bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Symbol Detection in Mechanical Engineering Sketches: Experimental Study on Principle Sketches with Synthetic Data Generation and Deep Learning
Authors: Bickel Sebastian , Goetz Stefan , Wartzack Sandro
Published: July 2024

Digital transformation is omnipresent in our daily lives and its impact is noticeable through new technologies, like smart devices, AI-Chatbots or the changing work environment. This digitalization also takes place in product development, with the integration of many technologies, such as Industry 4.0, digital twins or data-driven methods, to improve the quality of new products and to save time and costs during the development process. Therefore, the use of data-driven methods reusing existing data has great potential. However, data from product design are very diverse and strongly depend on the respective development phase. One of the first few product representations are sketches and drawings, which represent the product in a simplified and condensed way. But, to reuse the data, the existing sketches must be found with an automated approach, allowing the contained information to be utilized. One approach to solve this problem is presented in this paper, with the detection of principle sketches in the early phase of the development process. The aim is to recognize the symbols in these sketches automatically with object detection models. Therefore, existing approaches were analyzed and a new procedure developed, which uses synthetic training data generation. In the next step, a total of six different data generation types were analyzed and tested using six different one- and two-stage detection models. The entire procedure was then evaluated on two unknown test datasets, one focusing on different gearbox variants and a second dataset derived from CAD assemblies. In the last sections the findings are discussed and a procedure with high detection accuracy is determined.
Analysis of the Fatty Acid Profile in Cream, Buttermilk Fractions, and Anhydrous Milk Fat: Influence of Physicochemical and Microbiological Parameters on the Fatty Acid Profile
Authors: Gużewska Gaja , Monedeiro-Milanowski Maciej , Florkiewicz Aleksandra Bogumiła , Arendowska Izabela , Walczak-Skierska Justyna , Białczak Dorota , Pomastowski Paweł Piotr
Published: July 2024

This study analyzes the impact of physicochemical parameters on the microbiological and fatty acid profiles of cream, buttermilk, and anhydrous milk fat. Using gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC-MS), the fatty acids present in these dairy products were qualitatively determined, highlighting the differences associated with the processing stages. Specifically, the distribution of short-chain, medium-chain, and long-chain fatty acids, such as butyric, caproic, caprylic, capric, lauric, myristic, palmitic, stearic, oleic, and linoleic acids, were analyzed, assessing their nutritional implications. The microbiological composition of the samples was also analyzed using MALDI-ToF MS. The presence of lipolytic bacteria, such as Serratia monocytogenes, which can negatively impact the oxidative stability of fats, was detected. The results show that both environmental and processing conditions significantly affect the quantity and quality of fatty acids, thereby influencing the overall dietary value of dairy products. These findings offer insight into developing improved dairy product formulations that may lead to enhancement of their health benefits.
Study on the Stability and Reasonable Width of Coal Pillars in “Three Soft” Coal Seams Based on a Physical Similarity Simulation Experiment
Authors: Yang Tao , Zhang Yiming , Zhang Jie , Lin Haifei , Bao Ruoyu , He Yifeng , Yan Yihui , Luo Pengkun , Wu Haohao , Sun Jianping , Pang Haibo
Published: July 2024

As the depth of coal seams increases and the demand for coal grows, the deformation and failure of roadways and coal pillars also intensify. To address the instability of roadways, it is crucial to study the appropriate dimensions for coal pillars. This paper focuses on the 1513 working face of the No. 5 coal seam at Anyang Coal Mine to address the issue of insufficient basis for determining coal pillar width. Through field observations and physical similarity simulations, this study examines the overlying strata failure patterns above coal pillars post-mining and the bearing structure formed by key layers. The relationship between these factors is analyzed using theoretical analysis and physical similarity simulations. A mechanical model of the coal pillar and the “hinged-hinged” overlying strata failure structure is established, analyzing the fracture characteristics of the overlying strata and the bearing structure of the coal pillar to determine the optimal coal pillar width under these conditions. The results indicate that when the coal pillar width is optimized from 25 m to 14 m, the overlying bearing layer is disrupted by the mining activities at the working face, with the lower key layer forming a “hinged” structure upon fracture. As mining progresses, the height of the overlying strata fractures gradually increases, causing the upper key layer to also fracture and form a “hinged-hinged” structure between the high and low bearing layers. According to the “three zones” development law, the height of overlying strata failure does not continue to increase indefinitely, and the coal pillar is affected by the “hinged-hinged” structure of the bearing strata. A mechanical model of the coal pillar bearing structure is established based on the fracture combination structure of the bearing strata. By calculating the load on the “hinged-hinged” structure of the overlying strata, the appropriate coal pillar width is determined to be 15 m. Theoretical calculations, physical similarity simulation experiments, and field applications show that without changing the support conditions, the deformation of the roadway is greater when the coal pillar is narrowed, compared to its original width. The maximum deformation, located 60 m ahead of the working face, increased by 41–42%, while deformation in other areas was relatively minor. This validates the reasonableness of the determined coal pillar width.
The Optimization of Urban Traffic Routes Using an Enhanced Genetic Algorithm: A Case Study of Beijing South Railway Station
Authors: Ding Biao , Rao Zhiqiang , Yin Weichuan , Liu Yanxia , Fang Jianjun , Wang Yuanming , Jin Pengpeng
Published: July 2024

Optimizing travel routes in urban transportation networks is essential for enhancing traffic efficiency in major cities. This study focuses on optimizing the combined subway and taxi travel routes from Beijing Union University to Beijing South Railway Station, a critical route for students and staff in Beijing. To address this, we propose three genetic algorithms: the Standard Genetic Algorithm (SGA), the Multipoint Crossover and Elitist Selection Genetic Algorithm (MPEGA), and the Improved Dynamic Crossover and Mutation Rate Genetic Algorithm (IDCMGA). Experimental results indicate that MPEGA reduces the mean travel cost by 15.21%, the variance by 81.72%, and the standard deviation by 57.25% compared to SGA. Additionally, IDCMGA reduces the average by 1.76%, the variance by 63.16%, and the standard deviation by 39.30% compared to MPEGA. The improved IDCMGA algorithm demonstrates significant advantages over the other two algorithms in terms of global optimization capability, convergence speed, and stability, and is more adept at adapting to new traffic conditions to identify the optimal route. Optimizing this route not only reduces commuting time and costs but also alleviates traffic congestion, thereby enhancing the overall efficiency of the urban transportation system.
Biocontrol of Aflatoxin-Producing Aspergillus flavus ATCC 22546 by a Non-Aflatoxigenic Aspergillus flavus ATCC 9643
Authors: Jung Kwang-Soo , Kim Hyeong-Mi , Lee Jieun , Ganbat Dariimaa , Lee Sung-Eun
Published: July 2024

The biological control of Aspergillus flavus and A. parasiticus by non-aflatoxigenic strains has been introduced in cotton- and peanut-cultivating fields and proven successful at reducing aflatoxin (AFB) contamination of crops and agricultural soils. In this study, a non-aflatoxigenic strain, A. flavus ATCC 9643 (ATCC 9643), was evaluated for its ability to competitively inhibit the growth of an aflatoxigenic strain, A. flavus ATCC 22546 (ATCC 22546), and mitigate AFB production in ATCC 22546 during competitive growth. To comparatively analyze the suppressive effect of ATCC 9643 on ATCC 22546, a non-aflatoxigenic strain (A. flavus ATCC 96045, known as AF36) was used as a positive control in some experiments. The two non-aflatoxigenic strains did not produce AFB1 or AFB2 owing to the absence of several AFB biosynthesis-related genes, especially aflK and aflL, which encode versicolorin B synthase and desaturase, respectively. To create a competitive growth environment, ATCC 9643 and ATCC 22546 were co-inoculated into a solid agar medium, and they grew at similar rates when added at a 1:1 ratio. Increasing the inoculum rate of ATCC 9643 (1:1, 1:3, 1:5) dramatically inhibited ATCC 22546 growth, and AFB production was effectively decreased by about 84%, 95%, and 97% by treatment with ATCC 9643. On rice, ATCC 22546 attenuated ATCC 9643 growth only when the rice was submerged in distilled water, whereas agar addition enhanced it. Taken together, ATCC 9643 is a promising candidate biological agent for suppressing aflatoxigenic A. flavus strain growth and alleviating AFB contamination. Further studies on AFB reduction in crop fields, including cotton-cultivation and maize-cultivation fields, are warranted.
Advances in Solutions to Improve the Energy Performance of Agricultural Greenhouses: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Castro Rodrigues Pascoal , Dinho da Silva Pedro , Pires Luís Carlos Carvalho
Published: July 2024

The increasing global population and the challenges faced by the food production sector, including urbanization, reduction of arable land, and climatic extremes, necessitate innovative solutions for sustainable agriculture. This comprehensive review examines advancements in improving the energy performance of agricultural greenhouses, highlighting innovations in thermal and energy efficiency, particularly in heating and cooling systems. The methods include a systematic analysis of current technologies and their applications in optimizing greenhouse design and functionality. Key findings reveal significant progress in materials and techniques that enhance energy efficiency and operational sustainability. The review identifies gaps in the current knowledge, such as the need for more research on the economic viability of new materials and the development of predictive models for various climatic conditions. The conclusions emphasize the importance of integrating renewable energy technologies and advanced control systems to achieve energy-efficient and sustainable agricultural practices.
A Method for Simulating the Positioning Errors of a Robot Gripper
Authors: Dmytriv Vasyl , Dmytriv Ihor , Horodetskyy Ivan , Hutsol Taras , Kukharets Savelii , Cesna Jonas , Bleizgys Rolandas , Pietruszynska Marta , Parafiniuk Stanislaw , Kubon Maciej , Horetska Iryna
Published: July 2024

The research is aimed at creating a methodology for increasing the positioning accuracy of an industrial robot and minimizing the vibration of the robot gripper by applying machine learning based on the developed mathematical model for estimating the positioning error. Two components of positioning accuracy are considered: geometric and kinematic errors and elastic static deformations. The dynamic error in the partial system of motion of the robot manipulator links is analyzed. The equation of partial motions is obtained from Lagrange’s differential equation of motion of the II kind. The system of differential equations for the positioning error was solved analytically by Euler’s method. An example of modeling the position and orientation error of the gripper due to temperature deformations of the third link for the manipulator scheme is given. An example of the modeling of static deformations and errors of the manipulator with elastic pliability of the robot links is given. An example of dynamic error modeling in a partial system of motion of the robot links is given. The proposed method of modeling robot gripper positioning errors makes it possible to increase the positioning accuracy of the industrial robot and minimize the vibration of the gripper. Having a mathematical model of positioning errors, it is possible to compensate for the positioning error by changing the speed of movement of the gripper reference point before determining the direct kinematic task.
Sedimentary Characteristics and Evolution of the Late Miocene to Quaternary Tributary Channels in the Head of Bounty Channel, New Zealand
Authors: Deng Xinlan , Huang Ke , Li Xiang
Published: July 2024

The Bounty Channel is a large-scale submarine channel system located in the eastern continental margin of New Zealand. Extending along the axis of the Bounty Trough, the channel system comprises three main tributaries (C1–C3) at its head, which merge downstream into a trunk channel leading to a terminal submarine fan. In this study, we use high-quality two-dimensional multichannel seismic data to investigate the formation and evolution of tributary channels C1 and C2. Four types of seismic facies are identified in the tributary channels: fill-type, mounded divergent, wavy, and subparallel facies. These seismic facies are correspondingly interpreted as topographic depression or channel fills, levees, sediment waves, and hemipelagic deposits. The Late Miocene tributary channels were developed above a pre-existing NE–SW-oriented depression. The Pliocene to Quaternary tributary channels are characterized by preferential development of higher levees on their left hand, and the presence of sediment waves on the lower levees of their right-hand, signaling an effect of the Coriolis force. The formation and evolution of the tributaries are primarily linked to regional tectonics, including increased convergence rate between the Pacific and Australian plates along the Alpine Fault in the Late Miocene and enhanced uplift and erosion at the Southern Alps during the Pliocene.
Adding a Degree of Certainty to Deductions in a Fuzzy Temporal Constraint Prolog: FTCProlog
Authors: Cárdenas-Viedma María-Antonia
Published: July 2024

The management of time is essential in most AI-related applications. In addition, we know that temporal information is often not precise. In fact, in most cases, it is necessary to deal with imprecision and/or uncertainty. On the other hand, there is the need to handle the implicit common-sense information present in many temporal statements. In this paper, we present FTCProlog, a logic programming language capable of handling fuzzy temporal constraints soundly and efficiently. The main difference of FTCProlog with respect to its predecessor, PROLogic, is its ability to associate a certainty index with deductions obtained through SLD-resolution. This resolution is based on a proposal within the theoretical logical framework FTCLogic. This model integrates a first-order logic based on possibilistic logic with the Fuzzy Temporal Constraint Networks (FTCNs) that allow efficient time management. The calculation of the certainty index can be useful in applications where one wants to verify the extent to which the times elapsed between certain events follow a given temporal pattern. In this paper, we demonstrate that the calculation of this index respects the properties of the theoretical model regarding its semantics. FTCProlog is implemented in Haskell.
Serum Biomarker Signatures of Choroid Plexus Volume Changes in Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Jakimovski Dejan , Zivadinov Robert , Qureshi Ferhan , Ramanathan Murali , Weinstock-Guttman Bianca , Tavazzi Eleonora , Dwyer Michael G. , Bergsland Niels
Published: July 2024

Increased choroid plexus (CP) volume has been recently implicated as a potential predictor of worse multiple sclerosis (MS) outcomes. The biomarker signature of CP changes in MS are currently unknown. To determine the blood-based biomarker characteristics of the cross-sectional and longitudinal MRI-based CP changes in a heterogeneous group of people with MS (pwMS), a total of 202 pwMS (148 pwRRMS and 54 pwPMS) underwent MRI examination at baseline and at a 5-year follow-up. The CP was automatically segmented and subsequently refined manually in order to obtain a normalized CP volume. Serum samples were collected at both timepoints, and the concentration of 21 protein measures relevant to MS pathophysiology were determined using the Olink™ platform. Age-, sex-, and BMI-adjusted linear regression models explored the cross-sectional and longitudinal relationships between MRI CP outcomes and blood-based biomarkers. At baseline, there were no significant proteomic predictors of CP volume, while at follow-up, greater CP volume was significantly associated with higher neurofilament light chain levels, NfL (standardized β = 0.373, p = 0.001), and lower osteopontin levels (standardized β = −0.23, p = 0.02). Higher baseline GFAP and lower FLRT2 levels were associated with future 5-year CP % volume expansion (standardized β = 0.277, p = 0.004 and standardized β = −0.226, p = 0.014, respectively). The CP volume in pwMS is associated with inflammatory blood-based biomarkers of neuronal injury (neurofilament light chain; NfL) and glial activation such as GFAP, osteopontin, and FLRT2. The expansion of the CP may play a central role in chronic and compartmentalized inflammation and may be driven by glial changes.
Dermatan Sulfate Affects the Activation of the Necroptotic Effector MLKL in Breast Cancer Cell Lines via the NFκB Pathway and Rac-Mediated Oxidative Stress
Authors: Wisowski Grzegorz , Pudełko Adam , Paul-Samojedny Monika , Komosińska-Vassev Katarzyna , Koźma Ewa M.
Published: July 2024

Dermatan sulfate (DS) is a glycosaminoglycan characterized by having a variable structure and wide distribution in animal tissues. We previously demonstrated that some structural variants of DS were able to rapidly induce moderate necroptosis in luminal breast cancer cells when used at a high concentration. We have now investigated the mechanisms underlying the DS-mediated activation of the necroptotic executor MLKL using immunofluorescence, Western blotting and pharmacological inhibition. The two main processes, by which DS influences the phosphorylation of MLKL, are the activation of NFκB, which demonstrates a suppressive impact, and the induction of oxidative stress, which has a stimulatory effect. Moreover, the triggering of the redox imbalance by DS occurs via the modulatory influence of this glycosaminoglycan on the rearrangement of the actin cytoskeleton, requiring alterations in the activity of small Rho GTP-ase Rac1. All of these processes that were elicited by DS in luminal breast cancer cells showed a dependence on the structure of this glycan and the type of cancer cells. Furthermore, our results suggest that a major mechanism that is involved in the stimulation of necroptosis in luminal breast cancer cells by high doses of DS is mediated via the effect of this glycan on the activity of adhesion molecules.
Bacteriocins in Cancer Treatment: Mechanisms and Clinical Potentials
Authors: Wang Yiwen , Wang Yue , Sun Tao , Xu Junnan
Published: July 2024

Cancer poses a severe threat to human health. Although conventional chemotherapy remains a cornerstone of cancer treatment, its significant side effects and the growing issue of drug resistance necessitate the urgent search for more efficient and less toxic anticancer drugs. In recent years, bacteriocins, antimicrobial peptides of microbial origin, have garnered significant attention due to their targeted antitumor activity. This unique activity is mainly attributed to their cationic and amphiphilic nature, which enables bacteriocins to specifically kill tumor cells without harming normal cells. When involving non-membrane-disrupting mechanisms, such as apoptosis induction, cell cycle blockade, and metastasis inhibition, the core mechanism of action is achieved by disrupting cell membranes, which endows bacteriocins with low drug resistance and high selectivity. However, the susceptibility of bacteriocins to hydrolysis and hemolysis in vivo limits their clinical application. To overcome these challenges, structural optimization of bacteriocins or their combination with nanotechnology is proposed for future development. This review aims to study the mechanism of action and current research status of bacteriocins as anticancer treatments, thus providing new insights for their clinical development and application.
Glial Response and Neuronal Modulation Induced by Epidural Electrode Implant in the Pilocarpine Mouse Model of Epilepsy
Authors: Spagnoli Giulia , Parrella Edoardo , Ghazanfar Tehrani Sara , Mengoni Francesca , Salari Valentina , Nistreanu Cristina , Scambi Ilaria , Sbarbati Andrea , Bertini Giuseppe , Fabene Paolo Francesco
Published: July 2024

In animal models of epilepsy, cranial surgery is often required to implant electrodes for electroencephalography (EEG) recording. However, electrode implants can lead to the activation of glial cells and interfere with physiological neuronal activity. In this study, we evaluated the impact of epidural electrode implants in the pilocarpine mouse model of temporal lobe epilepsy. Brain neuroinflammation was assessed 1 and 3 weeks after surgery by cytokines quantification, immunohistochemistry, and western blotting. Moreover, we investigated the effect of pilocarpine, administered two weeks after surgery, on mice mortality rate. The reported results indicate that implanted mice suffer from neuroinflammation, characterized by an early release of pro-inflammatory cytokines, microglia activation, and subsequent astrogliosis, which persists after three weeks. Notably, mice subjected to electrode implants displayed a higher mortality rate following pilocarpine injection 2 weeks after the surgery. Moreover, the analysis of EEGs recorded from implanted mice revealed a high number of single spikes, indicating a possible increased susceptibility to seizures. In conclusion, epidural electrode implant in mice promotes neuroinflammation that could lower the seizure thresholds to pilocarpine and increase the death rate. An improved protocol considering the persistent neuroinflammation induced by electrode implants will address refinement and reduction, two of the 3Rs principles for the ethical use of animals in scientific research.
Interplay between Comorbidities and Long COVID: Challenges and Multidisciplinary Approaches
Authors: Ashmawy Rasha , Hammouda Esraa Abdellatif , El-Maradny Yousra A. , Aboelsaad Iman , Hussein Mai , Uversky Vladimir N. , Redwan Elrashdy M.
Published: July 2024

Long COVID, a name often given to the persistent symptoms following acute SARS-CoV-2 infection, poses a multifaceted challenge for health. This review explores the intrinsic relationship between comorbidities and autoimmune responses in shaping the trajectory of long COVID. Autoantibodies have emerged as significant players in COVID-19 pathophysiology, with implications for disease severity and progression. Studies show immune dysregulation persisting months after infection, marked by activated innate immune cells and high cytokine levels. The presence of autoantibodies against various autoantigens suggests their potential as comorbid factors in long COVID. Additionally, the formation of immune complexes may lead to severe disease progression, highlighting the urgency for early detection and intervention. Furthermore, long COVID is highly linked to cardiovascular complications and neurological symptoms, posing challenges in diagnosis and management. Multidisciplinary approaches, including vaccination, tailored rehabilitation, and pharmacological interventions, are used for mitigating long COVID’s burden. However, numerous challenges persist, from evolving diagnostic criteria to addressing the psychosocial impact and predicting disease outcomes. Leveraging AI-based applications holds promise in enhancing patient management and improving our understanding of long COVID. As research continues to unfold, unravelling the complexities of long COVID remains paramount for effective intervention and patient care.
Antioxidant, Anti-Inflammatory, Anti-Diabetic, and Pro-Osteogenic Activities of Polyphenols for the Treatment of Two Different Chronic Diseases: Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Osteoporosis
Authors: Scarpa Emanuele-Salvatore , Antonelli Antonella , Balercia Giancarlo , Sabatelli Sofia , Maggi Filippo , Caprioli Giovanni , Giacchetti Gilberta , Micucci Matteo
Published: July 2024

Polyphenols are natural bioactives occurring in medicinal and aromatic plants and food and beverages of plant origin. Compared with conventional therapies, plant-derived phytochemicals are more affordable and accessible and have no toxic side effects. Thus, pharmaceutical research is increasingly inclined to discover and study new and innovative natural molecules for the treatment of several chronic human diseases, like type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and osteoporosis. These pathological conditions are characterized by a chronic inflammatory state and persistent oxidative stress, which are interconnected and lead to the development and worsening of these two health disorders. Oral nano delivery strategies have been used to improve the bioavailability of polyphenols and to allow these natural molecules to exert their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, and pro-osteogenic biological activities in in vivo experimental models and in patients. Polyphenols are commonly used in the formulations of nutraceuticals, which can counteract the detrimental effects of T2DM and osteoporosis pathologies. This review describes the polyphenols that can exert protective effects against T2DM and osteoporosis through the modulation of specific molecular markers and pathways. These bioactives could be used as adjuvants, in combination with synthetic drugs, in the future to develop innovative therapeutic strategies for the treatment of T2DM and osteoporosis.
Melanoma-Derived Extracellular Vesicles Induce CD36-Mediated Pre-Metastatic Niche
Authors: Suman Shankar , Nevala Wendy K. , Leontovich Alexey A. , Ward Caitlin , Jakub James W. , Kim Yohan , Geng Liyi , Stueven Noah A. , Atherton Chathu L. , Moore Raymond M. , Schimke Jill M. , Lucien-Matteoni Fabrice , McLaughlin Sarah A. , Markovic Svetomir N.
Published: July 2024

CD36 expression in both immune and non-immune cells is known to be directly involved in cancer metastasis. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) secreted by malignant melanocytes play a vital role in developing tumor-promoting microenvironments, but it is unclear whether this is mediated through CD36. To understand the role of CD36 in melanoma, we first analyzed the SKCM dataset for clinical prognosis, evaluated the percentage of CD36 in lymphatic fluid-derived EVs (LEVs), and tested whether melanoma-derived EVs increase CD36 expression and induce M2-macrophage-like characteristics. Furthermore, we performed a multiplex immunofluorescence (MxIF) imaging analysis to evaluate the CD36 expression and its colocalization with various other cells in the lymph node (LN) of patients and control subjects. Our findings show that cutaneous melanoma patients have a worse clinical prognosis with high CD36 levels, and a higher percentage of CD36 in total LEVs were found at baseline in melanoma patients compared to control. We also found that monocytic and endothelial cells treated with melanoma EVs expressed more CD36 than untreated cells. Furthermore, melanoma-derived EVs can regulate immunosuppressive macrophage-like characteristics by upregulating CD36. The spatial imaging data show that cells in tumor-involved sentinel LNs exhibit a higher probability of CD36 expression than cells from control LNs, but this was not statistically significant. Conclusively, our findings demonstrated that CD36 plays a vital role in controlling the immunosuppressive microenvironment in the LN, which can promote the formation of a protumorigenic niche.
Calcium and Non-Penetrating Traumatic Brain Injury: A Proposal for the Implementation of an Early Therapeutic Treatment for Initial Head Insults
Authors: O’Day Danton H.
Published: July 2024

Finding an effective treatment for traumatic brain injury is challenging for multiple reasons. There are innumerable different causes and resulting levels of damage for both penetrating and non-penetrating traumatic brain injury each of which shows diverse pathophysiological progressions. More concerning is that disease progression can take decades before neurological symptoms become obvious. Currently, the primary treatment for non-penetrating mild traumatic brain injury, also called concussion, is bed rest despite the fact the majority of emergency room visits for traumatic brain injury are due to this mild form. Furthermore, one-third of mild traumatic brain injury cases progress to long-term serious symptoms. This argues for the earliest therapeutic intervention for all mild traumatic brain injury cases which is the focus of this review. Calcium levels are greatly increased in damaged brain regions as a result of the initial impact due to tissue damage as well as disrupted ion channels. The dysregulated calcium level feedback is a diversity of ways to further augment calcium neurotoxicity. This suggests that targeting calcium levels and function would be a strong therapeutic approach. An effective calcium-based traumatic brain injury therapy could best be developed through therapeutic programs organized in professional team sports where mild traumatic brain injury events are common, large numbers of subjects are involved and professional personnel are available to oversee treatment and documentation. This review concludes with a proposal with that focus.
Advances of Fluorescent Nanodiamond Platforms for Intracellular and On-Chip Biosensing
Authors: Shimada Taisuke , Ueda Yasuyuki , Baba Yoshinobu , Yukawa Hiroshi
Published: July 2024

Intracellular and extracellular sensing of physical and chemical variables is important for disease diagnosis and the understanding of cellular biology. Optical sensing utilizing fluorescent nanodiamonds (FNDs) is promising for probing intracellular and extracellular variables owing to their biocompatibility, photostability, and sensitivity to physicochemical quantities. Based on the potential of FNDs, we outlined the optical properties, biocompatibility, surface chemistry of FNDs and their applications in intracellular biosensing. This review also introduces biosensing platforms that combine FNDs and lab-on-a-chip approaches to control the extracellular environment and improve sample/reagent handling and sensing performance.
Incremental Validity of Trait Impulsivity, Dysfunctional Emotional Regulation, and Affect Lability in the Predictions of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Oppositional Defiant Disorder Symptoms in Adults
Authors: Gomez Rapson , Houghton Stephen J
Published: July 2024

Difficulties in emotion regulation (DER) is a defining feature of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and arguments are being made for it to be considered as a defining feature of oppositional defiant disorder (ODD). However, the consensus is that it is better viewed as an important correlate distinct from ADHD. This study examined the incremental validity of DER over and above trait impulsivity (TI) in the predictions of ADHD and ODD symptoms. It also examined the incremental validity of affect lability (AL) over and above TI and (DER) in these predictions. Five hundred and twenty-five adults from the general community completed a series of questionnaires. A model-based SEM approach for evaluating incremental validity indicated that TI predicted ADHD and ODD symptoms over age; DER predicted ADHD and ODD symptoms over age and TI; and AL did not predict ADHD and ODD symptoms over and above age, IT, or DER. In addition, AL predicted ADHD and ODD symptoms over age and TI, and DER also predicted ADHD and ODD symptoms over and above age, TI, and AL. In conclusion, TI is core to ADHD, and although DER is important, it is unlikely to be relevant as a diagnostic indicator for ADHD or ODD. These findings notwithstanding, there is need for caution when interpreting our findings, as the study did not control for potentially influencing factors on emotional regulation such as age, gender, culture, and existing psychopathologies.
The Effect of RHA as a Supplementary Cementitious Material on the Performance of PCM Aggregate Concrete
Authors: Liu Bo , Wang Sheliang , Jia Wurong , Ying Honghao , Lu Zhe , Hong Zhilong
Published: July 2024

The thermal insulated cement matrix further enhances the thermal insulation of PCM aggregate concrete, consequently reducing energy consumption. In this paper, 0–15% rice husk ash (RHA) was used as a replacement for cement. The effect of the substitution amount of RHA on the workability, mechanical properties, thermal properties, and pore structure of concrete was investigated. The results showed that the density of concrete decreased after replacing cement with RHA. The workability of concrete decreased with the increase in RHA content. The filling effect and pozzolanic effect of RHA resulted in an initial increase and subsequent decrease in the mechanical properties of the concrete. After the cement was replaced by 10% RHA, the concrete exhibited the highest compressive strength and splitting tensile strength. The high porosity of RHA reduced the thermal conductivity of concrete by 12.29%. The temperature response indicated that the temperature difference between 15% RHA concrete and the reference concrete can reach up to 1.2 °C, potentially reducing the energy demand. The NMR results showed that the total pore volume was minimal with a 10% RHA admixture. The capillary pore volume increased slightly with the increase in RHA substitution due to the presence of numerous micron-sized pores within the RHA. The micropore and macropore volumes exhibited a decreasing and then increasing trend.
Energy Losses or Savings Due to Air Infiltration and Envelope Sealing Costs in the Passivhaus Standard: A Review on the Mediterranean Coast
Authors: Echarri-Iribarren Víctor , Gómez-Val Ricardo , Ugalde-Blázquez Iñigo
Published: July 2024

To obtain the Passivhaus Certificate or Passivhaus Standard (PHS), requirements regarding building envelope air tightness must be met: according to the n50 parameter, at a pressure of 50 Pa, air leakage must be below 0.6 air changes per hour (ACH). This condition is verified by following the blower door test protocol and is regulated by the ISO 9972 standard, or UNE-EN-13829. Some construction techniques make it easier to comply with these regulations, and in most cases, construction joints and material joints must be sealed in a complex way, both on façades and roofs and at ground contact points. Performing rigorous quality control of these processes during the construction phase allows achieving a value below 0.6 ACH and obtaining the PHS certification. Yet, the value can increase substantially with the passage of time: as windows and doors are used, opened, or closed; as envelope materials expand; with humidity; etc. This could result in significant energy consumption increases and losing the PHS when selling the house at a later point in time. It is therefore important to carefully supervise the quality of the construction and its execution. In this study, we focused on a house located in Sitges (Barcelona). The envelope air tightness quality was measured during four construction phases, together with the sealing of the joints and service ducts. The blower door test was performed in each phase, and the n50 value obtained decreased each time. The execution costs of each phase were also determined, as were the investment amortisation rates based on the consequent annual energy demand reductions. Air infiltration dropped by 43.81%, with the final n50 value resulting in 0.59 ACH. However, the execution costs—EUR 3827—were high compared to the energy savings made, and the investment amortisation period rose to a 15- to 30-year range. To conclude, these airtightness improvements are necessary in cold continental climates but are not applicable on the Spanish Mediterranean coast.
Seismic Isolation Layout Optimized of Mid-Rise Reinforced Concrete Building Frame Structure
Authors: Liu Shengkun , Chen Zhidong , Liu Yongdou
Published: July 2024

Seismic isolation technology plays a crucial role in enhancing earthquake resistance and mitigating disasters for building structures. In this study, the ETABS analysis software V21.0.1 is utilized to establish a numerical model of a six-story steel reinforced concrete frame structure. Both the time-history analysis method and response spectrum method are employed to calculate the seismic response of the model under earthquake actions. The placement of an isolation layer on the foundation and from the first to fifth floor is considered, with separate calculations conducted for each scenario. Subsequently, a comprehensive comparison and analysis of the dynamic response characteristics among different design schemes are performed. The results demonstrate that the most favorable isolation effect is achieved when the isolation layer is implemented on the foundation or first floor. Compared to non-isolated structures, the natural period of the structure can be extended by 2.2 times and 2 times under the base isolation and first-floor top isolation schemes, respectively. The damping coefficients can reach 0.35 and 0.36, respectively, while the inter-story drift angles can be reduced by 66% and 67%, respectively.
Numerical Evaluation of the Influence of Using Carbon-Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Rebars as Shear Connectors for Cross-Laminated Timber–Concrete Panels
Authors: Alves Larissa Fé , Pessôa Poliana de Melo , Jardim Pedro Ignácio Lima Gadêlha , Faustino Emerson , dos Santos Herisson Ferreira , Lahr Francisco Antonio Rocco , de Almeida Diego Henrique , Christoforo André Luis
Published: July 2024

Carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) sheets have been used to reinforce cross-laminated timber (CLT)–concrete systems in recent years. The existing studies have indicated that the use of CFRP rebars as shear connectors in CLT–concrete panels can improve the structural performance of these elements. However, the application and understanding of CFRP rebars as shear connectors still need to be improved, since comprehensive studies on the subject are not available. Therefore, this research aimed to evaluate the structural performance of CLT–concrete panels with CFRP rebars as shear connectors through finite element (FE) numerical simulation. A parametric study was conducted, varying the connector material, the number of CLT layers, the connector insertion angle, and the connector embedment length. According to the results, panels with CFRP connectors showed a higher maximum load, bending strength, and maximum bending moment than panels with steel connectors. The regression models revealed that the parameters analyzed explained between 80.2% and 99.9% of the variability in the mechanical properties under investigation. The high explanatory power (R2) of some regression models in this study underscores the robustness of the models. The number of CLT layers and the connector material were the most significant parameters for the panels’ maximum load, displacement at the maximum load, ductility, bending strength, and maximum bending moment. The number of CLT layers and the connector insertion angle were the most significant parameters for the panels’ effective bending stiffness. This research highlights the importance of studies on CLT–concrete composites and the need to develop equations to estimate their behavior accurately. Moreover, numerical simulations have proven very valuable, providing results comparable to laboratory results.
Evaluation of Urban Complex Utilization Based on AHP and MCDM Analysis: A Case Study of China
Authors: Lu Wenxi , Zhang Lei , Liu Yuqian
Published: July 2024

In the context of intensive urban development, urban complexes have emerged as crucial public spaces that address the needs of urban populations. However, current research on urban complexes is predominantly qualitative and lacks a rigorous scientific and quantitative analysis. Therefore, this study employs the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) to construct a standardized system encompassing five dimensions: spatial function, spatial perception, architectural style, surrounding environment, and energy-saving technology. The objective is to determine the weights of the indices that influence people’s use of urban complexes under the goal of “humanization”. Additionally, the study quantitatively analyzes key indices using spatial syntax and other analytical methods. Subsequently, we employ multi-criteria decision making (MCDM) analysis to examine three real-world cases in China, aiming to validate further the importance of the AHP + MCDM approach, which incorporates the TOPSIS method based on grey correlation. This methodology considers both the subjective factors of crowd evaluations of urban complex usage and the interrelationships among indicators, ensuring that the statistical calculations of the indicators remain objective and scientifically robust. The results indicate that (1) the degree of facility improvement has the greatest impact on the crowd’s use of urban complexes; (2) there is a discrepancy between the results of the TOPSIS method and the MCDM evaluation model, with the MCDM evaluation method aligning more closely with real-world scenarios; and (3) the Shanghai MOSCHINO received the highest evaluation score, while the Nanjing Central Emporium received the lowest. Finally, we discuss the experimental results and propose targeted strategies for optimizing the design of urban complexes to achieve the goal of “humanization”.
Prefabricated Envelope Green Remodeling Potential of Public Office Buildings in Korea
Authors: Oh Ji Hyun , Kim Sun Sook
Published: July 2024

The public sector should reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions from the building stock, thereby serving as a role model for the private sector. In Korea, public buildings are leading the green remodeling business initiative as part of a carbon-neutral strategy. Building envelope retrofitting is essential for the green remodeling of existing buildings because it significantly affects the buildings’ aesthetic appearance, occupant comfort, and energy usage. From the perspectives of constructability and cost, prefabricated envelope systems offer various advantages and can contribute to the growth of the green remodeling business. To develop an effective prefabricated envelope system, a thorough analysis of the existing building stock must be conducted. Therefore, this study aims to investigate existing public office buildings in Korea to obtain a better understanding of the considerations necessary for developing prefabricated envelope systems. The survey utilized the image search and road-view functions of map services, following an appropriate sample design. Based on the survey results, the characteristics of the building types and envelopes, as well as considerations for developing prefabricated envelope systems are discussed. Furthermore, this study quantitatively analyzed the energy conservation potential through building energy simulations.
Reduction of Heating Energy Demand by Combining Infrared Heaters and Infrared Reflective Walls
Authors: Wille Lukas Anselm , Schiricke Björn , Gehrke Kai , Hoffschmidt Bernhard
Published: July 2024

We study the potential of infrared (IR) heaters in combination with IR reflective walls to reduce heating energy demand in buildings. Using IR heaters increases radiant temperature. Combined with IR reflective walls, less radiant heat is absorbed by the surrounding walls, and more is reflected to and absorbed by the occupants. This allows for lower air temperatures while maintaining constant thermal comfort. Lower air temperatures result in heating energy savings. In simulations, we examine the impact of four parameters on the thermal comfort indicator Predicted Mean Vote (PMV): wall temperature, inlet air temperature, IR heater power, and IR emissivity of the walls. To reduce the number of data points needed, we use a Central Composite Design for the layout of the simulation plan. The results show that the PMV can be changed from 0.15 to 1.16 only by lowering the emissivity of the surrounding walls from 0.9 to 0.1. At high IR heater power and at low wall temperature the impact of the emissivity on the PMV becomes larger. From the simulation data, we derive a response surface function to determine the required IR heating power for any given room conditions, which could be used for automated IR heater control.
Sanguinarine Induces Necroptosis of HCC by Targeting PKM2 Mediated Energy Metabolism
Authors: Kong Rui , Wang Nan , Zhou Chunli , Zhou Yuqing , Guo Xiaoyan , Wang Dongyan , Shi Yihai , Wan Rong , Zheng Yuejuan , Lu Jie
Published: July 2024

Backgrounds: Abnormal metabolism is the hallmark of hepatocellular carcinoma. Targeting energy metabolism has become the major focus of cancer therapy. The natural product, sanguinarine, displays remarkable anti-tumor properties by disturbing energy homeostasis; however, the underlying mechanism has not yet been elucidated. Methods: The anticancer activity of sanguinarine was determined using CCK-8 and colony formation assay. Morphological changes of induced cell death were observed under electron microscopy. Necroptosis and apoptosis related markers were detected using western blotting. PKM2 was identified as the target by transcriptome sequencing. Molecular docking assay was used to evaluate the binding affinity of sanguinarine to the PKM2 molecule. Furthermore, Alb-CreERT2; PKM2loxp/loxp; Rosa26RFP mice was used to construct the model of HCC—through the intervention of sanguinarine in vitro and in vivo—to accurately explore the regulation effect of sanguinarine on cancer energy metabolism. Results: Sanguinarine inhibited tumor proliferation, metastasis and induced two modes of cell death. Molecular docking of sanguinarine with PKM2 showed appreciable binding affinity. PKM2 kinase activity and aerobic glycolysis rate declined, and mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation was inhibited by sanguinarine application; these changes result in energy deficits and lead to necroptosis. Additionally, sanguinarine treatment prevents the translocation of PKM2 into the nucleus and suppresses the interaction of PKM2 with β-catenin; the transcriptional activity of PKM2/β-catenin signaling and its downstream genes were decreased. Conclusions: Sanguinarine showed remarkable anti-HCC activity via regulating energy metabolism by PKM2/β-catenin signaling. On the basis of these investigations, we propose that sanguinarine might be considered as a promising compound for discovery of anti-HCC drugs.