bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring Proso Millet Resilience to Abiotic Stresses: High-Yield Potential in Desert Environments of the Middle East
Authors: Samineni Srinivasan , Gummadi Sridhar , Thushar Sumitha , Khan Dil Nawaz , Gkanogiannis Anestis , Becerra Lopez-Lavalle Luis Augusto , Singh Rakesh Kumar
Published: January 2025

Scarce water resources, high temperatures, limited rainfall, elevated soil salinity, and poor soil quality (98% sand) challenge crop production in the desert regions of the Middle East. Proso millet’s resilience under these stresses presents a potential solution for enhancing food security in arid environments. This field study evaluated 24 proso millet genotypes under three environments (100% freshwater, 50% freshwater, and 10 dS/m salinity) in the UAE during normal and summer seasons, aiming to identify genotypes resilient to water, heat, and salinity stresses and to assess genotype-by-environment (G × E) interactions and key traits associated with grain yield. ANOVA indicated significant G × E interactions. Genotypes G9 and G24 displayed high yield and stability across environments during the normal season. In the summer, genotypes G7 and G10 exhibited resilience with high yields under high-temperature stress alone, while combined stresses led to yield reductions across all genotypes, with greater susceptibility under cumulative stress. GGE biplot analysis identified G9 as ideal in the normal season, while G15 and G23 demonstrated stability under combined stresses in the summer season. High chaffy grain yield (CGY) observed under summer stress conditions suggests a shift in resource allocation away from productive grain formation. The reproductive phase was highly vulnerable to heat stress, with 88% of this period experiencing daytime temperatures exceeding 40 °C, with a peak reaching up to 49 °C. These extreme conditions, coinciding with the crop’s critical growth stages, triggered a significant increase in chaffy grain production, substantially reducing overall grain yield. Despite these challenges, genotypes G7, G10, and G12 exhibited notable resilience, maintaining yields above 0.75 t ha−1. Correlation analysis suggested that selecting for increased plant height, forage yield, and 1000-grain weight (TGW) could enhance grain yield under the normal and summer conditions. This study highlights the potential of proso millet genotypes as climate-resilient options for arid regions, providing a basis for developing stress-tolerant varieties and promoting sustainable agriculture in desert climates.
Effect of Bovine Colostrum on Canine Immune Health
Authors: Yu Ping , Satyaraj Ebenezer
Published: January 2025

Colostrum, the first fluid secreted by the mammary glands of mammalian mothers, contains essential nutrients for the health and survival of newborns. Bovine colostrum (BC) is notable for its high concentrations of bioactive components, such as immunoglobulins and lactoferrin. Despite dogs being the world’s most popular companion animals, there is limited research on their immune systems compared to humans. This summary aims to consolidate published studies that explore the immune benefits of BC, focusing specifically on its implications for dogs.
Knowledge, Attitudes, Motivations, Expectations, and Systemic Factors Regarding Antimicrobial Use Amongst Community Members Seeking Care at the Primary Healthcare Level: A Scoping Review
Authors: Ramdas Nishana , Meyer Johanna C. , Schellack Natalie , Godman Brian , Turawa Eunice , Campbell Stephen M.
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a major global health challenge, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Understanding the knowledge, attitudes, motivations, and expectations of community members regarding antimicrobial use is essential for effective stewardship interventions. This scoping review aimed to identify key themes relating to the critical areas regarding antimicrobial use among community members in primary healthcare (PHC), with a particular focus on LMICs. Methods: OVID Medline, PubMed, and CINAHL databases were searched using Boolean operators and Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) terms relevant to antimicrobial use and community behaviors. The Population, Intervention, Comparison, Outcome, and Study Design (PICOS) framework guided study selection, which focused on community members seeking care in PHC in LMICs. Data management and extraction were facilitated using the Covidence platform, with the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) qualitative checklist applied for qualitative studies. A narrative synthesis identified and grouped key themes and sub-themes. Results: The search identified 497 sources, of which 59 met the inclusion criteria, with 75% of the studies conducted in outpatient primary care settings. Four key themes were identified: (1) the ’patient’ theme, highlighting beliefs, knowledge, and expectations, which was the most prominent (40.5%); (2) the ’provider’ theme, emphasizing challenges related to clinical decision-making, knowledge gaps, and adherence to guidelines; (3) the ’healthcare systems’ theme, highlighting resource limitations, lack of infrastructure, and policy constraints; and (4) the ‘intervention/uptake’ theme, emphasizing strategies to improve future antibiotic use and enhance access to and quality of healthcare. Conclusions: Stewardship programs in PHC settings in LMICs should be designed to be context-specific, community-engaged, and accessible to individuals with varying levels of understanding, involving the use of information and health literacy to effectively reduce AMR.
Characterization of Clostridium perfringens Phage Endolysin PlyDolk21
Authors: Seo Suyoung , Son Bokyung , Kong Minsuk
Published: January 2025

Background: Clostridium perfringens is a significant cause of food poisoning. Broad-spectrum antibiotics, commonly used to control C. perfringens, are becoming less effective due to the rise of antibiotic-resistant strains, necessitating alternative control strategies. Methods: A C. perfringens-infecting bacteriophage, Dolk21, and its endolysin, PlyDolk21, were isolated and characterized. The lytic activity of PlyDolk21 was assessed in comparison to its catalytic domain alone. Both PlyDolk21 and its cell wall binding domain (CBD) were evaluated in beef and milk for their antimicrobial activity and cell wall binding activity, respectively. Results: While phage Dolk21 was specific to certain C. perfringens strains, PlyDolk21 exhibited lytic activity against all C. perfringens strains tested. The full-length PlyDolk21 showed stronger lytic activity compared to its catalytic domain alone. PlyDolk21_CBD successfully bound to C. perfringens in vitro and in foods. Additionally, PlyDolk21 effectively reduced the viable cell counts of C. perfringens by 3-log in beef soup and milk samples. Conclusions: This study demonstrates that PlyDolk21 and its CBD hold potential as a biocontrol and detection agent targeting C. perfringens in various food matrices.
Glucosinolates from Seed-Press Cake of Camelina sativa (L.) Crantz Extend Yeast Chronological Lifespan by Modulating Carbon Metabolism and Respiration
Authors: Abbiati Francesco , Orlandi Ivan , Pagliari Stefania , Campone Luca , Vai Marina
Published: January 2025

Glucosinolates (GSLs) are nitrogen/sulfur-containing glycosides widely present in the order of Brassicales, particularly in the Brassicaceae family. Camelina (Camelina sativa (L.) Crantz) is an oilseed plant belonging to this family. Its seeds, in addition to a distinctive fatty acid composition, contain three aliphatic GSLs: glucoarabin, glucocamelinin, and homoglucocamelinin. Our study explored the impact of these GSLs purified from Camelina press cake, a by-product of Camelina oil production, on yeast chronological aging, which is the established model for simulating the aging of post-mitotic quiescent mammalian cells. Supplementing yeast cells with GSLs extends the chronological lifespan (CLS) in a dose-dependent manner. This enhancement relies on an improved mitochondrial respiration efficiency, resulting in a drastic decrease of superoxide anion levels and an increase in ATP production. Furthermore, GSL supplementation affects carbon metabolism. In particular, GSLs support the pro-longevity preservation of TCA cycle enzymatic activities and enhanced glycerol catabolism. These changes contribute positively to the phosphorylating respiration and to an increase in trehalose storage: both of which are longevity-promoting prerequisites.
Large Language Models as Evaluators in Education: Verification of Feedback Consistency and Accuracy
Authors: Seo Hyein , Hwang Taewook , Jung Jeesu , Kang Hyeonseok , Namgoong Hyuk , Lee Yohan , Jung Sangkeun
Published: January 2025

The recent advancements in large language models (LLMs) have brought significant changes to the field of education, particularly in the generation and evaluation of feedback. LLMs are transforming education by streamlining tasks like content creation, feedback generation, and assessment, reducing teachers’ workload and improving online education efficiency. This study aimed to verify the consistency and reliability of LLMs as evaluators by conducting automated evaluations using various LLMs based on five educational evaluation criteria. The analysis revealed that while LLMs were capable of performing consistent evaluations under certain conditions, a lack of consistency was observed both among evaluators and across models for other criteria. Notably, low agreement among human evaluators correlated with reduced reliability in LLM evaluations. Furthermore, variations in evaluation results were influenced by factors such as prompt strategies and model architecture, highlighting the complexity of achieving reliable assessments using LLMs. These findings suggest that while LLMs have the potential to transform educational systems, careful selection and combination of models are essential to improve their consistency and align their performance with human evaluators in educational settings.
Optimization Research on the Performance of the RC-DTH Air Hammer Based on Computational Fluid Dynamics
Authors: Liu Zihao , Luo Yongjiang , He Wenchao , Tao Rui , He Jiangfu , Sun Yongliang , Chen Hongwei , Hu Qianting
Published: January 2025

To optimize the performance of the RC-DTH air hammer, a mathematical model detailing each phase of the piston’s movement has been constructed in the present work. Simultaneously, a novel piston structure of the RC-DTH air hammer (Type B) with diverse internal flow has been proposed. The impact performance of the structurally modified RC-DTH hammer is analyzed using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD). Additionally, an impact energy testing system for the RC-DTH air hammer is developed to confirm the validity of the numerical simulation results. Research results have shown that enhancing both the intake stroke of the upper chamber (F1) and the outlet stroke of the lower chamber (R2) of the RC-DTH air hammer piston can effectively improve the piston’s impact performance. Conversely, increasing the inlet stroke of the lower chamber (R1) and the outlet stroke of the upper chamber (F2) tends to diminish the piston’s impact performance. Moreover, the quality of the piston influences its striking frequency while having a minimal impact on single-impact energy. As the piston quality increases, the power of the impact diminishes. Once the piston valve stroke parameters are optimized, its impact performance is enhanced by 20.32%. Compared to the GQ89 hammer, the Type B hammer exhibits an 84% increase in impact energy and a 74% increase in impact power.
Spatio-Temporal Distribution and Population Dynamics of Two Sympatric Species: The Rock Shrimps Sicyonia dorsalis Kingsley, 1878 and Sicyonia typica (Boeck, 1864) (Penaeoidea: Sicyoniidae) on the Coast of Ilhéus, Bahia, Northeastern Brazil
Authors: Tavares Renzo Gonçalves , Paschoal Lucas Rezende Penido , Guimarães Fernanda Jordão , Brandão Simone Nunes , Couto Erminda da Conceição Guerreiro
Published: January 2025

Rock shrimps (Sicyonia dorsalis and Sicyonia typica) are commonly caught as bycatch during shrimp trawling along the Brazilian coast, but are not commercially exploited due to their small size and hard carapace. This study evaluated their spatio-temporal distribution, size classes, and sex ratio near the Almada River Estuary, Ilhéus, Bahia, Northeastern Brazil, and tested correlations between environmental factors and species abundance. Samples were collected monthly using double-rig trawl nets in the estuary and along transects at depths of 5–35 m. Bottom water and sediment samples were obtained for analyses of environmental factors. In total, 5336 individuals of S. dorsalis and 303 individuals of S. typica were collected. No individuals were recorded in the estuary. Both species were significantly more abundant between 25 and 35 m, where fine sediment with high levels of organic matter occurred. Considering the temporal variation, their abundance decreased during the rainy season, coinciding with increased river flow. Organic matter content, salinity, and water transparency were the primary environmental factors influencing abundance. Females were generally larger and predominant compared to males, likely due to life cycle dynamics. Despite being congeneric and sympatric, the species exhibited distinct population patterns, possibly to avoid niche overlap and competition.
Investigation of the Suitability of the DTV Method for the Online SoH Estimation of NMC Lithium-Ion Cells in Battery Management Systems
Authors: Neunzling Jan , Hainke Philipp , Winter Hanno , Henriques David , Fleckenstein Matthias , Markus Torsten
Published: January 2025

Investigating the temperature behavior of lithium-ion battery cells has become an important part of today’s research and development. The main reason for this is that the temperature profile of a battery cell changes during aging. By using Differential Thermal Voltammetry (DTV), new possibilities are opened up, especially since this diagnostic method is designed to work in operando by only requiring voltage and temperature readings. In this study, a batch of NMC-21700 cells were aged in calendar and cyclic manners. After a specified aging cycle was complete, a check-up measurement was performed. During this time, the cycler collected the electrical measuring values, while a negative temperature coefficient thermistor, which was located on the cell, was used to record the temperature fluctuations. The data were then evaluated by using the DTV analysis technique. By comparing the characteristic points of DTV, correlations between the changing curve characteristics and the capacity loss, and therefore the aging of the respective cell, were established. Based on these results, a simple model suitable for online State of Health (SoH) is derived and validated, showing an estimation accuracy of 1.1%.
A Study on the Differences in Optimized Inputs of Various Data-Driven Methods for Battery Capacity Prediction
Authors: Xin Kuo , Jia Fu , Choi Byoungik , Lee Geesoo
Published: January 2025

As lithium-ion batteries become increasingly popular worldwide, accurately determining their capacity is crucial for various devices that rely on them. Numerous data-driven methods have been applied to evaluate battery-related parameters. In the application of these methods, input features play a critical role. Most researchers often use the same input features to compare the performance of various neural network models. However, because most models are regarded as black-box models, different methods may show different dependencies on specific features given the inherent differences in their internal structures. And the corresponding optimal inputs of different neural network models should be different. Therefore, comparing the differences in optimized input features for different neural networks is essential. This paper extracts 11 types of lithium battery-related health features, and experiments are conducted on two traditional machine learning networks and three advanced deep learning networks in three aspects of input differences. The experiment aims to systematically evaluate how changes in health feature types, dimensions, and data volume affect the performance of different methods and find the optimal input for each method. The results demonstrate that each network has its own optimal input in the aspects of health feature types, dimensions, and data volume. Moreover, under the premise of obtaining more accurate prediction accuracy, different networks have different requirements for input data. Therefore, in the process of using different types of neural networks for battery capacity prediction, it is very important to determine the type, dimension, and number of input health features according to the structure, category, and actual application requirements of the network. Different inputs will lead to larger differences in results. The optimization degree of mean absolute error (MAE) can be improved by 10–50%, and other indicators can also be optimized to varying degrees. Therefore, it is very important to optimize the network in a targeted manner.
Biochemical, Histological, and Multi-Omics Analyses Reveal the Molecular and Metabolic Mechanisms of Cold Stress Response in the Chinese Soft-Shelled Turtle (Pelodiscus sinensis)
Authors: Ji Liqin , Shi Qing , Chen Chen , Liu Xiaoli , Zhu Junxian , Hong Xiaoyou , Wei Chengqing , Zhu Xinping , Li Wei
Published: January 2025

The Chinese soft-shelled turtle (Pelodiscus sinensis), a type of warm-water reptile, is frequently chosen as the model animal to understand how organisms respond to environmental stressors. However, the responsive mechanism of P. sinensis to natural cold stress is unclear, especially in terms of metabolic pattern and molecular pathways. Herein, plasma biochemical, hepatic morphological, apoptotic, transcriptomic, and metabolomic detection methods were performed to investigate the response of P. sinensis to acute cold stress. A consistent increase in plasma AST and ALT activities with a decline in ALP activity was found following 14 °C and 7 °C cold stress compared with the control group. Plasma GLU, TG, CHO, and HDL contents, reflecting energy metabolism, were decreased to lower levels from 2 to 16 days post cold stress (dps). Histological and TUNEL detection in the liver demonstrated that the 14 °C and 7 °C cold stress caused severe morphological damage and cell apoptosis in a time-dependent manner. DEGs in the biosynthesis of fatty acids (Acsbg2, Acsl3, Acsl4, Acsl5, Mcat, and Acacb), as well as unsaturated fatty acids (Hsd17b12, Elovl7, Scd, and Baat), starch and sucrose metabolism (Pgm1, Pgm2, and Treh), and apoptosis (Ddit3, Gadd45a, Lmnb1, Tuba1c, Tnf, Tnfsf10, Fos, Itpr1, and Ctso) were discovered in the transcriptome under cold stress. The metabolomic data showed that metabolites, including chenodeoxycholic acid, oleoylethanolamide, uric acid, fructose 1,6-bisphosphate, CMP, and S-(Hydroxymethyl)-glutathione, were remarkably altered in the cold stress groups. Combined transcriptomic and metabolomic data revealed that pyrimidine metabolism, amino acid metabolism, and pyruvate metabolism were the most significant pathways regulated by the low-temperature exposure. Overall, this work suggests that 14 °C and 7 °C cold stress could induce obvious morphological damage and apoptosis in the liver at 4 dps. Moreover, energy metabolism and amino acid metabolism were the main signaling pathways in response to cold stress for P. sinensis.
Immunotherapy in Recurrent Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Chen Keyao , Wang Jingjing , Yang Meng , Deng Shaoqiong , Sun Li
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: It remains challenging to treat recurrent ovarian cancer effectively as traditional interventions like chemotherapy and surgery have limited long-term efficacy, highlighting an urgent need for innovative approaches. Immunotherapy offers potential advantages in modulating the immune response against tumor cells and has emerged as a promising strategy in ovarian cancer management. This review discusses various immunotherapy modalities, including active and passive immune strategies, for recurrent ovarian cancer. Methods: We systematically reviewed recent immunotherapy advances for recurrent ovarian cancer, including the efficacy and mechanisms of single and dual immune checkpoint inhibitors, checkpoint inhibitor combinations with chemotherapy or radiotherapy, anti-angiogenic agents, PARP inhibitors, antibody–drug conjugates (ADC), tumor vaccines, and adoptive cell therapies (ACT). Additionally, we assessed emerging research on biomarkers predictive of immunotherapy responsiveness in ovarian cancer. Results: The findings indicate that immunotherapy, particularly combinations involving immune checkpoint inhibitors and other agents, demonstrates promising efficacy in recurrent ovarian cancer, with some therapies showing enhanced benefits in specific subtypes. The immune microenvironment in platinum-sensitive and -resistant cases exhibits distinct immunological profiles, influencing therapy outcomes. Several potential biomarkers have been identified, potentially aiding in patient stratification and treatment optimization. Conclusions: Immunotherapy significantly advances recurrent ovarian cancer treatment, with various combinations potentially improving outcomes. Further research on predictive biomarkers and immune microenvironment characteristics is crucial for personalizing immunotherapy approaches and enhancing their efficacy in managing recurrent ovarian cancer.
Syphilis Infection During Pregnancy: The Possible Effect on the Course of Pregnancy and Fetal Outcomes—A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Kielaite Dovile , Januskiene Saule , Paliulyte Virginija
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: A wide range of syphilis-related pregnancy complications are encountered in clinical practice. Active surveillance of the epidemiological situation in different countries and a series of retrospective data analyses allow for a comprehensive assessment of the feasible consequences of syphilis infection during pregnancy. The negative effects of infection on reproductive health are also described. Risk-increasing factors (inadequate or late treatment, partner coinfection) and protective factors (timely diagnostics and treatment) are distinguished. The importance of adequate and timely management as well as the accessibility of healthcare and socioeconomic status, which influence health outcomes, are stressed. This article presents a rare case of untreated syphilis infection during pregnancy. The infection was diagnosed during the first antenatal visit; how-ever, treatment was not initiated. At the 33rd week of gestation, the patient was admitted to the hospital because of sparse bloody vaginal discharge. Following sudden fetal hypoxia, an urgent cesarean section was performed at 33 weeks of gestation. A preterm newborn was delivered in critical condition, and congenital syphilis was diagnosed. Methods: We searched the PubMed, Cochrane, and MeSH databases using the key search terms “treponema pallidum”, “sexually transmitted infections”, “pregnancy”, “congenital infection”, “syphilis”, and “congenital syphilis”, as well as their combinations. A total of 28 papers published over a ten-year period were included in the literature review. A clinical case was analyzed. Results: The impact of syphilis on pregnancy is quite evident. Our case showcased one of the most common impacts, i.e., premature birth, of congenital infections with associated bacterial meningitis, respiratory distress syndrome, multiple organ damage, and insufficient weight. Such associations with many adverse pregnancy outcomes as well as congenital syphilis and neonatal defects are often avoidable. Conclusions: Considering the potential consequences of infections, the issue of sexually transmitted diseases remains relevant, and improving diagnostic and treatment opportunities becomes of paramount importance as cases increase.
Rapid Acquisition of High-Pixel Fluorescence Lifetime Images of Living Cells via Image Reconstruction Based on Edge-Preserving Interpolation
Authors: Zhu Yinru , Guo Yong , Gao Xinwei , Chen Qinglin , Chen Yingying , Xiang Ruijie , Lin Baichang , Wang Luwei , Lu Yuan , Yan Wei
Published: January 2025

Fluorescence lifetime imaging (FLIM) has established itself as a pivotal tool for investigating biological processes within living cells. However, the extensive imaging duration necessary to accumulate sufficient photons for accurate fluorescence lifetime calculations poses a significant obstacle to achieving high-resolution monitoring of cellular dynamics. In this study, we introduce an image reconstruction method based on the edge-preserving interpolation method (EPIM), which transforms rapidly acquired low-resolution FLIM data into high-pixel images, thereby eliminating the need for extended acquisition times. Specifically, we decouple the grayscale image and the fluorescence lifetime matrix and perform an individual interpolation on each. Following the interpolation of the intensity image, we apply wavelet transformation and adjust the wavelet coefficients according to the image gradients. After the inverse transformation, the original image is obtained and subjected to noise reduction to complete the image reconstruction process. Subsequently, each pixel is pseudo-color-coded based on its intensity and lifetime, preserving both structural and temporal information. We evaluated the performance of the bicubic interpolation method and our image reconstruction approach on fluorescence microspheres and fixed-cell samples, demonstrating their effectiveness in enhancing the quality of lifetime images. By applying these techniques to live-cell imaging, we can successfully obtain high-pixel FLIM images at shortened intervals, facilitating the capture of rapid cellular events.
Performance Evaluation of Ceiling Cooling with PCM in the Hot-Dry Climate of Yazd, Iran: An Experimental Analysis of Energy, Environmental, and Economic Impacts
Authors: Rabani Mehran , Alafzadeh Mina , Rabani Mehrdad
Published: January 2025

The present study investigates experimental cooling from the ceiling using phase change materials (PCMs) in Yazd, a city characterized by a hot and dry climate. A one-fourth scale model of a real room, measuring 4 m × 3 m × 3 m, was employed for the analysis. To evaluate system performance and the impact of PCM on energy consumption reduction, three configurations were considered: a simple PCM system, a PCM system with a fan (PCM-F), and a PCM system with a mini cooler (PCM-C). Additionally, to assess the influence of window configurations on ventilation, temperature, and comfort conditions within the model, three scenarios were examined: two open windows, one open window, and no windows. The economic analysis compared the two systems with the fan and mini cooler against a full mechanical cooling system without PCMs. Furthermore, CO2 emissions and environmental impacts associated with the systems were also evaluated. The results indicate that the presence of PCMs in the ceiling, due to heat absorption during phase change, leads to a temperature reduction of 5 to 10 °C in the ceiling and a 3.2 °C reduction in the average room temperature compared to the scenario without PCMs. The findings demonstrate that ceiling cooling with PCMs significantly contributes to energy consumption reduction during peak hours of cooling demand. Specifically, the PCM-F system results in a 92% reduction, and the PCM-C system leads to a 71% reduction in total cost compared to the reference mechanical cooling system. Additionally, the PCM-F system achieves approximately a 36% reduction, and the PCM-C system results in a 34% reduction in environmental impact relative to the reference full mechanical cooling system.
Effects of Cover-Plate Geometry on the Mechanical Behavior of Steel Frame Joints with Middle-Flange and Wide-Flange H-Beams
Authors: Al-Ansi Osama Zaid Yahya , Lu Linfeng , AL-Saeedi Saleem Mohammed Ali Ahmed , Liu Bingyou
Published: January 2025

This study investigates the mechanical behavior of cover-plate reinforced connections in steel frames with I-section columns and middle- or wide-flange H-beams, addressing gaps in current design standards. Finite element analyses validated by experimental data were employed to explore the effects of cover-plate geometry—shape, length, and thickness—on seismic performance. Results demonstrate that cover plates improve load-bearing capacity and ductility by relocating plastic hinges outward from joint regions. Specifically, cover-plate connections increased ductility by 25%, yield moment by 15%, and initial rotational stiffness by 7% compared to non-reinforced connections. The shape of the top cover plate had minimal impact on mechanical behavior. The cover-plate length and thickness significantly influenced seismic ductility and load-bearing capacity. The cover-plate thickness should be at least 0.3 times the beam flange thickness (not less than 6 mm) while ensuring the combined thickness of the cover plate and beam flange does not exceed the column flange thickness. These recommendations address the conservatism of existing standards, balancing material efficiency and seismic performance. Optimal cover-plate lengths of 0.7 to 0.9 times the beam depth were also identified. These findings provide practical guidelines for designing resilient steel frame connections in seismic regions.
Urban Spatial Naturalness Degree in the Planning of Ultra-High-Density Cities: The Case of Urban Green Open Spaces in Macau
Authors: Li Jitai , Lin Fan , Cui Hongcan , Yang Shuai , Chen Yile
Published: January 2025

This study deeply examines the livable environment in high-density cities like Macau, focusing on urban green spaces. The study introduces the “urban spatial naturalness degree” indicator, exploring its application with urban population growth and green space expansion. The research utilizes the planning indicator of “urban spatial naturalness degree”, and then explores the application paradigm of matching increments between urban population growth and green open space and a bottom-line planning indicator suitable for Macau. Among them, the “USND” indicator is defined as “the visual perception rate of blue and green natural elements in the three-dimensional space of urban land”, which is specifically expressed as “the average function of the occupation rate of urban green open space and the visibility rate of blue–green space of main street scenes”. Based on this, this paper estimates the incremental planning indicators of green open space in Macau and various urban areas during the implementation of the Master Plan of Macau (2020–2040). The results show the following: (1) The study found that the land increment in green open space in Macau basically matches the potential of reserve resources. (2) For Class I and Class II urban areas in Macau, the USND value is estimated to be 42.96% and 32.62% in 2040, respectively. These values are expected to reach the international excellent level. (3) For Class III and Class IV urban areas, the USND values could reach 20.14% and 15.14%, respectively, which are considered to be at the international middle level in 2040.
A Correlation Analysis-Based Structural Load Estimation Method for RC Beams Using Machine Vision and Numerical Simulation
Authors: Zhang Chun , Zhao Yinjie , Wu Guangyu , Wu Han , Ding Hongli , Yu Jian , Wan Ruoqing
Published: January 2025

The correlation analysis between current surface cracks of structures and external loads can provide important insights into determining the structural residual bearing capacity. The classical regression assessment method based on experimental data not only relies on costly structure experiments; it also lacks interpretability. Therefore, a novel load estimation method for RC beams, based on correlation analysis between detected crack images and strain contour plots calculated by FEM, is proposed. The distinct discrepancies between crack images and strain contour figures, coupled with the stochastic nature of actual crack distributions, pose considerable challenges for load estimation tasks. Therefore, a new correlation index model is initially introduced to quantify the correlation between the two types of images in the proposed method. Subsequently, a deep neural network (DNN) is trained as a FEM surrogate model to quickly predict the structural strain response by considering material uncertainties. Ultimately, the range of the optimal load level and its confidence interval are determined via statistical analysis of the load estimations under different random fields. The validation results of RC beams under four-point bending loads show that the proposed algorithm can quickly estimate load levels based on numerical simulation results, and the mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) for load estimation based solely on a single measured structural crack image is 20.68%.
Thermal Environmental Impact of Urban Development Scenarios from a Low Carbon Perspective: A Case Study of Wuhan
Authors: Lin Kai , Zhan Qingming , Xue Wei , Shu Yulong , Lu Yixiao
Published: January 2025

Amidst the increasingly escalating global concern regarding climate change, adopting a low-carbon approach has become crucial for charting the future developmental trajectory of urban areas. It also offers a novel angle for cities to avoid high-temperature risks. This paper estimates carbon emissions in Wuhan City from both direct and indirect aspects. Then, the ANN (artificial neural network)–CA (Cellular Automata) model is employed to establish three distinct development scenarios (Ecological Priority, Tight Growth, and Natural Growth) to predict future urban expansion. Additionally, the WRF (Weather Research and Forecasting Model)—UCM (Urban Canopy Model) model is used to investigate the thermal environmental impacts of varying urban development scenarios. This study uses a low-carbon perspective to explore how cities can develop scientifically sound urban strategies to meet climate change challenges and achieve sustainable development goals. The conclusions are as follows: (1) The net carbon emission for Wuhan in 2022 is estimated to be approximately 20.8353 million tonnes. Should the city maintain an average annual emission reduction rate of 10%, the carbon sink capacity of Wuhan would need to be enhanced by 382,200 tonnes by 2060. (2) In the absence of anthropogenic influence, there is a propensity for the urban construction zone of Wuhan to expand primarily towards the southeast and western sectors. (3) The Ecological Priority (EP) and Tight Growth (TG) scenarios are effective in alleviating the urban thermal environment, achieving a reduction of 0.88% and 2.48%, respectively, in the urban heat island index during afternoon hours. In contrast, the Natural Growth (NG) scenario results in a degradation of the urban thermal environment, with a significant increase of over 4% in the urban heat island index during the morning and evening periods. (4) An overabundance of urban green spaces and water bodies could exacerbate the urban heat island effect during the early morning and at night. The findings of this study enhance the comprehension of the climatic implications associated with various urban development paradigms and are instrumental in delineating future trajectories for low-carbon sustainable urban development models.
Optimizing UHPC Layers to Improve Punching Shear Performance in Concrete Slabs
Authors: Hassoon Ahmed A. , Hassan Rafea F. , Hussein Husam H.
Published: January 2025

Flat slabs supported by columns without beams are widely used in construction owing to their economy and efficiency. However, brittle punching shear failure at slab–column connections can cause progressive collapse. UHPC has a higher tensile strength than NSC and, when appropriately reinforced with steel fibers, exhibits strain hardening after initial cracking. These properties make Ultra-High-Performance Concrete (UHPC) ideal for durable, thin, low-cost bridge decking and heavily loaded elements and an excellent choice for improving slab–column connections that have experienced punched shear failure. This study explores the impact of UHPC layers on the punching shear behavior of reinforced concrete slabs. Sixteen slab specimens were tested with variations in UHPC layer thickness, placement, and column shape. Results demonstrate that incorporating UHPC layers significantly enhances punching shear resistance, increasing ultimate load capacity by 27–91% compared to reference specimens. Notably, thicker UHPC layers (75 mm) and bottom-placed layers exhibited superior performance in terms of ductility and toughness. Square columns outperformed circular ones in resisting punching shear. Additionally, thicker layers reduced initial stiffness, while debonding issues in 25 mm layers adversely affected structural performance. This research provides valuable insights for optimizing UHPC configurations to improve the punching shear resistance of concrete slabs, offering promising solutions for high-load structures in modern construction.
Lessons from the Virtual Delivery of Building Information Modelling Modules in the COVID-19 Era
Authors: Abanda Fonbeyin Henry , Almukhtar Avar , Austin Mark
Published: January 2025

Emerging building information modelling (BIM) can be complex to teach during a regular face-to-face class schedule, and even more challenging remotely or virtually. This has been further exacerbated by the outbreak of COVID-19 whereby the adoption of virtual teaching techniques in higher education has been strongly recommended. However, since the outbreak, in December 2019, there has been a paucity of research with regards to experiences with the virtual delivery of BIM. This study explores lessons learnt in engaging students through the virtual delivery of BIM courses during the COVID-19 pandemic. Quantitative data from a questionnaire and quantitative and qualitative data from the various module evaluation reports were used to inform this study. A main finding is that, despite being a technical course, BIM can still be delivered online without compromising any of its learning outcomes. In contrast to existing literature, the main contribution of this study is practical as it provides insights on methods that worked and those that can be used post-COVID-19 in delivering BIM courses. This study provides hope to prospective students, especially distance learning students, who often worry whether the technology aspects of BIM can be taught remotely. Although the study is grounded on BIM and driven by the COVID-19 context and distance learning, it has wider implications for learning and teaching in other technical disciplines and virtual learning in general. Specifically, the experiences and impacts of delivering BIM examined in this study can inform curricula design in other disciplines.
Catalytic Performance of Ti-MCM-22 Modified with Transition Metals (Cu, Fe, Mn) as NH3-SCR Catalysts
Authors: Jankowska Aleksandra , Kokowska Natalia , Fidowicz Klaudia , Rutkowska Małgorzata , Kowalczyk Andrzej , Mozgawa Włodzimierz , Brunarska Irena , Chmielarz Lucjan
Published: January 2025

In the presented work, titanosilicate with the MWW structure (Ti-MWW) was hydrothermally synthesized using boron and titanium precursors, with piperidine as a structure-directing agent. The resulting layered zeolite precursor, with a Si/Ti molar ratio of 50, was treated in an HNO3 solution to remove extraframework Ti and B species. The acid-modified zeolite was functionalized with transition metal cations (Cu2+, Fe2+, Mn2+) and trinuclear oligocations (Fe(3) and Mn(3)). The application of this catalytic system is supported by the presence of titanium in the catalytic support structure—similar to a commercial system, V2O5–TiO2. The obtained samples were characterized with respect to their structure (P-XRD, DRIFT), textural parameters (low-temperature N2 sorption), surface acidity (NH3-TPD), transition metal content (ICP-OES) and form (UV–vis DRS) as well as catalyst’s reducibility (H2-TPR). Ti-MWW zeolite samples modified with transition metals were evaluated as catalysts for the selective catalytic reduction of NO with ammonia (NH3-SCR). The effective temperature range for the NO conversion varied depending on the type of active phase used to functionalize the porous support. The catalytic performance was influenced by transition metal content, its form, and accessibility for reactants as well as interactions between the active phase and titanium-containing support. Among the catalysts tested, the copper-modified Ti-MWW zeolite showed the most promising results, maintaining 90% NO conversion rates across a relatively broad temperature range from 200 to 325 °C. This catalyst meets the requirements of modern NH3-SCR installations, which aim to operate in the low-temperature region, below 250 °C.
CCL24 and Fibrosis: A Narrative Review of Existing Evidence and Mechanisms
Authors: Greenman Raanan , Weston Chris J.
Published: January 2025

Tissue fibrosis results from a dysregulated and chronic wound healing response accompanied by chronic inflammation and angiogenesis. Regardless of the affected organ, fibrosis shares the following common hallmarks: the recruitment of immune cells, fibroblast activation/proliferation, and excessive extracellular matrix deposition. Chemokines play a pivotal role in initiating and advancing these fibrotic processes. CCL24 (eotaxin-2) is a chemokine secreted by immune cells and epithelial cells, which promotes the trafficking of immune cells and the activation of profibrotic cells through CCR3 receptor binding. Higher levels of CCL24 and CCR3 were found in the tissue and sera of patients with fibro-inflammatory diseases, including primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC), systemic sclerosis (SSc), and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH). This review delves into the intricate role of CCL24 in fibrotic diseases, highlighting its impact on fibrotic, immune, and vascular pathways. We focus on the preclinical and clinical evidence supporting the therapeutic potential of blocking CCL24 in diseases that involve excessive inflammation and fibrosis.
Expanding the Chemical Diversity of Stemona parviflora: Isolation and Characterization of New Parvistemoline-Type Alkaloids
Authors: Zhou Shuaizhen , Geng Ruolin , Ke Changqiang , Ge Fan , Chen Ying , Tang Chunping , Ye Yang
Published: January 2025

A comprehensive phytochemical investigation of the whole plant of Stemona parviflora led to the isolation of 13 alkaloidal constituents, including five new alkaloids, parvistemonines B–F (1–5). The structures of these compounds were elucidated through extensive analyses of 1D and 2D NMR spectra, DFT NMR calculation, and comparisons with data in the literature. Notably, compounds 1–4 represent new examples of the rare parvistemoline-type alkaloids, with compound 4 showcasing a unique rearranged skeleton. Additionally, parvistemonine F (5) was identified as a distinct alkaloid skeleton characterized by a n-butyl side chain. These findings significantly expand our understanding of the chemical diversity of parvistemoline-type alkaloids and provide clues for elucidating the biosynthetic pathways of these structurally unique parvistemoline alkaloids.
The Self-Compassion Scale Short Form for Children Aged 8–12: Validation of the Italian Version
Authors: Levantini Valentina , Bertacchi Iacopo , Magno Antonella , Privitera Gianluca Domenico , Rinaldi Alessia , Zara Nicoletta , Muratori Pietro
Published: January 2025

Background: Although self-compassion has been consistently linked to positive outcomes in adults and adolescents, only a few studies have explored self-compassion in children and early adolescents due to a lack of measures specifically designed for younger populations. Methods: The current study explored the psychometric properties of the Italian translation of the Self-Compassion Scale for Children (SCS-C) in a sample of 230 children (mean age = 10.52, SD = 1.33). Results: The results revealed a two-factor solution for our data, with a positive self-compassion factor and a negative self-compassion factor, which were shown to be internally consistent. The SCS-C scores correlated with the children’s mindfulness, self-esteem, and narcissistic traits in the assumed directions. Conclusions: Overall, our study preliminarily supports the reliability and validity of the Italian version of the SCS-C.
Anatomic Variations Important for Dental Implantation in the Mandible—A Systematic Review
Authors: Rajkovic Pavlovic Zlata , Stepovic Milos , Bubalo Marija , Zivanovic Macuzic Ivana , Vulovic Maja , Folic Nevena , Milosavljevic Jovana , Opancina Valentina , Stojadinovic Dobrivoje
Published: January 2025

Background: This is a systematic review on the subject of anatomic landmarks and variations in the mandible that influence implantation placement. With this systematic review, we would like to summarize the results from different studies that are relevant to this subject and that are up to date, presenting their main findings, the measurements of mentioned landmarks, and giving clinical implications that will be helpful to practitioners in their better understanding of this topic. Methods: This study followed all of the elements of PRISMA. The criteria for inclusion and exclusion are described in detail. The following bibliographic databases were searched: PubMed (MEDLINE), The Cochrane Library, Wiley Online Library, EMBASE, and, additionally, Google Scholar. The search of articles was carried out using a combination of different keywords with a Boolean operator for each keyword. A total of 30 studies were included in this review and the risk of bias for each study was assessed. This review was registered with the PROSPERO ID number CRD42024609308. Results: The structure “SPIDER“ was used to present the findings in the summation table, followed by a detailed description of the quantitative findings and overall mean values of the most commonly used measured points. The morphometric measurements of anatomic details and variations in the mandible, such as the mandibular canal, mental foramen, lingual foramina, lingual canal, incisive canal, and mandibular concavity, are of high significance for clinicians dealing with implantation where gender, ethnicity, age groups, the side of the mandible, or remaining teeth can influence implantation planning. Conclusions: The distances of the named anatomic landmarks to the surrounding bone structures that are used as a guide during planning are of huge importance, so proper and detailed measurements must be executed by experienced professionals using CBCT. Knowledge of the position and variation in these landmarks may be used for any bone-guided augmentation, surgical transpositions of anatomic landmarks, and surgery intervention planning. The results of this study can aid in choosing appropriate measurement points and give the gross picture, for clinicians, in therapy planning, considering all the landmarks of significance in the mandible.
A Two-Stage Greedy Genetic Algorithm for Simultaneous Delivery and Monitoring Tasks with Time Windows
Authors: Tang Mingyang , Sun Jiaying , Zou Rongyang
Published: January 2025

With advancements in drone driving technology, drones can now collaborate with trucks to execute tasks. However, existing drone–truck collaborative systems are limited to single-task objectives and lack efficiency in large-scale multi-task scenarios. Enhancing the efficiency of drone–truck cooperative systems necessitates the coordination of drone and truck paths to execute multiple tasks simultaneously. Addressing time conflicts in such scenarios remains a significant challenge. This study proposes an innovative drone–truck collaborative system enabling the concurrent execution of delivery and monitoring tasks within specified time windows. To minimize travel costs, a two-stage greedy genetic algorithm (TGGA) is introduced. The methodology initially separates tasks, processes them in batches, and subsequently recombines them to determine the final route. The simulation results indicate that TGGA outperforms existing heuristic algorithms.