bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Research on Carbon Emission Pre-Assessment of Residential Buildings in Xi’an City during the Scheme Design Stage
Authors: Gao Huan , Yang Lu , Wang Xinke , Zhang Lisha , Wang Qize , Wu Kang
Published: July 2024

The effect of energy saving and carbon reduction in the building industry is closely related to the realization of China’s double carbon goal. In this study, a two-dimensional framework for building life cycle carbon emissions was established, which takes into account the early stages of building design such as the feasibility study stage and scheme design stage. Taking 57 residential buildings in Xi’an City as examples, the life cycle carbon emission characteristics of residential buildings in cold areas were introduced. This study found that the life cycle carbon emission intensity is about 45~55 kgCO2/(m2·a). The operation and maintenance stage and building materials production stage accounted for the largest proportion of carbon emissions, and the sum of carbon emissions of the two stages accounted for 92.3% of the total carbon emissions. In addition, based on the probability density function, the carbon emission intensity distributions of the building life cycle, building material production stage, building material transportation stage, and operation and maintenance stage were analyzed, and it was found that each distribution fitting graph was generally in line with a lognormal distribution, and their expected value provided a reference index for carbon emission pre-assessment in the feasibility study stage. Based on the analysis and determination of 11 independent variables that affect the total carbon emissions, such as area, floor number, story height, and number of households, a multiple linear regression model for carbon emission pre-assessment in the design stage of building schemes is proposed. The R2adj of the model is 0.985 and the error is about 10%. The prediction model can provide beneficial guidance for the life cycle carbon emission prediction in the design stage of building projects, so as to reduce carbon emissions by changing building design.
Phase-Change/Salt-Based Slow-Release Composite Material for Anti-Icing and Snow-Melting
Authors: Wu Chuanshan , Gao Dongxing , Shangguan Haonan , Chen Renshan , Hou Changlin
Published: July 2024

Currently, self-desiccating asphalt mixtures on roads mainly incorporate phase-change materials or salt-based slow-release agents individually for de-icing. However, pure phase-change material mixtures have limited anti-freezing efficiency and short heat-release duration, making them impractical for large-scale snow melting; meanwhile, salt-based slow-release agents suffer from rapid deterioration in de-icing performance. To address these issues encountered, herein, we introduce the phase-change/salt-based slow-release composite materials via the integration of these two materials and investigate their pavement and de-icing performance with the asphalt mixture. For the pavement performance, the optimal asphalt–aggregate ratio for the anti-icing asphalt mixture was found to be 5.1% For anti-bonding and de-icing performance, the electrical conductivity tests, bonding pull-off tests, and interfacial contact melting experiments were conducted. The results indicate that the latent heat of the TH-ME5 (phase-change material) can delay the decrease in environmental temperature and inhibit salt release from T-SEN (salt-based slow-release material), thereby extending the lifespan of the anti-icing asphalt mixture. These results demonstrate that the synergistic effect between the two components of the composite material not only enhance the snow-melting and de-icing performance of the asphalt pavement but also prolong the snow-melting time of the pavement in a low-temperature environment.
Strain Behavior of Short Concrete Columns Reinforced with GFRP Spirals
Authors: Alkhattabi Loai , Ali Ahmed H. , Mohamed Hamdy M. , Gouda Ahmed
Published: July 2024

This paper presents a comprehensive study focused on evaluating the strain generated within short concrete columns reinforced with glass-fiber-reinforced polymer (GFRP) bars and spirals under concentric compressive axial loads. This research was motivated by the lack of sufficient data in the literature regarding strain in such columns. Five full-scale RC columns were cast and tested, comprising four strengthened with GFRP reinforcement and one reference column reinforced with steel bars and spirals. This study thoroughly examined the influence of various test parameters, such as the reinforcement type, longitudinal reinforcement ratio, and spacing of spiral reinforcement, on the strain in concrete, GFRP bars, and spirals. The experimental results showed that GFRP–RC columns exhibited similar strain behavior to steel–RC columns up to 85% of their peak loads. The study also highlighted that the bearing capacity of the columns increased by up to 25% with optimized reinforcement ratios and spiral spacing, while the failure mode transitioned from a ductile to a more brittle nature as the reinforcement ratio increased. Additionally, it is preferable to limit the compressive strain in GFRP bars to less than 20% of their ultimate tensile strain and the strain in GFRP spirals to less than 12% of their ultimate strain to ensure the safe and reliable use of these materials in RC columns. This research also considers the prediction of the axial load capacities using established design standards permitting the use of FRP bars in compressive members, namely ACI 440.11-22, CSA-S806-12, and JSCE-97, and underscores their limitations in accurately predicting GFRP–RC columns’ failure capacities. This study proposes an equation to enhance the prediction accuracy for GFRP–RC columns, considering the contributions of concrete, spiral confinement, and the axial stiffness of longitudinal GFRP bars. This equation addresses the shortcomings of existing design standards and provides a more accurate assessment of the axial load capacities for GFRP–RC columns. The proposed equation outperformed numerous other equations suggested by various researchers when employed to estimate the strength of 42 columns gathered from the literature.
The Treatment of Hepatocellular Carcinoma with Major Vascular Invasion
Authors: Tadokoro Tomoko , Tani Joji , Morishita Asahiro , Fujita Koji , Masaki Tsutomu , Kobara Hideki
Published: July 2024

Vascular invasion of hepatocellular carcinoma involves tumor plugs in the main trunk of the portal vein, bile ducts, and veins, and it indicates poor prognosis. It is often associated with portal hypertension, which requires evaluation and management. Treatment includes hepatic resection, systemic pharmacotherapy, hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Recurrence rates post-hepatic resection are high, and systemic drug therapy often has limited therapeutic potential in patients with a poor hepatic reserve. Single therapies are generally inadequate, necessitating combining multiple therapies with adjuvant and systemic pharmacotherapy before and after hepatectomy. This narrative review will provide an overview of the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma with vascular invasion.
Management for Cervical Cancer Patients: A Comparison of the Guidelines from the International Scientific Societies (ESGO-NCCN-ASCO-AIOM-FIGO-BGCS-SEOM-ESMO-JSGO)
Authors: Restaino Stefano , Pellecchia Giulia , Arcieri Martina , Bogani Giorgio , Taliento Cristina , Greco Pantaleo , Driul Lorenza , Chiantera Vito , Ercoli Alfredo , Fanfani Francesco , Fagotti Anna , Ciavattini Andrea , Scambia Giovanni , Vizzielli Giuseppe ,   Gynecologic Oncology Group
Published: July 2024

Cervical cancer continues to have a significant incidence, despite global efforts in HPV vaccination campaigns. Managing this condition involves a diverse team of healthcare professionals. Research in this field is undergoing a period of great revolution in multiple areas, and international guidelines will soon have to adapt to new scientific evidence. This could be true mainly in locally advanced stages, and it could also be true for minimal invasive surgery. This paper aims to summarize and compare the most recent recommendations published by international gynecological oncological societies for patients with cervical cancer. From their comparison, common aspects and disagreements emerged, especially in the diagnostic pathway and follow-up strategies. Several issues that remain to be debated in the literature were addressed and compared, highlighting similarities and differences, from the role of the sentinel lymph node in early stages to that of the adjuvant hysterectomy in locally advanced tumors. On the surgical side, for this last subset of patients, currently, a laparotomic approach is recommended. At the same time, the advent of immunotherapy has just opened up new and promising scenarios in systemic treatment for locally advanced cervical cancer, and international guidelines will soon introduce it into their algorithms.
Prognostic and Therapeutic Implications of Cell Division Cycle 20 Homolog in Breast Cancer
Authors: Messeha Samia S. , Zarmouh Najla O. , Maku Henrietta , Gendy Sherif , Yedjou Clement G. , Elhag Rashid , Latinwo Lekan , Odewumi Caroline , Soliman Karam F. A.
Published: July 2024

Cell division cycle 20 homolog (CDC20) is a well-known regulator of cell cycle progression. Abnormal expression of CDC20 leads to mitotic defects, which play a significant role in cancer development. In breast cancer (BC), CDC20 has been identified as a biomarker that has been linked to poor patient outcomes. In this study, we investigated the association of CDC20 with BC prognosis and immune cell infiltration by using multiple online databases, including UALCAN, KM plotter, TIMER2.0, HPA, TNM-plot, bc-GenExMiner, LinkedOmics, STRING, and GEPIA. The results demonstrate that BC patients have an elevated CDC20 expression in tumor tissues compared with the adjacent normal tissue. In addition, BC patients with overexpressed CDC20 had a median survival of 63.6 months compared to 169.2 months in patients with low CDC20 expression. Prognostic analysis of the examined data indicated that elevated expression of CDC20 was associated with poor prognosis and a reduction of overall survival in BC patients. These findings were even more prevalent in chemoresistance triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) patients. Furthermore, the Gene Set Enrichment Analysis tool indicated that CDC20 regulates BC cells’ cell cycle and apoptosis. CDC20 also significantly correlates with increased infiltrating B cells, CD4+ T cells, neutrophils, and dendritic cells in BC. In conclusion, the findings of this study suggest that CDC20 may be involved in immunomodulating the tumor microenvironment and provide evidence that CDC20 inhibition may serve as a potential therapeutic approach for the treatment of BC patients. In addition, the data indicates that CDC20 can be a reliable prognostic biomarker for BC.
Strong Magnetic p-n Heterojunction Fe3O4-FeWO4 for Photo-Fenton Degradation of Tetracycline Hydrochloride
Authors: Bai Binger , Cheng Guanrong , Chen Jian , Chen Xiaoping , Wang Qizhao
Published: July 2024

With the abuse of antibiotics, its pollution poses an increasing threat to the environment and human health. Effective degradation of organic pollutants in water bodies is urgent. Compared to traditional treatment methods, advanced oxidation processes that have developed rapidly in recent years are more environmentally friendly, efficient and applicable to a wider range of organic compounds. FeWO4 was used in this study as the iron-based semiconductor material to modify and optimize the material design. Fe3O4/FeWO4 composites were prepared by a two-step hydrothermal method. The crystal structure, surface morphology, electrochemical properties and separability of the composite semiconductor were analyzed by XRD, XPS, UV-vis, SEM, EDS and Mott-Schottky. The results showed that, when the initial contaminant concentration was 30 mg/L, the initial solution pH was 4, the dosage of the catalyst was 25 mg and the dosage of hydrogen peroxide was 30 μL, the degradation efficiency of tetracycline hydrochloride (TCH) could reach 91% within 60 min, which was significantly improved compared to the performance of the single semiconductors Fe3O4 and FeWO4. In addition, the catalyst prepared in this experiment can be easily recovered by magnetic separation technology in practical application, which will not affect the turbidity of water while reducing the cost of catalyst separation and recovery.
Plasma-Derived Extracellular Vesicles and Non-Extracellular Vesicle Components from APCMin/+ Mice Promote Pro-Tumorigenic Activities and Activate Human Colonic Fibroblasts via the NF-κB Signaling Pathway
Authors: Arteaga-Blanco Luis A. , Evans Andrew E. , Dixon Dan A.
Published: July 2024

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most prevalent cancer worldwide. Current studies have demonstrated that tumor-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) from different cancer cell types modulate the fibroblast microenvironment to contribute to cancer development and progression. Here, we isolated and characterized circulating large EVs (LEVs), small EVs (SEVs) and non-EV entities released in the plasma from wild-type (WT) mice and the APCMin/+ CRC mice model. Our results showed that human colon fibroblasts exposed from APC-EVs, but not from WT-EVs, exhibited the phenotypes of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) through EV-mediated NF-κB pathway activation. Cytokine array analysis on secreted proteins revealed elevated levels of inflammatory cytokine implicated in cancer growth and metastasis. Finally, non-activated cells co-cultured with supernatant from fibroblasts treated with APC-EVs showed increased mRNA expressions of CAFs markers, the ECM, inflammatory cytokines, as well as the expression of genes controlled by NF-κB. Altogether, our work suggests that EVs and non-EV components from APCMin/+ mice are endowed with pro-tumorigenic activities and promoted inflammation and a CAF-like state by triggering NF-κB signaling in fibroblasts to support CRC growth and progression. These findings provide insight into the interaction between plasma-derived EVs and human cells and can be used to design new CRC diagnosis and prognosis tools.
Methanolic Extract of Phoenix Dactylifera Confers Protection against Experimental Diabetic Cardiomyopathy through Modulation of Glucolipid Metabolism and Cardiac Remodeling
Authors: Nawaz Laaraib , Grieve David J. , Muzaffar Humaira , Iftikhar Arslan , Anwar Haseeb
Published: July 2024

The incidence of cardiovascular disorders is continuously rising, and there are no effective drugs to treat diabetes-associated heart failure. Thus, there is an urgent need to explore alternate approaches, including natural plant extracts, which have been successfully exploited for therapeutic purposes. The current study aimed to explore the cardioprotective potential of Phoenix dactylifera (PD) extract in experimental diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM). Following in vitro phytochemical analyses, Wistar albino rats (N = 16, male; age 2–3 weeks) were fed with a high-fat or standard diet prior to injection of streptozotocin (35 mg/kg i.p.) after 2 months and separation into the following four treatment groups: healthy control, DCM control, DCM metformin (200 mg/kg/day, as the reference control), and DCM PD treatment (5 mg/kg/day). After 25 days, glucolipid and myocardial blood and serum markers were assessed along with histopathology and gene expression of both heart and pancreatic tissues. The PD treatment improved glucolipid balance (FBG 110 ± 5.5 mg/dL; insulin 17 ± 3.4 ng/mL; total cholesterol 75 ± 8.5 mg/dL) and oxidative stress (TOS 50 ± 7.8 H2O2equiv./L) in the DCM rats, which was associated with preserved structural integrity of both the pancreas and heart compared to the DCM control (FBG 301 ± 10 mg/dL; insulin 27 ± 3.4 ng/mL; total cholesterol 126 ± 10 mg/dL; TOS 165 ± 12 H2O2equiv./L). Gene expression analyses revealed that PD treatment upregulated the expression of insulin signaling genes in pancreatic tissue (INS-I 1.69 ± 0.02; INS-II 1.3 ± 0.02) and downregulated profibrotic gene expression in ventricular tissue (TGF-β 1.49 ± 0.04) compared to the DCM control (INS-I 0.6 ± 0.02; INS-II 0.49 ± 0.03; TGF-β 5.7 ± 0.34). Taken together, these data indicate that Phoenix dactylifera may offer cardioprotection in DCM by regulating glucolipid balance and metabolic signaling.
A Novel Electronic Nose Using Biomimetic Spiking Neural Network for Mixed Gas Recognition
Authors: Xue Yingying , Mou Shimeng , Chen Changming , Yu Weijie , Wan Hao , Zhuang Liujing , Wang Ping
Published: July 2024

Odors existing in natural environment are typically mixtures of a large variety of chemical compounds in specific proportions. It is a challenging task for an electronic nose to recognize the gas mixtures. Most current research is based on the overall response of sensors and uses relatively simple datasets, which cannot be used for complex mixtures or rapid monitoring scenarios. In this study, a novel electronic nose (E-nose) using a spiking neural network (SNN) model was proposed for the detection and recognition of gas mixtures. The electronic nose integrates six commercial metal oxide sensors for automated gas acquisition. SNN with a simple three-layer structure was introduced to extract transient dynamic information and estimate concentration rapidly. Then, a dataset of mixed gases with different orders of magnitude was established by the E-nose to verify the model’s performance. Additionally, random forests and the decision tree regression model were used for comparison with the SNN-based model. Results show that the model utilizes the dynamic characteristics of the sensors, achieving smaller mean squared error (MSE < 0.01) and mean absolute error (MAE) with less data compared to random forest and decision tree algorithms. In conclusion, the electronic nose system combined with the bionic model shows a high performance in identifying gas mixtures, which has a great potential to be used for indoor air quality monitoring in practical applications.
Machine Learning-Assisted Raman Spectroscopy and SERS for Bacterial Pathogen Detection: Clinical, Food Safety, and Environmental Applications
Authors: Rahman Md Hasan-Ur , Sikder Rabbi , Tripathi Manoj , Zahan Mahzuzah , Ye Tao , Gnimpieba Z. Etienne , Jasthi Bharat K. , Dalton Alan B. , Gadhamshetty Venkataramana
Published: July 2024

Detecting pathogenic bacteria and their phenotypes including microbial resistance is crucial for preventing infection, ensuring food safety, and promoting environmental protection. Raman spectroscopy offers rapid, seamless, and label-free identification, rendering it superior to gold-standard detection techniques such as culture-based assays and polymerase chain reactions. However, its practical adoption is hindered by issues related to weak signals, complex spectra, limited datasets, and a lack of adaptability for detection and characterization of bacterial pathogens. This review focuses on addressing these issues with recent Raman spectroscopy breakthroughs enabled by machine learning (ML), particularly deep learning methods. Given the regulatory requirements, consumer demand for safe food products, and growing awareness of risks with environmental pathogens, this study emphasizes addressing pathogen detection in clinical, food safety, and environmental settings. Here, we highlight the use of convolutional neural networks for analyzing complex clinical data and surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy for sensitizing early and rapid detection of pathogens and analyzing food safety and potential environmental risks. Deep learning methods can tackle issues with the lack of adequate Raman datasets and adaptability across diverse bacterial samples. We highlight pending issues and future research directions needed for accelerating real-world impacts of ML-enabled Raman diagnostics for rapid and accurate diagnosis and surveillance of pathogens across critical fields.
Comparative Analysis of Academic, Behavioral, and Psychophysiological Variables in Male and Female Vocational Training Students
Authors: Clemente-Suárez Vicente Javier , Beltrán-Velasco Ana Isabel , Mendoza-Castejón Daniel , Rodríguez-Besteiro Stephanie , López-Varas Francisco , Martín-Rodríguez Alexandra
Published: July 2024

Background/Objectives: The purpose of this study was to investigate whether or not there are notable differences between male and female vocational training students in terms of academic, behavioral, and psychophysiological characteristics. Methods: A total of 411 vocational training students, 210 of whom were male and 201 of whom were female, participated in an online survey that assessed academic, behavioral, and psychophysiological patterns. Results: In terms of extraversion and openness to experience, our research revealed that no statistically significant differences were noticed. When it came to agreeableness, however, significant differences were seen, with female students getting higher marks than male students. Furthermore, we found that there were significant gender differences in terms of neuroticism and conscientiousness, with female students achieving higher scores than male students. When compared to their male counterparts, females displayed higher performance in terms of academic success. They also demonstrated superior values in terms of reported stress, anxiety, and cognitive inflexibility. Conclusions: The findings of this study provide a more in-depth understanding of the numerous factors that have an impact on students engaging in vocational training. This will serve as a foundation for the development of individualized instructional and support programs.
Care Pathways in Rehabilitation for Children and Adolescents with Cerebral Palsy: Distinctiveness of the Adaptation to the Italian Context
Authors: Faccioli Silvia , Sassi Silvia , Pagliano Emanuela , Maghini Cristina , Perazza Silvia , Siani Maria Francesca , Sgherri Giada , Farella Giuseppina Mariagrazia , Foscan Maria , Viganò Marta , Sghedoni Silvia , Bai Arianna Valeria , Borelli Giulia , Ferrari Adriano
Published: July 2024

Background: In 2020, a multiprofessional panel was set up in collaboration with the Italian FightTheStroke Foundation family association to produce evidence-based recommendations for the management and neuromotor rehabilitation of persons with cerebral palsy aged 2–18 years to implement in clinical practice in Italy. Methods: The recommendations of these care pathways were developed according to the American Academy for Cerebral Palsy and Developmental Medicine guidelines for Care Pathways Development and the Grading of Recommendations Assessment Development and Evaluation working group for adoption, adaptation, or de novo development of recommendations from high-quality guidelines (GRADE-ADOLOPMENT). Results: Four strong positive recommendations were developed regarding comprehensive management, and twenty-four addressed neuromotor treatment. Conclusions: A holistic, individualized approach was affirmed in terms of both multidimensional patient profile and interdisciplinary management in a network with the school where children and adolescents are integrated. It was defined that all motor rehabilitation approaches must be individually tailored considering age and developmentally appropriate activities as interventions and goals, in light of the reference curves addressing prognosis for Gross Motor Function and Manual Ability Classification Systems. Intervention must be structured with adaptations of the task and/or of the context (objects and environment) based on the analysis of the child’s skills to support motivation and avoid frustration.
Poor Eating Habits and Low Physical Activity Contribute to Weight Excess and Increase Cardiometabolic Risk in Adolescents Practicing Soccer as a Recreational Sport
Authors: Bezrati Ikram , Hammami Raouf , Ceylan Halil İbrahim , Govindasamy Karuppasamy , Fradj Mohamed K. Ben , Feki Moncef , Mansour Abderraouf Ben , Parpa Koulla
Published: July 2024

Background: Monitoring anthropometry, dietary intake, and physical activity (PA) is essential to prevent/counteract childhood obesity. This study examined dietary intake, PA, and anthropometric characteristics in young boys practicing soccer as a recreational sport. Methods: A cross-sectional study included 226 boys aged 8 to 13 years participating in soccer as a recreational activity in football academies located in Tunis, Tunisia. Anthropometric measures allowed the calculation of body mass index, fat mass, and peak height velocity as markers of biological maturity. A three-day food record and a food frequency questionnaire estimated nutrient intake and eating habits. The International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) was used to estimate the PA level of the participants. Results: It was found that a high percentage of the children had excess weight (54%) and excess fat mass (47%). The total energy, carbohydrate, and saturated fat intake of the children exceeded the recommended levels by approximately 10%, 15%, and 30%, respectively. However, the intake of unsaturated fat was below the estimated requirements, particularly in obese children. In addition to the unbalanced macronutrient intake, the children also showed an insufficient intake of many essential micronutrients. Around 60% to 70% of the children in all three groups had a low intake of magnesium, n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), and vitamins B9, B12, and D. Moreover, 20% to 35% of the children in the three groups had an insufficient intake of vitamins A and C. Insufficient vitamin E intake was found in 63% of obese children and 35% of non-obese children. It was observed that the PA level was lower in the overweight/obese group compared to the normal-weight group (p < 0.005). More than three-quarters of overweight/obese children had low PA levels, about 20% were moderately active, and only 1 to 2% were highly active. Conversely, normal-weight children showed moderate to high PA levels. Conclusions: Poor eating behavior, an unbalanced diet, and a low PA level are prevalent in Tunisian boys practicing recreational sports. Such a combination is responsible for a disparity between energy intake and expenditure, contributing to weight excess and increased cardiometabolic risk. The study findings provide meaningful information for practitioners and authorities on applying a balanced diet and adequate PA to prevent and fight against obesity and improve cardiometabolic health in youth.
Paediatric Post-Traumatic Stress Risk for Young People and Parents following Acute Admission for Paediatric Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome: Retrospective Analysis of Psychological Screening and Support
Authors: Freeman Anita , Golding Emily , Gardner Jennifer , Berger Zoe
Published: July 2024

Background: Paediatric Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome (PIMS-TS) is a novel condition that was identified for the first time during the COVID-19 pandemic. Limited research exists that describes the psychological needs of children and young people (CYP) following an acute hospital admission for PIMS-TS. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted to explore both psychological need and access to psychology services for CYP and their families who were admitted to a paediatric tertiary hospital in London, UK, for PIMS-TS between April 2020 and May 2021. Results: We included 121 CYP and a parent/caregiver for each. In total, 23.3% of the CYP were at risk of developing a traumatic stress response and 11.6% were at risk of experiencing emotional disturbance. Of the parents screened, 40.5% also scored above clinical cut-off for a trauma response. There was a significant relationship observed between CYP and parents identified as having a trauma risk. Conclusions: The importance of proactive screening for both trauma and emotional distress in CYP and their parents/caregivers following acute hospital admission is highlighted. In addition, there is a need to think about a CYP as part of a system of care and to ensure that clinicians pay attention to parental wellbeing and mental health when understanding the psychological impact on a child.
The Effects on Stability and Electronic Structure of Si-Segregated θ′/Al Interface Systems in Al-Cu Alloys
Authors: Jiang Lu , Zhao Zhihao , Wang Gaosong
Published: July 2024

This study systematically investigates the energy and electronic properties of Si-segregated θ′(Al2Cu)/Al semi-coherent and coherent interface systems in Al-Cu alloys using ab initio calculations. By evaluating the bonding strength at the interface, it has been revealed that Si segregated at the A1 site (Al slab) of the semi-coherent interface systems exhibits the most negative segregation energy, resulting in a noticeable decrease in total energy and an increase in interface adhesion. The electronic structure analysis indicates the presence of Al-Cu and Al-Al bonds, with Si occupying the A1 site. The strong bond formation between Al-Cu and Al-Al is essential for improving interface bonding strength. The results of the calculating analyses are consistent with the results of the previous experiments, and Si can be used as a synergistic element to reduce the θ′/Al interface energy and further reduce the coarsening drive of the θ′ precipitated phase, which can provide new perspectives and computational ideas for the compositional design of heat-resistant Al-Cu alloys.
Exploring Heterointerface Characteristics and Charge-Storage Dynamics in ALD-Developed Ultra-Thin TiO2-In2O3/Au Heterojunctions
Authors: Karbalaei Akbari Mohammad , Lopa Nasrin Siraj , Zhuiykov Serge
Published: July 2024

Directional ionic migration in ultra-thin metal-oxide semiconductors under applied electric fields is a key mechanism for developing various electronic nanodevices. However, understanding charge transfer dynamics is challenging due to rapid ionic migration and uncontrolled charge transfer, which can reduce the functionality of microelectronic devices. This research investigates the supercapacitive-coupled memristive characteristics of ultra-thin heterostructured metal-oxide semiconductor films at TiO2-In2O3/Au Schottky junctions. Using atomic layer deposition (ALD), we nano-engineered In2O3/Au-based metal/semiconductor heterointerfaces. TEM studies followed by XPS elemental analysis revealed the chemical and structural characteristics of the heterointerfaces. Subsequent AFM studies of the hybrid heterointerfaces demonstrated supercapacitor-like behavior in nanometer-thick TiO2-In2O3/Au junctions, resembling ultra-thin supercapacitors, pseudocapacitors, and nanobatteries. The highest specific capacitance of 2.6 × 104 F.g−1 was measured in the TiO2-In2O3/Au junctions with an amorphous In2O3 electron gate. Additionally, we examined the impact of crystallization, finding that thermal annealing led to the formation of crystalline In2O3 films with higher oxygen vacancy content at TiO2-In2O3 heterointerfaces. This crystallization process resulted in the evolution of non-zero I-V hysteresis loops into zero I-V hysteresis loops with supercapacitive-coupled memristive characteristics. This research provides a platform for understanding and designing adjustable ultra-thin Schottky junctions with versatile electronic properties.
Optimizing Convolutional Neural Networks for Image Classification on Resource-Constrained Microcontroller Units
Authors: Brockmann Susanne , Schlippe Tim
Published: July 2024

Running machine learning algorithms for image classification locally on small, cheap, and low-power microcontroller units (MCUs) has advantages in terms of bandwidth, inference time, energy, reliability, and privacy for different applications. Therefore, TinyML focuses on deploying neural networks on MCUs with random access memory sizes between 2 KB and 512 KB and read-only memory storage capacities between 32 KB and 2 MB. Models designed for high-end devices are usually ported to MCUs using model scaling factors provided by the model architecture’s designers. However, our analysis shows that this naive approach of substantially scaling down convolutional neural networks (CNNs) for image classification using such default scaling factors results in suboptimal performance. Consequently, in this paper we present a systematic strategy for efficiently scaling down CNN model architectures to run on MCUs. Moreover, we present our CNN Analyzer, a dashboard-based tool for determining optimal CNN model architecture scaling factors for the downscaling strategy by gaining layer-wise insights into the model architecture scaling factors that drive model size, peak memory, and inference time. Using our strategy, we were able to introduce additional new model architecture scaling factors for MobileNet v1, MobileNet v2, MobileNet v3, and ShuffleNet v2 and to optimize these model architectures. Our best model variation outperforms the MobileNet v1 version provided in the MLPerf Tiny Benchmark on the Visual Wake Words image classification task, reducing the model size by 20.5% while increasing the accuracy by 4.0%.
Thermal Behavior of Clinoptilolite
Authors: Król Magdalena , Dechnik Jakub , Szymczak Patryk , Handke Bartosz , Szumera Magdalena , Stoch Paweł
Published: July 2024

Understanding the thermal properties of zeolites is crucial for their industrial applications. This study explores the thermal stability and dehydration process of clinoptilolite using high-temperature X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). Clinoptilolite’s thermal decomposition was monitored from 25 °C to 1200 °C, with results analyzed based on its crystal structure. Principal components analysis (PCA) of the DRIFT spectra indicated progressive water removal and dehydration upon heating, leading to the formation of hydrogen bonds. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) revealed a two-step endothermic weight loss: initially, physically adsorbed water was lost up to 100 °C, followed by the removal of tightly bound water and hydroxyl groups until 800 °C. Clinoptilolite remained the dominant phase up to 800 °C, after which albite and cristobalite took over. Rietveld refinement showed that the sample initially contained 70% clinoptilolite, 24% albite, and 6% cristobalite. Above 800 °C, clinoptilolite disappeared, leaving 93% albite and 7% cristobalite. FT-IR spectra changes due to water loss were evident: drying of adsorbed water occurred up to 75 °C and minimal changes were observed from 75 °C to 135 °C, followed by further dehydration until 240 °C. Complete dehydration was confirmed by the disappearance of OH stretching vibration bands by 395 °C, consistent with TGA findings.
Synthesis, Characterisation, and Applications of TiO and Other Black Titania Nanostructures Species (Review)
Authors: Ramanavicius Simonas , Jagminas Arunas
Published: July 2024

Black titania, a conductive ceramic material class, has garnered significant interest due to its unique optical and electrochemical properties. However, synthesising and properly characterising these structures pose a considerable challenge. This diverse material family comprises various titanium oxide phases, many of them non-stoichiometric. The term “black TiO2” was first introduced in 2011 by Xiaobo Chen, but Arne Magneli’s groundbreaking discovery and in-depth investigation of black titania in 1957 laid the foundation for our understanding of this material. The non-stoichiometric black titanium oxides were then called the Magneli phases. Since then, the science of black titania has advanced, leading to numerous applications in photocatalysis, electrocatalysis, supercapacitor electrodes, batteries, gas sensors, fuel cells, and microwave absorption. Yet, the literature is rife with conflicting reports, primarily due to the inadequate analysis of black titania materials. This review aims to provide an overview of black titania nanostructures synthesis and the proper characterisation of the most common and applicable black titania phases.
RETRACTED: Vasyliv et al. The Effect of Treatment Temperature on Microstructure and Mechanical Behavior of a Fine-Grained YSZ–NiO(Ni) Anode Material. Crystals 2023, 13, 944
Authors: Vasyliv Bogdan , Kulyk Volodymyr , Duriagina Zoia , Kovbasiuk Taras
Published: July 2024

The journal Crystals retracts the article titled, “The Effect of Treatment Temperature on Microstructure and Mechanical Behavior of a Fine-Grained YSZ–NiO(Ni) Anode Material” [...]
Phylogeographic Relationships Reveal the Origin of an Introduced Population of the Dalmatian Algyroides (Reptilia: Lacertidae) into Southern Italy
Authors: Toli Elisavet-Aspasia , Sergiadou Dimitra , Carlino Piero , Bounas Anastasios , Carretero Miguel A. , Castiglia Riccardo , Harris D. James , Papadaki Chrysoula , Pauwels Olivier S. G. , Leković Lidija , Sotiropoulos Konstantinos
Published: July 2024

The genetic structure and dispersal dynamics of reptile populations are profoundly influenced by natural processes and human activities. While natural dispersal is shaped by species’ characteristics and paleogeographical features, human-mediated translocations have become increasingly prevalent, posing ecological challenges. Mitochondrial genetic markers have been pivotal in untangling invasion pathways for various species. Our study focuses on the Dalmatian Algyroides, Algyroides nigropunctatus (Duméril & Bibron, 1839), a lizard species endemic to the Balkan Peninsula, where recent observations in the Apulian region of Italy suggest an introduced population. Genetic analyses employing two mtDNA markers (16S and ND4 genes) elucidate the phylogenetic relationships of the Dalmatian Algyroides and trace the geographic origin of the introduced population. Our findings reveal areas in western Greece and southwestern Albania as the most probable areas of the source population, while we identify two previously undetected geographical lineages in the native range, highlighting the complex evolutionary history of the species in the region. Additionally, indications of potential glacial refugia and post-glacial dispersal patterns shed more light on the species’ demographic dynamics.
Deep-Sea Ophiuroids (Echinodermata; Ophiuroidea) from the Avilés Canyon System: Seven New Records for the Spanish North Atlantic Marine Subdivision
Authors: Macías-Ramírez Aurora , García-Guillén Laura M. , Manjón-Cabeza M. Eugenia
Published: July 2024

The Avilés Canyon System (ACS) is located in the southern Bay of Biscay (northern Spain, Cantabrian Sea). It has been declared a Site of Community Importance (SCI: C ESZZ12003) within the Natura 2000 Network and recognized as a Vulnerable Marine Ecosystem (VME). This area is included in the North Atlantic Marine Subdivision (NAMD). The present study reviews ophiuroid fauna collected during the INDEMARES–ACS project and compares the new findings with previous studies using the Official Spanish Checklist (“Inventario Español de Especies Marinas”) to update our knowledge on the diversity and distribution of these species. During the surveys carried out within the LIFE + INDEMARES–Avilés Canyon System project (2010–2012), a total of 7413 specimens belonging to 45 ophiuroid species were collected from 50 stations in a depth range between 266 and 2291 m. The most frequent species was Ophiactis abyssicola (M. Sars, 1861). Comparing the identified species with public datasets, seven species should be considered as new records for NAMD: Ophiocten centobi Paterson, Tyler & Gage, 1982, Amphiura borealis (G.O. Sars, 1872), Amphiura fragilis Verrill, 1885, Ophiochondrus armatus (Koehler, 1907), Ophiosabine parcita (Koehler, 1906), Ophiophrixus spinosus (Storm, 1881), Ophiotreta valenciennesi (Lyman, 1879). Furthermore, one species has expanded its bathymetric range: Ophiosabine parcita (Koehler, 1906).
Expert Consensus Document: An Algorithm for the Care and Treatment of Patients with Constipation Based on Ultrasonographic Findings in the Rectum
Authors: Kessoku Takaomi , Matsumoto Masaru , Misawa Noboru , Tsuda Momoko , Miura Yuka , Uchida Ayaka , Toriumi Yuki , Onodera Tomoyuki , Arima Hiromi , Kawamoto Atsuo , Sugama Junko , Matsushima Makoto , Kato Mototsugu , Manabe Noriaki , Tamai Nao , Sanada Hiromi , Nakajima Atsushi
Published: July 2024

Chronic constipation is a common gastrointestinal disorder, and its management is critical. However, it is extremely difficult to assess its subjective symptoms when patients are unable to report them due to cognitive or physical disabilities, especially in cases of patients with incurable geriatric, pediatric, palliative, psychiatric, or neurological diseases. We had previously established a protocol for observing and assessing rectal fecal retention using ultrasonography and for classifying cases into three categories based on the rectal findings: no fecal retention, fecal retention without hard stools, and fecal retention with hard stools. However, although the detection of rectal fecal retention using ultrasonography would be expected to lead to better therapeutic management, there is no standard algorithm for selecting specific treatments and defecation care options based on ultrasonographic findings. Therefore, we organized an expert consensus meeting of multidisciplinary professionals to develop such an algorithm based on rectal ultrasonography findings for patients with constipation in both residential and hospital settings.
The Potential Role of PSMA-Targeted PET in Salivary Gland Malignancies: An Updated Systematic Review
Authors: Rizzo Alessio , Albano Domenico , Elisei Federica , Racca Manuela , Dondi Francesco , Annunziata Salvatore , Cuzzocrea Marco , Bertagna Francesco , Treglia Giorgio
Published: July 2024

Background: Recent studies have suggested using positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) with prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA)-targeting radiopharmaceuticals for the detection of salivary gland malignancies (SGM), particularly adenoid-cystic carcinoma (ACC). Methods: The authors conducted an extensive review of the scientific literature to examine the potential diagnostic role of PET/CT using PSMA-targeting radiopharmaceuticals in salivary gland malignancies (SGMs) and adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC). This study included newly diagnosed SGM patients and those with disease recurrence in their imaging evaluation. Results: This updated systematic review included a total of six studies that examined the diagnostic performance of PSMA-targeted PET/CT in ACC. The articles provided evidence of a high detection rate of PSMA-targeting PET/CT in ACC across all clinical contexts examined. SGMs other than ACC exhibited poorer diagnostic performance. Conclusions: PSMA-targeted PET/CT seems promising in detecting ACC lesions; moreover, PSMA appears to be a suitable potential target for radioligand therapy. Prospective multicentric studies are warranted to strengthen the role of PSMA-targeting radiopharmaceuticals in ACC, as both diagnostic and theragnostic agents.
Quantification of Human Photoreceptor–Retinal Pigment Epithelium Macular Topography with Adaptive Optics–Optical Coherence Tomography
Authors: Liu Zhuolin , Aghayee Samira , Soltanian-Zadeh Somayyeh , Kovalick Katherine , Agrawal Anant , Saeedi Osamah , Cukras Catherine , Chew Emily Y. , Farsiu Sina , Hammer Daniel X.
Published: July 2024

Photoreceptors (PRs) and retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells form a functional unit called the PR-RPE complex. The PR-RPE complex plays a critical role in maintaining retinal homeostasis and function, and the quantification of its structure and topographical arrangement across the macula are important for understanding the etiology, mechanisms, and progression of many retinal diseases. However, the three-dimensional cellular morphology of the PR-RPE complex in living human eyes has not been completely described due to limitations in imaging techniques. We used the cellular resolution and depth-sectioning capabilities of a custom, high-speed Fourier domain mode-locked laser-based adaptive optics–optical coherence tomography (FDML-AO-OCT) platform to characterize human PR-RPE complex topography across the temporal macula from eleven healthy volunteers. With the aid of a deep learning algorithm, key metrics were extracted from the PR-RPE complex of averaged AO-OCT volumes including PR and RPE cell density, PR outer segment length (OSL), and PR/RPE ratio. We found a tight grouping among our cohort for PR density, with a mean (±SD) value of 53,329 (±8106) cells/mm2 at 1° decreasing to 8669 (±737) cells/mm2 at 12°. We observed a power function relationship between eccentricity and both PR density and PR/RPE ratio. We found similar variability in our RPE density measures, with a mean value of 7335 (±681) cells/mm2 at 1° decreasing to 5547 (±356) cells/mm2 at 12°, exhibiting a linear relationship with a negative slope of −123 cells/mm2 per degree. OSL monotonically decreased from 33.3 (±2.4) µm at 1° to 18.0 (±1.8) µm at 12°, following a second-order polynomial relationship. PR/RPE ratio decreased from 7.3 (±0.9) µm at 1° to 1.5 (±0.1) µm at 12°. The normative data from this investigation will help lay a foundation for future studies of retinal pathology.
Proposing Multiregional Diagnostic Reference Levels for Common CT Angiography Examinations in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alhailiy Ali , Alkhybari Essam , Alshuhri Mohammed , Al-Othman Abdullah , Hegazi Tarek , Alsuhaimi Mohammed , Alghamdi Sultan , Alenazi Khaled , Alashban Yazeed , Alghamdi Sami , Quzi Omar , Jaafari Osama , Alajlani Saleh , Masmali Abdulrahman , Hadi Yasser , Manssor Elbagir , Mahmoud Mustafa
Published: July 2024

Objectives: Diagnostic reference levels (DRLs) are crucial tools for optimizing radiation exposure during different radiological examinations. This study aimed to establish preliminary DRLs for commonly performed computed tomographic angiography (CTA) examinations in Saudi Arabia. Methods: Data for three types of CTA examinations (cerebral, pulmonary, and lower-extremity) were collected from six medical cities across Saudi Arabia. Data sets related to 723 CTAs with a mean patient weight of 75 kg were analysed in detail. The DRL values were determined based on the 75th, median, and 25th CT dose index volume (CTDIvol) and dose length product (DLP) values. Results: The established DRLs were 1221 mGy cm for cerebral CTAs, 475 mGy cm for pulmonary CTAs, and 1040 mGy cm for lower-extremity CTAs. These values were comparable to those reported in other studies. Conclusions: This study provides preliminary DRLs for three common CTA procedures in Saudi Arabia. The widespread implementation of a low kVp and a high level of image reconstruction (IR) presents an opportunity for further dose reduction. These findings can serve as a foundation for future nationwide DRL surveys and the optimization of CTA imaging protocols in Saudi Arabia.
Neutrophilic Myocarditis: Insights from a Forensic Centre’s Retrospective Study
Authors: Neagu Oana , Luca Lăcrămioara , Bosa Maria , Tița Alina , Ceaușu Mihail Constantin
Published: July 2024

Background: Neutrophilic myocarditis often stems from bacterial or fungal infections, and it is typically detectable through blood cultures or analyses of the primary infection site. However, research specifically addressing the morphological features of acute myocarditis in complex sepsis cases is scarce, with existing studies primarily dating back to the pre-antibiotic era. Methods: This study constitutes a retrospective and descriptive analysis encompassing 22 forensic cases. We collected data from forensic reports emphasising clinical details, disease history, gross observations, and histopathological findings. Results: The results show that using positive-air-pressure ventilation could be related to cardiac inflammation (45.45%, 10/22). Despite large-spectrum antibiotic therapy, the blood samples were positive for Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA strain), Klebsiella pneumoniae (ESBL strain), Acinetobacter baumannii, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Colonies developed in the myocardium of 36% of the patients (8/22), where 4 of them had septic emboli. Fungal myocarditis accompanied bacterial infections (2/8) and were unsuspected clinically. Background changes, such as interstitial fibrosis and arteriosclerosis, were associated with a greater degree of inflammation and septic embolism. Conclusion: Neutrophilic myocarditis in patients with emerging sepsis is linked to fatal virulent infections, where bacteria and/or fungi contaminate and impair the myocardium syncytium. Prolonged hospitalisation and positive-air-pressure ventilation may be a risk factor for this condition and needs further research.