extra rigid environment did not affect activation in isolated follicles due to an immediate activation event, we used 5-ethynyl-2′-deoxyuridine (EdU) to track follicle activation during the isolation process. We identified EdU incorporation in granulosa cells after primordial follicles were isolated from the surrounding extracellular matrix (ECM). These findings support that isolation of primordial follicles from the ECM is an activating event and that the differentially rigid environments assessed here had no effect on follicle growth. Further work is needed to suppress activation in primordial follicles to maintain the ovarian reserve and extend the life of an ovarian tissue transplant.
Investigating Eye Movement and Postural Stability Relationships Using Mobile Eye-Tracking and Posturography: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Park Seo-Yoon , Kang Tae-Woo , Koo Dong-Kyun
Published: July 2024

Vision and eye movements play a crucial role in maintaining postural stability. This study investigated the relationship between eye movements and postural control in healthy adults using mobile eye-tracking technology and posturography. Forty healthy participants underwent assessments of eye movements using a mobile eye-tracking system and postural stability using Tetrax posturography under various sensory conditions. Pearson correlation coefficients were computed to examine associations between eye movement parameters and postural control indices. Significant correlations were found between eye movement parameters and postural stability indices. Faster and more consistent horizontal eye movements were associated with better postural stability (r = −0.63, p < 0.05). Eye movement speed variability positively correlated with weight distribution indices under normal eyes open (r = 0.65, p < 0.05) and closed (r = 0.59, p < 0.05) conditions. Coordination of horizontal and vertical eye movements positively correlated with postural control (r = 0.69, p < 0.01). Negative correlations were observed between eye movement coordination and Fourier indices in various frequency bands (p < 0.05) and the stability index under different head positions (p < 0.05). The findings provide insights into sensory integration mechanisms underlying balance maintenance and highlight the importance of integrated sensory processing in postural stability. Eye movement assessments have potential applications in balance evaluation and fall risk prediction.
DiffPhys: Enhancing Signal-to-Noise Ratio in Remote Photoplethysmography Signal Using a Diffusion Model Approach
Authors: Chen Shutao , Wong Kwan-Long , Chin Jing-Wei , Chan Tsz-Tai , So Richard H. Y.
Published: July 2024

Remote photoplethysmography (rPPG) is an emerging non-contact method for monitoring cardiovascular health based on facial videos. The quality of the captured videos largely determines the efficacy of rPPG in this application. Traditional rPPG techniques, while effective for heart rate (HR) estimation, often produce signals with an inadequate signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) for reliable vital sign measurement due to artifacts like head motion and measurement noise. Another pivotal factor is the overlooking of the inherent properties of signals generated by rPPG (rPPG-signals). To address these limitations, we introduce DiffPhys, a novel deep generative model particularly designed to enhance the SNR of rPPG-signals. DiffPhys leverages the conditional diffusion model to learn the distribution of rPPG-signals and uses a refined reverse process to generate rPPG-signals with a higher SNR. Experimental results demonstrate that DiffPhys elevates the SNR of rPPG-signals across within-database and cross-database scenarios, facilitating the extraction of cardiovascular metrics such as HR and HRV with greater precision. This enhancement allows for more accurate monitoring of health conditions in non-clinical settings.
Effect of Nitrogen Application Rate on the Relationships between Multidimensional Plant Diversity and Ecosystem Production in a Temperate Steppe
Authors: Debaba Gossaye Hailu , Li Kunyu , Wang Xiaowei , Wang Yanan , Bai Wenming , Li Guoyong
Published: July 2024

Nitrogen (N) deposition, as one of the global change drivers, can alter terrestrial plant diversity and ecosystem function. However, the response of the plant diversity–ecosystem function relationship to N deposition remains unclear. On one hand, in the previous studies, taxonomic diversity (i.e., species richness, SR) was solely considered the common metric of plant diversity, compared to other diversity metrics such as phylogenetic and functional diversity. On the other hand, most previous studies simulating N deposition only included two levels of control versus N enrichment. How various N deposition rates affect multidimensional plant diversity–ecosystem function relationships is poorly understood. Here, a field manipulative experiment with a N addition gradient (0, 1, 2, 4, 8, 16, 32, and 64 g N m−2 yr−1) was carried out to examine the effects of N addition rates on the relationships between plant diversity metrics (taxonomic, phylogenetic, and functional diversity) and ecosystem production in a temperate steppe. Production initially increased and reached the maximum value at the N addition rate of 47 g m−2 yr−1, then decreased along the N-addition gradient in the steppe. SR, functional diversity calculated using plant height (FDis-Height) and leaf chlorophyll content (FDis-Chlorophyll), and phylogenetic diversity (net relatedness index, NRI) were reduced, whereas community-weighted means of plant height (CWMHeight) and leaf chlorophyll content (CWMChlorophyll) were enhanced by N addition. N addition did not affect the relationships of SR, NRI, and FDis-Height with production but significantly affected the strength of the correlation between FDis-Chlorophyll, CWMHeight, and CWMChlorophyll with biomass production across the eight levels of N addition. The findings indicate the robust relationships of taxonomic and phylogenetic diversity and production and the varying correlations between functional diversity and production under increased N deposition in the temperate steppe, highlighting the importance of a trait-based approach in studying the plant diversity–ecosystem function under global change scenarios.
The Role and Function of TRPM8 in the Digestive System
Authors: Wu Zunan , Peng Shuai , Huang Wensha , Zhang Yuling , Liu Yashi , Yu Xiaoyun , Shen Lei
Published: July 2024

Transient receptor potential (TRP) melastatin member 8 (TRPM8) is a non-selective cation channel that can be activated by low temperatures (8–26 °C), cooling agents (including menthol analogs such as menthol, icilin, and WS-12), voltage, and extracellular osmotic pressure changes. TRPM8 expression has been identified in the digestive system by several research teams, demonstrating its significant involvement in tissue function and pathologies of the digestive system. Specifically, studies have implicated TRPM8 in various physiological and pathological processes of the esophagus, stomach, colorectal region, liver, and pancreas. This paper aims to comprehensively outline the distinct role of TRPM8 in different organs of the digestive system, offering insights for future mechanistic investigations of TRPM8. Additionally, it presents potential therapeutic targets for treating conditions such as digestive tract inflammation, tumors, sensory and functional disorders, and other related diseases. Furthermore, this paper addresses the limitations of existing studies and highlights the research prospects associated with TRPM8.
Rational Design of Chimeric Antisense Oligonucleotides on a Mixed PO–PS Backbone for Splice-Switching Applications
Authors: Le Bao T. , Chen Suxiang , Veedu Rakesh N.
Published: July 2024

Synthetic antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) are emerging as an attractive platform to treat various diseases. By specifically binding to a target mRNA transcript through Watson–Crick base pairing, ASOs can alter gene expression in a desirable fashion to either rescue loss of function or downregulate pathogenic protein expression. To be clinically relevant, ASOs are generally synthesized using modified analogs to enhance resistance to enzymatic degradation and pharmacokinetic and dynamic properties. Phosphorothioate (PS) belongs to the first generation of modified analogs and has played a vital role in the majority of approved ASO drugs, mainly based on the RNase H mechanism. In contrast to RNase H-dependent ASOs that bind and cleave target mature mRNA, splice-switching oligonucleotides (SSOs) mainly bind and alter precursor mRNA splicing in the cell nucleus. To date, only one approved SSO (Nusinersen) possesses a PS backbone. Typically, the synthesis of PS oligonucleotides generates two types of stereoisomers that could potentially impact the ASO’s pharmaco-properties. This can be limited by introducing the naturally occurring phosphodiester (PO) linkage to the ASO sequence. In this study, towards fine-tuning the current strategy in designing SSOs, we reported the design, synthesis, and evaluation of several stereo-random SSOs on a mixed PO–PS backbone for their binding affinity, biological potency, and nuclease stability. Based on the results, we propose that a combination of PO and PS linkages could represent a promising approach toward limiting undesirable stereoisomers while not largely compromising the efficacy of SSOs.
Investigating the Relationship between Epigenetic Age and Cardiovascular Risk in a Population with Overweight/Obesity
Authors: Marinello Davide , Favero Chiara , Albetti Benedetta , Barbuto Davide , Vigna Luisella , Pesatori Angela Cecilia , Bollati Valentina , Ferrari Luca
Published: July 2024

Introduction: Cardiovascular diseases stand as the leading global cause of mortality. Major modifiable risk factors encompass overweight/obese conditions, high blood pressure, elevated LDL cholesterol, diabetes, smoking, secondhand smoke exposure, unhealthy diet, and physical inactivity. In the present study, we explored the relationship between cardiovascular risk factors and epigenetic age (DNAm age), an estimate reflecting an individual’s actual physiological functionality and overall health. Additionally, we assessed the association between DNAm age acceleration and cardiovascular risk, as evaluated through the Framingham risk score (FRS). Methods: The study includes 190 subjects with overweight/obese conditions. We calculated their DNAm age using Zbieć-Piekarska et al.’s DNAm age estimator on five sets of CpGs analyzed in the peripheral leucocytes. Linear regression models were employed to test the associations. Results: Various parameters contributing to increased cardiovascular risk were associated with DNAm age acceleration, such as systolic blood pressure (β = 0.045; SE = 0.019; p = 0.019), heart rate (β = 0.096; SE = 0.032; p = 0.003), blood glucose (β = 0.025; SE = 0.012; p = 0.030), glycated hemoglobin (β = 0.105; SE = 0.042; p = 0.013), diabetes (β = 2.247; SE = 0.841; p = 0.008), and menopausal conditions (β = 2.942; SE = 1.207; p = 0.016), as well as neutrophil (β = 0.100; SE = 0.042; p = 0.018) and granulocyte (β = 0.095; SE = 0.044; p = 0.033) counts. Moreover, DNAm age acceleration raised the FRS (∆% 5.3%, 95% CI 0.8; 9.9, p = 0.019). Conclusion: For the first time, we report that cardiovascular risk factors accelerated DNAm age in a selected population of hypersusceptible individuals with overweight or obesity. Our results highlight the potential of DNAm age acceleration as a biomarker of cumulative effects in cardiovascular risk assessment.
Neural Signals Associated with Orienting Response and Arousal Inhibition in Concealed Information Test
Authors: Feng Wang , Wang Fei , Zhu Hongyi , Jiang Chen , Sai Liyang
Published: July 2024

Recent theory suggests that both the orienting response and arousal inhibition play roles in the effect of the concealed information test (CIT). However, the neural signatures associated with these two processes remain unclear. To address this issue, participants were motivated to either conceal or reveal crime-related stimulus during CIT while EEG was recorded. By using a temporal principal component analysis, we found that crime-related stimuli produced a larger early P3 than crime-irrelevant stimuli in both the conceal condition and reveal condition. This result suggests that this early P3 reflects an orienting response. In addition, we found that crime-related stimuli elicited a larger frontal negative slow wave than crime-irrelevant stimuli in the conceal condition but not the reveal condition, which suggests that the frontal negative slow wave reflects the arousal inhibition process. These results provide crucial evidence for understanding the neural basis underlying CIT.
Streamlining Construction Operations: A Holistic Approach with A3 Methodology and Lean Principles
Authors: Mandic Jovan , Sremcev Nemanja , Piaux Julien , Vrhovac Vijoleta , Kucevic Denis , Stankovski Stevan
Published: July 2024

With the growing trend of urbanisation and the growing number of people migrating to cities, the demand for the development and construction of new buildings and infrastructure has risen, meaning that the construction industry must adapt to these trends. Growing demands with shorter deadlines for an industry already known for its high costs and late delivery means that productivity must be increased without increasing costs. The solution for this might lie in the application of the Lean philosophy to the construction industry. This paper analyses the application of the Lean philosophy in order to increase the productivity of construction work for an airport project. This paper highlights the potential for enhancing productivity in construction workplaces by concurrently fostering continuous improvement and sustainability through the implementation of the A3 methodology and Lean principles, resulting in waste reduction and increased value.
Experimental Study on Heat Transfer Characteristics of Hollowing Defect Areas on Building Facade
Authors: Gong Xue , Zhu Darong , Li Jianguo , Liu Yanli , Wang Ping
Published: July 2024

Infrared detection is more and more widely used in the field of non-destructive testing of buildings to detect whether there is a defect on the surface of the building facade. In many cases, it is necessary to obtain more information about the defect, such as the depth of the defect, so as to evaluate the severity of the defect and repair. The theoretical formula of hollowing defect depths was derived in this paper based on the heat transfer characteristics of the intact and defective areas on the building facade, and the influence of defects with different shapes, sizes and cavity thicknesses on the temperature distribution of the building facade was summarized quantitatively. Firstly, the theoretical formula of the hollowing defect depth and the factors affecting the distribution of the temperature gradient on the building facade excited by external thermal source was derived and restricted by the boundary condition. Secondly, three sets of physical building facade models that contained hollowing defects with different shapes, sizes and cavity thicknesses were fabricated and designed, and the experimental platform was built. The infrared thermograms and the temperature characteristic curves of the hollowing defect in a natural light environment were obtained and fitted according to the temperature differences of the defective area, while analyzing the influence of the size, shape and cavity thicknesses on surface temperature distribution. Finally, the theoretical formula of the defect depth that is applicable to the building façade was validated through the experimental simulation of 14 forms of hollowing. The experimental results demonstrated that the revised formula of defect depth is consistent with the actual defect depth, and the three-dimensional positioning of the hollowing defect of the building facade can be effectively carried out and combined with the defect size taken from the obtained infrared thermal image.
The Immune Resistance Signature of Acute Myeloid Leukemia and Current Immunotherapy Strategies
Authors: Chandra Daniel J. , Alber Bernhard , Saultz Jennifer N.
Published: July 2024

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a complex hematopoietic clonal disorder with limited curative options beyond stem cell transplantation. The success of transplant is intimately linked with the graft versus leukemia effect from the alloreactive donor immune cells including, T and NK cells. The immune system plays a dynamic role in leukemia survival and resistance. Despite our growing understanding of the immune microenvironment, responses to immune-based therapies differ greatly between patients. Herein, we review the biology of immune evasion mechanisms in AML, discuss the current landscape of immunotherapeutic strategies, and discuss the implications of therapeutic targets. This review focuses on T and NK cell-based therapy, including modified and non-modified NK cells, CAR-T and CAR-NK cells, antibodies, and checkpoint blockades. Understanding the complex interchange between immune tolerance and the emergence of tumor resistance will improve patient outcomes.
Shall We Screen Lung Cancer with Volume Computed Tomography in Austria? A Cost-Effectiveness Modelling Study
Authors: ten Berge Hilde , Ramaker Dianne , Piazza Greta , Pan Xuanqi , Lamprecht Bernd , Valipour Arschang , Prosch Helmut
Published: July 2024

This study assessed the cost-effectiveness of a lung cancer screening (LCS) program using low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) in Austria. An existing decision tree with an integrated Markov model was used to analyze the cost-effectiveness of LCS versus no screening from a healthcare payer perspective over a lifetime horizon. A simulation was conducted to model annual LCS for an asymptomatic high-risk population cohort aged 50–74 with a smoking history using the Dutch–Belgian Lung Cancer Screening Study (NEderlands-Leuvens Longkanker ScreeningsONderzoek, NELSON) screening outcomes. The principal measure utilized to assess cost-effectiveness was the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER). Sensitivity and scenario analyses were employed to determine uncertainties surrounding the key model inputs. At an uptake rate of 50%, 300,277 eligible individuals would participate in the LCS program, yielding 56,122 incremental quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) and 84,049 life years gained compared to no screening, with an ICER of EUR 24,627 per QALY gained or EUR 16,444 per life-year saved. Additionally, LCS led to the detection of 25,893 additional early-stage lung cancers and averted 11,906 premature lung cancer deaths. It was estimated that LCS would incur EUR 945 million additional screening costs and EUR 386 million additional treatment costs. These estimates were robust in sensitivity analyses. Implementation of annual LCS with LDCT for a high-risk population, using the NELSON screening outcomes, is cost-effective in Austria, at a threshold of EUR 50,000 per QALY.
MC4R Localizes at Excitatory Postsynaptic and Peri-Postsynaptic Sites of Hypothalamic Neurons in Primary Culture
Authors: Griffin Haven , Hanson Jude , Phelan Kevin D. , Baldini Giulia
Published: July 2024

The melanocortin-4 receptor (MC4R) is a G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) that is expressed in several brain locations encompassing the hypothalamus and the brainstem, where the receptor controls several body functions, including metabolism. In a well-defined pathway to decrease appetite, hypothalamic proopiomelanocortin (POMC) neurons localized in the arcuate nucleus (Arc) project to MC4R neurons in the paraventricular nuclei (PVN) to release the natural MC4R agonist α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH). Arc neurons also project excitatory glutamatergic fibers to the MC4R neurons in the PVN for a fast synaptic transmission to regulate a satiety pathway potentiated by α-MSH. By using super-resolution microscopy, we found that in hypothalamic neurons in a primary culture, postsynaptic density protein 95 (PSD95) colocalizes with GluN1, a subunit of the ionotropic N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR). Thus, hypothalamic neurons form excitatory postsynaptic specializations. To study the MC4R distribution at these sites, tagged HA-MC4R under the synapsin promoter was expressed in neurons by adeno-associated virus (AAV) gene transduction. HA-MC4R immunofluorescence peaked at the center and in proximity to the PSD95- and NMDAR-expressing sites. These data provide morphological evidence that MC4R localizes together with glutamate receptors at postsynaptic and peri-postsynaptic sites.
Durable Superhydrophobic Aluminum Surfaces against Immersion and Hot Steam Impact: A Comparative Evaluation of Different Hydrophobization Methods and Coatings
Authors: Sarkiris Panagiotis , Ellinas Kosmas , Gogolides Evangelos
Published: July 2024

Controlling the wettability properties of metallic materials and surfaces can enhance their applicability and improve their performance and durability in several fields, such as corrosion protection, heat transfer applications, self-cleaning, and friction reduction. Here, we present and compare some versatile fabrication methods that can provide aluminum surfaces with durable superhydrophobic performance which are suitable for heat transfer applications. To probe their stability in heat transfer applications, two evaluation protocols are designed, one which suggests immersion in hot water for several hours, and a second testing against the harsh conditions of hot steam impact. The superhydrophobic aluminum surfaces are fabricated by first creating micro or micro-nano roughness on an initially flat surface, followed by the minimization of its surface energy through two hydrophobization methods, one wet and one dry, thus creating a series of different coating materials. Surfaces are then evaluated by immersing them in hot water and exposing them to steam impact. It is demonstrated that despite the fact that all hydrophobization methods tested resulted in surfaces exhibiting superhydrophobic properties, only the ultra-thin Teflon-like coating, obtained after plasma deposition using C4F8 plasma, exhibited robust superhydrophobicity with hysteresis lower than 8° when immersed in water at 90 °C for 10 h. This surface also showed minimal wettability changes and was the only one to retain its hysteresis below 6° after 4 h of exposure to hot steam.
The Influence of Aging Temperatures on the Microstructure and Stress Relaxation Resistance of Cu-Cr-Ag-Si Alloy
Authors: Liu Haitao , Lu Longlong , Wang Guojie , Liu Yong
Published: July 2024

Copper alloys used in connectors rely significantly on stress relaxation resistance as a key property. In this study, a heavily deformed Cu-Cr-Ag-Si alloy underwent aging at varying temperatures, with a subsequent analysis of its mechanical properties and microstructure, with a particular emphasis on understanding the mechanism of improving stress relaxation resistance. As the aging temperature rose, the Cr precipitated into a Cr-Si composite element precipitated phase. Both work hardening and precipitation strengthening played vital roles in enhancing the stress relaxation resistance of the Cu-Cr-Ag-Si alloy, with the latter exerting a more pronounced impact. The notable performance enhancement observed after aging at 450 °C can be attributed to the synergistic effects of work hardening and precipitation strengthening. Following aging at 450 °C, the alloy demonstrated optimal performance, boasting a tensile strength of 495.25 MPa, an electrical conductivity of 84.2% IACS, and a level of 91.12%. These exceptional properties position the alloy as a highly suitable material for connector contacts.
Understanding Processing–Microstructure–Property Relationships of Structural Alloys
Authors: Ren Qing-Qiang
Published: July 2024

Although intensively investigated for centuries, structural alloys, especially steels, continue to attract a great deal of research interest [...]
Historical and Contemporary Herbaria as a Source of Data in Plant Taxonomy and Phytogeography Research: An Example from Poland
Authors: Rostański Adam , Gerold-Śmietańska Izabela , Tokarska-Guzik Barbara
Published: July 2024

The art of drying plants has a long tradition. It was already known in the Middle Ages as a form of documenting flora. It began to develop more intensively in Europe in the 16th century. This method of documenting plant collections quickly gained recognition among scientists. Its role and importance has changed throughout historical periods. The current study presents a short history and resources of Polish and European herbaria against the background of world data. It primarily focuses on indicating their contemporary importance in research in plant taxonomy and geography, as well as on the current situation of herbaria and problems identified using the example of Polish herbaria.
Perception of Virtual Education Learning among Dental Residents and Faculty during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Cui Shasha , Kar Kumari Saswati , Vasani Shruti , Al Jallad Nisreen , Sanders Mechelle R. , Cacciato Rita , Wu Tong Tong , Xiao Jin , Malmstrom Hans
Published: July 2024

Objectives: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic prompted a rapid shift from in-person to virtual learning in dental education. This study aims to assess the perceptions of virtual education learning among dental residents and faculty and employ regulatory focus theory (RFT) to understand the impact of motivational orientations on virtual learning during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: In total, 46 dental residents and 10 faculty members in a dental institution participated in the study (June–August 2021). Questionnaires were used to obtain data on demographics, perceptions of virtual learning, burnout, and RFT types (promotion and prevention focus). Multiple regression analyses were used to examine factors associated with perceptions of virtual learning and burnout. Results: Overall, 70% of residents and 44% of faculty found virtual learning effective. Younger residents with less experience preferred virtual learning more than their older, experienced peers. Residents trained outside the U.S. and Canada favored in-person learning more than those trained within. Furthermore, residents with a higher promotion focus score found virtual learning more interactive for didactic courses. Additionally, 52% of residents experienced burnout, with a higher incidence among females (p = 0.044). Conclusions: Virtual learning is well received by dental residents and faculty, with potential for continued use post-pandemic. Future efforts should focus on creating an inclusive and supportive educational environment that meets the motivational and well-being needs of dental residents and faculty.
A Distributed Task Allocation Method for Multi-UAV Systems in Communication-Constrained Environments
Authors: Yan Shaokun , Feng Jingxiang , Pan Feng
Published: July 2024

This paper addresses task allocation to multi-UAV systems in time- and communication-constrained environments by presenting an extension to the novel heuristic performance impact (PI) algorithm. The presented algorithm, termed local reassignment performance impact (LR-PI), consists of an improved task inclusion phase, a novel communication and conflict resolution phase, and a systematic method of reassignment for unallocated tasks. Considering the cooperation in accomplishing tasks that may require multiple UAVs or an individual UAV, the task inclusion phase can build the ordered task list on each UAV with a greedy approach, and the significance value of tasks can be further decreased and conflict-free assignments can be reached eventually. Furthermore, the local reassignment for unallocated tasks focuses on maximizing the number of allocated tasks without conflicts. In particular, the non-ideal communication factors, such as bit error, time delay, and package loss, are integrated with task allocation in the conflict resolution phase, which inevitably exist and can degrade task allocation performance in realistic communication environments. Finally, we show the performance of the proposed algorithm under different communication parameters and verify the superiority in comparison with the PI-MaxAsses and the baseline PI algorithm.
Enhancing Technology-Focused Entrepreneurship in Higher Education Institutions Ecosystem: Implementing Innovation Models in International Projects
Authors: Rosienkiewicz Maria , Helman Joanna , Cholewa Mariusz , Molasy Mateusz , Górecka Anna , Kohen-Vacs Dan , Winokur Michael , Amador Nelke Sofia , Levi Avraham , Gómez-González José Francisco , Bourgain Maxime , Sagar Athith , Berselli Giovanni , Benis Arriel
Published: July 2024

Innovation models are key to fostering technology-focused entrepreneurship in higher education institutions (HEIs). These models create dynamic environments that encourage collaboration, creativity, and problem-solving skills among students and faculty. HEIs face several challenges in fostering entrepreneurship, including allocating sufficient financial and human resources, integrating entrepreneurship education across disciplines, and managing intellectual property. Overcoming these challenges requires HEIs to cultivate an entrepreneurial culture and establish strong partnerships with industry stakeholders. To achieve these goals, HEIs must adopt successful innovation models proven to work. This article presents an international case study highlighting such models and the factors contributing to their success. This study explores the implementation and impact of innovation models, specifically IDEATION and DEETECHTIVE, within HEIs to foster technology-focused entrepreneurship. By implementing numerous actions focusing on online education integration and the Quintuple Helix Innovation Model, these models support shifting engineering students’ mindsets toward entrepreneurship. This research highlights the importance of academia–industry collaboration, international partnerships, and the integration of entrepreneurship education in technology-focused disciplines. This study presents two models. The first, IDEATION, focuses on open innovation and sharing economy aspects. This model underwent rigorous testing and refinement, evolving into the second model, DEETECHTIVE, which is more comprehensive and deep tech-focused. These models have been validated as effective frameworks for fostering entrepreneurship and innovation within HEIs. This study’s findings underscore the potential of these models to enhance innovation capacity, foster an entrepreneurial culture, and create ecosystems rich in creativity and advancement. Practical implications include the establishment of open innovation-oriented structures and mechanisms, the development of specialized curriculum components, and the creation of enhanced collaboration platforms.