bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Visual nutrition analysis: leveraging segmentation and regression for food nutrient estimation
Authors: Zhao Yaping , Zhu Ping , Jiang Yizhang , Xia Kaijian
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Nutrition is closely related to body health. A reasonable diet structure not only meets the body’s needs for various nutrients but also effectively prevents many chronic diseases. However, due to the general lack of systematic nutritional knowledge, people often find it difficult to accurately assess the nutritional content of food. In this context, image-based nutritional evaluation technology can provide significant assistance. Therefore, we are dedicated to directly predicting the nutritional content of dishes through images. Currently, most related research focuses on estimating the volume or area of food through image segmentation tasks and then calculating its nutritional content based on the food category. However, this method often lacks real nutritional content labels as a reference, making it difficult to ensure the accuracy of the predictions.

Methods

To address this issue, we combined segmentation and regression tasks and used the Nutrition5k dataset, which contains detailed nutritional content labels but no segmentation labels, for manual segmentation annotation. Based on these annotated data, we developed a nutritional content prediction model that performs segmentation first and regression afterward. Specifically, we first applied the UNet model to segment the food, then used a backbone network to extract features, and enhanced the feature expression capability through the Squeeze-and-Excitation structure. Finally, the extracted features were processed through several fully connected layers to obtain predictions for the weight, calories, fat, carbohydrates, and protein content.

Results and discussion

Our model achieved an outstanding average percentage mean absolute error (PMAE) of 17.06% for these components. All manually annotated segmentation labels can be found at https://doi.org/10.6084/m9.figshare.26252048.v1.
Das Paradigma der Pronomina quis/qui im „Russischen Donat“
Authors: Podtergera Irina
Published: December 2024

This article focuses on the history of the grammatical term pronomen relativum. This question is addressed in the light of the treatment of the inflectional paradigm quis/qui in the so-called “Russian Donatus”, which was translated from Latin by Dimitrii Gerasimov in the late 15th century. The Russian translation from Latin came into being in a German-speaking milieu and was influenced by German grammatical terminology. The analysis of the history of the terminological expression pronomen relativum draws on a broader context of the tradition of Latin and Greek as well as West and East Slavic grammaticography from the time. This enables us to show how the concept of the ‘pronoun’ was understood in the pre-modern linguistic theory of the Latin West and how this concept was received in the (East) Slavic sprachraum.
Casus septimus, ultimus, localis, positivus – określenia miejscownika w łacińskojęzycznych gramatykach języka polskiego
Authors: Zawadzka Magdalena
Published: December 2024

Tradtional Latin grammatical terminology, due to the great similarity and close links between Latin and Polish, was well suited to describe Polish. This is evidenced by the fact that Latin-language grammars and Polish language textbooks rarely needed to use terms different from those used to describe Latin. It happened only in cases of significant differences between Polish and Latin. One such situation is the partial discrepancy in the case system of the languages in question (Latin has 6 of them, Polish has 7). This difference caused the need to find a name for the ‘extra’ Polish case. This article presents definitions of the locative taken from the textbooks of Statorius-Stojeński, Volckmar, Meniński, Woyna and Malicki, attempts to find an adequate Latin term for it, and indicates the sources of the terms used by the authors mentioned.
Numerical Investigation of Non-Equilibrium Condensation in a Supersonic Nozzle Based on Spontaneous Nucleation
Authors: Kouchaksaraei Saman Javadi , Akrami Mohammad
Published: December 2024

Non-equilibrium condensation involves intricate physics, making it crucial to thoroughly investigate the factors that influence it. Understanding these factors is essential for optimizing the system performance and minimizing the negative effects associated with non-equilibrium condensation. This study focused on examining the impact of various operational conditions in a saturated mode on non-equilibrium condensation within a supersonic nozzle. The operation conditions under investigation involved pressures of 25 kPa, 50 kPa, 75 kPa, and 100 kPa. Each saturation state was examined to assess its effect on various parameters, such as temperature, pressure, liquid mass fraction, droplet radius, nucleation rate, Mach number, and droplet count. A consistent pattern emerged across all samples. As the gas accelerated through the converging section of the nozzle, both pressure and temperature gradually decreased. However, upon reaching the throat and entering the divergent section, a phenomenon known as condensation shock occurred. This shock wave caused a sudden and significant spike in both pressure and temperature. Following the shock, both parameters resumed their downward trend along the remaining length of the nozzle. Interestingly, increasing the initial pressure of the gas led to a less intense condensation shock. Additionally, raising the saturation pressure at the nozzle inlet resulted in larger droplets and a higher concentration of liquid within the gas flow. By quadrupling the inlet saturation pressure from 25 to 100 kPa, a substantial 106.9% increase in droplet radius and a 9.65% increase in liquid mass fraction were observed at the nozzle outlet.
Experimental Verification of the Flexible Wheels for Planetary Rovers with the Push–Pull Locomotion Function
Authors: He Qingze , Fujiwara Daisuke , Iizuka Kojiro
Published: December 2024

For push–pull locomotion, it has been confirmed by this research group that the support force of the wheels is enhanced by performing the sinking operation to provide support force. However, the sinking operation is an additional operation used for the rover to travel. Ideally, if the rover can operate without sinking, travel efficiency is improved. On the other hand, flexible wheels are often used for the rover. Due to stress dispersion, these wheels are less likely to damage the ground. Therefore, it would be beneficial if the use of these wheels could improve the travel ability of the push–pull motion. In this study, we focused on whether the use of flexible wheels can avoid subsidence and tested their performance through different parameters.
Innovative Approaches in Agricultural Sustainability and Environmental Impact Management: Challenges and Opportunities
Authors: Chen Weiwei , Xie Qiuju , Guo Li
Published: December 2024

The importance of sustainable agricultural practices has gained global recognition over recent decades [...]
Explainable Machine Learning to Map the Impact of Weather and Soil on Wheat Yield and Revenue Across the Eastern Australian Grain Belt
Authors: Filippi Patrick , Whelan Brett M. , Bishop Thomas F. A.
Published: December 2024

Understanding the causes of spatiotemporal variation in crop yields across large areas is important in closing yield gaps and producing more food for the growing global population. While there has been much focus on using data-driven models to predict crop yield, there is also an opportunity to use these empirical models to understand which factors are driving variations in yield and to quantify their contributions. This study uses a large database of 625 rainfed wheat yield maps from 14 different seasons (2007–2020) across the eastern grain belt of Australia. XGBoost models were used, with predictors including maps of soil attributes (e.g., pH and sodicity), along with weather indices (rainfall, frost, heat, growing degree days). The model and predictors could accurately predict field-scale yield, with a Lin’s concordance correlation coefficient (LCCC) of 0.78 with 10-fold cross-validation. SHapley Additive exPlanation (SHAP), a form of interpretive machine learning (IML), values were then used to assess the impact of the variables on yield. The SHAP values for each predictor were also mapped onto a grid of the study area for the 2020 season, which showed the impact of each predictor on wheat yield (t ha−1) and revenue (AUD ($) ha−1) in interpretable units. Weather variables, such as rainfall and heat events, had the largest impact on yield. Although generally less significant, soil constraints such as soil sodicity were still important in driving yield. The results also showed that despite their largely temporally stable nature, soil constraints impact yield differently, depending on seasonal conditions. Overall, data-driven models and IML proved valuable in understanding the impact of important weather and soil variables on wheat yield and revenue across the eastern Australian grain belt. This could be used to determine the magnitude and economic impact of soil constraints and extreme weather on crops across regions and to inform policies and farm management decisions.
Bioleaching of Metal-Polluted Mine Tailings: A Comparative Approach Between Ex Situ Slurry-Phase Stirred Reactors Versus In Situ Electrokinetic Percolation
Authors: Acosta Hernández Irene , Muñoz Morales Martín , Fernández Morales Francisco Jesús , Rodríguez Romero Luis , Villaseñor Camacho José
Published: December 2024

This work compares two technologies for the remediation of metal-polluted mine tailings based on lab-scale bioleaching experiments performed in (a) conventional agitated slurry-phase reactors and (b) in situ electrokinetic percolation. While ex situ bioleaching in agitated reactors has been widely studied, only a few previous works have studied the in situ option that couples bioleaching and electrokinetics. Real mine tailings from an abandoned sphalerite mine in southern Spain were used. The leaching medium was externally generated in a bioreactor using an autochthonous acidophilic culture and then added to tailings in batch experiments. This medium enabled metal leaching from mine tailings without the stringent operating conditions required by a classic bioleaching process. Metal removal efficiencies and kinetic rate constants after 15 d of treatments were calculated. Additionally, advantages or disadvantages between the two methods were discussed. The results for the innovative EK-percolation method showed rates and efficiencies that were comparable to, and in some cases better than, those achieved with conventional stirred slurry systems.
A Charged Relativistic Engine Based on a Permanent Magnet
Authors: Sharma Prachi , Yahalom Asher
Published: December 2024

This paper aims to describe and analyze a relativistic engine that uses a permanent magnet and an electrically charged device. This is a novel device that was not described before. According to Newton’s third law, every action is met with an equal and opposite reaction, meaning the total force in a system unaffected by external forces is zero. However, relativity principles state that signals cannot travel faster than the speed of light, so actions and reactions cannot occur simultaneously. As a result, the total force cannot be zero at any given moment. This implies that the system gains mechanical momentum and energy over a finite period. The question then arises about how to uphold the law of momentum and energy conservation. It has been shown that momentum is balanced by an equal and opposite momentum in the field, while the energy gained by the engine is offset by a reduction in the field’s energy. Previous analyses assumed that the bodies involved were macroscopically neutral, meaning the number of electrons and ions was equal in every volume element. This paper relaxes that assumption and examines charged bodies interacting with magnetic currents from permanent magnetic materials, exploring the implications for a charged relativistic engine based on a permanent magnet.
Dual-Path Beat Tracking: Combining Temporal Convolutional Networks and Transformers in Parallel
Authors: Thapa Nikhil , Lee Joonwhoan
Published: December 2024

The Transformer, a deep learning architecture, has shown exceptional adaptability across fields, including music information retrieval (MIR). Transformers excel at capturing global, long-range dependencies in sequences, which is valuable for tracking rhythmic patterns over time. Temporal Convolutional Networks (TCNs), with their dilated convolutions, are effective at processing local, temporal patterns with reduced complexity. Combining these complementary characteristics, global sequence modeling from Transformers and local temporal detail from TCNs enhances beat tracking while reducing the model’s overall complexity. To capture beat intervals of varying lengths and ensure optimal alignment of beat predictions, the model employs a Dynamic Bayesian Network (DBN), followed by Viterbi decoding for effective post-processing. This system is evaluated across diverse public datasets spanning various music genres and styles, achieving performance on par with current state-of-the-art methods yet with fewer trainable parameters. Additionally, we also explore the interpretability of the model using Grad-CAM to visualize the model’s learned features, offering insights into how the TCN-Transformer hybrid captures rhythmic patterns in the data.
Key Parameters of the Roof Cutting and Pressure Relief Technology in the Pre-Splitting Blasting of a Hard Roof in Guqiao Coal Mine
Authors: You Hanlin , Liu Zegong
Published: December 2024

The phenomenon of crushing the support of the hard roof of a coal seam occurs occasionally during the coal mining process. However, making the hard roof fall is difficult due to its good integrity and high strength. A vast area of unsupported, suspended roof can easily form in the goaf, inducing the hidden dangers of rock burst and coal and gas outbursts. A deep-hole pre-splitting blasting technique is used to fracture the roof and relieve the pressure exerted by the rigid roof in order to improve the caving of the hard roof and protect the stability of the roadway, ensuring safe and effective operational production of the 1127 (1) working face in Guqiao Coal Mine. By collecting field samples, the mechanical properties of relevant rock formations are ascertained. Combining numerical simulation with theoretical computation, a roof cutting pressure-relief scheme with a roof cutting height of 13.5 m and a roof cutting angle of 20° is selected. This scheme can decrease the peak vertical stress on the roadway roof from 22.01 MPa to 13.63 MPa compared to when roof cutting is not performed. By ensuring the effectiveness of roof cutting for pressure relief, this scheme can optimize the actual construction workload to a minimum. The study’s conclusions provide insightful information and can be used as a guide for future research on related technical topics.
Cueing Interventions for Gait and Balance in Parkinson’s Disease: A Scoping Review of Current Evidence
Authors: Giorgi Federica , Donati Danilo , Tedeschi Roberto
Published: December 2024

Background: Cueing interventions, which utilize external auditory, visual, or somatosensory stimuli, are increasingly used to improve motor performance in individuals with Parkinson’s disease (PD). This review explores the effectiveness of cueing on gait, balance, and quality of life outcomes in PD. Methods: A scoping review of six studies was conducted, focusing on the impact of cueing interventions on gait parameters, balance stability, and functional outcomes in PD patients. Studies were evaluated for methodological quality using the PEDro scale, and risk of bias was assessed with RoB 2. Results: Cueing interventions consistently improved gait parameters, with five studies showing significant increases in step length. The results for walking speed were more varied, with some studies reporting statistically significant gains while others found non-significant or mixed outcomes. Balance improvements were noted in dynamic balance measures, though static balance effects were less consistent. Two studies observed long-term benefits at follow-up, particularly when interventions were structured and supervised. The quality of life improvements were limited, with only one study measuring this outcome and showing no significant changes. Conclusions: Cueing interventions demonstrate potential for enhancing gait and dynamic balance in PD, though effects on quality of life remain uncertain. Early and structured implementation of cueing, especially with auditory stimuli, may support functional gains in PD management. Further research is required to establish optimal cueing protocols and long-term benefits.
Study on the Uncertainty of Input Variables in Seismic Fragility Curves Based on the Number of Ground Motions
Authors: Park Sangki , Seo Dongwoo , Jung Kyusan , Kim Jaehwan
Published: December 2024

Seismic fragility curves, derived from ground motion data, are essential tools for predicting and assessing potential damage to structures during earthquakes. Seismic fragility curves are vital for assessing the structural behavior of buildings and establishing disaster response criteria when an earthquake occurs. We performed an incremental dynamic analysis based on 400 ground motion data. We sampled various sets of ground motions (10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 150, 200, 250, 300, and 350) and derived seismic fragility curves for three performance criteria, based on inter-story drift, by conducting 100,000 simulations for two steel frame structures each (6-story and 13-story). Fewer ground motions increase the uncertainty of the seismic fragility curve, distorting the results. Conversely, increasing the number of ground motions improves the reliability of the input variables and enhances the consistency of the results. The median and the logarithmic standard deviation for both structures converged toward the reference values when 30 or more ground motions were used. Similar results were observed when ≥50 ground motions were used. Specifically, more ground motions corresponded with a lower uncertainty in deriving the input variables for the seismic fragility curve, improving the reliability of the results. In conclusion, the number of ground motions used is directly related to the computational time for numerical analysis when deriving seismic fragility curves. Therefore, considering an appropriate number of ground motions is crucial to enhancing the reliability of the input variables used in evaluating the structural performance.
Prediction of Lower Leg Swelling in Driving Posture
Authors: Kajitani Fuka , Kato Takeo , Hirao Akinari
Published: December 2024

This study focused on lower leg swelling as a typical physical load in prolonged sitting postures such as driving. We obtained prediction equations for lower leg swelling (ratio of the inverse of the measured impedance to the initial impedance and lower leg swelling assessment value, BI [%]) from thigh pressure distribution, participants’ physical characteristics, and sitting time. A total of 22 participants (11 males and 11 females) were recruited. The impedance in the lower leg and thigh pressure distribution were measured over 90 min in a sitting posture at three tilt angles (8°, 0°, and −8° from the horizontal plane). Multiple regression analysis was performed to construct prediction equations for lower leg swelling in the males, the females, and all the participants. Bioelectrical impedance was selected as the dependent variable, with height, body fat percentage, thigh pressure distribution, and sitting time as the independent variables. The validity of all constructed prediction equations for the males, the females, and all the participants was confirmed by an adjusted R2. These findings can be used to develop a device to prevent lower leg swelling (the main problem resulting from a prolonged sitting posture) and can be applied to automobile seats, aircraft seats, and office chairs.
Long-Term Monitoring of the Behavior of Modified Bitumens of RC Type
Authors: Varaus Michal , Dašek Ondřej , Hýzl Petr , Stehlík Dušan , Spiegl Markus
Published: December 2024

This paper discusses the properties of OMV Starfalt® PmB 45/80 RC bituminous binder developed by the Austrian oil company OMV Downstream GmbH (OMV, Vienna, Austria), intended to be used for the recycling of reclaimed asphalt mixtures (RAP). The binder is characterized by various adjusted properties like higher needle penetration, higher softening point and higher elastic recovery (close to 95–100%), with the aim to compensate for the properties of the aged binder contained in the reclaimed asphalt. Three experimental sections were laid in the Czech Republic. Monitoring was performed on these sections (cores were taken after 0, 6, 12, 24, 44 and 93 months) with a consecutive analysis of the properties of the used binder—the binder was extracted from the cores and tested for penetration, softening point, critical temperature at bending beam rheometer (BBR), complex modulus and phase angle using a dynamic shear rheometer (DSR). The previously described binder was used during the construction of trial sections in the villages Domasov and Lednice and near the city Opava. In the first case, a surface course mixture of asphalt concrete type (AC surf 11+) contained 18% of RAP, whereas in the second and third case, a binder course mixture of asphalt concrete type (AC bin 22 S) comprised 23% and 39% of RAP, respectively. After approx. 8 years (Domasov and Lednice) and 3.5 years (Opava) in service, no failures or defects were recorded at any of the sections. This paper gives an update of the research work carried out in 2019 with the latest results from 2023.
Unified Elasto-Plastic Solution for High-Speed Railway Tunnel in Cold Regions Considering Dual Transverse Isotropic Model of Frozen Rock Mass
Authors: Zhao Peng , Ma Weibin , Fang Qian
Published: December 2024

Frost damage is one of the main influencing factors for the deterioration of support structures in cold-region tunnels. A new dual transverse isotropic model of frozen rock mass is first proposed based on parameter strain and elastic modulus to serve as the theoretical basis for tunnel operation safety in cold regions. Subsequently, a unified elasto-plastic solution for high-speed railway tunnels in cold regions is derived based on the new dual transverse isotropic model, and the accuracy of the analytical solution is verified by comparisons with existing models and experimental results. Finally, the effect of the model parameters on stress and displacement is explored. The results reveal a significant negative correlation between the plastic radius of the frozen rock mass zone and the pressure acting on the inner surface of the support structure, the influence coefficient of intermediate principal stress, radial-gradient influence coefficient of the frozen rock mass, and anisotropic frost heave coefficient of the frozen rock mass, as well as between the frost-heaving force and the influence coefficient of intermediate principal stress parameter. However, the frost-heaving force is positively correlated with the pressure acting on the inner surface of the support structure, the radial gradient influence coefficient of the frozen rock mass, and the anisotropic frost heave coefficients of the frozen rock mass. Therefore, the pressure acting on the inner surface of the support structure, the radial gradient influence co-efficient of the frozen rock mass, and the anisotropic frost heave coefficients of frozen rock mass should be reasonably considered, but the strength theory of the surrounding rock should be strongly considered in the design of tunnel structures in cold regions.
Optimization of Active Distribution Network Operation with SOP Considering Reverse Power Flow
Authors: Ma Zhanhui , Cao Fang
Published: December 2024

As the penetration of distributed renewable energy increases, the phenomenon of bidirectional power flow in distribution networks becomes increasingly severe. Traditional regulation devices like OLTC (on-load tap changer) and CB (capacitor bank) cannot effectively mitigate reverse power flow in distribution networks due to their limitations. The transmission capacity of the distribution network under reverse power flow is approximately 50% of the rated capacity of the OLTC, leading to issues such as voltage limit violations and high wind and solar curtailment rates. This paper proposes a method for calculating the reverse power flow delivery capacity of distribution networks, quantitatively describing the distribution network’s delivery limits for reverse power flow. Based on this, a joint optimization model for multiple distribution networks with an SOP is established. The SOP is utilized to share reverse power flow delivery capacity among multiple distribution networks, enhancing operational economy and increasing the accommodation of the DG. Finally, the method’s effectiveness and correctness are verified in the IEEE 33-node system. The results validate that while joint operation does not enhance the reverse flow transmission capacity of a single distribution network, it can, through the shared reverse flow transmission capacity approach, elevate the reverse flow transmission capacity to approximately 70% during the majority of time periods.
Personalization of Robot Behavior Using Approach Based on Model Predictive Control
Authors: Jarosz Mateusz , Sniezynski Bartlomiej
Published: December 2024

This paper proposes a novel approach to personalizing robot behavior using Model Predictive Control (MPC). Social humanoid robots, equipped with advanced sensors and human-like capabilities, are increasingly integrated into human environments, necessitating adaptable and intuitive communication interfaces. Our approach enables the design of adaptive interfaces that support fluid, personalized human–robot interactions. In the proposed framework, a user model is applied to predict responses to potential robot actions. Initially, this model represents an average user; however, it is updated as the robot gathers new observations, leading to increasingly personalized decisions. Experiments assessed the performance of five machine-learning algorithms generating user models in a simulated environment, with the Light Gradient Boosting Machine (LGBM) achieving the best results, closely followed by Random Forest (RF). A comparison of the inference time showed that LGBM is more than four times faster than RF. Outlier-removal techniques showed a modest performance improvement over models without outlier removal. Additionally, robot adaptation was tested in the experiments, showing an increase in the average reward over time, although with a relatively high standard deviation. The results suggest that the proposed approach for robot behavior adaptation based on MPC works well, and the recommended algorithm for the user model is LGBM.
A Newly Developed Compressed Air Cannon Test Bench Designed for Multi-Impact Analysis of Composite Structures
Authors: Soufri Ayoub , Chettah Ameur , Piezel Benoît , Bouvet Christophe
Published: December 2024

Understanding the response and damage evolution of structures subjected to multiple impact events is essential for designing resilient structures capable of withstanding complex loading scenarios, such as impacts from hail, gravel or foreign object debris. This article presents the development and characterization of a novel test bench, the “Compressed air multi-cannon”, designed specifically for studying the multi-impact behavior of composite materials. This test bench offers advantages over traditional impact testing methods by enabling controlled and adjustable impact parameters, including number of impacts, spatial and temporal lag, energy, angle and impactor dimensions. The primary objective of this work is to provide a detailed description of the test bench design, construction, and validation procedures. Key components such as the pressurized air system, projectile launch mechanism, target mounting arrangement, and data acquisition system are discussed. Experimental methodologies for assessing multi-impact response, specimen preparation, instrumentation, and data analysis techniques are outlined. Through a series of single-impact and multi-impact tests, distinctive damage mechanisms and energy absorption characteristics were observed in composite structures, revealing significant differences in how composites respond under single- and multi-impact conditions. It was found that the single-impact configuration remains particularly critical compared to multi-impact configurations with a high number of impacts. However, further testing is required to determine whether this result holds true under varying impact parameters, highlighting the unique value of this machine for exploring new, realistic questions in the literature.
A Fractional Gompertz Model with Generalized Conformable Operators to Forecast the Dynamics of Mexico’s Hotel Demand and Tourist Area Life Cycle
Authors: Meléndez-Vázquez Fidel , Gutiérrez-Corona Josué N. , Quezada-Téllez Luis A. , Fernández-Anaya Guillermo , Macías-Díaz Jorge E.
Published: December 2024

This study explores the application of generalized conformable derivatives in modeling hotel demand dynamics in Mexico, using the Gompertz-type model. The research focuses on customizing conformable functions to fit the unique characteristics of the Mexican hotel industry, considering the Tourist Area Life Cycle (TALC) model and aiming to enhance forecasting accuracy. The parameter adjustment in all cases was made by designing a convex function, which represents the difference between the theoretical model and real data. Results demonstrate the effectiveness of the generalized conformable derivative approach in predicting hotel demand trends, showcasing its potential for improving decision-making processes in the Mexican hospitality sector. The comparison between the logistic and Gompertz models, in both integer and fractional versions, provides insights into the suitability of these modeling techniques for capturing the dynamics of hotel demand in the studied regions.
Enhancing Multispectral Breast Imaging Quality Through Frame Accumulation and Hybrid GA-CPSO Registration
Authors: Mahmoud Tsabeeh Salah M. , Munawar Adnan , Nawaz Muhammad Zeeshan , Chen Yuanyuan
Published: December 2024

Multispectral transmission imaging has emerged as a promising technique for imaging breast tissue with high resolution. However, the method encounters challenges such as low grayscale, noisy transmission images with weak signals, primarily due to the strong absorption and scattering of light in breast tissue. A common approach to improve the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and overall image quality is frame accumulation. However, factors such as camera jitter and respiratory motion during image acquisition can cause frame misalignment, degrading the quality of the accumulated image. To address these issues, this study proposes a novel image registration method. A hybrid approach combining a genetic algorithm (GA) and a constriction factor-based particle swarm optimization (CPSO), referred to as GA-CPSO, is applied for image registration before frame accumulation. The efficiency of this hybrid method is enhanced by incorporating a squared constriction factor (SCF), which speeds up the registration process and improves convergence towards optimal solutions. The GA identifies potential solutions, which are then refined by CPSO to expedite convergence. This methodology was validated on the sequence of breast frames taken at 600 nm, 620 nm, 670 nm, and 760 nm wavelength of light and proved the enhancement of accuracy by various mathematical assessments. It demonstrated high accuracy (99.93%) and reduced registration time. As a result, the GA-CPSO approach significantly improves the effectiveness of frame accumulation and enhances overall image quality. This study explored the groundwork for precise multispectral transmission image segmentation and classification.
Study on the Indoor Thermal Environment of Traditional Residences in Southern Jiangsu—A Case Study of Xue Fucheng’s Former Residence, Wuxi City
Authors: Liang Yuanzi , Wei Kexin , Zhu Rong , Wang Ziyang , He Yuxiang
Published: December 2024

Traditional residences in Southern Jiangsu are residential buildings characterized by local features that embody climate adaptability principles and reflect ecological wisdom and cultural significance rooted in environmental harmony. On the basis of the inheritance of architectural culture and the development of green design, this study aims to explore the scientific and green construction practices of traditional residences, with Xue Fucheng’s Former Residence in Wuxi City as a representative case of southern Jiangsu architecture. By measurement and data analysis, this study investigates the indoor thermal environment of traditional residences, focusing on temperature, humidity, wind speed, and radiant heat. It analyzes the methods and architectural mechanisms employed by traditional residences in Southern Jiangsu to control light, wind, and heat in the living environment. The findings summarize the inheritable experience in green and ecological design of traditional residences in Southern Jiangsu, providing a prudent reference for establishing a green building construction model and technique system with distinct features of Southern Jiangsu.
Indoor Air Quality in Naturally Ventilated Primary Schools: A Systematic Review of the Assessment & Impacts of CO2 Levels
Authors: Honan David , Gallagher John , Garvey John , Littlewood John
Published: December 2024

Indoor air quality (IAQ) in schools significantly impacts occupant health and academic performance, especially in naturally ventilated (NV) classrooms, where CO2 levels are often elevated. This systematic review synthesises findings from 125 studies, examining CO2 as an indicator of ventilation rates (VRs) and its impact on IAQ, health, and academic performance in NV primary school classrooms. This analysis highlights seasonal and temporal variations in CO2 concentrations, revealing a median CO2 concentration of 1487 ppm across 2444 classrooms, with 81% exceeding the recommended 1000 ppm threshold. Influencing factors include VR, occupant density, generation rates, and occupant behaviours. Increased VRs consistently lowered CO2 levels and enhanced IAQ. CO2 concentrations correlated with particulate matter, volatile organic compounds, bioeffluents, microbial concentrations, and bacteria and fungi levels, but not with traffic-related pollutants like NO2, which is associated with asthma prevalence. Elevated CO2 levels consistently correlated with fatigue, headaches, respiratory symptoms, reduced academic performance and absenteeism, suggesting potential socio-economic benefits of increased VRs. However, effective IAQ management requires balancing ventilation with considerations of thermal comfort, noise, and outdoor pollutants. The findings highlight the need for standardised IAQ indices and CO2 monitoring protocols, offering insights for future research, intervention design, and investment aimed at enhancing classroom environments.
Alkoxy Substituted Brominated closo-Dodecaborates with Functionalized Aliphatic Spacers
Authors: Yamamoto Satoshi , Nakamura Hibiki , Kawamura Yumiko K. , Kitazawa Taro , Kimura Mutsumi , Kitazawa Yu
Published: December 2024

The utilization of dodecaborate boron clusters, [B12X12]2− (X = Cl, Br, or I), as membrane carriers has been demonstrated recently, and their activity is known to be due to their superchaotropic nature. In this work, the mono-alkylation of [B12Br11OH]2− to functionalize it with an aliphatic spacer was developed with a view to expanding the known chemical space of membrane carriers based on [B12Br12]2−. A new and improved facile route for the preparation of [B12Br11OH]2−, which is an important precursor to other [B12Br11OR]2− species, is reported. Various alkoxylated [B12Br11O(CH2)5Z]2− (Z = OH, N(CO)2C6H4, CN and N3) derivatives were prepared via a divergent synthesis based on [B12Br11O(CH2)5Br]2−. One of the newly synthesized compounds was utilized as a membrane carrier, and its impact on cell viability was examined.
Development of a Diagnostic Algorithm for Detecting Freezing Precipitation from ERA5 Dataset: An Adjustment to the Far East
Authors: Pichugin Mikhail , Gurvich Irina , Baranyuk Anastasiya , Kuleshov Vladimir , Khazanova Elena
Published: December 2024

Freezing precipitation and the resultant ice glaze can have catastrophic impacts on urban infrastructure, the environment, forests, and various industries, including transportation, energy, and agriculture. In this study, we develop and evaluate regional algorithms for detecting freezing precipitations in the Far East, utilizing the ERA5 reanalysis dataset from the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts, along with standard meteorological observations for 20 cold seasons (September–May) from 2004 to 2024. We propose modified diagnostic algorithms based on vertical atmospheric temperature and humidity profiles, as well as near-surface characteristics. Additionally, we apply a majority voting ensemble (MVE) technique to integrate outputs from multiple algorithms, thereby enhancing classification accuracy. Evaluation of detection skills shows significant improvements over the original method developed at the Finnish Meteorological Institute and the ERA5 precipitation-type product. The MVE-based method demonstrates optimal verification statistics. Furthermore, the modified algorithms validly reproduce the spatially averaged inter-annual variability of freezing precipitation activity in both continental (mean correlation of 0.93) and island (correlation of 0.54) regions. Overall, our findings offer a more effective and valuable tool for operational activities and climatological assessments in the Far East.
Study on the Characteristics of Crystal Formation and Transformation of Alkali-Activated Slag Minerals Induced by Weak Alkali
Authors: Huang Guodong , Huang Yonghao , Zheng Xiaojun , Zhang Fengan , Xu Jiahao , Qi Jun , Chen Zijian
Published: December 2024

Strong-alkali activation is a prerequisite needed to ensure the full polymerization activity of alkali slag binder and establish excellent mechanical properties; however, it substantially increases the preparation cost. In this study, the effects of both strong and weak alkaline activators on the activation performance of alkali slag were examined, using a combination of X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy analysis methods. The reaction mechanism was analyzed under different alkaline conditions, and the preparation cost could be significantly reduced without significantly degrading mechanical properties. The results indicate that Ca(OH)2 can stimulate the reactivity of slag, resulting in a 40% decrease in compressive strength (compared to NaOH) but a 25–50% reduction in preparation cost. With increasing Ca(OH)2 dosage, the compressive strength first increases and then decreases. The best excitation effect is achieved at a dosage of 40 g Ca(OH)2 per 450 g GBFS. The formation of aluminosilicate is the main driving force for the observed increase in compressive strength. Excessive dosage of Ca(OH)2 will lead to its deposition in the specimen, thus affecting the development of compressive strength.
The Investigation of Somatostatin Receptors as a Potential Target in Breast Phyllodes Tumours
Authors: Süer Mickler Hande , Erkan Murat Mert
Published: December 2024

Background: Somatostatin receptors (SSTRs) are expressed in most neuroendocrine neoplasms, particularly in gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumours, and have been utilised as diagnostic markers and therapeutic targets. The radioiodinated somatostatin analogue 1,4,7,10-tetraazacyclododecane-1,4,7,10-tetraacetic acid- Tyr3-octreotate (DOTATATE) has been employed for SSTR targeting for either diagnostic or therapeutic purposes depending on the labelling with 68Gallium or 177Lutetium, respectively. SSTR expression is reported in a subset of breast adenocarcinoma and breast neuroendocrine carcinomas; however, minimal knowledge exists regarding their expression in fibroepithelial (biphasic) breast lesions such as fibroadenoma and phyllodes tumours. Aggressive ends of the spectrum, i.e., “cystosarcoma phyllodes”, may present a management challenge with recurrences and metastases, and SSTRs could be a promising therapeutic target for these types of tumours. Methods: Gene and protein expressions of SSTRs in primary human fibroepithelial lesions of the breast are investigated using RT-PCR and immunoblotting. Localisation of the SSTR-positive cells was determined with immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence. Results and Conclusions: Both fibroadenoma and phyllodes tumours express SSTRs. Immunohistochemical analyses suggested that this expression is in the stromal, not epithelial, component by demonstrating that SSTR stained in the areas overlapping with α-smooth muscle actin-positive myoepithelial cells around blood vessels and capillary structures. This study is the first in the literature to demonstrate SSTR positivity in mammary fibroepithelial neoplasms. Once validated, these findings may also have significant implications for managing the treatment of these tumours.
Rheumatic Manifestations of Sarcoidosis
Authors: Day Julia , Hamann Philip D. H.
Published: December 2024

Sarcoidosis is a multisystem granulomatous inflammatory disorder, of unknown aetiology, which causes a wide spectrum of clinical phenotypes. It can present at any age, most commonly between 20 and 60 years, with a roughly equal sex distribution. Diagnosis is often delayed due to multiple diagnostic mimics, particularly joint disease. Common presenting features include pulmonary disease, with bilateral hilar lymphadenopathy and pulmonary infiltrates, cutaneous lesions, and ocular disease. Musculoskeletal manifestations are reported in 10–40% of patients with sarcoidosis and include bone lesions, acute arthritis, chronic arthritis, axial disease, dactylitis, and sarcoid myopathy, which are explored in detail in this review article. Diagnosis is confirmed through histological evidence of non-caseating granuloma on tissue biopsy. Newer imaging modalities, including 18FFDG PET/CT, can help identify the extent of musculoskeletal involvement, and biomarkers can provide weight to a diagnosis, but there is no single biomarker with prognostic value for disease monitoring. The mainstay of treatment remains corticosteroids, followed by disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs such as methotrexate and antimalarials. More recently, biologic treatments have been used successfully in the treatment of sarcoidosis with rheumatic involvement.
Development of Biofidelic Skin Simulants Based on Fresh Cadaveric Skin Tests
Authors: Singh Gurpreet , Yadav Pramod , Chanda Arnab
Published: December 2024

The development of artificial skin that accurately mimics the mechanical properties of human skin is crucial for a wide range of applications, including surgical training for burn injuries, biomechanical testing, and research in sports injuries and ballistics. While traditional materials like gelatin, polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), and animal skins (such as porcine and bovine skins) have been used for these purposes, they have inherent limitations in replicating the intricate properties of human skin. In this work, we conducted uniaxial tensile tests on freshly obtained cadaveric skin to analyze its mechanical properties under various loading conditions. The stress–strain data obtained from these tests were then replicated using advanced skin simulants. These skin simulants were specifically formulated using a cost-effective and moldable multi-part silicone-based polymer. This material was chosen for its ability to accurately replicate the mechanical behavior of human skin while also addressing ethical considerations and biosafety concerns. In addition, the non-linear mechanical behavior of the developed skin simulants was characterized using three different hyperelastic curve-fit models (i.e., Neo-Hookean, Mooney–Rivlin, and Yeoh models). Moreover, these innovative simulants offer an ethical and practical alternative to cadaveric skin for use in laboratory and clinical settings.
Do Anti-Dumping Measures Count? The Emissions Adjustment in Sustainable Development Policies
Authors: Onofrei Mihaela , Fîrțescu Bogdan Narcis , Cojocaru Dana Claudia , Grosu Maria , Pantea (Boghicevici) Claudia
Published: December 2024

Following the economic shocks of recent decades, characterized by the destabilization of markets and pressure on national economies, protectionist policies have seen a significant increase. Thus, anti-dumping has become a convenient and frequently used tool in the political game of trade. In the context of the transition toward a climate-neutral economy, anti-dumping measures have become a topic of great interest due to their indirect effects on CO2 emissions. Often used to protect domestic industries from unfair trade practices, these measures influence trade and the geographical redistribution of production, contributing to the phenomenon of “carbon leakage”. By transferring emissions from countries with strict climate regulations to economies with more permissive standards, anti-dumping measures can undermine global efforts to reduce emissions. Trade policies are becoming, in this context, an important tool in regulating international trade. Consequently, the objective of this paper is to analyze the impacts of anti-dumping measures, primary energy consumption, and urbanization on CO2 emissions in OECD countries for the period 2000–2021. The methodology used is based on dynamic A.R.D.L. models using panel data. Our results suggest that anti-dumping measures and primary energy consumption influence CO2 emissions and are statistically significant, at least at the 10% level. The results of this study are useful to both policymakers and environmental authorities in developing trade policies that support both economic development and emission-reduction targets.