bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Research on Geological Information Updating and Prediction of Tunnel Surrounding Rocks Based on Machine Learning
Authors: Ren Yang , Yang Cunbin , Wu Yuehua , Li Tianbin
Published: July 2024

Surrounding rock geological information is the basic index for tunnel disaster prediction and forecasting, so dynamic updating and prediction of surrounding rock geological information in an efficient and intelligent manner can provide an important support for disaster prediction and forecasting. In this paper, a surrounding rock geological information updating and prediction model based on RNN (RNN) is constructed to carry out research on the prediction of the four geological parameter indexes of rock mass integrity, rock hardness, rock weathering degree, and water abundance of tunnel surrounding rocks. The various index data of excavated tunnel sections are collected, the original data is normalized, a time series prediction model for tunnel surrounding rock geological information is established based on the training set samples, and finally the updated prediction of surrounding rock information is achieved. Preliminary application shows that the updating prediction accuracy of surrounding rock geological information of three indexes including rock mass integrity is up to 87.5%, and the prediction accuracy of rock weathering degree reaches 75%. This is an approach with relatively high engineering practical value.
Leveraging Variational Autoencoder for Improved Construction Progress Prediction Performance
Authors: Mostofi Fatemeh , Tokdemir Onur Behzat , Toğan Vedat
Published: July 2024

The imbalanced construction dataset reduces the accuracy of the machine learning model. This issue that addressed by recent construction management research through different sampling approaches. Despite their advantages, the utilized sampling approaches are reducing the reliability of the prediction model, while posing the risk of artificial bias. The objective of this study is to address the challenge of imbalanced datasets in construction progress prediction models using a novel variational autoencoder (VAE) that generates synthetic data for underrepresented classes. The VAE's encoder-decoder architecture, along with its latent space components, is optimized for this task. A comparative analysis using decision tree-based ML models, including grid search optimization, substantiated the effectiveness of the VAE approach. The results indicate that the hybrid dataset benefited the ML models from the addition of the synthesized dataset, showing 2% improvements in performance metrics across most models. The synthetic data generated by VAEs contributes to the construction of more balanced datasets, which, in turn, can lead to more reliable and accurate predictive models. The enhanced accuracy of the VAE-ML model addresses the class imbalance problem and improves the reliability of construction productivity predictions and related resource allocation plans.
Thermal Performance Improvement of Hollow Fired Clay Bricks Embedding Phase Change Materials
Authors: Chihab Yassine
Published: July 2024

The construction industry in Morocco constitutes a substantial share, surpassing 33%, of the total energy consumption in the country, positioning it as one of the industries with the highest energy intensity. In spite of its considerable impact on energy consumption, the architectural design of buildings in Morocco frequently overlooks essential aspects such as the time lag and decrement factor linked to walls. This work aimed to examine the influence of incorporating phase change materials (PCMs) with three distinct melting temperatures on the dynamic thermal characteristics of bricks. The PCM is encapsulated in cylinders and integrated into the brick's solid matrix. The numerical simulations were conducted using COMSOL software, employing finite element and the apparent heat capacity methods. The results derived from the study indicate that integrating a 20% mass fraction of PCM with a melting point at 32 ℃ Results in a notable decrease of 34% in the heat flux swings. Additionally, there is a 2.5 h delay in the infiltration time of the external thermal temperature into the indoor space when comparing it to conventional bricks. Moreover, the application of PCM contributes to mitigating a significant portion of fluctuations in interior temperature. Consequently, incorporating PCMs into hollow clay bricks emerges as an effective approach for diminishing the energy demand associated with cooling buildings.
Analysis and Evaluation of the Slope Stability of K49 + 800 Section of S207 Road in Shizong County
Authors: Ding Fengfeng , Jiao Jinyong
Published: July 2024

With the development of urban construction, slope engineering has become more and more important and difficult projects, and the hidden dangers of slope can not be ignored, which requires judgment and protection of the stability and safety of slope, so as to promote the economic development and construction of the city under the premise of ensuring the safety of people and property. Based on the analysis and study of engineering geological conditions and factors affecting slope stability of K49 + 800 section of S207 road in Shizong County, this paper analyzes and evaluates its stability and puts forward corresponding treatment measures.
Modelling and Analysis of the Seattle Space Needle Based on ANSYS
Authors: Chen Shu , Chen Hanwen , Xie Xinyi , Xu Linqing
Published: July 2024

Modal analysis is an effective method that helps engineers understand how a building responds to different types of dynamic loads, such as wind, earthquakes, or vibrations caused by human activities. It provides valuable insights into a building’s natural frequencies, mode shapes, and damping characteristics. In this paper, a simplified model of the Space Needle Tower is established using ANSYS SPACE CLAIM, followed by modal analysis using ANSYS WORKBENCH. For the purpose of simplification, the equivalent density of the model is set to the actual mass of the Space Needle tower divided by the volume of the model. The space needle tower model consisting of 11 components is then divided into 126144 nodes and 66287 units. The first 6 modes of deformation and the corresponding natural frequencies are obtained. In the end, the paper points out the tower’s potential weaknesses or areas that require reinforcement and provides potential solutions to improve the stability of the tower under dynamic loads.
Formation and Evolution Mechanism of the ZhengGang Giant Ancient Landslide
Authors: Cheng Wei , Luo Junyao , Yang Taiqiang , Jiang Xiaolong , Fan Xuefeng , Yang Yang , Feng Yelin , Huang Qingfu
Published: July 2024

During the continuous uplift of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, the genetic mechanism of giant ancient landslides in the deep-cutting rivers has attracted widespread attention. The formation of giant ancient landslides is closely related to the evolution history of rivers. Using the methods of field investigation and numerical simulation, the formation and evolution process of the Zhenggang giant ancient landslide of the Lancang river upstream is studied. The correlation between the landslide formation and the valley evolution is analyzed. The toppling deformation body evolution of a giant ancient landslide and its genetic mechanism is studied. The results show that the bank slope unloading caused by the down-cutting of the river is the main effect factor of the landslides occurrence. The structure of soft and hard inter-bedded, and rainfall infiltration are all important influencing factors. The bank slope unloading caused by the down-cutting of the river promoted the bending and toppling of the steep rock mass. The giant ancient landslide takes the toppling fracture zone as the slip zone slipped.
Prefabricated Building Model Construction Using Artificial Intelligence Algorithms
Authors: Ran Zhuying , Han Wang
Published: July 2024

Artificial intelligence has become a hot research topic in the field of technology worldwide today. This article will discuss a hash and genetic algorithm based model suitable for prefabricated buildings. This article first introduces the application of artificial intelligence algorithms in solving nonlinear programming problems. Then this article proposes to improve the time loss caused by vector distortion caused by similar neighborhood selection in traditional methods, and preprocess the results to improve decision-making accuracy and other characteristics. Finally, this article verifies through experiments that the model is more effective and operable than traditional algorithms under the optimization of artificial intelligence algorithms. The verification results are as follows: In terms of running speed, the performance of artificial intelligence algorithms is 43 m/s, while the performance of traditional algorithms is 24 m/s; In terms of operational efficiency, the performance result of artificial intelligence algorithms is 95%, while the performance effect of traditional algorithms is 74%; In terms of visualization level, artificial intelligence algorithms have higher performance results, while traditional algorithms have lower performance effects. In terms of reliability, the performance result of artificial intelligence algorithms is 0.53, while the performance score of traditional algorithms is 0.43; In terms of robustness, the performance of artificial intelligence algorithms is 0.74, while the performance result of traditional algorithms is 0.67. The accuracy of artificial intelligence algorithms is 84%, while the accuracy of traditional algorithms is 65%. These test results indicate that using artificial intelligence algorithms can assist designers and engineers in optimizing design, automatically generating models, and conducting structural analysis and durability verification. This method helps to reduce errors and waste in the construction process, improve building quality and construction speed.
Collision Detection Algorithm Based on Precise Model in Virtual Assembly
Authors: Zhang Yunlai , Shi Xiajuan
Published: July 2024

Virtual assembly is one of the important trends in the development of assembly industry, and this assembly technology has been applied in many fields. However, it is urgent that the problem of inaccuracy of collision detection caused by polygon model in virtual assembly should be solved. So an accurate model of collision detection algorithm needs to be studied in support of virtual assembly’s effective design and practice. Based on the K-DOPs algorithm in virtual assembly, this paper conducts collision detection of accurate models, verifies the effectiveness of this algorithm to shorten the collision detection time, and provides some ideas and references for effectively selecting appropriate collision detection algorithms in virtual assembly.
Digital Technology of Construction Monitoring and Quality Control of Prefabricated Building Engineering
Authors: Zuo Caixia , Yang Jing
Published: July 2024

Prefabrication is characterized by standardization of building parts and plant installation. Prefab construction in China is relatively late, but develops quickly. It is a kind of advanced construction method. Along with the development of science and technology, the requirement of building quality is higher, and prefab building has the advantages of high efficiency, low cost, and low pollution, which is consistent with the idea of green development. To guarantee the construction quality of prefab construction works, it is essential to supervise and control the construction process. In this paper, the construction supervision and quality control of prefab construction are analyzed from the angle of digital technique. It is proved by the experiment that the digital technique study on the construction supervision and quality control of the prefab construction project has achieved the highest pass rate of 95.7%.
Load Transfer Capacity Analysis of Prefabricated Steel Fiber Concrete Pavement Slab
Authors: Wang Zijian , Li Hongkun , Zhang Xin , Zhang Bin , Liu Qi , Liu Yadong , Rong Baosheng
Published: July 2024

The joint of prefabricated concrete pavement slab is an important structural part of the prefabricated pavement slab. The joint damage will reduce the pavement function and accelerate the plate damage. The joint treatment technology is also a problem that puzzles engineering researchers. How to ensure the mechanical properties, load transfer rate and life of the assembled road joint has become the main research direction of the assembled road. This paper takes the indoor test as the research method, analyzes the bending and strain of the indoor test groove and lap joint. It is found that the bending value of the groove joint is large, and the tensile strain is the main one, which is easy to be damaged by tension. Through the comparative test, it is suggested that the joint form of the assembled road slab should adopt the lap type.
Seismic Performance Analysis of Non-uniformly Corroded Reinforced Concrete Column Assembly Joints Strengthened with CFRP
Authors: Wang Qi , Yao Shunzhong
Published: July 2024

In order to analyze the seismic behavior of non uniformly corroded reinforced concrete column assembly joints strengthened with CFRP. In this paper, one corroded and unreinforced RC column specimen and four corroded but CFRP Reinforced RC column specimens were fabricated. According to the hysteretic curve, the skeleton curve change and stiffness degradation of each specimen are analyzed, and the load displacement condition of the assembled joint is judged. According to the strain of the assembled joint of reinforced concrete column, the ductility, energy consumption and other properties of each joint are analyzed, so as to analyze the seismic performance of the specimen. The results show that the unreinforced reinforced concrete column specimens have small ductility, low energy consumption and poor seismic effect; The reinforced concrete column specimens strengthened with CFRP have larger ductility, higher energy consumption and better seismic performance. Conclusion: the seismic performance is related to the stiffness, ductility coefficient, energy dissipation coefficient and other indicators. The larger the above indicators, the better the seismic performance, which plays an important role in improving the stability of the assembly structure.
Application Practice of Locality Prefabricated Residential Design in Rural Revitalization
Authors: Zhao Yueyuan , Yuan Youwu , Li Qiuna , Huang Sufa
Published: July 2024

Based on the analysis of the advantages and disadvantages of prefabricated residential design in rural revitalization, this paper proposes a strategy for prefabricated residential design in terms of functionality, form, cultural emotions, and other aspects. Analyze the sustainable development of prefabricated residential buildings throughout their entire lifecycle from aspects such as unit type, component parts, materials, and construction, and propose specific methods for standardized and modular design; combined with the traditional architectural characteristics and place spirit of rural areas, showcases specific prefabricated residential design cases, providing a certain reference for the sustainable development direction of prefabricated buildings in rural revitalization.
Simulation Study on the Application Effect of Passive Green Building Strategy in Sinking Soil-Covered Space
Authors: Liu Chang , Jing Quan , Wu Xianfeng
Published: July 2024

Yangshao Culture Museum of Yangshao Village national archaeological park (hereinafter referred to as the Museum) fully displays its characteristics, stimulated the regeneration of urban negative space by creatively adopting a sinking layout to hide modern building volume and introducing roof cover to reconstruct the regional landscape and public activity places. The museum meticulously balances the structural heat transfer coefficient with the surrounding sunshade considerations, utilizing software simulations to discern building morphology and intricate components. This approach guarantees the efficacy of the passive green building strategy.
Exploring the Application of Prefabricated Construction Technology Under the Concept of Green Building
Authors: Zhou Jingyi , Zhou Junhua
Published: July 2024

In recent years, the development of the construction industry has been accelerating. As a typical product in the process of industrialization, prefabricated building has become a new mode of construction. However, due to many factors, there are a series of problems in the construction of prefabricated building, such as environmental pollution and resource waste, which have a great impact on its sustainable development. Therefore, in developing prefabricated building buildings, we should actively introduce the concept of green building, observe the working principle of energy conservation and environmental protection, apply advanced technology and constantly explore new technology applications. This paper explores the application of the green building concept from four dimensions: design principles, technical advantages, main technical analysis and practical application, and the prefabricated building of the green building concept.
Anomalies of 4d SpinG theories
Authors: Brennan T. Daniel , Intriligator Kenneth
Published: July 2024

Abstract

We consider ’t Hooft anomalies of four-dimensional gauge theories whose fermion matter content admits SpinG(4) generalized spin structure, with G either gauged or a global symmetry. We discuss methods to directly compute w2 ∪ w3 ’t Hooft anomalies involving Stiefel-Whitney classes of gauge and flavor symmetry bundles that such theories can have on non-spin manifolds, e.g. M4 = ℂℙ2. Such anomalies have been discussed for SU(2) gauge theory with adjoint fermions, where they were shown to give an effect that was originally found in the Donaldson-Witten topological twist of $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 2 SYM theory. We directly compute these anomalies for a variety of theories, including general G gauge theories with adjoint fermions, SU(2) gauge theory with fermions in general representations, and Spin(N) gauge theories with fundamental matter. We discuss aspects of matching these and other ’t Hooft anomalies in the IR phase where global symmetries are spontaneously broken, in particular for general Ggauge theory with Nf adjoint Weyl fermions. For example, in the case of Nf = 2 we discuss anomaly matching in the IR phase consisting of $$ {h}_{G_{\textrm{gauge}}}^{\vee } $$

h

G
gauge

∨

copies of a ℂℙ1 non-linear sigma model, including for the w2w3 anomalies when formulated with $$ {\textrm{Spin}}_{\textrm{SU}{(2)}_{\textrm{global}}}(4) $$

Spin

SU

2

global

4

structure.
A partitioned dipole-antenna shower with improved transverse recoil
Authors: Preuss Christian T
Published: July 2024

Abstract

The implementation of a new final-state parton-shower algorithm in the Pythia event generator is described. The shower algorithm, dubbed Apollo, combines central aspects of the Vincia antenna shower with the global transverse-recoil scheme of the Alaric framework in order to achieve formal consistency with next-to-leading logarithmic (NLL) resummation. The shower algorithm is constructed in such a way that it facilitates a straightforward combination with fixed-order calculations. As an explicit proof of concept, a general scheme for matrix-element corrections (MECs) and two separate multiplicative next-to-leading order (NLO) matching schemes are outlined. It is argued that both matching schemes retain the logarithmic accuracy of the shower. The improved modelling of radiation is examined by contrasting the new algorithm with existing leading-logarithmic parton showers in Pythia.
Renoprotective effects of apocynin and/or umbelliferone against acrylamide-induced acute kidney injury in rats: role of the NLRP3 inflammasome and Nrf-2/HO-1 signaling pathways
Authors: Ageena Saad A. , Bakr Adel G. , Mokhlis Hamada A. , Abd-Ellah Mohamed F.
Published: July 2024

Acrylamide (ACR) is a toxic, probably carcinogenic compound commonly found in fried foods and used in the production of many industrial consumer products. ACR-induced acute kidney injury is mediated through several signals. In this research, we investigated, for the first time, the therapeutic effects of phytochemicals apocynin (APO) and/or umbelliferone (UMB) against ACR-induced nephrotoxicity in rats and emphasized the underlying molecular mechanism. To achieve this goal, five groups of rats were randomly assigned: the control group received vehicle (0.5% CMC; 1 ml/rat), ACR (40 mg/kg, i.p.), ACR + APO (100 mg/kg, P.O.), ACR + UMB (50 mg/kg, P.O.), and combination group for 10 days. In ACR-intoxicated rats, there was a significant reduction in weight gain while the levels of blood urea, uric acid, creatinine, and Kim-1 were elevated, indicating renal injury. Histopathological injury was also observed in the kidneys of ACR-intoxicated rats, confirming the biochemical data. Moreover, MDA, TNF-α, and IL-1β levels were raised; and GSH and SOD levels were decreased. In contrast, treatment with APO, UMB, and their combination significantly reduced the kidney function biomarkers, prevented tissue damage, and decreased inflammatory cytokines and MDA. Mechanistically, it suppressed the expression of NLRP-3, ASC, GSDMD, caspase-1, and IL-1β, while it upregulated Nrf-2 and HO-1 in the kidneys of ACR-intoxicated rats. In conclusion, APO, UMB, and their combination prevented ACR-induced nephrotoxicity in rats by attenuating oxidative injury and inflammation, suppressing NLRP-3 inflammasome signaling, enhancing antioxidants, and upregulating Nrf-2 and HO-1 in the kidneys of ACR-induced rats.
68Ga-Trivehexin PET/CT: a promising novel tracer for primary hyperparathyroidism
Authors: Kuyumcu Serkan , Denizmen Dilara , Has-Simsek Duygu , Poyanli Arzu , Uzum Ayşe Kubat , Buyukkaya Fikret , Isik Emine Goknur , Onder Semen , Aksakal Nihat , Ozkan Zeynep Gozde , Sanli Yasemin
Published: July 2024

Introduction

This study aims to assess 68Ga-Trivehexin PET/CT for detecting hyperfunctioning parathyroid tissue in comparison to [99mTc]Tc-MIBI scintigraphy-SPECT/CT (MIBI scan) in patients with primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT).

Methods

The cohort comprised 13 patients diagnosed with PHPT based on biochemical analyses, including serum calcium, phosphorus, and parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels. Each participant underwent cervical ultrasonography, MIBI scan, and 68Ga-Trivehexin PET/CT imaging. Complementary 4D-CT and [18F]fluorocholine PET/CT were conducted in 7 patients. Ten lesions of 7 patients underwent PTH wash-out (WO) procedure. 68Ga-Trivehexin PET/CT findings were compared with other modalities and PTH-WO results.

Results

Ten patients had sporadic PHPT, while 3 were diagnosed with MEN-1 syndrome-associated PHPT. One patient did not have any identifiable parathyroid lesion across the imaging modalities. On a patient-based analysis, MIBI scan and 68Ga-Trivehexin PET/CT identified parathyroid lesions in 10 and 11 patients, respectively. However, 68Ga-Trivehexin PET/CT detected 7 additional parathyroid lesions that were negative on the MIBI scan. Consequently, 17 lesions were identified and confirmed as hyperfunctioning parathyroid tissue through imaging, PTH-WO, or a combination of both modalities. In lesion-based evaluation, 68Ga-Trivehexin identified 16 lesions compared to 10 by MIBI scan, resulting in a detection rate of 94.1% and 58.8%, respectively. Notably, in three patients who underwent [18F]fluorocholine PET/CT, no lesions were detected; yet 68Ga-Trivehexin PET/CT successfully identified parathyroid lesions in two of these patients.

Conclusion

Our study provides the first evidence that 68Ga-Trivehexin PET/CT can effectively identify hyperfunctioning parathyroid tissue with a high detection rate warranting further investigations to comprehensively explore its potential in PHPT management.
Fertility preservation service for children and young adults at high risk of infertility; the hub and spoke model
Authors: Ghattaura Harmit , Davies Jill , Becker Christian M. , Lane Sheila , Lakhoo Kokila
Published: July 2024

Purpose

To evaluate the evolution of fertility preservation surgery in children and young adults at high risk of infertility from a single centre to a networked ‘Hub and Spoke’ service.

Methods

A case note review of patients referred for ovarian or testicular cryopreservation between Jan 2013 and Dec 2023. Demographic data, procurement numbers, and site of procurement were collected. Specialist feedback was obtained to identify the challenges faced.

Results

Over time, the number of referrals increased from 4 to 349 patients per year with the number of Spoke centres rising to 36 ovarian and 16 testicular. In 2013–2014; 100% of procurement was ovarian as compared to 2023; 51% ovarian, 49% testicular. Of the 395 referrals in 2021, 81% (n = 319) went on to have procurement and storage of tissue. Between 2013 and 2016, 96% of cases were performed at the Hub. In 2023, 53/349 (15%) cases were performed at the Hub with the remaining 296 (85%) procured at Spoke sites. Surgical issues such as access to theatre, variation and availability of surgical equipment, thermal injury to ovarian tissue and variation in the size of the testicular specimen were identified.

Conclusion

The Hub and Spoke model successfully delivers treatment to patients close to home as safely possible within their local treatment centre.
Influence of smoking and socioeconomic status on labor analgesia: a nationwide register-based study in Finland
Authors: Haapanen M. , Kuitunen I. , Vaajala M.
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Labor pain can be treated by medical and non-medical analgesia. Smoking during pregnancy has been shown to increase the incidence of several complications and may influence analgesic effectiveness. Previous studies have linked socioeconomic status to the use of epidurals for labor analgesia. We aimed to determine whether smoking and socioeconomic status influence the use of labor analgesia in Finland.

Methods

From January 1, 2004 to December 31, 2018, we collected data from the national Finnish Medical Birth Register on smoking status, labor analgesia, and socioeconomic status during pregnancy. These categorized variables were presented as absolute numbers and percentages. We included data on singleton pregnancies and excluded any data on pregnancies that missed smoking or socioeconomic status.

Results

71,603 women smoked during the first trimester, 42,079 women continued to smoke after the first trimester, and 641,449 were non-smokers. The four most used labor analgesia were nitrous oxide, epidural, other medical analgesia, and non-medical analgesia. The most frequently used analgesia was nitrous oxide, which was used by 60.8% of the group of smokers after the first trimester, 58.8% of smokers during the first trimester, and 54.5% of non-smokers. There were no substantial differences between socioeconomic status classes and labor analgesia used.

Conclusion

Women who continued smoking after the first trimester used labor analgesia more often than non-smokers. There were no clear differences between socioeconomic status classes and labor analgesia used. These findings highlight the need to reduce maternal smoking during pregnancy, and universal social healthcare systems should promote equality in labor analgesia.
The experience of fertility concerns in patients with testicular cancer: a qualitative study
Authors: Hu Ya , Fu Xue , Jiang Xiaoya , Jiang Mengxiao , Zheng Xia , Lu Huiming , Xu Man
Published: July 2024

Background

Testicular cancer usually occurs in young adult men between the ages of 20 and 40 years, which largely coincides with the age of men’s reproductive intentions. However, a serious side effect of testicular cancer therapy could reduce the fertility of patients.

Purpose

To explore the experience of fertility concerns in patients with testicular cancer.

Methods

A phenomenological research was conducted on 12 patients with testicular cancer. Data collection was from May 2023 to August 2023, and Colaizzi analysis method was used to analyze the data.

Results

Four themes were found: (1) multiple worries and negative emotions, (2) fertility decision-making faces many challenges, (3) self-coping strategies for facing fertility concerns, (4) unmet supportive care needs.

Conclusion

Medical staff should pay attention to the fertility needs of patients with testicular cancer and provide relevant interventions and support to reduce their fertility concerns.
Chimera states and information transfer in interacting populations of map-based neurons
Authors: Márquez-Rodríguez V. J. , Tucci K. , Cosenza M. G.
Published: July 2024

We investigate the synchronization behavior and the emergence of chimera states in a system of two interacting populations of maps possessing chaotic neural-like dynamics. We characterize four collective states on the space of coupling parameters of the system: complete synchronization, generalized synchronization, chimera states, and incoherence. We quantify the information exchange between the two neuron populations in chimera states. We have found a well-defined direction of the flow of information in chimera states, from the desynchronized population to the synchronized one. The incoherent population functions as a driver of the coherent neuron population in a chimera state. This feature is independent of the population sizes or population partitions. Our results yield insight into the communication mechanisms arising in brain processes such as unihemispheric sleep and epileptic seizures that have been associated to chimera states.
Influence of endodontic access cavity design on mechanical properties of a first mandibular premolar tooth: a finite element analysis study
Authors: Özyürek Taha , Uslu Gülşah , Arıcan Burçin , Gündoğar Mustafa , Nekoofar Mohammad Hossein , Dummer Paul Michael Howell
Published: July 2024

Objectives

This study aimed to investigate the influence of access cavity designs on the mechanical properties of a single-rooted mandibular first premolar tooth under various static loads using a finite element analysis.

Materials and methods

3-dimensional FEA designs were modeled according to the access cavity designs: an intact tooth (control), traditional access cavity (TEC-I), traditional access cavity with Class-II mesio-occlusal cavity design (TEC-II), conservative access cavity (CEC), ninja access cavity (NEC), caries-driven access cavity (Cd-EC), buccal access cavity (BEC) and bucco-occlusal access cavity (BOEC). After the simulated access cavity preparations, root canal treatment was simulated and three different static loads which mimicked oblique and vertical mastication forces were applied to the models. The stress distribution and maximum Von Misses stress values were recorded. The maximum stress values were obtained on both enamel and dentin under multi-point vertical loads.

Results

The maximum stress values were obtained on both enamel and dentin under multi-point vertical loads. Under all load types, the minimum stress distribution was observed in the control group, followed by CEC, NEC and BEC designs. The highest stress concentration was detected in Cd-EC and TEC-II designs. Under single-point vertical loading, the stress was mostly concentrated in the lingual PCD area, while under multi-point vertical loading, the entire root surface was stress-loaded except for the lingual apical third of the root.

Conclusion

Preserving tooth tissue by simulating CEC, NEC and BEC access cavities increased the load capacity of a single-rooted mandibular first premolar following simulated endodontic treatment.
Oral condition at admission predicts functional outcomes and hospital-acquired pneumonia development among acute ischemic stroke patients
Authors: Eto Futoshi , Nezu Tomohisa , Nishi Hiromi , Aoki Shiro , Tasaka Saki , Horikoshi Susumu , Yano Kanako , Kawaguchi Hiroyuki , Maruyama Hirofumi
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Oral care is crucial for the prevention of cardiovascular events and pneumonia. However, few studies have evaluated the associations between multidimensional assessments of oral status or functional outcomes and hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP).

Methods

Consecutive patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) were retrospectively analyzed. We evaluated the modified oral assessment grade (mOAG) and investigated its association with a modified Rankin scale (mRS) score of 0‒2 (good stroke outcome) and HAP. The mOAG was developed to evaluate 8 categories (lip, tongue, coated tongue, saliva, mucosa, gingiva, preservation, and gargling) on a 4-point scale ranging from 0 to 3. We analyzed the effectiveness of the mOAG score for predicting stroke outcome or HAP using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis.

Results

In total, 247 patients with AIS were analyzed. The area under the ROC curve of the mOAG for predicting poor outcomes was 0.821 (cutoff value: 7), and that for HAP incidence was 0.783 (cutoff value: 8). mOAG (a one-point increase) was associated with poor stroke outcome (odds ratio [OR] 1.31, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.17‒1.48, P < 0.001) and HAP (OR 1.21, 95% CI 1.07‒1.38, P = 0.003) after adjusting for baseline clinical characteristics, including age and stroke severity.

Conclusions

Lower mOAG scores at admission were independently associated with good outcomes and a decreased incidence of HAP. Comprehensive oral assessments are essential for acute stroke patients in clinical settings.
Numerical simulation of P and S wave propagation in porous and low porosity carbonate rocks: laboratory tests, automatic P and S waves detection and FLAC3D simulation
Authors: Besharatinezhad Ali , Török Ákos
Published: July 2024

This study presents laboratory measurements of P and S wave velocities of two carbonate rocks (porous limestone and yellow cemented limestone). The experimental results were validated and compared with the numerical simulation outputs using the 3D Fast Lagrangian Analysis of Continua software (FLAC3D). The main aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of frequency and mode of emission on ultrasonic pulse velocity (UPV) by applying an automatic method for the determination of P and S wave velocities. Based on the results, automatic detection of UPV can provide reliable outputs. The difference between numerical simulation results and laboratory measurement in terms of P and S wave velocities was, on average, around 7%, suggesting the applicability of the automatic detection method. Our study implies less noise in the perfect shear (PS) mode than in the single zone (SZ) emission mode. In summary, higher frequencies and the PS mode of emission are recommended.
A novel prognostic model of de novo metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer to optimize treatment intensity
Authors: Fujiwara Hiroshi , Kubota Masashi , Hidaka Yu , Ito Kaoru , Kawahara Takashi , Kurahashi Ryoma , Hattori Yuto , Shiraishi Yusuke , Hama Yusuke , Makita Noriyuki , Tashiro Yu , Hatano Shotaro , Ikeuchi Ryosuke , Nakashima Masakazu , Utsunomiya Noriaki , Takashima Yasushi , Somiya Shinya , Nagahama Kanji , Fujimoto Takeru , Shimizu Kosuke , Imai Kazuto , Takahashi Takehiro , Sumiyoshi Takayuki , Goto Takayuki , Morita Satoshi , Kobayashi Takashi , Akamatsu Shusuke
Published: July 2024

Background

The treatment and prognosis of de novo metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer (mHSPC) vary. We established and validated a novel prognostic model for predicting cancer-specific survival (CSS) in patients with mHSPC using retrospective data from a contemporary cohort.

Methods

1092 Japanese patients diagnosed with de novo mHSPC between 2014 and 2020 were registered. The patients treated with androgen deprivation therapy and first-generation anti-androgens (ADT/CAB) were assigned to the Discovery (N = 467) or Validation (N = 328) cohorts. Those treated with ADT and androgen-receptor signaling inhibitors (ARSIs) were assigned to the ARSI cohort (N = 81).

Results

Using the Discovery cohort, independent prognostic factors of CSS, the extent of disease score ≥ 2 or the presence of liver metastasis; lactate dehydrogenase levels > 250U/L; a primary Gleason pattern of 5, and serum albumin levels ≤ 3.7 g/dl, were identified. The prognostic model incorporating these factors showed high predictability and reproducibility in the Validation cohort. The 5-year CSS of the low-risk group was 86% and that of the high-risk group was 22%. Approximately 26.4%, 62.7%, and 10.9% of the patients in the Validation cohort defined as high-risk by the LATITUDE criteria were further grouped into high-, intermediate-, and low-risk groups by the new model with significant differences in CSS. In the ARSIs cohort, high-risk group had a significantly shorter time to castration resistance than the intermediate-risk group.

Conclusions

The novel model based on prognostic factors can predict patient outcomes with high accuracy and reproducibility. The model may be used to optimize the treatment intensity of de novo mHSPC.
Farm management practices and host species richness associated with higher likelihood of tuberculosis positive farms in Western Spain
Authors: Herrero-García Gloria , Vaz-Rodrigues Rita , Pozo Pilar , Barroso Patricia , Relimpio David , Nácar Jesús , Grau Anna , Mínguez Olga , García-Rodríguez Alberto , Balseiro Ana , Gortázar Christian
Published: July 2024

Despite enormous efforts, complete animal tuberculosis (TB) eradication has only been achieved in few regions. Epidemiological analyses are key to identify TB risk factors and set up targeted biosecurity measures. Here, we conducted an in-depth characterization of 84 extensive beef cattle farms from a high TB prevalence region in Western Spain, and assessed how farm management and wildlife presence on farms contribute to cattle TB risk. Twenty-six out of 84 variables were associated with cattle farm TB positivity. Farm management variables associated with TB positivity included older cattle, larger herd size, highly fragmented farm structure and greater connectivity between farms. TB-positive farms provided supplemental feed over a higher number of months, used calf feeders, and had higher number of waterholes. Detecting Eurasian wild boar (Sus scrofa), red fox (Vulpes vulpes), European badger (Meles meles), roe deer (Capreolus capreolus), or Egyptian mongoose (Herpestes ichneumon) on cattle farms was also associated with farm TB positivity. The best ordinal regression model indicated that in farms with a large herd size (> 167 animals) the odds of being positive or recurrently positive (versus negative) was 7.34 (95% CI = 2.43–23.51) times higher that of farms with small herd size. Further, for every additional host species detected in the farm premises, the odds of being TB-positive increased 56%. We conclude that both cattle management and wildlife need to be targeted for successful TB control in grazing-based farming systems.
The Effect of Customers’ Unethical Practices on Suppliers’ Intention to Continue Their Relationships
Authors: Prajogo Daniel , Cooper Brian , Donohue Ross , Nair Anand
Published: July 2024

This study examines inter-firm buyer–supplier relationships through an ethical lens. Drawing on the concept of reciprocity in social exchange theory as well as resource dependence theory, we examine the effect of customers’ unethical practices on their suppliers’ intention to continue their business relationships with their customers. Specifically, we distinguish two types of unethical practices: unfair business practices, which directly target suppliers and socially irresponsible practices, which have an impact on wider society. Integrating social exchange theory and resource dependence theory, we investigate the effects of two moderating factors: suppliers’ dependence on their customers and the benefits derived from the supplier–customer relationship. Using data obtained from 506 managers from small-to-medium-sized firms, our findings show that both customers’ unfair business practices and socially irresponsible practices have negative relationships with their suppliers’ intention to continue the relationships. These effects are moderated by supplier dependence and benefits derived from their customers. Overall, our study shows that intention to continue in these relationships, in response to unethical practices by customers, is bounded by supplier self-interest and resource dependence. Our study is one of the few to examine suppliers’ responses to unethical practices and our findings are consistent with the notion of weak reciprocity, rather than strong reciprocity that predominates in the literature.
Rural development opportunities through contextual interventions: a systematic review
Authors: Undurraga José Tomás , Pokorny Benno
Published: July 2024

Classic technical assistance to local resource users in tropical agrarian frontiers has shown important successes but also has been criticized for being expensive, dependency creating, and destructive to traditional social-ecological systems. Alternatively, supporting rural families by improving their contexts might have the potential to more effectively unlock the individual and collective capacities of local resource users. This literature review systematically explores the state of knowledge on contextual interventions and their effects on small-scale farmers. It outlines five contextual categories and 17 contextual elements, and document for each element the quality of data, as well as the reported social, economic, and environmental effects. Literature on local development effects of contextual elements increased considerably in the last 40 years with an increasing focus on governance, but there are still important blind spots regarding the effect of education and logistics. Overall, the review indicates that contextual interventions should be more considered to support rural families in tropical agrarian frontiers.
Effect of interlayer spacing on the electronic and optical properties of SnS2/graphene/SnS2 sandwich heterostructure: a density functional theory study
Authors: Idisi David O. , Benecha Evans M. , Mwakikunga Bonex , Asante Joseph K. O.
Published: July 2024

The formation of metal dichalcogenide heterostructures enables tailoring their properties for future optoelectronics and energy storage. The current paper focuses on the study of the effect of interlayer spacing on the electronic and optical properties of SnS2/graphene/SnS2 sandwich heterostructure, using density functional theory electronic structure calculations. We find low cohesive energies/ per atom ($$0.0506 \to 0.0514$$

0.0506
→
0.0514

 eV) for all the various interlayer spacing configurations (1–5 Å) considered in this study, implying the feasibility of experimental realization. The Mulliken charge transfer analysis suggests negative to positive net charge ($$-0.12 \to 0.18$$

-
0.12
→
0.18

) transfer for 1–3 Å threshold interlayer spacing, which implies acceptor and donor charge transfer configurations. The density of states of SnS2/graphene/SnS2 retains unoccupied states for all the interlayer spacing configurations, which can be attributed to localized exciton states and strong electronic coupling between the electrons within the heterostructure layers. We further find a strong optical response and localized electronic transport, which can pave the way for optoelectronic applications of this material heterostructure.
Rarefaction pulses on tensegrity lattices are just $$\text {sech}^2$$-solitary (dark) waves
Authors: de Castro Motta Julia , Fraternali Fernando , Saccomandi Giuseppe
Published: July 2024

This study investigates the propagation of rarefaction solitary waves in one-dimensional, tensegrity-like mass-spring lattices that are subject to an initial state of pre-compression. The analyzed systems exhibit a cubic interaction potential between adjacent masses that accurately captures the constitutive response of tensegrity prisms with elastically softening behavior. Analytical results are presented for the propagation of rarefaction solitary waves that produce a reduction of the initial prestress exhibited by the system. It is known in the literature that the use of cubic interaction potentials in one-dimensional lattices enables the prediction of the propagation of solitary waves with sech$$^2$$

2

profile. Investigating the particular case of pre-compressed, softening-type tensegrity lattices, this study shows that such a noticeable result can be derived using both the classical and the improved Boussinesq equation. The given results reveal the presence of rarefaction solitary waves in a suitable range of wave speeds, and offer an explicit formula for the upper bound of the rarefaction wave speed that leaves the system in a compressed state. The outcomes of the present work pave the way to the development of analytic models for the design of radically new, metamaterial-type impact protection systems. Numerical simulations show the ability of the tensegrity-like model in predicting the propagation of rarefaction solitary waves in a physical model of a tensegrity mass-spring chain.
The Energy Absorption Rate for Three Metal Nano-ellipsoids in a Three-Dimensional Hybrid System
Authors: Hashim Hala M. , Abd-Elnabi Somia
Published: July 2024

We study the properties of the three-dimensional hybrid system consisting of three metal nano-ellipsoids and semiconductor quantum dots. Our objective is to determine the energy absorption rate of the three metal nano-ellipsoids caused by the indirect contribution of the interaction between the semiconductor quantum dot and the three metal nano-ellipsoids. We compare two situations for the direction of the three external fields and the dipole moment of MNEs. We found that the energy absorption rate depends on the three semi-axes and therefore the polarizability of the three metal nano-ellipsoids. Moreover, the distance between the semiconductor quantum dot and the three metal nano-ellipsoid affects the energy absorption rate. We illustrated that the Rabi frequency of the first external field significantly influences the energy absorption rate.
Forest Owner Attitudes and Preferences for Voluntary Temporary Forest Conservation
Authors: Kosenius Anna-Kaisa
Published: July 2024

This study explores attitudes and preferences of Finnish non-industrial private forest owners for voluntary temporary forest conservation. The survey data, collected with the best–worst scaling and discrete choice methods, focus on a conservation program that incentivizes forest owners for biodiversity conservation and carbon sequestration. Forest owners are willing to conserve simultaneously biodiversity and forest carbon. They prefer non-profit organization as implementer of program, suggesting alternative to current implementation of forest conservation by authorities. Forest owners’ interest in forest conservation program increases with shorter contract and higher payment, both aspects being subject to preference heterogeneity. Forest owners differ in terms of the perceived importance of ecological, economic and social aspects of sustainability of forestry. Heterogeneity in attitudes and preferences stems from the size of forest land, gender, freetime home located on forest site, and place of residence.
Tree failure – A natural phenomenon with forensic implications
Authors: Byard Roger W.
Published: July 2024

Tree failure, or summer branch drop, refers to situations where large branches or whole trees may unexpectedly drop on unsuspecting victims. On occasion, this involves vehicles impacted by falling overhanging trees or branches. To study this phenomenon further review of the Forensic Science SA, Adelaide, Australia, database and an internet news search were undertaken over a 20 year period from March 2004 to February 2024 for all cases where unexpected accidental deaths in South Australia had been caused by falling branches or trees. There were six cases (age range 12–63 years; average 39 years; M:F 1:2). Three deaths occurred when branches dropped onto vehicles being driven along roads, 2 occurred when entire trees dropped onto the victims (one in windy weather) and 1 was due to a branch drop. Three tree species were identified as a grey box gum tree (Eucalyptus microcarpa), a lemon-scented gum tree (Corymbia citriodora) and a Cottonwood tree (Populus deltoides). The remainder were variants of eucalyptus (gum) trees. Deaths due to tree failures are uncommon and may involve a variety of different tree species with these events not necessarily occurring during high winds or storms. The major findings at autopsy are blunt force injuries.