bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Contemporary Strategies for the Structural Design of Multi-Story Modular Timber Buildings: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Tenório Marina , Ferreira Rui , Belafonte Victor , Sousa Filipe , Meireis Cláudio , Fontes Mafalda , Vale Inês , Gomes André , Alves Rita , Silva Sandra M. , Leitão Dinis , Fontes André , Maia Carlos , Camões Aires , Branco Jorge M.
Published: April 2024

Modular timber construction embodies a pioneering and eco-friendly methodology within the building sector. With the notable progress made in manufacturing technologies and the advent of engineered wood products, timber has evolved into a promising substitute for conventional materials such as concrete, masonry, and steel. Beyond its structural attributes, timber brings environmental advantages, including its inherent capacity for carbon sequestration and a reduced carbon footprint compared to conventional materials. Timber’s lightweight nature, coupled with its versatility and efficiency in factory-based production, accelerates modular construction processes, providing a sustainable solution to the growing demands of the building industry. This work thoroughly explores contemporary modular construction using wood as the primary material. The investigation spans various aspects, from the fundamentals of modularity and the classification of modular timber solutions to considerations of layout design, structural systems, and stability at both the building and module levels. Moreover, inter-module joining techniques, MEP (mechanical, electrical, and plumbing) integration, and designs for disassembly are scrutinized. The investigation led to the conclusion that timber modular construction, drawing inspiration from the steel modular concept, consistently utilizes a structural approach based on linear members (timber frame, post-and-beam, etc.), incorporating stability configurations and diverse joint techniques. Despite the emphasis on modularization and prefabrication for adaptability, a significant portion of solutions still concentrate on the on-site linear assembly process of those linear members. Regarding modularity trends, the initial prevalence of 2D and 3D systems has given way to a recent surge in the utilization of post-and-beam structures, congruent with the ascending verticality of buildings. In contrast to avant-garde and bold trends, timber structures typically manifest as rectilinear, symmetric plans, characterized by regular and repetitive extrusions, demonstrating a proclivity for centrally located cores. This work aims to offer valuable insights into the current utilization of modular timber construction while identifying pivotal gaps for exploration. The delineation of these unexplored areas seeks to enable the advancement of modular timber projects and systems, fully leveraging the benefits provided by prefabrication and modularity.
Impacts of Variable Illumination and Image Background on Rice LAI Estimation Based on UAV RGB-Derived Color Indices
Authors: Sun Binfeng , Li Yanda , Huang Junbao , Cao Zhongsheng , Peng Xinyi
Published: April 2024

Variations in illumination and image background present challenges for using UAV RGB imagery. Existing studies often overlook these issues, especially in rice. To separately evaluate the impacts of illumination variation and image background on rice LAI assessment, this study utilized Retinex correction and image segmentation to eliminate illumination variations and background effects, and then analyzed the changes in color indices and their relationship with LAI before and after implementing these methods separately. The results indicated that both Retinex correction and image segmentation significantly enhanced the correlation between color indices and LAI at different growth stages as well as the accuracy of constructing a multivariate linear regression model separately. Our analysis confirmed the significance of accounting for variation in illumination and rice field backgrounds in LAI analysis when using UAV RGB images. Illumination variation and image background elements significantly degrade the accuracy of LAI estimation.
Studying Spatial Unevenness of Transport Demand in Cities Using Machine Learning Methods
Authors: Chainikov Denis , Zakharov Dmitrii , Kozin Evgeniy , Pistsov Anatoly
Published: April 2024

The article discusses the issues of spatial unevenness of transport demand in the city by various transport modes. It describes the creation of models using an artificial neural network to estimate the travel time and share by private and public transport in a large city that does not have off-street transport. The city transport macromodel in PTV Visum (V.18) was used as a data source, from which data were obtained on 50 basic parameters taken into account in the specialized software during the development of the transport model. In total, 50 factors act as independent variables that do not have linear relationships with each other and with the dependent variable, which significantly complicates the use of other models. These models allow assessing the influence degree of the most important factors. Further, the article shows the uneven spatial distribution of the shares of trips by private and public transport across the areas of a city. Using machine learning methods, the transport areas of Tyumen were clustered into nine classes belonging to the central sector, where the share of public transport is significantly higher than at the city border. The dependence of the trip share by cars and shuttle buses on the average travel time and distance by private and public transport for each class of transport areas has been established. The research results can be used when creating new transport areas in the city macromodel and when adjusting transport planning documents. The methods used for analyzing big data on the operation of the transport complex can be implemented in the digital twin of the city and the Intelligent Transport System.
Characterization of a Rectangular-Cut Kirigami Pattern for Soft Material Tuning
Authors: Muñoz-Barron Benigno , Sandoval-Castro X. Yamile , Castillo-Castaneda Eduardo , Laribi Med Amine
Published: April 2024

Kirigami is the art of cutting paper to create three-dimensional figures for primarily aesthetic purposes. However, it can also modify the mechanical behavior of the resulting structure. In the literature, kirigami has been applied to modify the material’s structural behavior, such as by changing its elasticity, rigidity, volume, or any other characteristic. This article examines the behavior of a pattern of rectangular kirigami cuts on a thermoplastic polyurethane soft material structure and its influence on the mechanical parameters of the macrostructure. The results demonstrate that rectangular kirigami patterns significantly affect the stiffness of the test specimens, changing from 1635 N/m to 4020 N/m. In elongation, there is a variation from 176.6% to 218% by simply altering the height of the rectangular cut. This enables the adjustment of the soft material structure’s stiffness based on the geometry of the propagating kirigami cuts.
State-of-the-Art Low-Cost Air Quality Sensors, Assemblies, Calibration and Evaluation for Respiration-Associated Diseases: A Systematic Review
Authors: Tariq Hasan , Touati Farid , Crescini Damiano , Ben Mnaouer Adel
Published: April 2024

Indoor air quality and respiratory health have always been an area of prime interest across the globe. The significance of low-cost air quality sensing and indoor public health practices spiked during the pandemic when indoor air pollution became a threat to living beings, especially human beings. Problem Definition: Indoor respiration-associated diseases are hard to diagnose if they are due to indoor environmental conditions. A major challenge was observed in establishing a baseline between indoor air quality sensors and associated respiratory diseases. Methods: In this work, 10,000+ articles from top literature databases were reviewed using six bibliometric analysis methods (Lorenz Curve of Citations, Hirch’s H-Index, Kosmulski’s H2-Index, Harzing’s Hl-Norm-Index, Sidoropolous’s HC-Index, and Schrieber’s HM-index) to formulate indoor air quality sensor and disease correlation publication rubrics to critically review 482 articles. Results: A set of 152 articles was found based on systematic review parameters in six bibliometric indices for publications that used WHO, NIH, US EPA, CDC, and FDA-defined principles. Five major respiratory diseases were found to be causing major death toll (up to 32%) due to five key pollutants, measured by 30+ low-cost sensors and further optimized by seven calibration systems for seven practical parameters tailored to respiratory disease baselines evaluated through 10 cost parameters. Impact: This review was conducted to assist end-users, public health facilities, state agencies, researchers, scientists, and air quality protection agencies.
AUDISTIM® Day/Night Alleviates Tinnitus-Related Handicap in Patients with Chronic Tinnitus: A Double-Blind Randomized Placebo-Controlled Trial
Authors: Portmann Didier , Esteve-Fraysse Marie José , Frachet Bruno , Herpin Florent , Rigaudier Florian , Juhel Christine
Published: April 2024

The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of taking a daily supplement based on active compounds (AUDISTIM® Day Night: A D/N) in alleviating tinnitus-related disability, as suggested by previous real-life studies. This double-blind randomized placebo-controlled study was conducted in adults with mild to severe tinnitus receiving a 3-month supplementation with A D/N (magnesium, vitamins, phytochemicals) or placebo (excipients without active ingredients). Tinnitus-related handicap (THI), psychological stress (MSP-9), and sleep quality (PSQI) were assessed at baseline and during intervention, perceived impression of tinnitus improvement at the end of the follow-up. The full set analysis included 114 patients (59 A D/N, 55 placebo) aged 53.8 ± 11.4 years, 58% women, with fluctuating (45%) or permanent (55%) tinnitus from 9.3 ± 9.4 years. A D/N supplementation led to greater changes in THI (−13.2 ± 16.0 vs. −6.2 ± 14.4, p = 0.0158, Cohen’s d = 0.44) at 3 months (primary outcome), especially with continuous tinnitus (−15.0 ± 16.3 vs. −4.6 ± 12.8, p = 0.0065), and, to a lesser extent, at 1 month (−9.8 ± 13.1 for A vs. −4.3 ± 12.1, p = 0.0213). PSQI significantly improved over time in both groups, but MSP-9 only with A D/N. In lines with previous observational studies, both clinical (THI score > 7 pts) and statistical (vs. placebo) improvement, more pronounced in permanent tinnitus, demonstrate the effectiveness of the combination of active compounds and support its use in the management of mild to severe tinnitus.
Vector-Valued Fuzzy Metric Spaces and Fixed Point Theorems
Authors: Shukla Satish , Dubey Nikita , Miñana Juan-José
Published: April 2024

The purpose of this paper is to generalize the concept of classical fuzzy set to vector-valued fuzzy set which can attend values not only in the real interval [0, 1], but in an ordered interval of a Banach algebra as well. This notion allows us to introduce the concept of vector-valued fuzzy metric space which generalizes, extends and unifies the notion of classical fuzzy metric space and complex-valued fuzzy metric space and permits us to consider the fuzzy sets and metrics in a larger domain. Some topological properties of such spaces are discussed and some fixed point results in this new setting are proved. Multifarious examples are presented which clarify and justify our claims and results.
An Extension of the Fréchet Distribution and Applications
Authors: Gómez Yolanda M. , Barranco-Chamorro Inmaculada , Castillo Jaime S. , Gómez Héctor W.
Published: April 2024

This paper presents the Slash-Exponential-Fréchet distribution, which is an expanded version of the Fréchet distribution. Through its stochastic representation, probability distribution function, moments and other relevant features are obtained. Evidence supports that the updated model displays a lighter right tail than the Fréchet model and is more flexible as for skewness and kurtosis. Results on maximum likelihood estimators are given. Our proposition’s applicability is demonstrated through a simulation study and the evaluation of two real-world datasets.
Mice Mutated in the First Fibronectin Domain of Adhesion Molecule L1 Show Brain Malformations and Behavioral Abnormalities
Authors: Granato Viviana , Congiu Ludovica , Jakovcevski Igor , Kleene Ralf , Schwindenhammer Benjamin , Fernandes Luciana , Freitag Sandra , Schachner Melitta , Loers Gabriele
Published: April 2024

The X-chromosome-linked cell adhesion molecule L1 (L1CAM), a glycoprotein mainly expressed by neurons in the central and peripheral nervous systems, has been implicated in many neural processes, including neuronal migration and survival, neuritogenesis, synapse formation, synaptic plasticity and regeneration. L1 consists of extracellular, transmembrane and cytoplasmic domains. Proteolytic cleavage of L1’s extracellular and transmembrane domains by different proteases generates several L1 fragments with different functions. We found that myelin basic protein (MBP) cleaves L1’s extracellular domain, leading to enhanced neuritogenesis and neuronal survival in vitro. To investigate in vivo the importance of the MBP-generated 70 kDa fragment (L1-70), we generated mice with an arginine to alanine substitution at position 687 (L1/687), thereby disrupting L1’s MBP cleavage site and obliterating L1-70. Young adult L1/687 males showed normal anxiety and circadian rhythm activities but enhanced locomotion, while females showed altered social interactions. Older L1/687 males were impaired in motor coordination. Furthermore, L1/687 male and female mice had a larger hippocampus, with more neurons in the dentate gyrus and more proliferating cells in the subgranular layer, while the thickness of the corpus callosum and the size of lateral ventricles were normal. In summary, subtle mutant morphological changes result in subtle behavioral changes.
Small Spleen Peptides (SSPs) Shape Dendritic Cell Differentiation through Modulation of Extracellular ATP Synthesis Profile
Authors: Wixler Viktor , Leite Dantas Rafael , Varga Georg , Boergeling Yvonne , Ludwig Stephan
Published: April 2024

Restoring peripheral immune tolerance is crucial for addressing autoimmune diseases. An ancient mechanism in maintaining the balance between inflammation and tolerance is the ratio of extracellular ATP (exATP) and adenosine. Our previous research demonstrated the effectiveness of small spleen peptides (SSPs) in inhibiting psoriatic arthritis progression, even in the presence of the pro-inflammatory cytokine TNFα, by transforming dendritic cells (DCs) into tolerogenic cells and fostering regulatory Foxp3+ Treg cells. Here, we identified thymosins as the primary constituents of SSPs, but recombinant thymosin peptides were less efficient in inhibiting arthritis than SSPs. Since Tβ4 is an ecto-ATPase-binding protein, we hypothesized that SSPs regulate exATP profiles. Real-time investigation of exATP levels in DCs revealed that tolerogenic stimulation led to robust de novo exATP synthesis followed by significant degradation, while immunogenic stimulation resulted in a less pronounced increase in exATP and less effective degradation. These contrasting exATP profiles were crucial in determining whether DCs entered an inflammatory or tolerogenic state, highlighting the significance of SSPs as natural regulators of peripheral immunological tolerance, with potential therapeutic benefits for autoimmune diseases. Finally, we demonstrated that the tolerogenic phenotype of SSPs is mainly influenced by adenosine receptors, and in vivo administration of SSPs inhibits psoriatic skin inflammation.
Investigating the Effectiveness of an IMU Portable Gait Analysis Device: An Application for Parkinson’s Disease Management
Authors: Tsotsolas Nikos , Koutsouraki Eleni , Antonakaki Aspasia , Pizanias Stefanos , Kounelis Marios , Piromalis Dimitrios D. , Kolovos Dimitrios P. , Kokkotis Christos , Tsatalas Themistoklis , Bellis George , Tsaopoulos Dimitrios , Papaggelos Paris , Sidiropoulos George , Giakas Giannis
Published: April 2024

As part of two research projects, a small gait analysis device was developed for use inside and outside the home by patients themselves. The project PARMODE aims to record accurate gait measurements in patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD) and proceed with an in-depth analysis of the gait characteristics, while the project CPWATCHER aims to assess the quality of hand movement in cerebral palsy patients. The device was mainly developed to serve the first project with additional offline processing, including machine learning algorithms that could potentially be used for the second aim. A key feature of the device is its small size (36 mm × 46 mm × 16 mm, weight: 14 g), which was designed to meet specific requirements in terms of device consumption restrictions due to the small size of the battery and the need for autonomous operation for more than ten hours. This research work describes, on the one hand, the new device with an emphasis on its functions, and on the other hand, its connection with a web platform for reading and processing data from the devices placed on patients’ feet to record the gait characteristics of patients on a continuous basis.
Selective Vestibular Neurectomy through the Presigmoid Retrolabyrinthine Approach in the Treatment of Meniere’s Disease
Authors: Salvinelli Fabrizio , Bonifacio Francesca , Capece Mara , Aiudi Denis , Iacoangeli Alessio , Greco Fabio , Gladi Maurizio , Iacoangeli Maurizio
Published: April 2024

Background: Meniere’s disease (MD) is a disabling disease, especially in patients who are refractory to medical therapy. Moreover, selective vestibular neurectomy (VN), in these selected cases, can be considered a surgical alternative which preserves hearing function and facial nerve. Methods: We retrospectively studied 23 patients with MD diagnosis and history of failed extradural endolymphatic sac surgery (ELSS) who underwent combined micro-endoscopic selective VN, between January 2019 and August 2023, via a presigmoid retrolabyrinthine approach. All patients were stratified according to clinical features, assessing preoperative and postoperative hearing levels and quality of life. Results: At the maximum present follow-up of 2 years, this procedure is characterized by a low rate of complications and about 90% vertigo control after surgery. No definitive facial palsy or hearing loss was described in this series. One patient required reintervention for a CSF fistula. Statistically significant (p = 0.001) difference was found between the preoperative and the postoperative performance in terms of physical, functional, and emotive scales assessed via the DHI questionnaire. Conclusions: Selective VN via a presigmoid retrolabyrinthine approach is a safe procedure for intractable vertigo associated with MD, when residual hearing function still exists. The use of the endoscope and intraoperative neuromonitoring guaranteed a precise result, saving the cochlear fibers and facial nerve. The approach for VN is a familiar procedure to the otolaryngologist, as is lateral skull base anatomy to the neurosurgeon; therefore, the best results are obtained with multidisciplinary teamwork.
The Impact of College Students’ Academic Stress on Student Satisfaction from a Typological Perspective: A Latent Profile Analysis Based on Academic Self-Efficacy and Positive Coping Strategies for Stress
Authors: Zhao Yibo
Published: April 2024

This investigation employs Latent Profile Analysis (LPA) to analyze data from 1298 Chinese university students, aiming to clarify the mechanisms through which individual psychological resources, primarily academic self-efficacy and positive coping strategies, affect student satisfaction in the context of academic stress. Four distinct profiles emerged based on levels of academic self-efficacy and positive coping strategies: Low-Spirited, General Copers, Capable but Passive, and Optimistic and Confident. These profiles demonstrate significant variances in the sources of academic stress, student engagement, and student satisfaction, with a ranking order from most to least satisfied as follows: Optimistic and Confident, Capable but Passive, General Copers, and Low-spirited. While academic stress uniformly augments engagement across all profiles, its effect on student satisfaction diverges—negatively for Low-spirited and General Copers, and positively for Capable but Passive and Optimistic and Confident. The analysis reveals varying levels of academic stress-tolerance among profiles, highlighting the critical role of academic self-efficacy and indicating a possible nonlinear relationship between student engagement and satisfaction. These findings enhance our comprehension of student satisfaction’s intricate dynamics and suggest strategies to alleviate academic stress and improve psychological well-being.
Imaging of Peritoneal Metastases in Ovarian Cancer Using MDCT, MRI, and FDG PET/CT: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Tsili Athina C. , Alexiou George , Tzoumpa Martha , Siempis Timoleon , Argyropoulou Maria I.
Published: April 2024

This review aims to compare the diagnostic performance of multidetector CT (MDCT), MRI, including diffusion-weighted imaging, and FDG PET/CT in the detection of peritoneal metastases (PMs) in ovarian cancer (OC). A comprehensive search was performed for articles published from 2000 to February 2023. The inclusion criteria were the following: diagnosis/suspicion of PMs in patients with ovarian/fallopian/primary peritoneal cancer; initial staging or suspicion of recurrence; MDCT, MRI and/or FDG PET/CT performed for the detection of PMs; population of at least 10 patients; surgical results, histopathologic analysis, and/or radiologic follow-up, used as reference standard; and per-patient and per-region data and data for calculating sensitivity and specificity reported. In total, 33 studies were assessed, including 487 women with OC and PMs. On a per-patient basis, MRI (p = 0.03) and FDG PET/CT (p < 0.01) had higher sensitivity compared to MDCT. MRI and PET/CT had comparable sensitivities (p = 0.84). On a per-lesion analysis, no differences in sensitivity estimates were noted between MDCT and MRI (p = 0.25), MDCT and FDG PET/CT (p = 0.68), and MRI and FDG PET/CT (p = 0.35). Based on our results, FDG PET/CT and MRI are the preferred imaging modalities for the detection of PMs in OC. However, the value of FDG PET/CT and MRI compared to MDCT needs to be determined. Future research to address the limitations of the existing studies and the need for standardization and to explore the cost-effectiveness of the three imaging modalities is required.
Layered Double Hydroxide-Based Photocatalysts for the Removal of Emerging Contaminants: Progress in Past Ten Years
Authors: Luo Lingfeng , Hou Chen , Wang Lan , Zhang Wei , Wang Cong , Liu Junjie , Wu Yiqian , Wang Chuanyi
Published: April 2024

Currently, public health is seriously threatened by the massive concentrations of emerging contaminants. Treating emerging contaminants in water using effective methods has become a major challenge worldwide. Photocatalytic technology, as an eco-friendly technology, has been recognized as an effective means of removing contaminants from water. Among the various photocatalysts, layered double hydroxides (LDHs), known as hydrotalcite-like materials, have been explored extensively in photocatalytic reactions due to their switchable properties and the large surface areas of their unique two-dimensional structures. In this article, recent advances in the photocatalytic degradation of emerging contaminants by LDH-based photocatalysts are reviewed. Firstly, the fundamental principles of the photocatalytic degradation of emerging contaminants using LDH-based materials are briefly introduced. Various LDHs applied in the photocatalytic degradation of emerging contaminants are broadly summarized into four types: pure-phase LDHs, interlayer-modified LDHs, LDH-based composites, and layered double oxides (LDOs). Moreover, the synthesis process and catalytic mechanism of LDH-based photocatalysts are also reviewed. An outlook on the problems and future development of LDH-based photocatalysts in water remediation is provided at the end.
Association between Screen Time and Sociodemographic Factors, Physical Activity, and BMI among Children in Six European Countries (Feel4Diabetes): A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Radó Sándor Istvánné , Molnár Mónika , Széll Róbert , Szőllősi Gergő József , Törő Viktória , Shehab Bashar , Manios Yannis , Anastasiou Costas , Iotova Violeta , Tsochev Kaloyan , Chakarova Nevena , Giménez-Legarre Natalia , Miguel Berges Maria Luisa , Schwarz Peter E. H. , Rurik Imre , Sárváry Attila
Published: April 2024

Screen time among children in most European countries is notably high and is influenced by various sociodemographic and other factors. Our study aimed to explore the associations between parents’ sociodemographic characteristics, socioeconomic status, body mass index (BMI), physical activity, risk status for type 2 diabetes, and their children’s BMI, physical activity, and screen time. The data were sourced from the 2016 Feel4Diabetes study, involving 12,280 parents and 12,211 children aged 6–9 years (average age 8.21 years) in a cross-sectional study design. We used a logistic regression model to identify potential factors associated with children’s screen time. The results showed that mothers with tertiary education (OR = 0.64; 95%CI = 0.49–0.82; p < 0.001), the middle age group (45–54 years) (OR = 0.81 95%CI = 0.66–0.98; p = 0.033), and families with higher incomes (middle–OR = 0.85; 95%CI = 0.75–0.97; p = 0.014; high–OR = 0.8; 95%CI = 0.69–0.93; p = 0.003) were associated with a decreased chance of children spending more than 2 h/day in front of the screen. In contrast, maternal overweight/obesity (OR = 1.15; 95%CI = 1.03–1.29; p = 0.013) and lower physical activity in children were linked to an increased likelihood of more than 2 h of screen time per day. Our findings suggest that targeted interventions should be developed to mitigate excessive screen time, particularly focusing on low-income families and mothers with low educational levels.
A Pilot Study Exploring Caregivers’ Experiences Related to the Use of a Smart Toothbrush by Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: France Katherine , Urquhart Olivia , Ko Eugene , Gomez Juliana , Ryan Maria , Hernandez Matilde , Gabinskiy Marta , Corby Patricia M. , Wolff Mark S.
Published: April 2024

Background: Research on caregivers for children with intellectual disabilities, particularly those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), has highlighted several obstacles to achieving better oral health. These include challenges with tolerating oral care, sensory processing differences, uncooperative behaviors, and communication impairments. There is limited understanding of what caregivers would consider “successful assistance” in improving oral health for these children. Objectives: This pilot study aimed to examine caregivers’ and user’s experiences with a Kids Smart Electric Toothbrush used by children with ASD. Methods: It involved open-ended interviews and questionnaires with caregivers prior to utilization of the toothbrush and after 4 weeks of product use by the child. Results: Seventeen children with ASD, aged 5–12, participated. A total of 58.8% of caregivers said their child brushed more often, and all reported brushing at least twice a day by week 4. Caregivers reported that children became more independent while brushing their teeth and achieved better quality brushing. Caregivers’ frustration with the brushing process, satisfaction with the device, and need to assist the child with brushing were improved. Caregivers did encounter some technical difficulties with the app. Conclusion: This study will assist in exploring “smart” toothbrush technologies for oral hygiene in children with ASD.
Biogas as Alternative to Liquefied Petroleum Gas in Mauritania: An Integrated Future Approach for Energy Sustainability and Socio-Economic Development
Authors: Sidi Habib Sidahmed , Torii Shuichi
Published: April 2024

The global shift from conventional energy sources to sustainable alternatives has garnered significant attention, driven by the promise of economic benefits and environmental sustainability. The current study rigorously investigated the economic advantages and sustainability achieved from the transition of households in Mauritania from liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) to biogas utilization. The study constitutes a robust case study that centers on assessing the multifaceted impacts of this transition on household finances and overall quality of life in Mauritania. This case focuses on biogas technology adoption and its role as a competitor of LPG in Mauritania. The energy poverty portfolio of the nation has been explored and livestock waste generation and biogas production potential have been estimated at 2451 million cubic meters annually. Biogas production can fulfill 50% of the energy requirement for cooking purposes within the country. The community scale fixed-dome-type biogas digesters have been recommended for Mauritania by considering a community of 100 families. The calculated payback period for the community project is 74 months, and after the payback period, continuous monthly benefits of USD 1750 will be started. Livestock manure is directly utilized for farming practices in Mauritania, which produces 10.7 Gg of methane emissions per year. Biogas production is a clean and economically viable option for Mauritania, which can also be beneficial for reducing the methane emissions footprints of the livestock sector. This case study will prove as a vital project for other African nations if successfully implemented. Multiple recommendations for the policy-makers of Mauritania have also been formulated, like tariffs on biogas production facilities and swift financing schemes, which can further strengthen the biogas production on a national scale. International funders should also take part in coping with the energy demand of Mauritania and its mission to mitigate climate change rather than utilizing LPG on a national scale. Biogas production and utilization are much cheaper compared with the fluctuating prices of LPG and ensure health when cooking.
Evaluation and Characterization of Ultrasonic Cutting of Monofilament Nylon
Authors: Zhang Hainan , Shen Zhihuang , Cao Zhonghe , Hou Dapan , Jiang Tao , Ye Xianzhen
Published: April 2024

Nylon (polyamide) is a typical composite base material, but its low hardness, poor rigidity, and low dimensional stability easily lead to burrs, fractures, curling, and other problems after nylon end faces are processed by conventional techniques. To prevent these problems, this article conducted experimental research comparing ultrasonic and conventional cutting of monofilament nylon and used the controlled variable method to analyze the micromorphology after cutting at different speeds and tensions. A novel ratio was also derived to characterize the topographic quality, and the feasibility and advantages of ultrasonic cutting of nylon were verified by evaluating the nylon surface quality under different cutting conditions. Test results showed layering on the rear face of nylon with ultrasonic cutting as well as a morphology quality directly proportional to the feed speed of the tool and inversely proportional to the tensile force exerted on the material. The end face of nylon after ultrasonic cutting provided a ratio 2.9% lower than that obtained from conventional cutting as well as a roughness reduction of 31.3%. Compared with conventional cutting, the end face was preserved, and no large-area breakage or edge curling occurred when using ultrasonic cutting. Moreover, a force analysis theoretically confirmed the advantages of ultrasonic cutting.
The Use of Integrated Multichannel Records in Learning Studies in Higher Education: A Systematic Review of the Last 10 Years
Authors: González-Díez Irene , Varela Carmen , Sáiz-Manzanares María Consuelo
Published: April 2024

Neurophysiological measures have been used in the field of education to improve our knowledge about the cognitive processes underlying learning. Furthermore, the combined use of different neuropsychological measures has deepened our understanding of these processes. The main objective of this systematic review is to provide a comprehensive picture of the use of integrated multichannel records in higher education. The bibliographic sources for the review were Web of Science, PsycINFO, Scopus, and Psicodoc databases. After a screening process by two independent reviewers, 10 articles were included according to prespecified inclusion criteria. In general, integrated recording of eye tracking and electroencephalograms were the most commonly used metrics, followed by integrated recording of eye tracking and electrodermal activity. Cognitive load was the most widely investigated learning-related cognitive process using integrated multichannel records. To date, most research has focused only on one neurophysiological measure. Furthermore, to our knowledge, no study has systematically investigated the use of integrated multichannel records in higher education. This systematic review provides a comprehensive picture of the current use of integrated multichannel records in higher education. Its findings may help design innovative educational programs, particularly in the online context. The findings provide a basis for future research and decision making regarding the use of integrated multichannel records in higher education.
A Survey of Security Challenges in Cloud-Based SCADA Systems
Authors: Wali Arwa , Alshehry Fatimah
Published: April 2024

Supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems enable industrial organizations to control and monitor real-time data and industrial processes. Migrating SCADA systems to cloud environments can enhance the performance of traditional systems by improving storage capacity, reliability, and availability while reducing technical and industrial costs. However, the increasing frequency of cloud cyberattacks poses a significant challenge to such systems. In addition, current research on cloud-based SCADA systems often focuses on a limited range of attack types, with findings scattered across various studies. This research comprehensively surveys the most common cybersecurity vulnerabilities and attacks facing cloud-based SCADA systems. It identifies four primary vulnerability factors: connectivity with cloud services, shared infrastructure, malicious insiders, and the security of SCADA protocols. This study categorizes cyberattacks targeting these systems into five main groups: hardware, software, communication and protocol-specific, control process, and insider attacks. In addition, this study proposes security solutions to mitigate the impact of cyberattacks on these control systems.
Visitors’ Willingness to Pay for Protected Areas: A New Conservation Donation in Aso Kuju National Park
Authors: Jones Thomas Edward , Xu Duo , Kubo Takayuki , Nguyen Minh-Hoang
Published: April 2024

Protected areas (PAs) such as national parks face funding issues that undermine effective management. Therefore, many PAs are exploring new financial instruments, such as visitor donations, to supplement their conservation budgets. This paper investigates visitor perceptions of one such system, a new conservation donation under consideration in Aso Kuju National Park, southwest Japan, is due to be introduced. Our on-site survey at two trailheads in autumn 2022 gauged visitors’ willingness to pay (WTP) the expected JPY 500 donation. The analysis used Bayesian linear regression to look for significant predictors of WTP. Findings show that female, older, and higher-income visitors were more likely to pay the donation collectively rather than voluntarily. Prior knowledge of the donation system was also a significant predictor of WTP, but more frequent climbers were significantly less likely to pay the donation collectively, regardless of prior Kuju climbing experience, possibly due to the perceived increase in use costs. Moreover, visitors willing to pay the cooperation donation collectively are also willing to pay higher prices than those willing to pay voluntarily. The elicited WTP values confirm that the implementation of a new conservation donation could help to improve the long-term sustainable financing of PAs such as Aso Kuju while raising issues over price fairness.
Utilization of Aluminosilicate Industrial Wastes as Precursors in CO2-Cured Alkali-Activated Precast Concrete Pavement Blocks
Authors: Lamaa Ghandy , Kassim Dany , Silva Bruna A. , Duarte António P. C. , Brito Jorge de , Silva Rui Vasco
Published: April 2024

This research focuses on the utilization of recently investigated aluminosilicate industrial wastes as precursors to produce non-structural precast alkali-activated concrete pavement blocks. For this purpose, conventional blocks (200 mm × 100 mm × 80 mm) were produced using electric arc furnace slag and municipal solid waste incineration bottom ashes as the sole binders. Portland cement and fly ash blocks were produced as references. The blocks underwent a curing regimen comprising thermal, dry, and carbonation curing stages. Control uncarbonated specimens were subjected to dry curing instead of CO2-based curing to evaluate the influence of carbonation on the blocks’ strength development. The specimens were subsequently examined following EN 1338, which is the European standard for assessing and ensuring the conformity of conventional concrete pavement blocks. The carbonated blocks revealed improved mechanical and physical properties in relation to the uncarbonated ones. All blocks met standard dimensions, showed minimal skid potential (most indicating extremely low potential for slip for reporting unpolished slip resistance values exceeding 75), and had enhanced abrasion resistance due to carbonation, showing 30% and 11% less volume loss due to abrasion for fly ash and bottom ash, respectively. Carbonated blocks performed better than non-carbonated ones, displaying lower water absorption (0.58% and 0.23% less water absorption for bottom ash and slag, respectively) and higher thermal conductivity (20%, 13%, and 8% increase in values for fly ash, slag, and bottom ash, respectively). These results confirm the effectiveness of the accelerated carbonation curing technique in improving the block’s performance. Despite the promising outcomes, further optimization of the alkaline solution and carbonation curing conditions is recommended for future research.
A Dataset for Studying the Relationship between Human and Smart Devices
Authors: Lelli Francesco , Toivonen Heidi
Published: April 2024

This dataset reports the responses to a survey designed for investigating the relationship that humans have with their smart devices. The dataset was collected between May and July 2020 and is a sample of over 500 respondents of various ethnicities and backgrounds. These data were used for modeling the ways that people relate to their devices using the notion of agency. However, the data can be used for complementing any study that intends to investigate a tool-mediated communication from the perspective of users, applying a variety of beliefs, attitudes, and expectations that users have in relation to their devices and themselves. This article presents the survey items as well as some preliminary data insights. The collected data were in English and the responses were anonymized to ensure GDPR compliance. The data were stored in a .csv file containing the respondents’ answers to the questions.
Relaxant Activity of 4H-Pyran and 1,6-Dihydropyridine Derivatives on Isolated Rat Trachea
Authors: Estrada-Soto Samuel , Alemán-Pantitlán Soledad , Gaona-Tovar Emmanuel , Hernández-Borja Fernando , Alcaraz Yolanda , Villalobos-Molina Rafael , Vázquez Miguel A.
Published: April 2024

Derivatives of 4H-pyrans and 1,6-dihydropyridines have generated considerable attention due to their interesting biological and therapeutic values. Their pharmacological activities include vasorelaxant, anticarcinogenic, antimicrobial, and antioxidant activities. Thus, the aim of the current work is to determine the relaxant effect of synthesized 4H-pyran and 1,6-dihydropyridine derivatives with potential anti-asthmatic properties on the smooth muscle airway, with a possible Ca2+-channel blockade as a mechanism of action due to their analogy with 1,4-dihidropyridines. 4H-pyrans and 1,6-dihydropyridines were achieved using multicomponent reactions by microwave and conventional heating. Also, test samples were evaluated ex vivo to determine their relaxant effect on isolated rat tracheal rings pre-contracted with carbachol. All compounds evaluated showed a significant relaxant effect on carbachol-induced contraction in tracheal rat rings. Compounds 4b, 4e, 7a, and 8d were the most potent from the entire series and were also more potent than theophylline, used as a positive control. In conclusion, in the current work some relaxant compounds of the airway smooth muscle with potential to be developed as anti-asthmatic drugs were obtained.
Commutable Blood Materials from the Fixed-Cell Method for Performance Evaluation of Blood Glucose by a Glucose Meter
Authors: Apiratmateekul Napaporn , Nammoonnoy Jintana , Kost Gerald J. , Treebuphachatsakul Wanvisa
Published: April 2024

Glucose meters provide a rapid blood glucose status for evidence-based diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment of diabetes mellitus. We aimed to evaluate the commutability of processed blood materials (PBMs) and their use in the performance evaluation of glucose meters. Two PBMs obtained by the fixed-cell method were analyzed for homogeneity, stability, and commutability. The compatibility of ten pairs between mass spectrometry and each glucose meter was categorized as compatible (mean paired difference ≤ 5%) and incompatible (mean paired difference > 5%). The performance of glucose meter 1 (n = 767) and glucose meter 2 (n = 266) was assessed. The glucose in the PBMs remained homogenized and stable for at least 180 days. Six out of ten pairs had commutable PBMs. Commutability of PBMs was observed in both well-compatible and incompatible glucose results. Target glucose values from mass spectrometry were significantly different (p ≤ 0.05) from consensus values in one group of glucose meters. When commutable PBMs were used, glucose meter 1 showed better performance than glucose meter 2, and the percentage of satisfaction was associated when using target values for glucose from mass spectrometry and consensus values, but the performance of glucose meter 2 was not associated. PBM from a fixed-cell method could be mass produced with acceptable homogeneity and stability. Commutability testing of PBMs is required prior to use in the performance evaluation of glucose meters, as the commutability of glucose in the PBMs obtained by a fixed-cell method was variable and depended on the individual glucose meter.
A Successful Approach to Diagnosing Shiga-like Toxin-Producing Escherichia coli-Induced Colitis
Authors: Melinte Violeta , Radu Adelina M. , Văcăroiu Cristina M. , Cismaru Miriana I. , Oprescu Macovei Anca M. , Mihăilă Daniela E. , Gheorghiță Valeriu
Published: April 2024

Shiga-like toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) is a well-known cause of foodborne acute diarrheic diseases, especially in children and the elderly. The potentially fatal complications associated with toxin production range from bloody diarrhea and ischemic colitis to kidney failure, hemolytic–uremic syndrome (HUS), and colon perforation. Here, we describe a case and literature review of STEC-induced colitis, highlighting the clinical features and the necessary tools for the best diagnostic approach and management. Facing challenging differential diagnosis, ranging from ischemic colitis and inflammatory bowel disease to infectious processes due to a pathogenic or opportunistic agent, we conducted a step-by-step exploration. Following bacteriological investigation, imagistic screening, and colonoscopy, we ruled out some of the initial suppositions and reached a final diagnosis, while also considering the pathological results. Although antibiotics are not indicated in this pathology, our patient did receive antibiotics, given the risk of translocation and colon perforation, without any associated complications such as HUS or peritonitis. Detailed and rigorous investigations conducted by a multi-specialty team are required for prompt medical support. Coping with the symptoms and refraining from further complications are the mainstem aims of treatment.
Long-Term Oncological Outcomes after Nerve-Sparing Robot-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy for High-Risk Localized Prostate Cancer: A Single-Center, Two-Arm Prospective Study
Authors: Spirito Lorenzo , Chessa Francesco , Hagman Anna , Lantz Anna , Celentano Giuseppe , Sanchez-Salas Rodolfo , La Rocca Roberto , Olsson Mats , Akre Olof , Mirone Vincenzo , Wiklund Peter
Published: April 2024

Aims: To compare the oncological outcomes of patients with high-risk localized prostate cancer undergoing nerve-sparing and non-nerve-sparing robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP). Methods: Between November 2002 and December 2018, we prospectively recorded the data of patients undergoing RARP for high-risk localized prostate cancer (PCa) at our tertiary referral center. NSS (nerve-sparing surgery) was carefully offered on the basis of the preoperative clinical characteristics of the patients and an intraoperative assessment. The patients were stratified into two groups: nerve-sparing and non-nerve-sparing groups (yes/no). Radical prostatectomies were performed by 10 surgeons with a robot-assisted technique using a daVinci® surgical system. The primary oncological outcome evaluated was biochemical recurrence (BCR). The secondary oncological outcomes assessed were positive surgical margins (PSMs) and cancer-specific survival (CSS). Results: A total of 779 patients were included in the study: 429 (55.1%) underwent NSS while 350 (44.9%) underwent non-NSS. After a mean (±SD) follow-up of 192 (±14) months, 328 (42.1%) patients developed BCR; no significant difference was found between the NSS and non-NSS groups (156 vs. 172; p = 0.09). Both our univariable and multivariable analyses found that the nerve-sparing approach was not a predictor of BCR (p > 0.05). Kaplan–Mayer survival curves for BCR showed no significant difference among the non-NSS, unilateral NSS, and bilateral NSS groups (log rank test = 0.6). PSMs were reported after RARPs for 254 (32.6%) patients, with no significant difference between the NSS and non-NSS group (143 vs. 111; p = 0.5). In the subgroup of 15 patients who died during the follow-up period, mean (±SD) CSS was 70.5 (±26.1) months, with no significant difference between the NSS and non-NSS groups (mean CSS: 70.3 vs. 70.7 months). Conclusions: NSS does not appear to negatively impact the oncological outcomes of patients with high-risk PCa. Randomized clinical trials are needed to confirm our promising findings.