bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Methodology for Advanced Manufacturing Defect Detection through Self-Supervised Learning on X-ray Images
Authors: Intxausti Eneko , Skočaj Danijel , Cernuda Carlos , Zugasti Ekhi
Published: March 2024

In industrial quality control, especially in the field of manufacturing defect detection, deep learning plays an increasingly critical role. However, the efficacy of these advanced models is often hindered by their need for large-scale, annotated datasets. Moreover, these datasets are mainly based on RGB images, which are very different from X-ray images. Addressing this limitation, our research proposes a methodology that incorporates domain-specific self-supervised pretraining techniques using X-ray imaging to improve defect detection capabilities in manufacturing products. We employ two pretraining approaches, SimSiam and SimMIM, to refine feature extraction from manufacturing images. The pretraining stage is carried out using an industrial dataset of 27,901 unlabeled X-ray images from a manufacturing production line. We analyze the performance of the pretraining against transfer-learning-based methods in a complex defect detection scenario using a Faster R-CNN model. We conduct evaluations on both a proprietary industrial dataset and the publicly available GDXray dataset. The findings reveal that models pretrained with domain-specific X-ray images consistently outperform those initialized with ImageNet weights. Notably, Swin Transformer models show superior results in scenarios rich in labeled data, whereas CNN backbones are more effective in limited-data environments. Moreover, we underscore the enhanced ability of the models pretrained with X-ray images in detecting critical defects, crucial for ensuring safety in industrial settings. Our study offers substantial evidence of the benefits of self-supervised learning in manufacturing defect detection, providing a solid foundation for further research and practical applications in industrial quality control.
Immediate Effect of a Kinesiotape Bandage on Knee Mechanics during Functional Tests in Female Rugby and Football Athletes: A Pilot Study
Authors: Fevre Amandine , Moriceau Juliette , Almazán-Polo Jaime , García-Pérez-de-Sevilla Guillermo
Published: March 2024

Background: Some bandages with Kinesiotape have demonstrated some potential as means of prevention for Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) injury in men. Objective: The main objective of this pilot study was to observe if a Kinesiotape bandage at the knee could potentially have an immediate preventive effect against ACL injuries by improving proprioception and balance and reducing knee valgus and anterior translation of the tibia during certain functional tests in female athletes. Materials and Methods: A cross-over clinical trial including 10 female athletes (football and rugby) was conducted, where the two lower limbs of the 10 participants (n = 20) were randomly assigned to the intervention group (IG) or to the control group (CG). A Kinesiotape bandage was placed on one knee with a tension of 75% (IG, n = 10) and another bandage on the other knee with a tension of 10% (CG, n = 10), as a placebo. Ultrasound assessment and functional tests were performed before (T1) and after (T2) bandaging according to group assignment. A videographic analysis was carried out with the ImageJ Software version 2.0. Results: A statistically significant reduction in knee valgus was observed in the Lateral Step Down test in the IG, compared to the CG (p < 0.05; η2p = 0.26) (IG-T1: 151.40 ± 11.04°; IG-T2: 157.10 ± 10.18°; versus CG-T1: 156.96 ± 5.44°; CG-T2: 158.68 ± 6.12°). In the other tests, no significant differences were found in terms of time × group interaction. Conclusions: A Kinesiotape bandage was able to reduce knee valgus in a functional test compared to a placebo bandage but was not more effective at reducing the anterior translation of the tibia or improving balance or proprioception. Based on these results, it could have a modest preventive effect against an ACL injury in female athletes.
Fractal Metasurfaces and Antennas: An Overview for Advanced Applications in Wireless Communications
Authors: Venneri Francesca , Costanzo Sandra , Borgia Antonio
Published: March 2024

This paper provides an overview of fractal antennas and metasurfaces, exploring their design principles, performance, and applications. Fractal antennas, incorporating self-similar geometric shapes, offer several advantages, such as their multiband operation, compact size, and improved performance. Metasurfaces, on the other hand, are two-dimensional structures composed of subwavelength unit cells and are designed to achieve advantageous and unusual electromagnetic properties by enabling precise control over electromagnetic waves. This paper discusses the fundamental concepts of fractal antennas and metasurfaces, compares their characteristics, and presents the latest advances in research. Additionally, it highlights applications in wireless communications, energy harvesting, sensing, and beyond.
Automated Image-Based User Interface Color Theme Generation
Authors: Weingerl Primož
Published: March 2024

Color plays an essential role in the design of user interfaces and significantly impacts the user experience. To create aesthetically pleasing and user-friendly interfaces, the colors of the user interface should be consistent with the images. The latter can be challenging to achieve, as images often have different colors and are often changed by editors or authors who do not have sufficient design knowledge. To solve this problem, we have developed a model that automatically determines the color theme of the user interface based on a given image. The model first extracts the most prominent colors from the image and then considers both aesthetic (color harmony and compatibility with the image) and usability aspects (color contrast, color diversity, and color strength). All color calculations are performed in the perceptually uniform color space CAM02-UCS. In addition, the model can be adapted to the user’s needs and requirements. To test the model, we implemented it in a web-based application in which the colors were automatically selected based on the featured image. The resulting color themes were then evaluated by the users, who were mainly professional designers. According to the results, the model generates color themes that are consistent with the image, aesthetic, and user-friendly. An important observation was also that color harmony can be achieved simply by using the most prominent colors of the image (regardless of their hue), suggesting that color harmony is strongly influenced by the context of use. The presented model holds significant practical importance as it can be utilized in various applications and tools. For instance, it can automatically choose a color theme for a user interface based on a particular image, such as a company logo or a product image. Moreover, it can dynamically adjust the colors of elements in real time based on the image that is visible simultaneously with the elements.
An Extremely Close Vibration Frequency Signal Recognition Using Deep Neural Networks
Authors: Jati Mentari Putri , Luthfi Muhammad Irfan , Yao Cheng-Kai , Dehnaw Amare Mulatie , Manie Yibeltal Chanie , Peng Peng-Chun
Published: March 2024

This study proposes the utilization of an optical fiber vibration sensor for detecting the superposition of extremely close frequencies in vibration signals. Integration of deep neural networks (DNN) proves to be meaningful and efficient, eliminating the need for signal analysis methods involving complex mathematical calculations and longer computation times. Simulation results of the proposed model demonstrate the remarkable capability to accurately distinguish frequencies below 1 Hz. This underscores the effectiveness of the proposed image-based vibration signal recognition system embedded in DNN as a streamlined yet highly accurate method for vibration signal detection, applicable across various vibration sensors. Both simulation and experimental evaluations substantiate the practical applicability of this integrated approach, thereby enhancing electric motor vibration monitoring techniques.
Numerically Optimized Fourier Transform-Based Beamforming Accelerated by Neural Networks
Authors: Kaboutari Keivan , Abraray Abdelghafour , Maslovski Stanislav
Published: March 2024

Conventional beamforming methods for reconfigurable reflector antennas assume full control over the amplitude and phase of the reflected field. Here, we develop a novel beamforming methodology for reflecting Programmable Metasurfaces (PMS) with capacitive memory. Although utilizing such fully reactive PMS simplifies antenna design and reduces energy consumption, the PMS reflection magnitude is unity and thus a global optimization of the reflection phases over the PMS unit cells is required in each beamforming scenario. We propose an implementation of such an optimization method rooted in the traditional Fourier transform-based beamforming and evaluate its performance. Additionally, we show that a pair of trained feed-forward neural networks (FFNN) with one input, one hidden, and one output layer can replace time-consuming global optimizations in the case of a PMS comprising 3×10 unit cells. We train the FFNNs on a dataset obtained for typical single- and dual-beam beamforming scenarios. After training, the FFNNs perform requested beamforming tasks within a fraction of second and with about the same accuracy as the original optimization algorithm. The proposed methodology may find applications in future mobile telecommunication systems that require real-time beamforming on low-end hardware. The same beamforming methodology can be also employed in short-range wireless power transfer systems.
Impact of the Pre-Harvest Biocontrol Agent and Post-Harvest Massive Modified Atmosphere Packaging Application on Organic Table Grape (cv. ‘Allison’) Quality during Storage
Authors: Matera Attilio , Altieri Giuseppe , Genovese Francesco , Scarano Luciano , Genovese Giuseppe , Pinto Paola , Rashvand Mahdi , Elshafie Hazem S. , Ippolito Antonio , Mincuzzi Annamaria , Di Renzo Giovanni Carlo
Published: March 2024

The marketing value of table grapes is contingent upon several quality requirements, mostly related to microbial decay, sugar/acidity ratio, and colour. This research explores the impact of combining organic-cultured compatible techniques to delay disorders along with organic grape distribution in post-harvest. Aurebasidum pullulans in-field application on grape bunches at three growing stages as a biocontrol agent against grey mould growth coupled with massive modified atmosphere packaging (MMAP; 20% CO2, 10% O2) equipped with a breathable valve was tested. The in-field treatment had a significant impact on the colour and sugar content of the grapes at harvest and the mould count evolution during storage, whilst the trend of the other parameters was mainly affected by the interaction of the variables tested. The untreated batch experienced the worst behaviour and the packaging was paramount in preserving the moisture content and appearance of the bunches. The findings of this study may contribute to developing novel practices for setting a smart distribution of organic table grapes and reducing food waste.
A Numerical Study of Clear-Air Turbulence over North China on 6 June 2017
Authors: Yang Rui , Liu Haiwen , Li Kenan , Yuan Shuai
Published: March 2024

On 6 June 2017, four severe clear-air turbulence (CAT) events were observed over northern China within 3 h. These events mainly occurred at altitudes between 8.1 and 9.5 km. The characteristics and possible mechanisms of the CAT events in the different regions are investigated here using the weather research and forecasting (WRF) model. The simulated wind and temperature fields in a 27 km coarse domain were found to be in good agreement with those of the ERA5 (European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts Reanalysis v5) and the observed soundings of operational radiosondes over northern China. In terms of synoptic features, the region where the turbulence occurred is characterized by a southwest–northeast upper-level jet stream. The upper-level jet stream observed at an altitude of 10.4 km consistently moved eastwards, with a maximum wind speed of 61.7 m/s. Simultaneously, the upper-level front–jet system on the cyclonic shear side of the upper-level jet stream also exhibited an eastward motion. The developed upper-level front–jet system induced significant vertical wind shear (VWS) and tropopause folding in the vicinity of these CAT events. Despite the high stability resulting from tropopause folding, the presence of strong VWS (1.90 × 10−2 s−1–2.55 × 10−2 s−1) led to a low Richardson number (Ri) (0.24–0.88) and caused Kelvin–Helmholtz instability (KHI), which ultimately induced CAT. Although a standard numerical weather forecast resolution of tens of kilometers is adequate to capture turbulence for most CAT events, it is still necessary to use high-resolution numerical simulations (such as 3 km) to calculate more accurate CAT indices (such as Ri) for CAT prediction in some specific cases.
Unveiling the Air Quality Impacts of Municipal Solid Waste Disposal: An Integrative Study of On-Site Measurements and Community Perceptions
Authors: Pekdogan Tugce , Yildizhan Hasan , Ameen Arman
Published: March 2024

This study examines air quality conditions in and around a classroom located in the Sarıçam/Adana region of Türkiye, near the campus of Adana Alparslan Türkeş Science and Technology University and the Sofulu municipal solid waste (MSW) facility. This academic setting was strategically chosen due to its proximity to the waste facility. The study aims to provide a comprehensive view of the environmental and social impacts of solid waste management through a methodological approach that combines quantitative on-site measurements and qualitative survey studies. Findings from measurements and surveys underline the significant and measurable impacts of MSW facilities on the ambient air quality of university residents. The analysis revealed a marked increase in concentrations of key pollutants, including carbon monoxide (CO), hydrogen sulfide (H2S), dust, and methane (CH4). At sampling point N1, H2S levels rose from 0 ppm in July to 13 ppm in November. Methane increased from 0.2% to 2.5% of the Lower Explosive Limit (LEL) at the same point, although it remained within safety limits. Additionally, CO levels showed a 40% increase, and dust concentration levels rose from 0.21 mg/m3 to 2.36 mg/m3 from summer to winter, indicating a seasonal variation likely influenced by the landfill’s operational dynamics, as well as changes in temperature and relative humidity. In particular, the results indicate high concentrations of CO, H2S and dust, which are directly related to air quality degradation. The study also sheds light on the impacts of these waste disposal facilities on the general well-being and health of the university community, particularly on students and staff. In addition to these findings, the study highlights a general lack of awareness in the university community about the impacts of MSW facilities on air quality. This highlights the need for increased education and information dissemination. The results support the development of comprehensive and effective strategies, including technical solutions and public awareness initiatives, to mitigate the impacts of these facilities on residential areas. In conclusion, the impacts of MSW facilities on air quality should be seen as a multidimensional issue that requires a holistic approach addressing environmental, health, social, and educational dimensions.
The Characterization of Biodiversity and Soil Emission Activity of the “Ladoga” Carbon-Monitoring Site
Authors: Abakumov Evgeny , Nizamutdinov Timur , Zhemchueva Darya , Suleymanov Azamat , Shevchenko Evgeny , Koptseva Elena , Kimeklis Anastasiia , Polyakov Vyacheslav , Novikova Evgenia , Gladkov Grigory , Andronov Evgeny
Published: March 2024

The global climate crisis forces mankind to develop carbon storage technologies. “Ladoga” carbon monitoring site is part of the Russian climate project “Carbon Supersites”, which aims to develop methods and technologies to control the balance of greenhouse gases in various ecosystems. This article shows the condition of soil and vegetation cover of the carbon polygon “Ladoga” using the example of a typical southern taiga ecosystem in the Leningrad region (Russia). It is revealed that soils here are significantly disturbed as a result of agrogenic impact, and the vegetation cover changes under the influence of anthropogenic activity. It has been found that a considerable amount of carbon is deposited in the soils of the carbon polygon; its significant part is accumulated in peat soils (60.0 ± 19.8 kg × m−2 for 0–100 cm layer). In agrogenically disturbed and pristine soils, carbon stocks are equal to 12.8 ± 2.9 kg × m−2 and 8.3 ± 1.3 kg × m−2 in the 0–100 cm layer, respectively. Stocks of potentially mineralizable organic matter (0–10 cm) in peat soils are 0.48 ± 0.01 kg × m−2; in pristine soils, it is 0.58 ± 0.06 kg × m−2. Peat soils are characterized by a higher intensity of carbon mineralization 9.2 ± 0.1 mg × 100 g−1 × day−1 with greater stability. Carbon in pristine soils is mineralized with a lower rate—2.5 ± 0.2 mg × 100 g−1 × day−1. The study of microbial diversity of soils revealed that the dominant phyla of microorganisms are Actinobacteria, Bacteroidetes, and Proteobacteria; however, methane-producing Archaea—Euryarchaeota—were found in peat soils, indicating their potentially greater emission activity. The results of this work will be useful for decision makers and can be used as a reference for estimating the carbon balance of the Leningrad region and southern taiga boreal ecosystems of the Karelian Isthmus.
Bidiagonal Factorizations of Filbert and Lilbert Matrices
Authors: Khiar Yasmina , Mainar Esmeralda , Peña Juan Manuel , Royo-Amondarain Eduardo , Rubio Beatriz
Published: March 2024

Extensions of Filbert and Lilbert matrices are addressed in this work. They are reciprocal Hankel matrices based on Fibonacci and Lucas numbers, respectively, and both are related to Hilbert matrices. The Neville elimination is applied to provide explicit expressions for their bidiagonal factorization. As a byproduct, formulae for the determinants of these matrices are obtained. Finally, numerical experiments show that several algebraic problems involving these matrices can be solved with outstanding accuracy, in contrast with traditional approaches.
Solving a Multimodal Routing Problem with Pickup and Delivery Time Windows under LR Triangular Fuzzy Capacity Constraints
Authors: Ge Jie , Sun Yan
Published: March 2024

This study models a container routing problem using multimodal transportation to improve its economy, timeliness, and reliability. Pickup and delivery time windows are simultaneously formulated in optimization to provide the shipper and the receiver with time-efficient services, in which early pickup and delayed delivery can be avoided, and nonlinear storage periods at the origin and the destination can be minimized. Furthermore, the capacity uncertainty of the multimodal network is incorporated into the advanced routing to enhance its reliability in practical transportation. The LR triangular fuzzy number is adopted to model the capacity uncertainty, in which its spread ratio is defined to measure the uncertainty level of the fuzzy capacity. Due to the nonlinearity introduced by the time windows and the fuzziness from the network capacity, this study establishes a fuzzy nonlinear optimization model for optimization problem. A chance-constrained linear reformulation equivalent to the proposed model is then generated based on the credibility measure, which makes the global optimum solution attainable by using Lingo software. A numerical case verification demonstrates that the proposed model can effectively solve the problem. The case analysis points out that the formulation of pickup and delivery time windows can improve the timeliness of the entire transportation process and help to achieve on-time transportation. Furthermore, improving the confidence level and the uncertainty level increases the total costs of the optimal route. Therefore, the shipper and the receiver must prepare more transportation budget to improve reliability and address the increasing uncertainty level. Further analysis draws some insights to help the shipper, receiver, and multimodal transport operator to organize a reliable and cost-efficient multimodal transportation under capacity uncertainty through confidence level balance and transportation service and transfer service selection.
Efficient Numerical Solutions for Fuzzy Time Fractional Convection Diffusion Equations Using Two Explicit Finite Difference Methods
Authors: Al-Khateeb Areen
Published: March 2024

In this study, we explore fractional partial differential equations as a more generalized version of classical partial differential equations. These fractional equations have shown promise in providing improved descriptions of certain phenomena under specific circumstances. The main focus of this paper comprises the development, analysis, and application of two explicit finite difference schemes to solve an initial boundary value problem involving a fuzzy time fractional convection–diffusion equation with a fractional order in the range of 0≤ ξ ≤ 1. The uniqueness of this problem lies in its consideration of fuzziness within both the initial and boundary conditions. To handle the uncertainty, we propose a computational mechanism based on the double parametric form of fuzzy numbers, effectively converting the problem from an uncertain format to a crisp one. To assess the stability of our proposed schemes, we employ the von Neumann method and find that they demonstrate unconditional stability. To illustrate the feasibility and practicality of our approach, we apply the developed scheme to a specific example.
Physio-Biochemical Insights into the Cold Resistance Variations among Nectarine (Prunus persica (L.) Batsch var. nectarina) Cultivars
Authors: Qin Guojie , Liu Yifan , Liu Jianzi , Bian Gefang , Zhang Shikai , Liu Yi , Zuo Lixiang , Cheng Chunzhen
Published: March 2024

Cold stress occurs in late winter and early spring threatens greatly the nectarine industry. In this study, the semi-lethal low temperature (LT50) and thirteen cold resistance related parameters of five nectarine cultivars, including ‘Nonglehong little princess’ (LP), ‘Luyou No. 5’ (LY), ‘Nonglehong No. 6’ (NL), ‘Zhongyou No. 20’ (ZY) and ‘Qiuhongzhu’ (QH), were determined. Based on these parameters, they were categorized into high—(HR, including NL and LP), moderate—(MR, including QH) and low-cold resistant (LR, including ZY and LY) groups. The relative water (RW), proline (PRO), soluble sucrose (SS) and soluble protein (SP) contents, and superoxide dismutase (SOD) and peroxidase (POD) activities of HR cultivars were higher while their relative electronic conductivity (RE), malondialdehyde (MDA) and gibberellin acid (GA3) contents and catalase (CAT) activity were lower than other cultivars during natural overwintering. Redundancy analysis revealed that the lowest temperature in a day (LT) and LT50 significantly explains 69.8% and 10.9% of these physiological variables, respectively. Moreover, GA3 and indoleacetic acid (IAA) contents and CAT activity were positively correlated, while PRO, SS, ABA and RW contents were negatively correlated with both LT and LT50. Our study will be helpful in understanding the cold resistance variations of nectarine germplasm resources.
New Paralogs of the Heliothis virescens ABCC2 Transporter as Potential Receptors for Bt Cry1A Proteins
Authors: Pinos Daniel , Millán-Leiva Anabel , Ferré Juan , Hernández-Martínez Patricia
Published: March 2024

The ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters are a superfamily of membrane proteins. These active transporters are involved in the export of different substances such as xenobiotics. ABC transporters from subfamily C (ABCC) have also been described as functional receptors for different insecticidal proteins from Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) in several lepidopteran species. Numerous studies have characterized the relationship between the ABCC2 transporter and Bt Cry1 proteins. Although other ABCC transporters sharing structural and functional similarities have been described, little is known of their role in the mode of action of Bt proteins. For Heliothis virescens, only the ABCC2 transporter and its interaction with Cry1A proteins have been studied to date. Here, we have searched for paralogs to the ABCC2 gene in H. virescens, and identified two new ABC transporter genes: HvABCC3 and HvABCC4. Furthermore, we have characterized their gene expression in the midgut and their protein topology, and compared them with that of ABCC2. Finally, we discuss their possible interaction with Bt proteins by performing protein docking analysis.
Biomarkers for Managing Neurodegenerative Diseases
Authors: Cheslow Lara , Snook Adam E. , Waldman Scott A.
Published: March 2024

Neurological disorders are the leading cause of cognitive and physical disability worldwide, affecting 15% of the global population. Due to the demographics of aging, the prevalence of neurological disorders, including neurodegenerative diseases, will double over the next two decades. Unfortunately, while available therapies provide symptomatic relief for cognitive and motor impairment, there is an urgent unmet need to develop disease-modifying therapies that slow the rate of pathological progression. In that context, biomarkers could identify at-risk and prodromal patients, monitor disease progression, track responses to therapy, and parse the causality of molecular events to identify novel targets for further clinical investigation. Thus, identifying biomarkers that discriminate between diseases and reflect specific stages of pathology would catalyze the discovery and development of therapeutic targets. This review will describe the prevalence, known mechanisms, ongoing or recently concluded therapeutic clinical trials, and biomarkers of three of the most prevalent neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease (AD), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and Parkinson’s disease (PD).
Fragile X Messenger Ribonucleoprotein Protein and Its Multifunctionality: From Cytosol to Nucleolus and Back
Authors: Taha Mohamed S. , Ahmadian Mohammad Reza
Published: March 2024

Silencing of the fragile X messenger ribonucleoprotein 1 (FMR1) gene and a consequent lack of FMR protein (FMRP) synthesis are associated with fragile X syndrome, one of the most common inherited intellectual disabilities. FMRP is a multifunctional protein that is involved in many cellular functions in almost all subcellular compartments under both normal and cellular stress conditions in neuronal and non-neuronal cell types. This is achieved through its trafficking signals, nuclear localization signal (NLS), nuclear export signal (NES), and nucleolar localization signal (NoLS), as well as its RNA and protein binding domains, and it is modulated by various post-translational modifications such as phosphorylation, ubiquitination, sumoylation, and methylation. This review summarizes the recent advances in understanding the interaction networks of FMRP with a special focus on FMRP stress-related functions, including stress granule formation, mitochondrion and endoplasmic reticulum plasticity, ribosome biogenesis, cell cycle control, and DNA damage response.
Individualized Multimodal Immunotherapy (IMI): Scientific Rationale and Clinical Experience from a Single Institution
Authors: Schirrmacher Volker , Van Gool Stefaan , Stuecker Wilfried
Published: March 2024

Oncolytic viruses and combinatorial immunotherapy for cancer (this Special Issue) are both part of cancer treatment at IOZK. This review focusses on an individual multimodal cancer immunotherapy concept developed by IOZK, Cologne, Germany. The scientific rationale for employing three main components is explained: (i) oncolytic Newcastle disease virus, (ii) modulated electrohyperthermia and (iii) individual tumor antigen and oncolytic virus modified dendritic cell vaccine (IO-VACR). The strategy involves repeated cancer-immunity cycles evoked in cancer patients by systemic oncolytic virus exposure plus hyperthermia pretreatment to induce immunogenic cell death followed by intradermal IO-VACR vaccination. As an example of the experience at IOZK, we present the latest results from combining the immunotherapy with standard treatment of patients suffering from glioblastoma multiforme. The promising clinical results in terms of overall survival benefit of additional individualized multimodal immunotherapy are presented. The cancer-immunity cycle, as introduced 10 years ago, describes key important steps occurring locally at the sites of both tumor and draining lymph nodes. This view is extended here towards systemic events occuring in blood where immunogenic cell death-induced tumor antigens are transported into the bone marrow. For 20 years it has been known that bone marrow is an antigen-responsive organ in which dendritic cells present tumor antigens to T cells leading to immunological synapse formation, tumor antigen-specific T cell activation and memory T cell formation. Bone marrow is known to be the most prominent source of de novo cellular generation in the body and to play an important role for the storage and maintenance of immunological memory. Its systemic activation is recommended to augment cancer-immunity cycles.
Electrical Activity Changes and Neurovascular Unit Markers in the Brains of Patients after Cardiac Surgery: Effects of Multi-Task Cognitive Training
Authors: Tarasova Irina , Kukhareva Irina , Kupriyanova Darya , Temnikova Tatjana , Gorbatovskaya Evgenia , Trubnikova Olga
Published: March 2024

Background: There is growing interest in finding methods to enhance cognitive function and comprehend the neurophysiological mechanisms that underlie these improvements. It is assumed that non-pharmacological interventions have better results in cognitive recovery. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of multi-task cognitive training (MTT) on electroencephalographic (EEG) changes and markers of the neurovascular unit in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). Methods: This prospective cohort study involved 62 CABG patients aged 45–75 years, 30 of whom underwent a 5–7-day MTT course. The groups of patients were comparable with respect to baseline clinical and anamnestic characteristics. An EEG study was performed before surgery and 11–12 days after CABG. Markers of the neurovascular unit (S100β, NSE, and BDNF) were examined at three time points: before surgery, within the first 24 h after surgery, and 11–12 days after CABG. Results: Patients without training demonstrated higher relative theta power changes compared to the MTT patients. The course of MTT was associated with low plasma S100β concentration but high BDNF levels at the end of the training course. Conclusions: The theta activity changes and the markers of the neurovascular unit (S100β, BDNF) indicated that the severity of brain damage in cardiac surgery patients after a short course of MTT was slightly reduced. Electrical brain activity indicators and vascular markers can be informative for monitoring the process of cognitive rehabilitation in cardiac surgery patients.
Passivation of Steel Reinforcement in Low Carbon Concrete
Authors: Achenbach Rebecca , Raupach Michael
Published: March 2024

Both the high CO2 emissions associated with cement production and the increasing demand for concrete call for the use of binder types that can be produced in a more climate-friendly way than that of ordinary Portland cement. To ensure that these binders can also be used in reinforced concrete structures, their influence on the corrosion behavior of embedded steel reinforcement must be investigated. In the study presented here, the passivation behavior of steel in mortars made from various new types of binders is investigated. In addition to alkali-activated materials with high and low calcium contents, a calcium sulfoaluminate cement and a binder produced from calcium silicate hydrate (C-S-H) phases, synthesized in an autoclave, were investigated. While the steel clearly passivated in the alkali-activated slag and the C-S-H binder, the calcium sulfoaluminate cement showed the lowest open circuit potentials and polarization resistances, indicating a less effective level of passivation. The metakaolin geopolymer with a potassium-based activator showed an onset of passivation that was dependent on the environment of the specimens at an early age, whereas the alkali-activated fly ash with a sodium-based activator showed a delay in passivation that was not influenced by the environment of the specimens at an early age.
Impacts of Photovoltaic Façades on the Urban Thermal Microclimate and Outdoor Thermal Comfort: Simulation-Based Analysis
Authors: Fassbender Elisabeth , Rott Josef , Hemmerle Claudia
Published: March 2024

Cities face the consequences of climate change, specifically the urban heat island (UHI) effect, which detrimentally affects human health. In this regard, deploying PV modules in urban locales prompts inquiry into the impact of energy-active building components on the adjacent thermal microclimate and human thermal comfort. A twofold simulation-based methodology addresses this subject: First, the implications of façade-integrated photovoltaics on the urban thermal microclimate are investigated using a case study in Munich, Germany. Secondly, a parameter study allows us to gain further insights into the relevance of several parameters on the microthermal impact. The simulation results show a daytime heating effect of photovoltaics on the mean radiant temperature of up to +5.47 K in summer and +6.72 K in winter. The increased mean radiant temperature leads to an elevation of the Universal Thermal Climate Index of up to +1.46 K in summer and +2.21 K in winter. During night-time, no increase in both metrics is identified—hence, nocturnal recovery as a key element for human health is not affected. Despite extended human exposure to thermal heat stress in summer, PV façades improve the annual outdoor thermal comfort autonomy by 0.91% due to lower cold stress in winter. The higher PV efficiencies and lower albedo of the reference building surface lower the heating effect. However, with the current efficiencies, PV façades consistently lead to heating of the surrounding thermal microclimate in summer and lower the outdoor thermal comfort.
Effect of Textile Layers and Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose on Flexural Behavior of TRLC Thin Plates
Authors: Wang Jiyang , Yu Dan , Zeng Chen , Ji Xiaohua , Ye Lingpeng , Zhou Pinghuai , Zhao Senlin
Published: March 2024

To examine the flexural toughness characteristics of textile-reinforced lightweight aggregate concrete (TRLC), a four-point bending test was conducted to assess the impact of varying numbers of textile layers and the inclusion of hydroxypropyl methylcellulose on the ultimate load-bearing capacity and deformation capacity of TRLC thin plates. Six groups of specimens were prepared for the experiment, and the bending capacity of the thin plates in each group was evaluated. The flexural toughness index was utilized to quantify the bending performance of TRLC thin plates. The findings revealed that increasing the number of textile layers improved the initial cracking load, initial cracking deflection, ultimate load, ductility, and flexural toughness of the thin plates. For the specimens without HPMC, the initial cracking load was increased by up to 36.1%, the ultimate load by up to 40.9%, and the flexural toughness index by up to 292% as the number of textile layers was increased. For specimens doped with HPMC, the initial cracking load was increased by up to 61.7%, the ultimate load by up to 246.7%, and the flexural toughness index by up to 65%. The TRLC thin plate containing hydroxypropyl methylcellulose exhibited a reduced initial cracking load yet displayed a stronger matrix consistency and good flexural toughness. Moreover, the enhancement in the ultimate load of TRLC thin plates with hydroxypropyl methylcellulose was more pronounced with an increased number of textile layers, resulting in a significantly higher number of cracks compared to TRLC without hydroxypropyl methylcellulose and an 11.40-fold increase in the flexural toughness index.
Strategies for Imputing Missing Values and Removing Outliers in the Dataset for Machine Learning-Based Construction Cost Prediction
Authors: Lee Haneul , Yun Seokheon
Published: March 2024

Accurately predicting construction costs during the initial planning stages is crucial for the successful completion of construction projects. Recent advancements have introduced various machine learning-based methods to enhance cost estimation precision. However, the accumulation of authentic construction cost data is not straightforward, and existing datasets frequently exhibit a notable presence of missing values, posing challenges to precise cost predictions. This study aims to analyze diverse substitution methods for addressing missing values in construction cost data. Additionally, it seeks to evaluate the performance of machine learning models in cost prediction through the removal of conditional outliers. The primary goal is to identify and propose optimal strategies for handling missing value in construction cost records, ultimately improving the reliability of cost predictions. According to the analysis results, among single imputation methods, median imputation emerges as the most suitable, while among multiple imputation methods, lasso regression imputation produces the most superior outcomes. This research contributes to enhancing the trustworthiness of construction cost predictions by presenting a pragmatic approach to managing missing data in construction cost performance records, thereby facilitating more precise project planning and execution.
Optimising Patient Outcomes in Tongue Cancer: A Multidisciplinary Approach
Authors: de Boer Jasper , Barnett Rebecca , Cardin Anthony , Cimoli Michelle , Davies Lauren , Delany Clare , Dixon Benjamin J. , Evans Sue M. , Findlay Michael W. , Fox Carly , Ftanou Maria , Hart Christopher D. , Howard Megan , Iseli Tim A. , Jackson Andrea , Kranz Sevastjan , Le Brian H. , Lekgabe Ernest , Lennox Rachel , McLean Luke S. , Neeson Paul J. , Ng Sweet Ping , O’Reilly Lorraine A. , Ramakrishnan Anand , Rowe David , Service Carrie , Singh Ankur , Thai Alesha A. , Tiong Albert , Yap Tami , Wiesenfeld David
Published: March 2024

A multidisciplinary approach to the management of tongue cancer is vital for achieving optimal patient outcomes. Nursing and allied health professionals play essential roles within the team. We developed symposia comprising a series of online lectures offering a detailed perspective on the role each discipline and consumer perspective has in the management of patients with tongue cancer. The topics, including epidemiology and prevention, diagnosis, treatment planning, surgery, adjuvant care, and the management of recurrent or metastatic disease, were thoroughly examined. The symposia highlighted the significance of fostering collaboration and continuous learning through a multidisciplinary approach. This initiative should be relevant to healthcare professionals, researchers, and policymakers striving to enhance patient outcomes in tongue cancer care through innovative collaboration.
Factors Impacting Microwave Ablation Zone Sizes: A Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Mathy René Michael , Giannakis Athanasios , Franke Mareike , Winiger Alain , Kauczor Hans-Ulrich , Chang De-Hua
Published: March 2024

Purpose: Evaluation of the influence of intrinsic and extrinsic conditions on ablation zone volumes (AZV) after microwave ablation (MWA). Methods: Retrospective analysis of 38 MWAs of therapy-naïve liver tumours performed with the NeuWave PR probe. Ablations were performed either in the ‘standard mode’ (65 W, 10 min) or in the ‘surgical mode’ (95 W, 1 min, then 65 W, 10 min). AZV measurements were obtained from contrast-enhanced computed tomography immediately post-ablation. Results: AZVs in the ‘standard mode’ were smaller than predicted by the manufacturer (length 3.6 ± 0.6 cm, 23% below 4.7 cm; width 2.7 ± 0.6, 23% below 3.5 cm). Ablation zone past the tip was limited to 6 mm in 28/32 ablations. Differences in AZV between the ‘surgical mode’ and ‘standard mode’ were not significant (15.6 ± 7.8 mL vs. 13.9 ± 8.8 mL, p = 0.6). AZVs were significantly larger in case of hepatocellular carcinomas (HCCs) (n = 19) compared to metastasis (n = 19; 17.8 ± 9.9 mL vs. 10.1 ± 5.1 mL, p = 0.01) and in non-perivascular tumour location (n = 14) compared to perivascular location (n = 24, 18.7 ± 10.4 mL vs. 11.7 ± 6.1 mL, p = 0.012), with both factors remaining significant in two-way analysis of variance (HCC vs. metastasis: p = 0.02; perivascular vs. non-perivascular tumour location: p = 0.044). Conclusion: Larger AZVs can be expected in cases of HCCs compared with metastases and in non-perivascular locations. Using the ‘surgical mode’ does not increase AZV significantly.
Identification of Key Genes Associated with Tumor Microenvironment Infiltration and Survival in Gastric Adenocarcinoma via Bioinformatics Analysis
Authors: Konstantis Georgios , Tsaousi Georgia , Pourzitaki Chryssa , Kasper-Virchow Stefan , Zaun Gregor , Kitsikidou Elisavet , Passenberg Moritz , Tseriotis Vasilis Spyridon , Willuweit Katharina , Schmidt Hartmut H. , Rashidi-Alavijeh Jassin
Published: March 2024

Objective: Gastric carcinoma (GC) is the fifth most commonly diagnosed cancer and the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths globally. The tumor microenvironment plays a significant role in the pathogenesis, prognosis, and response to immunotherapy. However, the immune-related molecular mechanisms underlying GC remain elusive. Bioinformatics analysis of the gene expression of GC and paracancerous healthy tissues from the same patient was performed to identify the key genes and signaling pathways, as well as their correlation to the infiltration of the tumor microenvironment (TME) by various immune cells related to GC development. Methods: We employed GSE19826, a gene expression profile from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO), for our analysis. Functional enrichment analysis of Differentially Expressed Genes (DEGs) was conducted using the Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes database. Results: Cytoscape software facilitated the identification of nine hub DEGs, namely, FN1, COL1A1, COL1A2, THBS2, COL3A1, COL5A1, APOE, SPP1, and BGN. Various network analysis algorithms were applied to determine their high connectivity. Among these hub genes, FN1, COL1A2, THBS2, COL3A1, COL5A1, and BGN were found to be associated with a poor prognosis for GC patients. Subsequent analysis using the TIMER database revealed the infiltration status of the TME concerning the overexpression of these six genes. Specifically, the abovementioned genes demonstrated direct correlations with cancer-associated fibroblasts, M1 and M2 macrophages, myeloid-derived suppressor cells, and activated dendritic cells. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that the identified hub genes, particularly BGN, FN1, COL1A2, THBS2, COL3A1, and COL5A1, play crucial roles in GC prognosis and TME cell infiltration. This comprehensive analysis enhances our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying GC development and may contribute to the identification of potential therapeutic targets and prognostic markers for GC patients.
Evaluation of a Population-Based Targeted Screening Approach for Skin Cancer with Long-Time Follow-Up in Austria including Potential Effects on Melanoma Mortality
Authors: Brozek Wolfgang , Clemens Patrick , Ulmer Hanno , Häring Nina , Concin Hans , Zitt Emanuel , Nagel Gabriele
Published: March 2024

Background: whether screening for skin cancer affects melanoma-specific mortality in a population-based setting remains unclear. Methods: in this population-based cohort study, we characterized and evaluated a skin cancer prevention program following a targeted screening approach conducted in 1989–1994 in the Austrian province Vorarlberg, with follow-up until 2019. The general population and attendees of a health examination program served for comparison. Results: in the screening program including full follow-up until 2019, 207 invasive and 187 in situ melanomas were identified in 8997 individuals. Incidences of invasive and in situ melanomas were elevated compared to the general population (IRR 2.92, 95%-CI 2.49–3.41, and IRR 4.13, 95%-CI 3.53–4.83, respectively) and the health examination program (HR 3.02, 95%-CI 2.59–3.52, and HR 3.90, 95%-CI 3.30–4.61, respectively). Breslow thickness and Clark’s level at time of invasive diagnosis were significantly lower in 1989–2019, but the tumor characteristics of the melanomas diagnosed during 1989–1994 did not differ from the comparison groups. Moreover, melanoma mortality was significantly elevated in the screening program (IRR 1.66, 95%-CI 1.00–2.75 vs. the general population, HR 2.12, 95%-CI 1.25–3.61 vs. the health examination cohort). Melanoma mortality in Vorarlberg declined until 2004, though statistically non-significantly. Conclusions: given the uncertain effectiveness and high public expenditures of population-wide mass screening programs, primary prevention and targeted risk-based skin cancer screening might be promising alternatives.
An MRI Radiomics Approach to Predict the Hypercoagulable Status of Gliomas
Authors: Saidak Zuzana , Laville Adrien , Soudet Simon , Sevestre Marie-Antoinette , Constans Jean-Marc , Galmiche Antoine
Published: March 2024

Venous thromboembolic events are frequent complications of Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM) and low-grade gliomas (LGGs). The overexpression of tissue factor (TF) plays an essential role in the local hypercoagulable phenotype that underlies these complications. Our aim was to build an MRI radiomics model for the non-invasive exploration of the hypercoagulable status of LGG/GBM. Radiogenomics data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and REMBRANDT (Repository for molecular BRAin Neoplasia DaTa) cohorts were used. A logistic regression model (Radscore) was built in order to identify the top 20% TF-expressing tumors, considered to be at high thromboembolic risk. The most contributive MRI radiomics features from LGG/GBM linked to high TF were identified in TCGA using Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO) regression. A logistic regression model was built, whose performance was analyzed with ROC in the TCGA/training and REMBRANDT/validation cohorts: AUC = 0.87 [CI95: 0.81–0.94, p < 0.0001] and AUC = 0.78 [CI95: 0.56–1.00, p = 0.02], respectively. In agreement with the key role of the coagulation cascade in gliomas, LGG patients with a high Radscore had lower overall and disease-free survival. The Radscore was linked to the presence of specific genomic alterations, the composition of the tumor coagulome and the tumor immune infiltrate. Our findings suggest that a non-invasive assessment of the hypercoagulable status of LGG/GBM is possible with MRI radiomics.