bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Future Site Suitability for Urban Waste Management in English Bazar and Old Malda Municipalities, West Bengal: A Geospatial and Machine Learning Approach
Authors: Mondal Suresh , Parveen Mst Tania , Alam Asraful , Rukhsana  , Islam Nazrul , Calka Beata , Bashir Bashar , Zhran Mohamed
Published: October 2024

The rapid urbanization occurring globally has significantly intensified the challenges of waste management in densely populated metropolitan areas. A growing amount of waste has become a major concern for municipal authorities and local governments due to the limited availability of suitable land. Geospatial techniques, such as Geographic Information Systems (GISs) and remote sensing, combined with machine learning, play a crucial role in identifying suitable sites for urban waste management. These techniques assist planners in making well-informed decisions that strike a balance between environmental preservation and urban expansion by examining spatial data on land use, population density, and environmental concerns. Geospatial tools provide a data-driven basis for policy and urban planning, ensuring effective land use, reducing ecological hazards, and promoting sustainable urban growth for municipalities such as English Bazar and Old Malda. It can also pose serious threats to the environment, public health, and communities. Focusing on the English Bazar and Old Malda Municipalities in India, this paper examines the use of geospatial technologies to identify suitable sites for waste disposal. The research aims to address the complex processes of waste generation, collection, and disposal in urban environments. Using GIS and a Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) approach, the study employs the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) alongside the Random Forest (RF) model and a machine learning (ML) technique to identify potential waste disposal sites within the English Bazar and Old Malda Municipalities in the Malda district. Eight key criteria were considered in the site selection process: land elevation; distances from surface water, roads, railways, and urban areas; groundwater depth; land use and land cover; and distance from sensitive and restricted areas. AHP analysis showed that 8%, 26%, and 27% of the sites were categorized as very highly suitable, moderately suitable, and unsuitable, respectively. Meanwhile, 38%, 17%, and 13% of the areas were classified as unsuitable, moderately suitable, and very highly suitable according to the RF model. The overall accuracy and Kappa coefficient indicated that the AHP method (overall capacity of 83.83% and Kappa coefficient of 0.7894) was slightly better than the RF model (overall capacity of 80.61% and Kappa coefficient of 0.7474) for site suitability analysis. This research underscores the broad relevance of geospatial technology in creating resilient and environmentally sustainable cities while offering valuable guidance on effectively allocating waste disposal sites. The findings provide crucial insights for urban planners and decision-makers, facilitating the identification of optimal locations for sustainable waste management in urban settings.
Two Novel Fluorescence Probes Based on Caffeic Acid Derivative for Phosphate Ions and Their Applications in Biological Samples
Authors: Zhou Xiaowen , Yang Xiaoqin , Rao Xiaoping , Zhang Yingjun , Zhao Ping , Jiang Qian
Published: October 2024

Phosphate is widely used in industry and agriculture fields. However, excess accumulation of PO43− causes several adverse effects on the human body and ecological environment. Consequently, it is important to develop a simple method for the detection of PO43− concentration in the ecological environment and in vivo. Herein, two caffeic acid derivative-based fluorescence probes (BAM-HM and BAM-HH) were developed for the detection of phosphate. The BAM-HM probe could detect phosphate via fluorescence enhancement at 500 nm, with the detection limit being 0.612 µM. Meanwhile, the BAM-HH probe showed a significant turn-on signal at 450 nm after the addition of phosphate, and the detection limit was calculated to be 0.318 µM. The sensing mechanism was determined by 1H NMR and MS. Furthermore, the two probes (BAM-HM and BAM-HH) were applied for PO43−detection in living cells and water samples.
Overexpression of Chromatin Remodeling Factor SRG3 Down-Regulates IL1β-Expressing M1 Macrophages and IL17-Producing T Cells in Adipose Tissues
Authors: Jeon Jungmin , Lee Sung Won , Park Hyun Jung , Park Yun Hoo , Kim Tae-Cheol , Lee Sujin , Lee Seyeong , Van Kaer Luc , Hong Seokmann
Published: October 2024

The SWItch3-related gene (SRG3) is a core component of ATP-dependent SWI/SNF complexes, which are crucial for regulating immune cell development and function (e.g., macrophages and CD4+ T cells), embryonic development, and non-immune cell differentiation. Notably, SRG3 overexpression has been shown to polarize macrophages in the central nervous system toward an anti-inflammatory M2 phenotype, thereby protecting against the development of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis in mice. However, the effect of SRG3 on immune responses in adipose tissues remains unclear. To address this issue, we examined the cellularity and inflammatory status of adipose tissue in B10.PL mice overexpressing the SRG3 gene under the ubiquitous β-actin promoter (SRG3β-actin). Interestingly, SRG3 overexpression significantly reduced adipocyte size in both white and brown adipose tissues, without affecting the overall adipose tissue weight. Such phenotypic effects might be associated with the improved glucose tolerance observed in SRG3β-actin B10.PL mice. Moreover, we found that SRG3 overexpression down-regulates IL1β-expressing M1 macrophages, leading to a significant decrease in the M1/M2 macrophage ratio. Additionally, SRG3β-actin B10.PL mice showed a dramatic reduction in neutrophils as well as IL1β- and IL17-producing T cells in adipose tissues. Taken together, our results indicate that SRG3 plays a vital role in maintaining immune homeostasis within adipose tissues.
Melittin Inhibits Colorectal Cancer Growth and Metastasis by Ac-Tivating the Mitochondrial Apoptotic Pathway and Suppressing Epithelial–Mesenchymal Transition and Angiogenesis
Authors: Wang Kangli , Tao Lingchen , Zhu Meifei , Yu Xinyu , Lu Yuanyuan , Yuan Bin , Hu Fuliang
Published: October 2024

Melittin has previously been found to have a positive effect on colorectal cancer (CRC) treatment, one of the most difficult-to-treat malignancies, but the mechanism by which this effect occurs remains unclear. We evaluated melittin’s pro-apoptotic and anti-metastatic effects on CRC in vitro and in vivo. The results showed that melittin-induced mitochondrial ROS bursts decreased ΔΨm, inhibited Bcl-2 expression, and increased Bax expression in both cells and tumor tissues. This led to increased mitochondrial membrane permeability and the release of pro-apoptotic factors, particularly the high expression of Cytochrome C, initiating the apoptosis program. Additionally, through wound-healing and transwell assays, melittin inhibited the migration and invasion of CRC cells. In vivo, the anti-metastatic effect of melittin was also verified in a lung metastasis mouse model. Western blotting and immunohistochemistry analysis indicated that melittin suppressed the expression of MMPs and regulated the expression of crucial EMT markers and related transcription factors, thereby inhibiting EMT. Furthermore, the melittin disrupts neovascularization, ultimately inhibiting the metastasis of CRC. In conclusion, melittin exerts anti-CRC effects by promoting apoptosis and inhibiting metastasis, providing a theoretical basis for further research on melittin as a targeted therapeutic agent for CRC.
An Oxford Nanopore Technology-Based Hepatitis B Virus Sequencing Protocol Suitable for Genomic Surveillance Within Clinical Diagnostic Settings
Authors: Tshiabuila Derek , Choga Wonderful , San James E. , Maponga Tongai , Van Zyl Gert , Giandhari Jennifer , Pillay Sureshnee , Preiser Wolfgang , Naidoo Yeshnee , Baxter Cheryl , Martin Darren P. , de Oliveira Tulio
Published: October 2024

Chronic Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) infection remains a significant public health concern, particularly in Africa, where the burden is substantial. HBV is an enveloped virus, classified into ten phylogenetically distinct genotypes (A–J). Tests to determine HBV genotypes are based on full-genome sequencing or reverse hybridization. In practice, both approaches have limitations. Whereas diagnostic sequencing, generally using the Sanger approach, tends to focus only on the S-gene and yields little or no information on intra-patient HBV genetic diversity, reverse hybridization detects only known genotype-specific mutations. To resolve these limitations, we developed an Oxford Nanopore Technology (ONT)-based HBV diagnostic sequencing protocol suitable for clinical virology that yields both complete genome sequences and extensive intra-patient HBV diversity data. Specifically, the protocol involves tiling-based PCR amplification of HBV sequences, library preparation using the ONT Rapid Barcoding Kit (Oxford nanopore Technologies, Oxford, OX4 4DQ, UK), ONT GridION sequencing, genotyping using genome detective software v1.132/1.133, a recombination analysis using jpHMM (26 October 2011 version) and RDP5.61 software, and drug resistance profiling using Geno2pheno v2.0 software. We prove the utility of our protocol by efficiently generating and characterizing high-quality near full-length HBV genomes from 148 residual diagnostic samples from HBV-infected patients in the Western Cape province of South Africa, providing valuable insights into the genetic diversity and epidemiology of HBV in this region of the world.
Rosmarinic Acid: A Potential Therapeutic Agent in Gastrointestinal Cancer Management—A Review
Authors: Czerwińska Karolina , Radziejewska Iwona
Published: October 2024

Gastrointestinal cancers are still the leading cause of death worldwide. This is related, among other things, to the non-specific symptoms, especially in the initial stages, and also to the limited possibilities for treatment. Therefore, research is still being conducted to improve the detection of this type of cancer and increase the effectiveness of therapy. The potential application of natural compounds in cancer management deserves special attention. In the group of such products, there are polyphenolic compounds that reveal, e.g., anti-oxidative, anti-carcinogenic, anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, and neuroprotective properties. One of these polyphenols is rosmarinic acid, commonly found in plants such as the Boraginaceae and Nepetoideae subfamilies of the Lamiaceae (mint) family. A number of studies have considered the positive effects of rosmarinic acid in the treatment of many cancers, including gastrointestinal ones such as oral, stomach, pancreas, colon, and liver cancers. The main aim of this paper was to summarize the mechanisms of action of rosmarinic acid in gastrointestinal cancers.
In Vitro Purging of Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (B-ALL) Cells with the Use of PTL, DMAPT, or PU-H71
Authors: Ortiz-Reyes Ana Elenka , García-Sánchez Sergio , Serrano Montserrat , Núñez-Enriquez Juan Carlos , Alvarado-Moreno José Antonio , Montesinos Juan José , Fajardo-Orduña Guadalupe , Guzman Monica L. , Villasis-Keever Miguel Angel , Mancilla-Herrera Ismael , Mayani Hector , Chavez-Gonzalez Antonieta
Published: October 2024

Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is a hematopoietic disorder that mainly affects the child population, and it is characterized by the presence of lymphoid progenitor or precursor cells with different genetic alterations. The origin of this disease is controversial, since some authors assumed that leukemic transformation occurs in a lymphoid progenitor, and there is also evidence that suggests the existence of leukemic initiating cells (LIC). PTL, DMAPT, and PU-H71 are agents that have been shown to eliminate bulk and stem cells from myeloid leukemias, but this effect has not been analyzed in lymphoblastic leukemias. In this study, we evaluated the effect of these compounds in different populations from pediatric B-ALL. For this, bone marrow samples from pediatric patients without treatment were obtained and cultured in the presence or absence of PTL, DMAPT, and PU-H71. The viability and apoptosis index were analyzed by flow cytometry in different hematopoietic subpopulations. These observations indicate that PTL and DMAPT are able to reduce B-ALL cells with a minimum effect in normal hematopoietic and non-hematopoietic cells. In contrast, PU-H71 was able to reduce the leukemic population and had a minimal effect in normal cells. These results present evidence that PTL and DMAPT are able to abrogate in vitro different populations of B-ALL and could represent a possibility of treatment, as well as prevent disease progression or relapse.
The Role of Neuroinflammation in Shaping Neuroplasticity and Recovery Outcomes Following Traumatic Brain Injury: A Systematic Review
Authors: Calderone Andrea , Latella Desirèe , Cardile Davide , Gangemi Antonio , Corallo Francesco , Rifici Carmela , Quartarone Angelo , Calabrò Rocco Salvatore
Published: October 2024

Neuroplasticity and neuroinflammation are variables seen during recovery from traumatic brain injury (TBI), while biomarkers are useful in monitoring injury and guiding rehabilitation efforts. This systematic review examines how neuroinflammation affects neuroplasticity and recovery following TBI in animal models and humans. Studies were identified from an online search of the PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase databases without any search time range. This review has been registered on Open OSF (n) UDWQM. Recent studies highlight the critical role of biomarkers like serum amyloid A1 (SAA1) and Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) in predicting TBI patients’ injury severity and recovery outcomes, offering the potential for personalized treatment and improved neurorehabilitation strategies. Additionally, insights from animal studies reveal how neuroinflammation affects recovery, emphasizing targets such as NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3) and microglia for enhancing therapeutic interventions. This review emphasizes the central role of neuroinflammation in TBI, and its adverse impact on neuroplasticity and recovery, and suggests that targeted anti-inflammatory treatments and biomarker-based personalized approaches hold the key to improvement. Such approaches will need further development in future research by integrating neuromodulation and pharmacological interventions, along with biomarker validation, to optimize management in TBI.
Roles and Applications of Circulating Tumor-Derived RNAs in Sarcoma Patients: A Systematic Review
Authors: Gabrielli Elena , Bocchi Maria Beatrice , Giuli Cristina , Farine Francesco , Costa Doriana Di , Maccauro Giulio , Vitiello Raffaele
Published: October 2024

Sarcomas are a heterogeneous group of malignancies with a high mortality rate. Detection of circulating tumor-derived material, such as circulating RNA in the peripheral blood of patients, has shown to be useful in diagnosis, prediction of prognosis and disease monitoring in several malignancies. This systematic review aims to probe the existing methods for detecting circulating tumor-derived RNAs from patients affected by sarcoma and their possible clinical application. A systematic review of the literature indexed in PubMed was performed. Each article had to analyze circulating RNA in human specimens obtained from liquid biopsies of patients affected by sarcoma. A total of 26 articles were included. We evaluated 1381 patients; 72% were affected by bone sarcoma and 28% by soft tissue sarcoma. By PCR-based methods, all the studies investigated circulating tumor RNA, mostly in the peripheral blood. Nearly half of the authors investigated the tumor expression and/or release of miRNA (42%). Several authors pointed out that circulating tumor-derived RNA has proven to have potential application in a clinical setting for sarcomas. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first review in the literature to attempt to put together data specifically on ctRNA in patients affected by sarcoma.
Neuregulin 4 Downregulation Alters Mitochondrial Morphology and Induces Oxidative Stress in 3T3-L1 Adipocytes
Authors: Díaz-Sáez Francisco , Balcells Cristina , Rosselló Laura , López-Soldado Iliana , Romero Montserrat , Sebastián David , López-Soriano Francisco Javier , Busquets Sílvia , Cascante Marta , Ricart Wifredo , Fernández-Real José Manuel , Moreno-Navarrete José María , Aragonés Julián , Testar Xavier , Camps Marta , Zorzano Antonio , Gumà Anna
Published: October 2024

Neuregulin 4 (Nrg4) is an adipokine that belongs to the epidermal growth factor family and binds to ErbB4 tyrosine kinase receptors. In 3T3-L1 adipocytes, the downregulation of Nrg4 expression enhances inflammation and autophagy, resulting in insulin resistance. Here, we searched for the causes of this phenotype. Nrg4 knockdown (Nrg4 KD) adipocytes showed a significant reduction in mitochondrial content and elongation, along with a lower content of the mitochondria fusion protein mitofusin 2 (MFN2), and increased H2O2 production compared to the control scrambled cells (Scr). The antioxidant N-acetylcysteine reversed the oxidative stress and reduced the gene expression of the pro-inflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα). Nrg4 KD adipocytes showed enhanced lipolysis and reduced lipogenesis, in addition to a significant reduction in several intermediates of the Krebs cycle. In summary, Nrg4 downregulation in adipocytes affects mitochondrial content and functioning, causing impaired cellular metabolism, which in turn results in oxidative stress, inflammation, and insulin resistance.
Genome-Wide Association Study of Sweet Potato Storage Root Traits Using GWASpoly, a Gene Dosage-Sensitive Model
Authors: Bowers Robert R. , Slonecki Tyler J. , Olukolu Bode A. , Yencho G. Craig , Wadl Phillip A.
Published: October 2024

Sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas) is an important food crop that plays a pivotal role in preserving worldwide food security. Due to its polyploid genome, high heterogeneity, and phenotypic plasticity, sweet potato genetic characterization and breeding is challenging. Genome-wide association studies (GWASs) can provide important resources for breeders to improve breeding efficiency and effectiveness. GWASpoly was used to identify 28 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), comprising 21 unique genetic loci, associated with sweet potato storage root traits including dry matter (4 loci), subjective flesh color (5 loci), flesh hue angle (3 loci), and subjective skin color and skin hue angle (9 loci), in 384 accessions from the USDA sweet potato germplasm collection. The I. batatas ‘Beauregard’ and I. trifida reference genomes were utilized to identify candidate genes located within 100 kb from the SNPs that may affect the storage traits of dry matter, flesh color, and skin color. These candidate genes include transcription factors (especially Myb, bHLH, and WRKY family members), metabolite transporters, and metabolic enzymes and associated proteins involved in starch, carotenoid, and anthocyanin synthesis. A greater understanding of the genetic loci underlying sweet potato storage root traits will enable marker-assisted breeding of new varieties with desired traits. This study not only reinforces previous research findings on genes associated with dry matter and β-carotene content but also introduces novel genetic loci linked to these traits as well as other root characteristics.
The Benefits of Whole-Exome Sequencing in the Differential Diagnosis of Hypophosphatasia
Authors: Glotov Oleg S. , Zhuchenko Natalya A. , Balashova Maria S. , Raspopova Aleksandra N. , Tsai Victoria V. , Chernov Alexandr N. , Chuiko Iana V. , Danilov Lavrentii G. , Morozova Lyudmila D. , Glotov Andrey S.
Published: October 2024

Hypophosphatasia (HPP) is a rare inherited disorder characterized by the decreased activity of tissue-nonspecific alkaline phosphatase (TNSALP), caused by mutations in the ALPL gene. The aim of this study was to conduct differential diagnostics in HPP patients using whole-exome sequencing (WES). The medical records of HPP patients and the genetic testing of the ALPL gene were reviewed. Seven patients were recruited and underwent WES using the Illumina or MGI sequencing platforms. All of the exome samples were matched onto a GRCh38.p13 reference genome assembly by using the Genome Analysis ToolKit (GATK) and the BWA MEM read aligner. We present the clinical and molecular findings of the seven patients referred for genetic analyses due to a clinical and biochemical suspicion of HPP. In two patients out of three (with identified heterozygous variants in the ALPL gene), we also identified c.682T>A in exon 3 of the WNT10A gene and c.3470del in exon 23 of the SMC1A gene variants for the first time. In four patients, variants in the ALPL gene were not detected, but WES allowed us to identify for the first time rare variants (c.5651A>C in exon 36 of the TRIO gene, c.880T>G in exon 6 of the TRPV4 gene, c.32078-1G>T in intron 159 of the TTN gene, c.47720_47721del in exon 235 of the TTN gene, and c.1946G>A in exon 15 of the SLC5A1 gene) and to conduct differential diagnostics with HPP. Using WES, for the first time, we demonstrate the possibility of early differential diagnostics in HPP patients with other rare genetic diseases.
Biochar Composite with Enhanced Performance Prepared Through Microbial Modification for Water Pollutant Removal
Authors: Zhang Bolun , Li Ruqi , Zheng Yangyang , Chen Siji , Su Yingjie , Zhou Wei , Sui Qi , Liang Dadong
Published: October 2024

This study developed mycelial biochar composites, BQH-AN and BQH-MV, with stable physicochemical properties and significantly improved adsorption capabilities through microbial modification. The results showed that the specific surface area and porosity of BQH-AN (3547.47 m2 g−1 and 2.37 cm3 g−1) and BQH-MV (3205.59 m2 g−1 and 2.46 cm3 g−1) were significantly higher than those of biochar BQH (2641.31 m2 g−1 and 1.81 cm3 g−1), which was produced without microbial treatment. In adsorption experiments using rhodamine B (RhB), tetracycline hydrochloride (TC), and Cr (VI), BQH-AN showed maximum adsorption capacities of 1450.79 mg g−1 for RhB, 1608.43 mg g−1 for TC, and 744.15 mg g−1 for Cr(VI). BQH-MV showed similarly strong performance, with 1329.85 mg g−1 for RhB, 1526.46 mg g−1 for TC, and 752.27 mg g−1 for Cr(VI). These values were not only higher than those of BQH but also outperformed most other biochar adsorbents. Additionally, after five reuse cycles, the pollutant removal efficiency of the mycelial biochar composites remained above 69%, demonstrating excellent regenerative ability. This study not only produced biochar with superior adsorption properties but also highlighted microbial modification as an effective way to enhance lignocellulosic biochar performance, paving the way for further biomass development.
Critical Success Factors for Public–Private Partnerships in Urban Regeneration Projects
Authors: Vale de Paula Paula , Cunha Marques Rui , Gonçalves Jorge Manuel
Published: October 2024

Public–Private Partnership (PPP) arrangements are used in different sectors in the provision of infrastructure and public services. The use of PPP agreements in urban regeneration projects, although more recent, has been gaining prominence in different contexts. However, in many cases, PPP projects have a controversial implementation, often not achieving the proposed objectives and presenting negative results. Their controversial implementation is the result of a lack of knowledge and lack of application of the best practices and Critical Success Factors (CSFs) associated with them. Based on this, the present study aims to identify and analyze the CSFs for PPP arrangements in urban regeneration projects. The study was conducted in two distinct parts. The first part consists of a literature review on the PPP CSFs in general. The second part consists of the development of a questionnaire seeking to identify the CSFs of PPP arrangements for urban regeneration projects. Based on the literature review and the questionnaire answers, the main success factors of PPP projects for urban regeneration were identified and structured in the framework with five main clusters: two related to the external environment (enabling environment and exogenous factors) and three related to the internal environment (preparation phase, procurement phase, and contract management phase).
Experimental Application of the Italian Bridge Guidelines to a Stock of Prestressed Concrete Bridges
Authors: Floridia Andrea , Messina Davide , Panarelli Dario , Recupero Antonino , Rossi Pier Paolo , Spinella Nino
Published: October 2024

This study applies the first three levels of analysis outlined in the recent Italian Bridge Guidelines to a stock of prestressed concrete bridges located along the highways connecting the cities of Palermo, Messina and Catania in Sicily, south of Italy. The examined levels of analysis include census, visual inspection and determination of the structural–foundational and seismic Classes of Attention of bridges and viaducts. Data of the census and visual inspection activities were gathered using a custom-made web application. The details, the methodologies and all the features implemented in the web platform were illustrated and discussed. Furthermore, the collected data were described and critically analyzed, offering insights into the strength and limitations of each of the three examined levels of analysis of the Italian Bridge Guidelines. Finally, based on the detected defects and their numerousness with respect to the total number of assessed bridges, the authors proposed a straightforward and practical methodology for prioritizing any subsequent repairing intervention on specific groups of bridges.
Advances in Thermoelectric Materials—Bridging the Gap Between Discovery and Application
Authors: Fronzi Marco , Mele Paolo , Latronico Giovanna
Published: October 2024

Thermoelectric materials have gained considerable attention in recent years due to their ability to directly convert heat into electricity, making them a key focus in the development of sustainable energy technologies [...]
Advanced Asphalt Mixtures for Tropical Climates Incorporating Pellet-Type Slaked Lime and Epoxy Resin
Authors: Lee Sang-Yum , Le Tri Ho Minh
Published: October 2024

The escalating impacts of climate change have led to significant challenges in maintaining road infrastructure, particularly in tropical climates. Abnormal weather patterns, including increased precipitation and temperature fluctuations, contribute to the accelerated deterioration of asphalt pavements, resulting in cracks, plastic deformation, and potholes. This study aims to evaluate the durability of a novel pellet-type stripping prevention material incorporating slaked lime and epoxy resin for pothole restoration in tropical climates. The modified asphalt mixtures were subjected to a series of laboratory tests, including the Tensile Strength Ratio (TSR) test, Indirect Tension Strength (ITS) test, Hamburg Wheel Tracking (HWT) test, Cantabro test, and Dynamic Modulus test, to assess their moisture resistance, rutting resistance, abrasion resistance, and viscoelastic properties. Quantitative results demonstrated significant improvements in the modified mixture’s performance. The TSR test showed a 6.67% improvement in moisture resistance after 10 drying–wetting cycles compared to the control mixture. The HWT test indicated a 10.16% reduction in rut depth under standard conditions and a 27.27% improvement under double load conditions. The Cantabro test revealed a 44.29% reduction in mass loss, highlighting enhanced abrasion resistance. Additionally, the Dynamic Modulus test results showed better stress absorption and reduced likelihood of cracking, with the modified mixture demonstrating superior flexibility and stiffness under varying temperatures and loading frequencies. These findings suggest that the incorporation of slaked lime and epoxy resin significantly enhances the durability and performance of asphalt mixtures for pothole repair, making them a viable solution for sustainable road maintenance in tropical climates.
Microstructure Refinement of Bulk Inconel 718 Parts During Fabrication with EB-PBF Using Scanning Strategies: Transition from Bidirectional-Raster to Stochastic Point-Based Melting
Authors: Nabil Shadman Tahsin , Banuelos Cristian , Madigan Michael E. , Tin Sammy , Rodriguez Jacob I. , Murr Lawrence E. , Wicker Ryan B. , Medina Francisco
Published: October 2024

Inconel 718 is a widely popular aerospace superalloy known for its high-temperature performance and resistance to oxidation, creep, and corrosion. Traditional manufacturing methods, like casting and powder metallurgy, face challenges with intricate shapes that can result in porosity and uniformity issues. On the other hand, Additive Manufacturing (AM) techniques such as Powder Bed Fusion (PBF) and Direct Energy Deposition (DED) can allow the creation of intricate single-part components to reduce weight and maintain structural integrity. However, AM parts often exhibit directional solidification, leading to anisotropic properties and potential crack propagation sites. To address this, post-processing treatments like HIP and heat treatment are necessary. This study explores the effects of the raster and stochastic spot melt scanning strategies on the microstructural and mechanical properties of IN718 parts fabricated using Electron Beam Powder Bed Fusion (EB-PBF). This research demonstrates that raster scanning produces columnar grains with higher mean aspect ratios. Stochastic spot melt scanning facilitates the formation of equiaxed grains, which enhances microstructural refinement and lowers anisotropy. The highest microstructural values were recorded in the raster-produced columnar grain structure. Conversely, the stochastic melt-produced transition from columnar to equiaxed grain structure demonstrated increased hardness with decreasing grain size; however, the hardness of the smallest equiaxed grain structure was slightly less than that of the columnar grain structure. These findings underscore the vital importance of scanning strategies in optimizing the EB-PBF process to enhance material properties.
Synchronized Multi-Laser Powder Bed Fusion (M-LPBF) Additive Manufacturing: A Technique for Controlling the Microstructure of Ti–6Al–4V
Authors: Attariani Hamed , Petitjean Shayna Renay , Niekamp Aaron Michael
Published: October 2024

One of the technological hurdles in the widespread application of additive manufacturing is the formation of undesired microstructure and defects, e.g., the formation of columnar grains in Ti-6Al-4V—the columnar microstructure results in anisotropic mechanical properties, a reduction in ductility, and a decrease in the endurance limit. Here, we present the potential implementation of a hexagonal array of synchronized lasers to alter the microstructure of Ti–6Al–4V toward the formation of preferable equiaxed grains. An anisotropic heat transfer model is employed to obtain the temporal/spatial temperature distributions and construct the solidification map for various process parameters, i.e., laser power, scanning speed, and the internal distance among lasers in the array. Approximately 55% of the volume fraction of equiaxed grains is obtained using a laser power of P = 500 W and a scanning speed of v = 100 mm/s. The volume fraction of the equiaxed grains decreases with increasing scanning velocity; it drops to 38% for v = 1000 mm/s. This reduction is attributed to the decrease in absorbed heat and thermal crosstalk among lasers, i.e., the absorbed heat is higher at low scanning speeds, promoting thermal crosstalk between melt pools and subsequently forming a large volume fraction of equiaxed grains. Additionally, a degree of overlap between lasers in the array is required for high scanning speeds (v = 1000 mm/s) to form a coherent melt pool, although this is unnecessary for low scanning speeds (v = 100 mm/s).
Polymer Tools Produced by Fused Filament Fabrication for Steel-Bending Process: Effect of Layering Orientation
Authors: Giorleo Luca , Deniz Kudret Irem
Published: October 2024

Rapid tooling with polymer tools produced via additive manufacturing offers significant benefits in sheet metal forming processes as it allows for the production of parts with high accuracy while reducing tool production costs. In this research, the authors evaluate the performance of polymer punches and dies in the sheet metal bending of 2 mm thick AISI 314 stainless steel. The tools were made using nylon filled with carbon fiber and produced through Fused Filament Fabrication. Two different print orientations—horizontal and vertical—were compared. This experimental study focused on the accuracy of the sheet’s bending angle and thickness while also measuring the deformation induced in the tools. A new methodology was proposed combining both tools and sheet measures to highlight not only the sheet’s accuracy but also the behavior of the polymer tools. The results demonstrate that despite the permanent deformation of the tools, they were able to produce sheets with a geometry accuracy of less than 0.5%
The Environmental Niche of the Light Purse Seine Fleet in the Northwest Pacific Ocean Based on Automatic Identification System Data
Authors: Yang Shenglong , Wan Lijun , Yu Linlin , Shi Jiashu , Zhou Weifeng , Zhang Shengmao , Wang Fei , Wu Zuli , Dai Yang , Jiang Keji , Fan Wei
Published: October 2024

Ecosystem-based fisheries management requires high-precision fisheries information to provide relevant data for natural resource management, assessment, and marine spatial planning. This study utilizes Automatic Identification System (AIS) data from light purse seine vessels from the Chinese mainland that were collected from May to November between 2020 and 2022, along with the corresponding environmental data. By applying boosted regression trees (BRTs) and generalized additive models (GAMs), this study establishes nonlinear relationships between fishing intensity and predictor variables and explores the ecological and environmental drivers behind the spatial distribution of light purse seine vessels from the Chinese mainland in the Northwest Pacific. This research identifies the key influencing factors and reveals significant seasonal preferences for different marine environments in various months, with chlorophyll-a being the primary influencing factor. The predicted fishing effort closely resembles observed data, providing valuable information to support fisheries resource management and planning.
Analysis of the Vertical Dynamic Response of SDCM Piles in Coastal Areas
Authors: Yan Yeyu , Liu Hongbo , Dai Guoliang , Xiang Yufan , Xu Chenhu
Published: October 2024

The stiffened deep cement mixing (SDCM) pile, as a new type of rigid–flexible composite pile, significantly enhances the vertical bearing capacity of traditional precast piles, thus holding broad application prospects in the substructure construction of nearshore bridges and marine energy structures. This paper investigates the vertical dynamic response of SDCM piles through theoretical derivation and parameter analysis. Firstly, based on elastic dynamics theory and the three-phase porous media model, vertical vibration control equations for both SDCM piles and fractional-order viscoelastic unsaturated soils are established. Secondly, theoretical derivations yield exact analytical solutions for the surrounding dynamic impedance, top dynamic stiffness, and dynamic damping of the SDCM pile. Finally, through numerical examples and parameter studies, the impact mechanisms of physical parameters in the SDCM pile–unsaturated soil dynamic coupling system on the top dynamic stiffness and dynamic damping of the SDCM pile are analyzed. The research results presented in this paper indicate that reducing the radius of the rigid core pile while increasing the thickness of the exterior pile has a positive effect on enhancing its vibration resistance. Additionally, increasing the length of SDCM piles contributes to improved vibration performance. However, an increase in the elastic modulus of the cement–soil exterior pile is detrimental to the vibration resistance of the rigid composite pile. On the other hand, an increase in the elastic modulus of the concrete core pile only enhances its ability to resist vibration under low-frequency load excitation. Furthermore, enlarging the soil saturation, decreasing the intrinsic permeability, and enlarging the soil relaxation shear modulus have a significant positive impact on improving the vibration resistance of SDCM piles. In contrast, changes in porosity have a negligible effect on the ability to resist vertical vibrations of SDCM piles.
An Early-Stage Structural Design of a Semi-Submersible Platform for Floating Offshore Wind Turbines in Chilean Waters
Authors: Gallardo Yordan , Tampier Gonzalo , Palma Víctor , Cifuentes Cristian , Ahumada José Miguel , Troncoso Claudio , Mendoza Michael Y.
Published: October 2024

To advance offshore wind energy technologies in South America, this study addresses the early-stage design challenges of a floating support structure for a 5 MW wind turbine. The aim is to develop a robust and efficient floating structure capable of withstanding the diverse forces imposed by the Valdivian environment. Utilizing SolidWorks, a 3D model based on a comprehensive review of semi-submersible structures with three columns is proposed. The structural model is subjected to a rigorous evaluation using the finite element method, with which linear static and buckling analyses are performed in compliance with the Det Norske Veritas (DNV) classification society. The proposed tri-floater platform design shows a 30% weight reduction when compared with other proposed models. The finite element analysis includes an extreme condition of 13 m waves that suggests the adequate performance of the proposed platform in Chilean waters, and offers a conceptual preliminary step for floating support structure designs in Chile.
A Novel Approach to Enhancing the Accuracy of Prediction in Ship Fuel Consumption
Authors: Zhou Tianrui , Wang Jinggai , Hu Qinyou , Hu Zhihui
Published: October 2024

Ship fuel consumption plays a crucial role not only in understanding ships’ energy efficiency but also in gaining insights into their emissions. However, enhancing the accuracy of these predictions poses significant challenges due to data limitations and the methods employed. Due to these factors, such as data variability and equipment characteristics, ship fuel consumption exhibits certain fluctuations under specific conditions. Previous fuel consumption prediction methods primarily generate a single specific value, making it difficult to capture the volatility of and variability in fuel consumption. To overcome this limitation, this paper proposes a novel method that integrates Gaussian process prediction with quantile regression theory to perform interval predictions of ship fuel consumption, providing a range of possible outcomes. Through comparative analyses with traditional methods, the possibility of using the method is verified and its results are validated. The results indicate the following: (1) at a 95% confidence level, the proposed method achieves a prediction interval coverage probability of 0.98 and a prediction interval normalized average width of 0.123, which are significantly better than those of the existing backpropagation neural network (BPNN) and gradient boosting decision tree (GBDT) quantile regression models; (2) the prediction accuracy of the proposed method is 92% for point forecasts; and (3) the proposed method is applicable to main datasets, including both noon report and sensor datasets. These findings provide valuable insights into interval predictions of ship fuel consumption and highlight their potential applications in related fields, emphasizing the importance of accurate interval predictions in intelligent energy efficiency optimization.
Ultrasound-Guided Axillary Access Using a Micropuncture Needle Versus Conventional Cephalic Venous Access for Implantation of Cardiac Devices: A Single-Center Randomized Trial
Authors: Leventopoulos Georgios , Travlos Christoforos K. , Theofilatos Athinagoras , Spyropoulou Panagiota , Papageorgiou Angeliki , Perperis Angelos , Koros Rafail , Moulias Athanasios , Koniari Ioanna , Davlouros Periklis
Published: October 2024

(1) Background: Ultrasound-guided axillary (USAX) vein puncture is a relatively new method to obtain venous access for the implantation of cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIED). However, its use is limited as most of the operators are not familiar with this technique. Our aim was to investigate the safety and efficacy of the USAX compared with the traditional cephalic vein dissection for venous access in CIED implantation. (2) Methods: This was a single-center, randomized, controlled, superiority trial. A total of 114 patients were randomized (1:1 ratio) to either USAX (u/s axillary group; 59 patients) or cephalic vein access (cephalic group; 55 patients). The primary study endpoint was defined as successful placement of all leads via the chosen access. Secondary study endpoints included time from local anesthetic injection to lead advancement in the SVC, total procedure time (skin to skin), procedure-related complications and pain perception. (3) Results: USAX was superior to cephalic access in terms of primary endpoint (OR: 4.3, 95% CI: 1.3, 14.0; p = 0.012). Total procedure duration was higher in the cephalic group (55.15 ± 16.62 vs. 48.35 ± 12.81 min, p = 0.017) but there was neither a significant difference in fluoroscopy time (p = 0.872) nor in total radiation dose (p = 0.815). The level of pain was higher in the cephalic group (p = 0.016), while the rates of complications were similar in both groups (p > 0.05). (4) Conclusion: USAX was superior to cephalic access regarding success rate, total procedure duration and level of pain, while having no difference in complication rates.
Land Stewardship and Development Behaviors Under an Ecological-Impact-Weighted Land Value Tax Scheme: A Proof-of-Concept Agent-Based Model
Authors: Walker Dakota B. , Mertan Alican , Farley Joshua , Rizzo Donna , Reynolds Travis
Published: October 2024

Sprawling land development patterns have exacerbated ecological degradation, social fragmentation, and public health problems. Perverse incentives arise from the ability to privatize collectively created value in land rents and socialize ecological costs. Land value taxation (LVT) has been shown to encourage urban infill development by reducing or eliminating rent-seeking behavior in land markets. However, despite its purported benefits, this tax reform is value monistic in its definition of optimal land use and, therefore, does little to address the lack of non-market information to inform land use decisions. We propose an ecological-impact-weighted land value taxation policy (ELVT) which incorporates the ecological footprint of land use into one’s land value tax burden. We test both proposed policies (LVT and ELVT) relative to a “status quo” (SQ) property tax scheme, utilizing a conceptual spatially explicit agent-based model of land use behaviors and housing development. Our findings suggest that both tax interventions can increase the capital intensity and decrease the land intensity of housing development. Furthermore, both tax interventions can lead to a net profit loss for speculators and a decrease in the average housing unit price. The ELVT scheme is shown to significantly increase urban nature provisions and dampen the loss of ecological value across a region.
“It’s a Bit Tricky, Isn’t It?”—An Acoustic Study of Contextual Variation in /ɪ/ in the Conversational Speech of Young People from Perth
Authors: Docherty Gerard , Foulkes Paul , Gonzalez Simon
Published: October 2024

This study presents an acoustic analysis of vowel realisations in contexts where, in Australian English, a historical contrast between unstressed /ɪ/ and /ə/ has largely diminished in favour of a central schwa-like variant. The study is motivated by indications that there is greater complexity in this area of vowel variation than has been conventionally set out in the existing literature, and our goal is to shed new light by studying a dataset of conversational speech produced by 40 young speakers from Perth, WA. In doing so, we also offer some critical thoughts on the use of Wells’ lexical sets as a framework for analysis in work of this kind, in particular with reference to the treatment of items in unstressed position, and of grammatical (or function) words. The acoustic analysis focused on the realisation in F1/F2 space of a range of /ɪ/ and /ə/ variants in both accented and unaccented syllables (thus a broader approach than a focus on stressed kit vowels). For the purposes of comparison, we also analysed tokens of the fleece and happy-tensing lexical sets. Grammatical and non-grammatical words were analysed independently in order to understand the extent to which a high-frequency grammatical word such as it might contribute to the overall pattern of vowel alternation. Our findings are largely consistent with the small amount of previous work that has been carried out in this area, pointing to a continuum of realisations across a range of accented and unaccented contexts. The data suggest that the reduced historical /ɪ/ vowel encountered in unaccented syllables cannot be straightforwardly analysed as a merger with /ə/. We also highlight the way in which the grammatical word it participates in this alternation.
Exploring the Relationship Between Visceral Fat and Coronary Artery Calcification Risk Using Metabolic Score for Visceral Fat (METS-VF)
Authors: Huang Jiun-Chi , Huang Ya-Chin , Lu Chia-Hsin , Chuang Yun-Shiuan , Chien Hsu-Han , Lin Chia-I , Chao Ming-Fang , Chuang Hung-Yi , Ho Chi-Kung , Wang Chao-Ling , Dai Chia-Yen
Published: October 2024

Background: Metabolic Score for Visceral Fat (METS-VF) is a novel indicator for estimating intra-abdominal fat, yet its connection with coronary artery calcification (CAC) remains uncharted. Our research aims to explore the novel METS-VF indicator’s link to CAC while comparing its performance against relevant anthropometric indices. Methods: This study enrolled participants who underwent health checkups and computed tomography scans for categorizing severity of CAC using the coronary artery calcium score. The METS-VF was calculated and compared with anthropometric indices in estimating the presence of CAC and different CAC severity using receiver operating characteristic curves. Results: Overall, 1217 participants (mean age 50.7 ± 9.9, 53.8% male) were included. METS-VF (odds ratio [OR], 1.506; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.181–1.921; p = 0.001) was positively associated with the presence of CAC, even after accounting for cardiometabolic factors. Notably, METS-VF was positively associated with mild (OR, 1.450; 95% CI, 1.115–1.886; p = 0.006), moderate (OR, 1.865; 95% CI, 1.137–3.062; p = 0.014), and severe (OR, 2.316; 95% CI, 1.090–4.923; p = 0.029) CAC. Moreover, METS-VF yielded the highest area under curve (AUC) value in the estimation of the CAC presence (AUC = 0.710), mild (AUC = 0.682), moderate (AUC = 0.757), and severe (AUC = 0.807) CAC when compared with body mass index, waist circumference, visceral adiposity index, triglyceride–glucose index, and metabolic score for insulin resistance. The optimal METS-VF cut-off value was 6.4 for predicting CAC. Conclusions: METS-VF emerged as a strong independent marker for detecting CAC presence across mild, moderate, and severe CAC categories, outperforming major anthropometric indices in accurately estimating the presence of CAC and different severity of CAC.