bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evidence of weight loss in junior female judo athletes affects their development
Authors: Yoshida Ena , Hayashida Harumi , Sakurai Tomonobu , Kawasaki Kenzo
Published: June 2024

Purpose

The facile manipulation of body weight in junior athletes has the potential to pose significant risks to their lifelong health. In judo, which is a weight class sport, pre-competition weight loss is widespread even among juniors, but information on the current situation is scarce, especially for female athletes, for whom it is important to provide adequate nutrition and enhance bone mass during the growth period, and the details of the current situation are not clear. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine the actual weight loss during the growth period in junior female judo athletes and its subsequent impact on their health.

Methods

The survey was a cross-sectional survey of junior female judo athletes in Japan using a questionnaire. Participants were asked to respond via an online questionnaire about their weight, height, weight loss experience, menstruation, competition results, and other lifestyle.

Results

51.8% of subjects experienced weight loss for competition during their junior high school years (ages 12–15). Those who experienced weight loss during secondary sexual characteristics were found to be significantly shorter in current height than those who did not (p < 0.05). Weight loss during secondary sexual characteristics did not affect current menstrual cycle. There was no significant difference in competition results due to the experience of weight loss during junior high school (χ2 = 4.485, df = 3, n.s.).

Conclusions

These findings suggest that weight loss during the growth spurt phase may adversely impact normal development. It also suggested that weight loss during the junior high school years may not be a strategy to bring about better competition results. These observations indicate the need for education on appropriate class selection and weight control for junior athletes in weight class competitions.
Case report: Dermatophytic pseudomycetoma in a domestic Korean short hair cat treated with intralesional injection of amphotericin B and oral terbinafine administration
Authors: Cho Jaechun , Park Chul , Park Jinho , Yoon Ji-Seon
Published: June 2024

Dermatophytic pseudomycetoma (DPM), which is a deeper dermal and/or subcutaneous infection of dermatophytes, has been rarely reported in Domestic Korean Short Hair Cats. A 3-year-old, spayed female, domestic Korean Short Hair Cat presented with a history of crusts, nodules, and pruritus for 1 year. At the initial presentation, multifocal ulcerative nodules covered with yellowish grains were noted on her ventral thorax, abdomen, flank, and left hindlimb. Cytology of ulcerative nodules revealed degenerative neutrophils, macrophages, multinucleated giant cells, and hyphae. Histological examination of nodules revealed pyogranulomatous dermatitis with fungal plaques, and Microsporum canis and Staphylococcus aureus were identified in the culture. Therefore, the cat was diagnosed with DPM with secondary pyoderma. Oral itraconazole (10 mg/kg, once a day) was administered, but no significant improvement was observed. Therefore, intralesional (IL) injection of amphotericin B (0.6 mg/nodule) and oral administration of terbinafine (30 mg/kg, twice a day) were administered to the cat. With these medications, ulceration and the number and size of nodules decreased significantly, although large dome-shaped nodules remained. Skin lesions were treated with oral terbinafine and itraconazole administration for 5 months. However, after 6 months, recurrence of multifocal ulcerative nodules was observed, and the cat died 10 months after initial presentation. In this case, IL amphotericin B and oral terbinafine administration were partially effective in DPM treatment, suggesting that this may be an option for DPM treatment. Further studies to determine dose and frequency of IL amphotericin B in the management of DPM are warranted.
Analysis of Breaking and Separating Characteristics of Potato–Soil Aggregates Based on the New Type of Swing Separation Sieve
Authors: Xie Shengshi , Zhang Yufeng , Li Junru , Liu Fei
Published: June 2024

In response to the significant challenge posed by the trade-off between the efficiency of separating potato soil and minimizing potato peel damage in the 4SW-170 potato excavator, this study focused on enhancing the design of the swing separation sieve. The objective was to develop a novel separation sieve comprising three distinct orders of sieve surfaces. Building upon this foundation, the EDEM-Adams coupled simulation method was employed to explore the fragmentation and separation attributes of potato–soil aggregates. This investigation aimed to elucidate the behavior of potato–soil aggregates within the operational scope of the novel swing separation sieve. Subsequently, the optimized parameters were validated through field tests. The findings indicate a direct correlation between the fracture ratio of the cohesive bond and the crank speed, illustrating an increase in the former with higher crank speeds. Conversely, an inverse relationship exists between the fracture ratio and the sieve inclination angle, demonstrating a decrease in the ratio as the sieve inclination increases. At a machine speed of 1.9 km/h, the fracture ratio of the cohesive bond attains its peak value. The force exerted on potatoes at their maximum point escalates with rising crank speed but diminishes with increasing machine speed. Conversely, the effect of sieve inclination on the peak force applied to the potatoes is deemed inconsequential. The most effective parameter configuration for the separation sieve comprises a crank speed of 180 revolutions per minute (r/min), a machine speed of 1.9 km per hour (km/h), and a sieve inclination of 14.4°. Field trials have confirmed that the parameter combination yielded a potato detection rate of 98.01% and a mere 0.68% rate of potato skin breakage, meeting the stipulated technical specifications of the potato harvester.
Genetic and Molecular Characterization of Maize Landraces from Central China
Authors: Guo Rui , Li Tingting , Zhang Quanguo , Wang Jianghao , Guo Jinjie , Wang Liwei , Song Liang , Yan Yuanyuan , Zhang Dongmin , Wei Jianfeng , Li Xinghua , Song Wei
Published: June 2024

Maize productivity in the central belt plays a significant role in the food security of China. With good adaptability and disease resistance, landrace germplasm is important for maize improvement. A total of 246 landrace accessions were collected from the maize belts in central China and genotyped with the SLAF-seq (Specific-Locus Amplified Fragment Sequencing) method, and 144,650 SNPs were obtained for each accession. The results showed that the landrace accessions could be divided into three major groups. In the cluster results, Group I included 64 accessions, which mainly belonged to the landrace of White horse teeth; Group II had 71 accessions, which mainly belonged to the lantern red landraces; the rest of the 116 accessions were clustered as Group III, including a variety of types landraces and seven indicator inbred lines. In the results of structure and multidimensional scaling, the accessions’ attribution differed with the clusters, the main reason for which is the attribution change in intermediate germplasms. Linkage disequilibrium decay distance was 0.98 kb, which was much lower than that of temperate and tropical maize inbred lines, indicated the much higher genetic diversity of landrace germplasms. The results can help us select suitable landrace germplasms and speed up the process of inbred line development and maize improvement.
Impact of Soil Burial Depths on Survival of Weedy Rice Seeds: Implications for Weed Management
Authors: Tian Yu-Ge , Pang Li-Hao , Jiang Xiao-Qi , Lu Bao-Rong
Published: June 2024

Weedy rice (Oryza sativa f. spontanea) is a noxious weed infesting rice fields worldwide and causes great yield losses for cultivated rice. Effective management of this weed is essential for the world’s rice production. Yet, the management of weedy rice is challenging. One of the reasons is that shattered weedy rice seeds stored in soil often trigger great weed proliferation in the succeeding crop seasons. To study the survival of weedy rice seeds in soil seedbanks, we conducted 90-day soil burial experiments at different soil depths from 0–25 cm, using weedy rice seeds from Jiangsu Province in China. Results from two independent experiments under the rice field and laboratory conditions indicated significant differences in seed death ratios (SDRs) and induced seed dormancy ratios (ISDRs) of weedy rice at different soil burial depths. Weedy rice seeds exposed to the soil surface (0 cm burial treatment) had the highest SDRs and lowest ISDRs. An evident pattern of quickly declining SDRs with increased soil burial depths was identified from this study, suggesting rapid losses of seed viability on the surface and in shallow layers of soil. Our findings provide a useful guide for designing strategies to effectively control weedy rice by maintaining shattered seeds on the surface or in shallow layers of soil. The practices can easily be achieved through adopting the no-till farming system, which can substantially minimize viable weedy rice seeds as an important component in comprehensive weed management strategies.
Stability Studies of the Dilution Series of Different Antibiotic Stock Solutions in Culture Medium Incubated at 37 °C
Authors: Kerek Ádám , Ecsedi Bence G. , Szabó Ábel , Szimrók Zoltán , Paliczné Kustán Bianka , Jerzsele Ákos , Nagy Gábor
Published: June 2024

The long-term stability of antibiotics in culture media remains underexplored in scientific literature. This study evaluated the stability of eight distinct antibiotic stock solutions—amoxicillin, cefotaxime, neomycin, oxytetracycline, florfenicol, enrofloxacin, colistin, and potentiated sulfonamide—and their 10-fold dilution series in tryptone soy broth (TSB) at 37 °C, over 12 days. Samples were collected immediately after preparation and on days 1, 2, 5, 7, 9, and 12, with active substance concentrations measured using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) coupled with mass spectrometry. The results indicated that among the ultrapure water stock solutions, neomycin, florfenicol, and potentiated sulfonamide maintained stability (>95%). Within the culture medium, florfenicol showed consistent stability (100%) throughout the study, potentiated sulfonamide experienced minor degradation (>85%), and neomycin underwent significant degradation. Amoxicillin, oxytetracycline, and colistin displayed considerable degradation in both solution types but were more stable in ultrapure water solutions. The stability of cefotaxime and enrofloxacin in ultrapure water solutions and in the medium was very similar when compared; however, 3.6% of the former and 88.7% of the latter remained detectable by day 12. These findings are crucial for minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) assessments, especially in minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) studies, and in experiments concerning long-term evolution and co-selection. This study underscores the necessity of stability assessments in culture media to validate future experimental outcomes.
Derivation of the Ultimate Bearing Capacity Formula for Layered Foundations Based on Meyerhof’s Theory
Authors: Liu Guangjun , Liu Cheng
Published: June 2024

In this paper, based on Meyerhof’s theory of homogeneous foundation, the limit equilibrium analysis method and unified logarithmic spiral sliding surface assumption are used to derive the theoretical formula for the ultimate bearing capacity of a layered foundation when the foundation is completely rough. It should be noted that this formula is only applicable to strip foundations of upper soft clay and lower sandy soil. In addition, a comparative analysis is conducted between theoretical formulas and semiempirical formulas for layered foundations. On the basis of verifying the reliability of the theoretical formula results, numerical simulation is carried out to further explore and analyze the influence of the width to depth ratio of the foundation, the strength parameters of the double-layer soil, and the thickness of the upper soft soil on the bearing capacity of the foundation. Research has shown that the formula for the bearing capacity of a layered foundation derived in this paper has a certain degree of error compared to Meyerhof’s semiempirical formula, but it is in good agreement with numerical simulation results and Hansen’s weighted average method results. The ratio of the width to depth of the foundation, the ratio of the cohesive force of the double-layer soil, and the tangent ratio of the internal friction angle have a significant positive correlation with the ultimate bearing capacity of the foundation. The increase in thickness of the overlying cohesive soil has a negative impact on the ultimate bearing capacity of the foundation, and the thicker the soil, the smaller the foundation’s bearing capacity.
A Comprehensive Review on Mine Tailings as a Raw Material in the Alkali Activation Process
Authors: Manaviparast Hamid Reza , Miranda Tiago , Pereira Eduardo , Cristelo Nuno
Published: June 2024

The mining industry generates vast quantities of mine tailings on an annual basis. However, due to their limited economic value, a significant portion of these tailings are deposited close to mining sites, often underwater. The principal environmental apprehensions associated with mine tailings revolve around their elevated levels of heavy metals and sulfidic minerals. The oxidation of these sulfidic minerals can lead to the formation of acid mine drainage, which in turn releases heavy metals into nearby water systems. The effective management of tailing dams requires substantial financial investments for their construction and meticulous control. Consequently, a pressing need exists for stable, sustainable, and economically viable management approaches. One promising method for addressing mine tailings is through alkali activation, a technique that serves as a stabilization process. This approach yields robust, concrete-like structures by utilizing raw materials abundant in aluminum and silicon, which conveniently constitute the primary components of mining residues. This comprehensive review outlines the research on utilizing alkali activation for mine tailings. It delves into the reactivity and chemical attributes of diverse minerals. Numerous mine tailings exhibit an inadequate level of reactivity under alkaline conditions, so various pre-treatment methodologies and their impacts on mineralogy are meticulously explored.
Using Vocal-Based Emotions as a Human Error Prevention System with Convolutional Neural Networks
Authors: Alsalhi Areej , Almehmadi Abdulaziz
Published: June 2024

Human error is a mark assigned to an event that has negative effects or does not produce a desired result, with emotions playing an important role in how humans think and behave. If we detect feelings early, it may decrease human error. The human voice is one of the most powerful tools that can be used for emotion recognition. This study aims to reduce human error by building a system that detects positive or negative emotions of a user like (happy, sad, fear, and anger) through the analysis of the proposed vocal emotion component using Convolutional Neural Networks. By applying the proposed method to an emotional voice database (RAVDESS) using Librosa for voice processing and PyTorch, with the emotion classification of (happy/angry), the results show a better accuracy (98%) in comparison to the literature with regard to making a decision to deny or allow a user to access sensitive operations or send a warning to the system administrator prior to accessing system resources.
Numerical Simulation of Water and Mud Inrush Processes in Mountain Tunnels Using Coupled Lattice Boltzmann/Discrete Element Methods
Authors: Fan Zhanfeng
Published: June 2024

Investigating the mechanism of sudden water inrush and mudflow in mountain tunnels is crucial for implementing preventive measures. Tunnel excavation through a fault or fractured zone can easily trigger sudden water inrush or mudflow. In this paper, the coupled lattice Boltzmann method (LBM) and discrete element method (DEM) were employed to reproduce the process of water and mud inrush in mountain tunnels. The failure of tunnel mud burst and water inrush involves a fluid–solid coupling process. A two-dimensional Boltzmann method for fluids and DEM for particles were utilized, with the coupled LBM-DEM boundary adopting the immersed moving boundary method. For simulating the water inrush process, a numerical model was established to replicate the flow of water particles within karst pipelines, featuring dimensions of 7 cm length, 4 cm width, and consisting of 100 particles. Particles are transported through water flow to the outlet of karst pipelines under hydraulic gradient loading. When the hydraulic gradient exceeds 6, the Darcy velocity gradually tends to be constant. As for simulating the mud inrush process, a numerical model was developed with dimensions of 5 cm length and 4 cm height, incorporating 720 randomly generated particles. The results demonstrated the successful reproduction of the evolution process encompassing three consecutive stages of tunnel mud-burst failure: initiation, acceleration, and stabilization. The occurrence of mud inrush disasters is attributed to combined action involving disaster-causing geotechnical materials, groundwater pressure, and tunnel excavation.
Study on Shear Performance of Web-Embedded Composite Shear Connector
Authors: Xu Xiaoqing , Sun Tuoying , Hu Shiao , Tan Hongmei , Wang Yuxiao , Zeng Yong
Published: June 2024

Based on the existing research on connectors, a web-embedded composite shear connector was proposed in this paper. Further, six types of push-out specimens were carried out on static push-out and low-cycle repeated load tests. The failure forms, load–slip curves, and load–strain curves of the tests are analysed. On the basis of the experiment, the finite element analysis is also carried out to enlarge the parameters of the specimens. The results showed that the shear stiffness of the web-embedded composite shear connector was larger than that of pure stud shear connector or perfobond rib shear connector, the slip limit was smaller, and ductility was good. A parameter analysis showed that penetrating steel rebars have the greatest impact on ultimate shear bearing capacity, reaching 43.82% of ultimate shear bearing capacity. Following repeated loading, the ultimate shear bearing capacity of the specimen decreased, the ultimate slip increased, and the ductility decreased. Based on the experimental results of this study, a new calculation equation for the ultimate shear bearing capacity of a web-embedded composite shear connector was proposed with a finite element model for verification.
Effect of Surface Reinforcer on Compressive Strength and Microscopic Mechanism of Freeze–Thaw-Deteriorated Concrete
Authors: Ma Dongdong , Zheng Ang , Li Chao , Yuan Jiaming
Published: June 2024

Due to the deterioration caused by repeated freeze–thaw cycles, concrete materials in cold regions often develop cracks, which have serious effects and challenge the durability of concrete-based structures. Therefore, it is worthwhile to repair and strengthen freeze–thaw-damaged concrete to extend the service duration of the structure. In the present study, to investigate the restorative effect of surface reinforcer on freeze–thaw-deteriorated concrete specimens, the effects of the surface reinforcer type, its action duration, and the number of applications on the strength and deformation parameters of repaired specimens were systematically studied. Moreover, pore size distribution, pore structure at different depths, and the micromorphology characteristics were investigated by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), pore structure, and scanning electron microscope (SEM) tests to reveal the repair mechanism of different surface reinforcer types. The results indicated that the compressive strength of freeze–thaw-deteriorated concrete could be increased by up to 15.67% after the application of the surface reinforcer. Both the values of compressive strength and deformation modulus E50 increased with the increase in the action duration. In addition, the surface reinforcer could efficiently penetrate the interior of the deteriorated specimen and was able to decrease the total proportion of multi-harmful pores and harmful pores. Furthermore, the pore structure parameters could be significantly improved at a depth of 10 mm; however, the reparative effect of the surface reinforcer gradually decreased with the increase in the action depth. The surface reinforcer could efficiently promote the second hydration of cement and generate more cementitious materials to fill the microvoids, thereby improving the compactness and mechanical properties of the repaired specimens.
Analytical Selection of Leakage Inductance for Single-Phase Dual Active Bridge Converters
Authors: Naseem Hamid , Seok Jul-Ki
Published: June 2024

The single-phase dual active bridge (DAB) DC/DC converter is a vital component in modern power electronics systems, facilitating efficient bidirectional power transfer between various energy sources and loads. One of the critical aspects in the design of such converters is the selection of an appropriate leakage inductance, as it significantly affects the circulating power within the converter. This study investigates the influence of inductance on the reactive power flow and introduces an analytical formula for calculating the necessary leakage inductance based on the specified rated power of the DAB converter. By employing the inductance values determined through the proposed formula, the developed power control-based modulation method, implemented in discrete time, successfully achieves zero reactive power caused by the first harmonic components under all load conditions. This selection of leakage inductance optimizes the performance of the converter ensuring efficient power delivery across various applications. The applicability of this method extends to various DAB applications, including electric vehicles, integration with asynchronous microgrids, and aerospace systems.
Packing Spheres into a Minimum-Height Parabolic Container
Authors: Stoyan Yuriy , Yaskov Georgiy , Romanova Tetyana , Litvinchev Igor , Velarde Cantú José Manuel , Acosta Mauricio López
Published: June 2024

Sphere packing consists of placing several spheres in a container without mutual overlapping. While packing into regular-shape containers is well explored, less attention is focused on containers with nonlinear boundaries, such as ellipsoids or paraboloids. Packing n-dimensional spheres into a minimum-height container bounded by a parabolic surface is formulated. The minimum allowable distances between spheres as well as between spheres and the container boundary are considered. A normalized Φ-function is used for analytical description of the containment constraints. A nonlinear programming model for the packing problem is provided. A solution algorithm based on the feasible directions approach and a decomposition technique is proposed. The computational results for problem instances with various space dimensions, different numbers of spheres and their radii, the minimal allowable distances and the parameters of the parabolic container are presented to demonstrate the efficiency of the proposed approach.
Assessing Reptile Conservation Status under Global Climate Change
Authors: Li Qian , Shao Weijie , Jiang Ying , Yan Chengzhi , Liao Wenbo
Published: June 2024

Global climate change drives variations in species distribution patterns and affects biodiversity, potentially increasing the risk of species extinction. Investigating the potential distribution range of species under future global climate change is crucial for biodiversity conservation and ecosystem management. In this study, we collected distributional data for 5282 reptile species to assess their conservation status based on distributional ranges using species distribution models. Our predictions indicate that the potential distribution ranges for over half of these species are projected to decrease under different scenarios. Under future scenarios with relatively low carbon emissions, the increase in the number of threatened reptiles is significantly lower, highlighting the importance of human efforts. Surprisingly, we identified some endangered species that are projected to expand their distribution ranges, underscoring the potential positive effects of climate change on some special species. Our findings emphasize the increased extinction risk faced by reptile species due to climate change and highlight the urgent need to mitigate the effects of habitat degradation and human activities on their potential distribution in the future.
Effect of 5-Aminolevulinic Acid (5-ALA) in “ALADENT” Gel Formulation and Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) against Human Oral and Pancreatic Cancers
Authors: D’Antonio Domenica Lucia , Marchetti Simona , Pignatelli Pamela , Umme Samia , De Bellis Domenico , Lanuti Paola , Piattelli Adriano , Curia Maria Cristina
Published: June 2024

Oral squamous-cell and pancreatic carcinomas are aggressive cancers with a poor outcome. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) consists of the use of photosensitizer-induced cell and tissue damage that is activated by exposure to visible light. PDT selectively acts on cancer cells, which have an accumulation of photosensitizer superior to that of the normal surrounding tissues. 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) induces the production of protoporphyrin IX (PpIX), an endogenous photosensitizer activated in PDT. This study aimed to test the effect of a new gel containing 5% v/v 5-ALA (ALAD-PDT) on human oral CAL-27 and pancreatic CAPAN-2 cancer cell lines. The cell lines were incubated in low concentrations of ALAD-PDT (0.05%, 0.10%, 0.20%, 0.40%, 0.75%, 1.0%) for 4 h or 8 h, and then irradiated for 7 min with 630 nm RED light. The cytotoxic effects of ALAD-PDT were measured using the MTS assay. Apoptosis, cell cycle, and ROS assays were performed using flow cytometry. PpIX accumulation was measured using a spectrofluorometer after 10 min and 24 and 48 h of treatment. The viability was extremely reduced at all concentrations, at 4 h for CAPAN-2 and at 8 h for CAL-27. ALAD-PDT induced marked apoptosis rates in both oral and pancreatic cancer cells. Elevated ROS production and appreciable levels of PpIX were detected in both cell lines. The use of ALA-PDT as a topical or intralesional therapy would permit the use of very low doses to achieve effective results and minimize side effects. ALAD-PDT has the potential to play a significant role in complex oral and pancreatic anticancer therapies.
A Review of Research Progress on the Impact of Urban Street Environments on Physical Activity: A Comparison between China and Developed Countries
Authors: Wen Yu , Liu Bingbing , Li Yulan , Zhao Lin
Published: June 2024

Creating healthy street environments to encourage physical activity is an effective strategy against non-communicable diseases exacerbated by rapid urbanization globally. Developing countries face more significant health challenges than developed ones. However, existing research predominantly focuses on the perspective of developed countries. To address the health challenges in developing nations, studies should not only draw on the findings from developed countries but also clearly define unique research processes and pathways. Consequently, this study conducts a comparative analysis between China, representing developing countries, and developed nations, using databases like China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) and Web of Science (WOS) and tools such as Citespace, Bicomb, and Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) to explore research hotspots, developmental trajectories, thematic categories, and trends. The findings reveal a shift in developed countries from macro-material to micro-environmental elements under multidisciplinary scrutiny, while future topics may include street space evaluations and psychological healing. In China, research has been dominated by different disciplines at various stages, starting with medical attention to chronic disease prevention, which then shifted to traffic engineering’s focus on constructing green travel environments, and finally expanded to disciplines like landscape architecture examining the impact of street environment elements on pedestrian behavioural perceptions. Future themes will focus on promoting elderly health and urban health transport systems. Generally, research in developed countries exhibits a “bottom-up” approach, with practical issues at a “post-evaluation” stage, primarily based on the “socio-ecological model” and emphasizing multidisciplinary collaboration. Chinese research shows a “top-down” characteristic, driven by national policies and at a “pre-planning” stage, integrating theories such as Maslow’s hierarchy of needs and attention restoration theory, with relatively loose disciplinary cooperation. Overall, research is shifting from macro to human-centric scales and is progressively utilizing multi-source and multi-scale big data analysis methods. Based on this, future research and development recommendations are proposed for developing countries, with China as a representative example.
Design and Characteristics of a Single-Storey Hybrid Wood–Soil Structure
Authors: Darwish Mohamed , Adham Mohamed , Allam Hassan , Yousri Khaled , Hassan Tamer
Published: June 2024

The need to reduce the effects of climate change has been increasing. One of the pathways to answer such a need is green construction. Hybrid wood–soil (HWS) structures are eco-friendly in addition to being cost-effective. Within this study, a single-storey building has been architecturally and structurally designed and tested. A conventional reinforced concrete (RC) structural system was designed and considered as a control case to be compared to the design at hand, which is an HWS system incorporating locally cultivated Casuarina Glauca wood and an in situ earth-based mixture. The two design alternatives are compared in terms of cost and carbon emissions. The HWS has proven to be economically viable and eco-friendly when compared to RC. The following stage within the research was to validate that the HWS structure will be structurally sound when erected. First, the effectiveness of the finger jointing process of the wooden members was experimentally assessed through performing bending tests on a finger-jointed specimen. Furthermore, half-scale models of one room within the structure have been manufactured from Casuarina Glauca wood and tested laterally to investigate the resistance of the HWS structural system to lateral loads. The first model was tested laterally without the earth-based infill and plaster materials to assess the behavior of the structural elements and measure its deformations. The second model was tested after applying the earth-based materials to obtain the true structural behavior of the system and the effect of the earth-based materials on its resistance to lateral loads. The results were used to assess the degree of the structural effectiveness of this HWS and the contribution of its components to its lateral stiffness.
The Axial Compressive Properties of Long Columns of In-Service Brick Masonry Reinforced by Channel Steel
Authors: Chen Kui , Ao Yi , Liang Jianguo
Published: June 2024

Channel steel-reinforced brick column technology has gained significant popularity in rural China due to its convenience and cost effectiveness. However, current research on channel steel reinforcement is sparse, and engineering applications often rely solely on construction experience. This reliance leads to significant construction errors, inconsistent reinforcement effects, and, in some cases, tragedies such as the collapse of Changsha’s “4.29” self-built houses. Therefore, in this paper, experimental and simulation studies on brick columns reinforced with external channel steel were conducted, and the results show that channel steel reinforcement can significantly enhance the axial load capacity of brick columns. However, increased initial stress levels and height-to-thickness ratios substantially reduce the reinforcement effect. Under axial pressure, the outer channel steel fails mainly through bending and buckling instability. Still, due to its good ductility, its failure occurs later than the brick column after being restrained by sufficient wall screws. Based on the experimental and simulation results, a method for calculating the axial compressive bearing capacity of the reinforced column is proposed, providing theoretical support and engineering guidance for applying this reinforcement method.
Preliminary Single-Cell RNA-Sequencing Analysis Uncovers Adipocyte Heterogeneity in Lipedema
Authors: Pagani Andrea , Duscher Dominik , Kempa Sally , Ghods Mojtaba , Prantl Lukas
Published: June 2024

Background: Despite its increasing incidence and prevalence throughout Western countries, lipedema continues to be a very enigmatic disease, often misunderstood or misdiagnosed by the medical community and with an intrinsic pathology that is difficult to trace. The nature of lipedemic tissue is one of hypertrophic adipocytes and poor tissue turnover. So far, there are no identified pathways responsible, and little is known about the cell populations of lipedemic fat. Methods: Adipose tissue samples were collected from affected areas of both lipedema and healthy participants. For single-cell RNA sequencing analysis, the samples were dissociated into single-cell suspensions using enzymatic digestion and then encapsulated into nanoliter-sized droplets containing barcoded beads. Within each droplet, cellular mRNA was converted into complementary DNA. Complementary DNA molecules were then amplified for downstream analysis. Results: The single-cell RNA-sequencing analysis revealed three distinct adipocyte populations at play in lipedema. These populations have unique gene signatures which can be characterized as a lipid generating adipocyte, a disease catalyst adipocyte, and a lipedemic adipocyte. Conclusions: The single-cell RNA sequencing of lipedemic tissue samples highlights a triad of distinct adipocyte subpopulations, each characterized by unique gene signatures and functional roles. The interplay between these adipocyte subtypes offers promising insights into the complex pathophysiology of lipedema.
Diagnostic Yield of Endoscopic Ultrasound-Guided Liver Biopsy in Comparison to Percutaneous Liver Biopsy: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials and Trial Sequential Analysis
Authors: Bhandari Megha , Samanta Jayanta , Spadaccini Marco , Fugazza Alessandro , Crinò Stefano Francesco , Gkolfakis Paraskevas , Triantafyllou Konstantinos , Dhar Jahnvi , Maida Marcello , Pugliese Nicola , Hassan Cesare , Repici Alessandro , Aghemo Alessio , Serviddio Gaetano , Facciorusso Antonio
Published: June 2024

Background: The efficacy of endoscopic ultrasound-guided liver biopsy (EUS-LB) compared to percutaneous liver biopsy (PC-LB) remains uncertain. Methods: Our data consist of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing EUS-LB to PC-LB, found through a literature search via PubMed/Medline and Embase. The primary outcome was sample adequacy, whereas secondary outcomes were longest and total lengths of tissue specimens, diagnostic accuracy, and number of complete portal tracts (CPTs). Results: Sample adequacy did not significantly differ between EUS-LB and PC-LB (risk ratio [RR] 1.18; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.58–2.38; p = 0.65), with very low evidence quality and inadequate sample size as per trial sequential analysis (TSA). The two techniques were equivalent with respect to diagnostic accuracy (RR: 1; CI: 0.95–1.05; p = 0.88), mean number of complete portal tracts (mean difference: 2.29, −4.08 to 8.66; p = 0.48), and total specimen length (mean difference: −0.51, −20.92 to 19.9; p = 0.96). The mean maximum specimen length was significantly longer in the PC-LB group (mean difference: −3.11, −5.51 to −0.71; p = 0.01), and TSA showed that the required information size was reached. Conclusion: EUS-LB and PC-LB are comparable in terms of diagnostic performance although PC-LB provides longer non-fragmented specimens.
Gastric Emptying Scintigraphy Protocol Optimization Using Machine Learning for the Detection of Delayed Gastric Emptying
Authors: Georgiou Michalis F. , Sfakianaki Efrosyni , Diaz-Kanelidis Monica N. , Moshiree Baha
Published: June 2024

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to examine the feasibility of a machine learning (ML) system for optimizing a gastric emptying scintigraphy (GES) protocol for the detection of delayed gastric emptying (GE), which is considered a primary indication for the diagnosis of gastroparesis. Methods: An ML model was developed using the JADBio AutoML artificial intelligence (AI) platform. This model employs the percent GE at various imaging time points following the ingestion of a standardized radiolabeled meal to predict normal versus delayed GE at the conclusion of the 4 h GES study. The model was trained and tested on a cohort of 1002 patients who underwent GES using a 70/30 stratified split ratio for training vs. testing. The ML software automated the generation of optimal predictive models by employing a combination of data preprocessing, appropriate feature selection, and predictive modeling analysis algorithms. Results: The area under the curve (AUC) of the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was employed to evaluate the predictive modeling performance. Several models were developed using different combinations of imaging time points as input features and methodologies to achieve optimal output. By using GE values at time points 0.5 h, 1 h, 1.5 h, 2 h, and 2.5 h as input predictors of the 4 h outcome, the analysis produced an AUC of 90.7% and a balanced accuracy (BA) of 80.0% on the test set. This performance was comparable to the training set results (AUC = 91.5%, BA = 84.7%) within the 95% confidence interval (CI), demonstrating a robust predictive capability. Through feature selection, it was discovered that the 2.5 h GE value alone was statistically significant enough to predict the 4 h outcome independently, with a slightly increased test set performance (AUC = 92.4%, BA = 83.3%), thus emphasizing its dominance as the primary predictor for delayed GE. ROC analysis was also performed for single time imaging points at 1 h and 2 h to assess their independent predictiveness of the 4 h outcome. Furthermore, the ML model was tested for its ability to predict “flipping” cases with normal GE at 1 h and 2 h that became abnormal with delayed GE at 4 h. Conclusions: An AI/ML model was designed and trained for predicting delayed GE using a limited number of imaging time points in a 4 h GES clinical protocol. This study demonstrates the feasibility of employing ML for GES optimization in the detection of delayed GE and potentially shortening the protocol’s time length without compromising diagnostic power.
Avoiding Sinus Floor Elevation by Placing a Palatally Angled Implant: A Morphological Study Using Cross-Sectional Analysis Determined by CBCT
Authors: Kaya Doğan Ilgaz , Şatır Samed , Öztaş Beyza , Yıldırım Hasan
Published: June 2024

Backgrounds: Tooth loss in the posterior maxilla often necessitates dental implant placement, but the maxillary sinus anatomy poses challenges, especially during sinus floor elevation. Mesially angled implants are an alternative for total edentulism, but for single tooth deficiencies, palatally angled implants may offer a solution. This study evaluates the prevalence of avoiding sinus floor elevation by placing palatally angled implants in cases with a single missing tooth. Methods: A retrospective study at Ahmet Keleşoğlu Faculty of Dentistry involved 100 participants with a single missing tooth and prior CBCT scans. Virtual implants were placed using OnDemand3D (version 1.0.7462) software. On CBCT sections, implants were angled palatally to avoid sinus or nasal cavity perforation. Statistical analysis was conducted using R and MedCalc (version 4.3.2) software. Results: Of the participants (60% female, average age 50.45), 76 edentulous regions required sinus elevation. The implant placeability rates varied across zones (second molar: 39.3%, first molar: 63.1%, second premolar: 78.5%). Implant placement at a palatal angle was significantly higher in the second premolar and first molar regions. Statistically significant differences were observed in the implant placeability between regions. Conclusions: This study supports the feasibility of avoiding sinus floor elevation through palatally angled implants in specific cases, reducing the associated complications.
Additive Manufacturing Titanium Dental Implants Placed in Sinuses Grafted with 70HA:30-TCP: A One-Year Retrospective Study for Evaluation of Survival Rate
Authors: Mafra Ilton José , Bordin Dimorvan , Siroma Rafael S. , Moraschini Vittorio , Faverani Leonardo P. , Souza João Gabriel , Mourão Carlos Fernando , Shibli Jamil Awad
Published: June 2024

The present short-term retrospective study evaluated the implant survival rate and peri-implant bone loss around additive-manufactured titanium implants placed in sinuses grafted with Plenum Osshp (Plenum Bioengenharia, Jundia, SP, Brazil) (70HA:30β-TCP) material. A total of 39 implants were inserted after 23 sinus floor elevation procedures in 16 consecutive patients. Prosthetic rehabilitation included fixed partial prostheses (three units), single crowns (eleven units), and fixed full arches (three units). Clinical and radiographic parameters of implant-supported restorations were evaluated after at least one year of occlusal loading. The implant–crown success criteria included the absence of pain, suppuration, and clinical mobility, an average distance between the implant shoulder and the first visible bone contact (DIB) < 1.0 mm from the initial surgery, and the absence of prosthetic complications at the implant–abutment interface. The overall cumulative implant survival rate was 97.43%. No prosthetic complications at the implant–abutment interface were reported. After one year, the mean DIB was 0.23 mm ± 0.14. Within the limits of this retrospective study, it can be concluded that 70 HA:30 β-TCP allowed stable and reliable bone support to maintain healthy conditions around titanium dental implants produced by additive manufacturing.
Control and Managing of Individual Solar Water Heating Systems in an Apartment Complex
Authors: Krinitsky Michael , Averbukh Moshe
Published: June 2024

Managing solar energy utilization and water heating in multi-apartment buildings presents formidable challenges due to limited space for solar collector installation. Optimizing heat energy distribution among communal consumers is crucial, necessitating precise regulation of hot water flow from the main system line to individual thermal storage tanks. The objective is to minimize heat and electricity losses while maximizing temperature levels in each tank. An electronic control system, centered around a microcontroller, has been developed with an efficient algorithm, data storage memory, and communication capabilities. The implemented solar heating system is tailored to each individual consumer, incorporating precise measurements for every apartment. This customization enhances efficiency not only for the individual consumer but also benefits the overall solar system within the building. This article explores the development and past outcomes of implementing such a control system, highlighting its significant advantages, particularly in multi-story buildings.
Multi-Queue-Based Offloading Strategy for Deep Reinforcement Learning Tasks
Authors: Huang Ruize , Xie Xiaolan , Guo Qiang
Published: June 2024

With the boom in mobile internet services, computationally intensive applications such as virtual and augmented reality have emerged. Mobile edge computing (MEC) technology allows mobile devices to offload heavy computational tasks to edge servers, which are located at the edge of the network. This technique is considered an effective approach to help reduce the burden on devices and enable efficient task offloading. This paper addresses a dynamic real-time task-offloading problem within a stochastic multi-user MEC network, focusing on the long-term stability of system energy consumption and energy budget constraints. To solve this problem, a task-offloading strategy with long-term constraints is proposed, optimized through the construction of multiple queues to maintain users’ long-term quality of experience (QoE). The problem is decoupled using Lyapunov theory into a single time-slot problem, modeled as a Markov decision process (MDP). A deep reinforcement learning (DRL)-based LMADDPG algorithm is introduced to solve the task-offloading decision. Finally, Experiments are conducted under the constraints of a limited MEC energy budget and the need to maintain the long-term energy stability of the system. The results from simulation experiments demonstrate that the algorithm outperforms other baseline algorithms in terms of task-offloading decisions.
VSG Frequency Response Strategy for Doubly-Fed Wind Farm Considering the Fatigue Load
Authors: Cui Ruichao , Wang Hanbo , Liu Yingming , Wang Xiaodong , Zhang Panpan
Published: June 2024

A wind farm composed of doubly-fed wind turbines (DFWTs) based on the virtual synchronous generator (DFWTs-VSG) control strategy exacerbates the fatigue load on the main shaft of the DFWT-VSGs in the wind farm when responding to the frequency variation of the power system. The central controller of the wind farm can reduce the main shaft fatigue load of each DFWT-VSG by reasonably allocating the required damping coefficient of each DFWT-VSG while engaging in power system frequency response. In this study, a damping coefficient allocation method considering the main shaft fatigue load is proposed. First, a discretization equation that quantifies the relationship between the damping coefficient and its main shaft torque in DFWT-VSG is constructed. Then, based on this discretization equation, the minimization of the sum of main shaft torque fluctuation from all DFWT-VSGs is taken as the objective function in the central controller, and the constraints of the damping coefficient are set based on the support capacity of the wind farm and the operating state of each DFWT-VSG. Finally, the required damping coefficient of each DFWT-VSG is allocated in real-time based on the fmincon algorithm in the central controller. Simulation results verify the superiority of the proposed damping coefficient allocation method.