bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experimental Analysis of Shear-Strengthened RC Beams with Jute and Jute–Glass Hybrid FRPs Using the EBR Technique
Authors: Maciel Luciana P. , Leão Júnior Paulo S. B. , Pereira Filho Manoel J. M. , El Banna Wassim R. , Fujiyama Roberto T. , Ferreira Maurício P. , Lima Neto Aarão F.
Published: September 2024

The hybridisation of fibre-reinforced polymers (FRPs), particularly with the combination of natural and synthetic fibres, is a prominent option for their development. In the context of the construction industry, there is a notable gap in research on the use of jute and glass fibres for the strengthening of concrete structures. This paper presents comprehensive experimental results from tests on seven reinforced concrete (RC) beams strengthened for shear using synthetic, natural, and hybrid jute–glass FRP composites. The beams were reinforced using the externally bonded reinforcement (EBR) technique with U-wrap bonding. A beam without any strengthening was tested and set as a reference for the other beams. Two beams were tested with synthetic FRP shear strengthenings, one with carbon fibre-reinforced polymer (CFRP) and another with glass fibre-reinforced polymer (GFRP). The remaining tests were on RC beams strengthened with natural jute fibre-reinforced polymer (JFRP) and hybrid jute–glass FRP. The paper discusses the experimental behaviour of the tested beams in terms of vertical displacements, crack widths, and strains on steel bars, concrete, and FRP. The experimental strengths are also compared with theoretical estimates obtained using ACI 440.2R and fib Bulletin 90. The tests confirm the effectiveness of natural jute FRP and jute–glass hybrid FRP as an option for the shear strengthening of reinforced concrete beams.
Prediction of the Unconfined Compressive Strength of a One-Part Geopolymer-Stabilized Soil Using Deep Learning Methods with Combined Real and Synthetic Data
Authors: Chen Qinyi , Hu Guo , Wu Jun
Published: September 2024

This study focused on exploring the utilization of a one-part geopolymer (OPG) as a sustainable alternative binder to ordinary Portland cement (OPC) in soil stabilization, offering significant environmental advantages. The unconfined compressive strength (UCS) was the key index for evaluating the efficacy of OPG in soil stabilization, traditionally demanding substantial resources in terms of cost and time. In this research, four distinct deep learning (DL) models (Artificial Neural Network [ANN], Backpropagation Neural Network [BPNN], Convolutional Neural Network [CNN], and Long Short-Term Memory [LSTM]) were employed to predict the UCS of OPG-stabilized soft clay, providing a more efficient and precise methodology. Among these models, CNN exhibited the highest performance (MAE = 0.022, R2 = 0.9938), followed by LSTM (MAE = 0.0274, R2 = 0.9924) and BPNN (MAE = 0.0272, R2 = 0.9921). The Wasserstein Generative Adversarial Network (WGAN) was further utilized to generate additional synthetic samples for expanding the training dataset. The incorporation of the synthetic samples generated by WGAN models into the training set for the DL models led to improved performance. When the number of synthetic samples achieved 200, the WGAN-CNN model provided the most accurate results, with an R2 value of 0.9978 and MAE value of 0.9978. Furthermore, to assess the reliability of the DL models and gain insights into the influence of input variables on the predicted outcomes, interpretable Machine Learning techniques, including a sensitivity analysis, Shapley Additive Explanation (SHAP), and 1D Partial Dependence Plot (PDP) were employed for analyzing and interpreting the CNN and WGAN-CNN models. This research illuminates new aspects of the application of DL models with training on real and synthetic data in evaluating the strength properties of the OPG-stabilized soil, contributing to saving time and cost.
Material Properties and Mechanical Performances of Manufactured Factory-Produced Glass Fiber-Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete Panel
Authors: Song Pei , Peng Xiaoxuan , Zheng Rengeng , Xia Jun
Published: September 2024

Autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC) has gained widespread acceptance in construction as a lightweight solution for exterior and interior walls. However, traditional steel-reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (SR-AAC) has limitations, including concerns over its ductility and difficulty in cutting during installation. The steel reinforcement also has high embodied carbon that does not align with the actions in the construction section to reach carbon neutrality shortly. This study investigated the material properties and mechanical performances of factory-produced fiber-reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (FR-AAC) panels, aiming to examine their potential as an alternative solution. Full-scale FR-AAC panels with thicknesses of 100 mm, 150 mm, and 200 mm were manufactured and tested. Some panels were down-sampled to determine the dry density, water absorption, compressive strength, and flexural strength of the material, while the mechanical performances were evaluated through static and impact loading tests. The results showed that the average dry density and absorption of the FR-AAC material are 533 kg/m3 and 63%, respectively, with compressive strengths up to 3.79 MPa and flexural strengths reaching 0.97 MPa. All six panels tested under static uniformly distributed loading exceeded the self-weight limit by a factor of 1.5, satisfying standard requirements for load-bearing capacity. However, the brittle failure modes observed in some tests raise potential health and safety concerns. In contrast, the impact tests revealed that the panels have acceptable performances with the inclusion of fibers.
Plastic Limited Numerical Modelling on Contact Friction Effects of Steel–Concrete Connection for Composite Bridges
Authors: Gosztola Dániel , Cucuzza Raffaele , Szép János , Domaneschi Marco , Ghodousian Oveys , Movahedi Rad Majid
Published: September 2024

This research employs plastic limit analysis to examine load combinations, contact interactions, and friction effects on steel–concrete connections. A nonlinear finite element model was developed using ABAQUS 2021, incorporating the concrete damage plasticity model and contact friction interactions. The model’s validity was confirmed through laboratory experiments. Results indicate that contact elements and friction between the top flange, concrete slab, and studs significantly influence structural behavior. Unlike conventional push-out tests, real deck–slab connections exhibit different load-displacement responses due to the self-weight and additional loads, such as vehicular traffic. Under horizontal loading, extensive failures with large deformations along the studs occur, while vertically compressive loads lead to failures around the connections.
Apparent Influence of Anhydrite in High-Calcium Fly Ash on Compressive Strength of Concrete
Authors: Pushpalal Dinil , Kashima Hiroo
Published: September 2024

This case study investigates five fly ashes with high CaO and SO3 levels in their chemical composition and compares the apparent influence of the presence and absence of anhydrite on compressive strength. Another distinguishing feature of the above ashes is that they, more or less, naturally contain anhydrite. Two different series of mixed proportions were adopted. Series 1 is designed to understand the maximum possible replacement level of fly ash. Series 2 is designed to understand the effect of anhydrite on compressive strength development. The mineral composition and glass phase of fly ashes were determined by X-ray diffraction Rietveld analysis. As a result of this study, we have found that concrete containing anhydrite-rich fly ash exhibits a higher strength than concrete containing anhydrite-free fly ash at all ages. The compressive strength increases with an increasing fly ash replacement ratio when anhydrite-rich ash is used, but strength decreases when the replacement level exceeds a certain point. The optimal amount of anhydrite was 2 ± 0.5 kg/m3 of concrete, excluding the anhydrite contained in cement.
Continuous Flow Synthesis of Furfuryl Ethers over Pd/C Catalysts via Reductive Etherification of Furfural in Ethanol
Authors: Hassine Ayoub , Iben Ayad Anas , Ould Dris Aïssa , Luart Denis , Guénin Erwann
Published: September 2024

Furfural has become one of the most promising building blocks directly derived from biomass. It can be transformed into numerous important biobased chemicals. Among them, furfuryl ethers such as furfuryl ethyl ether (FEE) and tetrahydrofurfuryl ethyl ether (THFEE) are considered to be attractive derivatives, notably as fuel components, due to their high stability and high octane numbers. Therefore, the production of furfuryl ethers from furfural via a hydrogenation route is an important academic and industrial challenge and requires the deployment of new catalytic processes under green and competitive reaction conditions. The existing processes are based on a two-step process combining hydrogenation and reaction with a strong Bronsted acid catalyst in batch conditions. For the first time, a continuous flow one-step process has been elaborated for the conversion of furfural directly into furfuryl ethers based on reductive etherification. The present work explores the catalytic performance in a continuous flow of commercial palladium catalysts supported on activated carbon for the catalytic reductive etherification of furfural with ethanol in the presence of trifluoroacetic acid. The chemical and engineering aspects, such as the mechanisms and reaction conditions, will be discussed.
Nanoalchemy: Unveiling the Power of Carbon Nanostructures and Carbon–Metal Nanocomposites in Synthesis and Photocatalytic Activity
Authors: Neelan Yalini Devi , Bakthavatchalam Senthil , Mahalingam Shanmugam , Yoganand Krishnasamy Sreenivason , Ramalingam Shunmuga Vadivu , Rajendran Umamaheswari , Ramu Rajasekaran , Yang Tae-Youl , Kim Junghwan , Atchudan Raji
Published: September 2024

Due to a rise in industrial pollutants in modern life, the climate and energy crisis have grown more widespread. One of the best ways to deal with dye degradation, hydrogen production, and carbon dioxide reduction issues is the photocatalytic technique. Among various methods, catalytic technology has demonstrated tremendous promise in recent years as a cheap, sustainable, and environmentally benign technology. The expeditious establishment of carbon-based metal nanoparticles as catalysts in the disciplines of materials and chemical engineering for catalytic applications triggered by visible light is largely attributed to their advancement. There have been many wonderful catalysts created, but there are still many obstacles to overcome, which include the cost of catalysts being reduced and their effectiveness being increased. Carbon-based materials exhibit a unique combination of characteristics that make them ideal catalysts for various reaction types. These characteristics include an exceptional electrical conductivity, well-defined structures at the nanoscale, inherent water repellency, and the ability to tailor surface properties for specific applications. This versatility allows them to be effective in diverse catalytic processes, encompassing organic transformations and photocatalysis. The emergence of carbon-based nanostructured materials, including fullerenes, carbon dots, carbon nanotubes, graphitic carbon nitride, and graphene, presents a promising alternative to conventional catalysts. This review focuses on the diverse functionalities of these materials within the realm of catalysis materials for degradation, hydrogen production, and carbon dioxide reduction. Additionally, it explores the potential for their commercialization, delving into the underlying mechanisms and key factors that influence their performance. It is anticipated that this review will spur more research to develop high-performance carbon-based materials for environmental applications.
Lactate-Induced HBEGF Shedding and EGFR Activation: Paving the Way to a New Anticancer Therapeutic Opportunity
Authors: Rossi Valentina , Hochkoeppler Alejandro , Govoni Marzia , Di Stefano Giuseppina
Published: September 2024

Cancer cells can release EGF-like peptides, acquiring the capacity of autocrine stimulation via EGFR-mediated signaling. One of these peptides (HBEGF) was found to be released from a membrane-bound precursor protein and is critically implicated in the proliferative potential of cancer cells. We observed that the increased lactate levels characterizing neoplastic tissues can induce the release of uPA, a protease promoting HBEGF shedding. This effect led to EGFR activation and increased ERK1/2 phosphorylation. Since EGFR-mediated signaling potentiates glycolytic metabolism, this phenomenon can induce a self-sustaining deleterious loop, favoring tumor growth. A well characterized HBEGF inhibitor is CRM197, a single-site variant of diphtheria toxin. We observed that, when administered individually, CRM197 did not trigger evident antineoplastic effects. However, its association with a uPA inhibitor caused dampening of EGFR-mediated signaling and apoptosis induction. Overall, our study highlights that the increased glycolytic metabolism and lactate production can foster the activated state of EGFR receptor and suggests that the inhibition of EGFR-mediated signaling can be attempted by means of CRM197 administered with an appropriate protease inhibitor. This attempt could help in overcoming the problem of the acquired resistance to the conventionally used EGFR inhibitors.
Pravastatin Protects Cytotrophoblasts from Hyperglycemia-Induced Preeclampsia Phenotype
Authors: Pantho Ahmed F. , Mohamed Sara , Govande Janhavi V. , Rane Riddhi , Vora Niraj , Kelso Kelsey R. , Kuehl Thomas J. , Lindheim Steven R. , Uddin Mohammad N.
Published: September 2024

There are no effective therapies to prevent preeclampsia (PE). Pravastatin shows promise by attenuating processes associated with PE such as decreased cytotrophoblast (CTB) migration, aberrant angiogenesis, and increased oxidative stress. This study assesses the effects of pravastatin on hyperglycemia-induced CTB dysfunction. Methods: Human CTB cells were treated with 100, 150, 200, 300, or 400 mg/dL glucose for 48 h. Some cells were pretreated with pravastatin (1 µg/mL), while others were cotreated with pravastatin and glucose. The expression of urokinase plasminogen activator (uPA), plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 (PAI-1) mRNA, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), placenta growth factor (PlGF), soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1), and soluble endoglin (sEng) were measured. CTB migration was assayed using a CytoSelect migration assay kit. Statistical comparisons were performed using an analysis of variance with Duncan’s post hoc test. Results: The hyperglycemia-induced downregulation of uPA was attenuated in CTB cells pretreated with pravastatin at glucose levels > 200 mg/dL and cotreated at glucose levels > 300 mg/dL (p < 0.05). Hyperglycemia-induced decreases in VEGF and PlGF and increases in sEng and sFlt-1 were attenuated in both the pretreatment and cotreatment samples regardless of glucose dose (p < 0.05). Pravastatin attenuated hyperglycemia-induced dysfunction of CTB migration. Conclusions: Pravastatin mitigates stress signaling responses in hyperglycemic conditions, weakening processes leading to abnormal CTB migration and invasion associated with PE in pregnancy.
3D Modeling: Insights into the Metabolic Reprogramming of Cholangiocarcinoma Cells
Authors: Ciufolini Giorgia , Zampieri Serena , Cesaroni Simona , Pasquale Valentina , Bonanomi Marcella , Gaglio Daniela , Sacco Elena , Vanoni Marco , Pastore Mirella , Marra Fabio , Cicero Daniel Oscar , Raggi Chiara , Petrella Greta
Published: September 2024

Developing accurate in vitro models that replicate the in vivo tumor environment is essential for advancing cancer research and therapeutic development. Traditional 2D cell cultures often fail to capture the complex structural and functional heterogeneity of tumors, limiting the translational relevance of findings. In contrast, 3D culture systems, such as spheroids, provide a more physiologically relevant context by replicating key aspects of the tumor microenvironment. This study aimed to compare the metabolism of three intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma cell lines in 2D and 3D cultures to identify metabolic shifts associated with spheroid formation. Cells were cultured in 2D on adhesion plates and in 3D using ultra-low attachment plates. Metabolic exchange rates were measured using NMR, and intracellular metabolites were analyzed using LC-MS. Significant metabolic differences were observed between 2D and 3D cultures, with notable changes in central carbon and glutathione metabolism in 3D spheroids. The results suggest that 3D cultures, which more closely mimic the in vivo environment, may offer a more accurate platform for cancer research and drug testing.
Considerations for Using Neuroblastoma Cell Lines to Examine the Roles of Iron and Ferroptosis in Neurodegeneration
Authors: Cardona Cameron J. , Kim Yoo , Chowanadisai Winyoo , Montgomery McKale R.
Published: September 2024

Ferroptosis is an iron-dependent form of programmed cell death that is influenced by biological processes such as iron metabolism and senescence. As brain iron levels increase with aging, ferroptosis is also implicated in the development of age-related pathologic conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and related dementias (ADRD). Indeed, inhibitors of ferroptosis have been shown to be protective in models of degenerative brain disorders like AD/ADRD. Given the inaccessibility of the living human brain for metabolic studies, the goal of this work was to characterize an in vitro model for understanding how aging and iron availability influence neuronal iron metabolism and ferroptosis. First, the human (SH-SY5Y) and mouse (Neuro-2a) neuroblastoma lines were terminally differentiated into mature neurons by culturing in all-trans-retinoic acid for at least 72 h. Despite demonstrating all signs of neuronal differentiation and maturation, including increased expression of the iron storage protein ferritin, we discovered that differentiation conferred ferroptosis resistance in both cell lines. Gene expression data indicates differentiated neurons increase their capacity to protect against iron-mediated oxidative damage by augmenting cystine import, and subsequently increasing intracellular cysteine levels, to promote glutathione production and glutathione peroxidase activity (GPX). In support of this hypothesis, we found that culturing differentiated neurons in cysteine-depleted media sensitized them to GPX4 inhibition, and that these effects are mitigated by cystine supplementation. Such findings are important as they provide guidance for the use of in vitro experimental models to investigate the role of ferroptosis in neurodegeneration in pathologies such as ADRD.
Human Multi-Lineage Liver Organoid Model Reveals Impairment of CYP3A4 Expression upon Repeated Exposure to Graphene Oxide
Authors: Romaldini Alessio , Spanò Raffaele , Veronesi Marina , Grimaldi Benedetto , Bandiera Tiziano , Sabella Stefania
Published: September 2024

Three-dimensional hepatic cell cultures can provide an important advancement in the toxicity assessment of nanomaterials with respect to 2D models. Here, we describe liver organoids (LOs) obtained by assembling multiple cell lineages in a fixed ratio 1:1:0.2. These are upcyte® human hepatocytes, UHHs, upcyte® liver sinusoidal endothelial cells, LSECs, and human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stromal cells, hbmMSCs. The structural and functional analyses indicated that LOs reached size stability upon ca. 10 days of cultivation (organoid maturation), showing a surface area of approximately 10 mm2 and the hepatic cellular lineages, UHHs and LSECs, arranged to form both primitive biliary networks and sinusoid structures, alike in vivo. LOs did not show signs of cellular apoptosis, senescence, or alteration of hepatocellular functions (e.g., dis-regulation of CYP3A4 or aberrant production of Albumin) for the entire culture period (19 days since organoid maturation). After that, LOs were repeatedly exposed for 19 days to a single or repeated dose of graphene oxide (GO: 2–40 µg/mL). We observed that the treatment did not induce any macroscopic signs of tissue damage, apoptosis activation, and alteration of cell viability. However, in the repeated dose regimen, we observed a down-regulation of CYP3A4 gene expression. Notably, these findings are in line with recent in vivo data, which report a similar impact on CYP3A4 when mice were repeatedly exposed to GO. Taken together, these findings warn of the potential detrimental effects of GO in real-life exposure (e.g., occupational scenario), where its progressive accumulation is likely expected. More in general, this study highlights that LOs formed by many cell lineages can enable repeated exposure regimens (suitable to mimic accumulation); thus, they can be suitably considered alternative or complementary in vitro systems to animal models.
Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Treatment Induces ßNGF Release from Schwann Cells and Enhances the Neurite Growth of Dorsal Root Ganglion Neurons In Vitro
Authors: Rad Anda , Weigl Lukas , Steinecker-Frohnwieser Bibiane , Stadlmayr Sarah , Millesi Flavia , Haertinger Maximilian , Borger Anton , Supper Paul , Semmler Lorenz , Wolf Sonja , Naghilou Aida , Weiss Tamara , Kress Hans G. , Radtke Christine
Published: September 2024

Peripheral nerve regeneration depends on close interaction between neurons and Schwann cells (SCs). After nerve injury, SCs produce growth factors and cytokines that are crucial for axon re-growth. Previous studies revealed the supernatant of SCs exposed to nuclear magnetic resonance therapy (NMRT) treatment to increase survival and neurite formation of rat dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons in vitro. The aim of this study was to identify factors involved in transferring the observed NMRT-induced effects to SCs and consequently to DRG neurons. Conditioned media of NMRT-treated (CM NMRT) and untreated SCs (CM CTRL) were tested by beta-nerve growth factor (ßNGF) ELISA and multiplex cytokine panels to profile secreted factors. The expression of nociceptive transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) channels was assessed and the intracellular calcium response in DRG neurons to high-potassium solution, capsaicin or adenosine triphosphate was measured mimicking noxious stimuli. NMRT induced the secretion of ßNGF and pro-regenerative-signaling factors. Blocking antibody experiments confirmed ßNGF as the main factor responsible for neurotrophic/neuritogenic effects of CM NMRT. The TRPV1 expression or sensitivity to specific stimuli was not altered, whereas the viability of cultured DRG neurons was increased. Positive effects of CM NMRT supernatant on DRG neurons are primarily mediated by increased ßNGF levels.
Ethosomes: A Promising Drug Delivery Platform for Transdermal Application
Authors: Zhan Bo , Wang Jiawen , Li Hongyu , Xiao Kexin , Fang Xiaohua , Shi Yajun , Jia Yanyan
Published: September 2024

In recent years, transdermal drug delivery systems have gained considerable attention for their ability to enhance patient compliance and provide consistent drug release. However, the barrier function of the skin’s outermost layer remains the foremost challenge in these systems. As a result, there is a growing interest in the use of ethosomes as a cutting-edge nanocarrier in drug delivery. This review presents the concept and mechanism of action of ethosomes as well as the numerous types and preparation techniques available. It also discusses the significance of characterization methods and how they impact ethosomal properties along with recent advancements and applications in the realm of transdermal drug delivery. Ethosomes exhibit tremendous potential for the pharmaceutical industry, and optimizing preparation methods, performing comprehensive property studies, and exploring their applications are critical areas for future research.
Evaluation of an Enzyme-Linked Magnetic Electrochemical Assay for Hepatitis a Virus Detection in Drinking and Vegetable Processing Water
Authors: D’Agostino Cristine , Cancelliere Rocco , Ceccarelli Antonio , Moscone Danila , Cozzi Loredana , La Rosa Giuseppina , Suffredini Elisabetta , Micheli Laura
Published: September 2024

Globally, waterborne viral infections significantly threaten public health. While current European Union regulations stipulate that drinking water must be devoid of harmful pathogens, they do not specifically address the presence of enteric viruses in water used for irrigation or food production. Traditional virus detection methods rely on molecular biology assays, requiring specialized personnel and laboratory facilities. Here, we describe an electrochemical sandwich enzyme-linked immunomagnetic assay (ELIME) for the detection of the hepatitis A virus (HAV) in water matrices. This method employed screen-printed electrodes as the sensing platform and utilized commercially available pre-activated magnetic beads to provide a robust foundation for the immunological reaction. The ELIME assay demonstrated exceptional analytical performance in only 185 min achieving a detection limit of 0.5 genomic copies per milliliter (g.c./mL) and exhibiting good reproducibility with a relative standard deviation (RSD) of 7% in HAV-spiked drinking and processing water samples. Compared with the real-time RT-qPCR method described in ISO 15216-1, the ELIME assay demonstrated higher sensitivity, although the overall linearity of the method was moderate. These analytical attributes highlight the potential of the ELIME assay as a rapid and viable alternative for HAV detection in water used for agriculture and food processing.
Lactoferrin in Pediatric Chronic Kidney Disease and Its Relationship with Cardiovascular Risk
Authors: Ho Chun-Yi , Lu Pei-Chen , Chen Wei-Ling , Liao Wei-Ting , Hsu Chien-Ning , Tain You-Lin
Published: September 2024

Background: Pediatric CKD is associated with a high risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Early detection of subclinical CVD in childhood CKD can be achieved through various cardiovascular (CV) assessments, including carotid intima–media thickness (cIMT), ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM), and arterial stiffness indices. Lactoferrin (LF), a key functional glycoprotein found in breast milk, has been linked to several diseases and has potential as a biomarker. Methods: In our study of 102 children with CKD stages G1–G4, we explored the relationship between LF and CV risk markers. Results: We found that LF concentration was not related to the severity or underlying causes of childhood CKD, but was positively correlated with overweight/obesity. Lower LF levels were correlated with increased cIMT and elevated arterial stiffness indices. Notably, abnormalities in ABPM profiles were observed in up to 60% of the children with CKD, with low LF levels linked to nighttime hypertension, nocturnal non-dipping, and ABPM abnormalities. Conclusions: In conclusion, LF shows promise as a biomarker for detecting subclinical CVD in children with CKD. Its potential utility in early detection could be instrumental in guiding timely interventions and improving long-term CV outcomes, although further research is needed to clarify the underlying mechanisms.
A Farmer-Centric Cost–Benefit Analysis of Climate-Smart Agriculture in the Gandaki River Basin of Nepal
Authors: Poudel Shobha , Thapa Rabin , Mishra Bhogendra
Published: September 2024

Climate-smart agriculture (CSA) is a climate-resilient practice that stands out globally as an important practice through which we can deal with emerging challenges through adaptation and mitigation to increase crop productivity and resilience. Despite its significance, a comprehensive cost–benefit analysis of the adoption of these practices has not yet been carried out. This study aims to bridge the knowledge gap between the cost and effectiveness of CSA practices adopted by small-scale farmers in growing rice, wheat and maize, the most staple crops in the Gandaki River Basin of Nepal. In this study, net present value (NPV), internal rate of return (IRR), benefit–cost (BC) ratio, net benefit investment (NK) ratio and payback period, along with the value of externalities (social and environmental), were employed to assess the profitability of CSA practices. The findings indicate that almost all the CSA practices analyzed were profitable, with the exception of solar water management in maize with very low IRR (6%) and a longer payback period. The outcome of this study offers valuable insights for farmers in choosing profitable CSA technology and for policy makers in promoting better CSA technology, upscaling CSA practices, and formulating new agricultural policies and programs in the context of the changing climate.
MATLAB Application for Determination of 12 Combustion Products, Adiabatic Temperature and Laminar Burning Velocity: Development, Coding and Explanation
Authors: Cisneros Roberto Franco , Rojas Freddy Jesus
Published: September 2024

The determination of the characteristics and main combustion properties of fuels is necessary for post-implementation in different applications. Among the most important combustion properties of a fuel are the combustion products, flame temperature and laminar burning velocity. Therefore, this paper describes the step-by-step development and coding of a MATLAB application that can determine 12 combustion products, flame temperature and laminar burning velocity in order to understand the logic of calculus procedure, so any user would be able to make improvements of new functionalities (add more fuels, add more combustion products, etc.). The numerical procedure and methods (Gaussian elimination, Taylor Series and Newton–Raphson) parallel with their implementation as code lines for the development of the application are carried out using flow charts. In addition, simulations in Ansys Chemkin were performed and included in the application as part of the results comparison. It was found that: (1) The MATLAB Application codification and development were successfully explained in detail, (2) the functions and execution sequence are described by using flow charts and code extract, (3) the application is available to everyone for modifications, (4) the application can only be used for hydrocarbons fuels, (5) the application execution time registered was less than 8 s.
Pulsed Laser Polishing of Zirconia Ceramic Microcrack Generation Mechanism and Size Characterization Study
Authors: Zhou Zhanwang , Zhao Zhenyu , He Jin , Shi Ruikang
Published: September 2024

In order to study the mechanism of microcrack generation in the process of pulsed laser polishing of zirconia ceramics and the influence of laser polishing process parameters on the surface temperature and surface stress, this paper establishes a finite element computational model of pulsed laser polishing of zirconia ceramics based on the COMSOL Multiphysics multi-physics field simulation software. Firstly, in the process of establishing the finite element model, the temperature field and stress field coupling is used to analyze the temperature field and stress field changes during the laser polishing process, which reveals the microcrack generation mechanism and size characteristics of zirconia ceramics in the process of pulsed laser polishing. Secondly, through parameterized scanning, the variation rules of surface temperature and surface stress were studied under different process parameters of laser power, scanning speed, pulse frequency and pulse width. Finally, the validity of the finite element calculation model is verified by the pulsed laser polishing zirconia ceramics experiment. The results show that, in a certain energy range, the high-energy laser beam can effectively reduce the surface roughness of the material, and with the increase in the time of laser action on the surface layer of the material, it will cause the temperature and thermal stress of the surface layer of the material to continue to accumulate, and when the stress value exceeds the yield limit of the material, cracks will form in the surface layer of the material; because the laser power, scanning speed, pulse frequency and pulse width are used to affect the laser energy density, and then, the pulse width will be affected by the process parameters of the laser energy density, and thus the surface temperature and thermal stress of the surface layer of the material. Because the laser power, scanning speed, pulse frequency and pulse width all affect the thermal stress on the material surface by influencing the laser energy density acting on the material surface, the laser energy density is the main influencing factor of the dimensional characteristics of the microcracks. In addition, the microcrack width and depth will increase when the laser energy density acting on the material surface layer increases.
The Prognostic Value of Left Atrial Function in Patients with Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Tangen Jorun , Nguyen Thuy Mi , Melichova Daniela , Klaeboe Lars Gunnar , Forsa Marianne , Andresen Kristoffer , Wazzan Adrien Al , Lie Oyvind , Haugaa Kristina , Skulstad Helge , Brunvand Harald , Edvardsen Thor
Published: September 2024

The prognostic value of left atrial (LA) volume is well-established in acute myocardial infarction (AMI) patients. LA strain provides further patophysological insights. In the present study, we evaluated LA volume and LA strain in AMI patients including those with atrial fibrillation (AF). The aim of the study was to determine if LA strain provide additional prognostic value. Patients with AMI underwent two-dimensional echocardiography within 72 h of admission. The primary outcome was a composite of all-cause mortality and major adverse cardiovascular events. Cox regression analyses were performed. We included 501 patients and during follow-up, 132 patients (26.4%) met the primary outcome. Left ventricular (LV) global longitudinal strain (GLS) (HR 0.94 [95% CI 0.88–0.99], p = 0.029), indexed LA volume (LAVi) (HR 1.02 [95% CI 1.00–1.04], p = 0.015), and LA reservoir strain (HR 0.96 [95% CI 0.93–0.99], p = 0.017) were all independently associated with the primary outcome. A univariate Cox model conducted on the AF patients (n = 32) revealed that LA reservoir strain remained significantly associated with the primary outcome, while LV GLS and LAVi were not significant. The prognostic value of LA reservoir strain was comparable to LA volume and LV GLS, and might even be better in AF patients.
The Potential Role of Cell-Death Mechanisms in the Pathogenesis of Familial Mediterranean Fever Attacks: Granzyme A and Beyond
Authors: Yaglikara Ece , Boluk Oguz , Bayindir Yagmur , Bilginer Yelda , Tasar Medine Aysin , Ozen Seza , Sag Erdal
Published: September 2024

Background: FMF is the most common autoinflammatory disease. The activation of the pyrin inflammasome is the mainstay of the pathogenesis, which might lead to a specific cell-death mechanism, pyroptosis. Pyroptosis is a programmed inflammatory cell death mediated by gasdermin proteins, featuring cell swelling, membrane rupture, and release of inflammatory contents Aim: In this study we aimed to analyze the cell-death mechanisms in the pathogenesis of FMF attacks. Methods: Twenty-five FMF patients were included, and PFAPA patients (n = 10) and healthy controls (HC, n = 10) served as controls. We collected plasma samples from FMF and PFAPA patients during the attack and the attack-free period. We measured the soluble plasma levels of sFas, sFasL, granzyme A, granzyme B, perforin, granulysin, IL-2, IL-4, IL-10, IL-6, IL-17A, TNF-α, and IFN-γ by commercial pre-defined cytometric bead array kits. Results: There was no significant difference between groups in terms of sex and age between FMF patients and HCs, but PFAPA patients were younger than other groups due to the nature of the disease. We then analyzed the components of apoptosis and pyroptosis. The levels of sFasL (p = 0.035) and granzyme A (p = 0.038) in FMF patients were significantly increased during the attack period and decreased to levels comparable to HCs during the attack-free period. This increase was not seen in the PFAPA patients, with comparable levels with the HC group both during attack period and attack-free period. During the attack period of FMF patients, granzyme B (p = 0.145) and perforin (p = 0.203) levels were also increased; however, the differences were not statistically significant. The levels of sFasL, granzyme A, granzyme B, and perforin were closely correlated with each other during the attack period of FMF patients. Conclusions: Our study on death pathways during an FMF attack, suggests an upregulation in both pyroptosis through the granzyme-gasdermin pathway and apoptosis with the increased FasL and perforin levels, which was different from PFAPA patients. These findings might shed light on the reason for the nature of self-limited attacks, but further studies are needed to prove this hypothesis.
The Diagnostic Potential of Non-Invasive Tools for Oral Cancer and Precancer: A Systematic Review
Authors: Pierfelice Tania Vanessa , D’Amico Emira , Cinquini Chiara , Iezzi Giovanna , D’Arcangelo Camillo , D’Ercole Simonetta , Petrini Morena
Published: September 2024

Objectives: This systematic review aimed to analyse the published evidence for the use of non-invasive methods for the early detection of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) and oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMDs). Methods: The literature was systematically searched through several databases: PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science. Additional exploration was performed through cross-checks on the bibliographies of selected reviews. The inclusion criteria involved studies assessing the application of non-invasive tests on humans in the screening, diagnosis, or surveillance of OSCC or OPMDs and reporting sensitivity (SE) and specificity (SP). The Newcastle–Ottawa scale (NOS) was applied to assess the quality of the studies included. Results: The search strategy resulted in 8012 preliminary records. After a duplicate check, 116 titles remained. After abstract analysis, 70 papers remained. After full text analysis, only 54 of the 70 papers fit the inclusion criteria (28 were original articles and 26 were reviews). Those 26 reviews were used to manually search for further original articles. From this last search, 33 original articles were found. Thus, a total of 61 original studies were included and investigated. Findings from this systematic review indicate useful information, such as a description of the mechanisms, ease of use, limitations, and SE and SP values, to drive the choice of the optimal minimally invasive method to be utilized as an adjunctive tool to examine the suspicious lesions. Conclusions: Each of the analysed tools can be improved or implemented, considering their high SE and low SP. Despite advancements, incisional biopsy continues to be the gold standard for the definitive diagnosis of oral cancer and precancerous lesions. Further research and development are essential to improving the sensitivity, specificity, and reliability of non-invasive tools for widespread clinical application.
Audit of Antimicrobial Prescribing Trends in 1447 Outpatient Wound Assessments: Baseline Rates and Impact of Bacterial Fluorescence Imaging
Authors: Trafelet Nancy , Johnson Scott , Schroder Jill , Serena Thomas E.
Published: September 2024

Background/Objectives: In the field of wound care, the prescription of antibiotics and antimicrobials is haphazard and irrational, which has led to unchecked overprescribing. Recent Joint Commission guidelines mandate that hospital outpatient clinics develop and implement antimicrobial stewardship programs (ASPs). Yet few ASPs exist in wound clinics across the United States (US). Understanding baseline prescribing practices and rates in the US is a critical first step toward rational antimicrobial use and effective ASPs. Methods: This prospective study was conducted across eight outpatient wound clinics from January–December 2022. Data from consecutive patients attending single-time-point initial visits were recorded, including clinical findings, antimicrobial prescribing trends, and sampling practices. Results: A total of 1438 wounds were included; 964 were assessed by clinical examination (standard of care, SoC), and 474 by clinical examination plus fluorescence imaging. SoC patients were prescribed more concurrent medications on average than fluorescence patients (1.4 vs. 1 per patient). Prescriptions were preferentially topical in the fluorescence group (92% vs. 64%, p > 0.0001), and systemic antibiotics represented 36% of the single items prescribed under SoC (vs. 8% in fluorescence group p < 0.0001). Conclusions: Fluorescence imaging provided objective and actionable information at the bedside, which led to a decrease in the use of antibiotics. Real-time diagnostic technologies are essential in establishing a meaningful ASP.
Identifying Childhood Risk Factors for Hepatitis B with a Focus on Vertical Transmission
Authors: Forna Lorenza , Lupu Ancuta , Bozomitu Laura , Paduraru Gabriela , Cojocariu Camelia , Anton Carmen , Girleanu Irina , Muzica Cristina Maria , Trifan Anca
Published: September 2024

Background: Despite worldwide vaccination efforts, Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection remains a significant global health burden, particularly in regions where vertical transmission is prevalent. Given Romania’s history as an endemic area for hepatitis B from the 1990s until the early 2000s and the previously high infection rates among children, it is crucial to continually evaluate HBV infection in this population to monitor current trends, assess the long-term impact of vaccination programs, and address any remaining gaps in prevention and treatment efforts. This study aims to identify childhood risk factors associated with HBV acquisition, examining the role of maternal HBV status in child HBV infection, focusing on vertical transmission among a cohort of 654 children, with maternal infection as the independent variable and child infection as the dependent variable. Methods: We assessed potential risk factors and vaccination coverage among these children. The cohort included 148 children who tested positive for chronic hepatitis B from those 654 tested for HBsAg. Anamnestic data and vaccination history were analyzed, with particular attention to birth type and surgical interventions. Results: Of the 148 HBV-positive children, 80.4% were delivered naturally. Among these, 130 had received hepatitis B vaccination, and 5 were also given hepatitis B immunoglobulin at birth, 4 of whom were born via cesarean section. In the control group, comprising 418 vaccinated children, a lesser proportion were unvaccinated (2.2%). Documented surgical interventions included general and dental surgeries, as well as a single blood transfusion. Conclusions: The study emphasizes the need for comprehensive vaccination strategies and illuminates potential correlations between birth type and vaccination status with childhood HBV infection. Crucially, it highlights the necessity of diligent monitoring and treatment of pregnant women with HBV to prevent vertical transmission as effectively as possible.
Collision-Free Path Planning for Multiple Drones Based on Safe Reinforcement Learning
Authors: Chen Hong , Huang Dan , Wang Chenggang , Ding Lu , Song Lei , Liu Hongtao
Published: September 2024

Reinforcement learning (RL) has been shown to be effective in path planning. However, it usually requires exploring a sufficient number of state–action pairs, some of which may be unsafe when deployed in practical obstacle environments. To this end, this paper proposes an end-to-end planning method based model-free RL framework with optimization, which can achieve better learning performance with a safety guarantee. Firstly, for second-order drone systems, a differentiable high-order control barrier function (HOCBF) is introduced to ensure the output of the planning algorithm falls in a safe range. Then, a safety layer based on the HOCBF is proposed, which projects RL actions into a feasible solution set to guarantee safe exploration. Finally, we conducted a simulation for drone obstacle avoidance and validated the proposed method in the simulation environment. The experimental results demonstrate a significant enhancement over the baseline approach. Specifically, the proposed method achieved a substantial reduction in the average cumulative number of collisions per drone during training compared to the baseline. Additionally, in the testing phase, the proposed method realized a 43% improvement in the task success rate relative to the MADDPG.
Unlocking Teacherpreneur Potential in Higher Education: Validating a Competency Measurement Scale
Authors: Liu Dihui , Chaemchoy Sukanya , Siribanpitak Pruet
Published: September 2024

This study investigated the level of teacherpreneur competency among pre-service teachers (n = 400), with an additional 400 pilot participants from the same academic context invited for exploratory factor analysis and reliability analysis. A self-reported questionnaire, adapted from the Teacherpreneur Competency Model (TCM), was used to assess participants’ competency across four key domains: pedagogical, social, personality, and professional. The findings revealed that pre- service teachers possessed high levels of teacherpreneur competency, with Personality Competency scoring the highest and Social Competency scoring the lowest. These results suggest that while pre-service teachers have a solid foundation in delivering instruction, targeted interventions are needed within teacher education programs to nurture their entrepreneurial spirit and foster the social and personal attributes associated with teacherpreneurship. This study underscores the importance of integrating comprehensive competency development into teacher education curricula to better prepare future educators for the dynamic demands of the teaching profession.
Where Are the Diverse Families in Australian Children’s Literature? Impacts and Consideration for Language and Literacy in the Early Years
Authors: Adam Helen , Murphy Sally , Urquhart Yvonne , Ahmed Katira
Published: September 2024

A lack of representation of diverse families in children’s books can affirm insecurities and contribute to a sense of “otherness”. This study reports on the representation of family diversity in award-listed Australian children’s picture books. A critical theoretical framework was employed to analyse both texts and images. This study found a lack of diverse family structures in children’s books, especially LGBTIQA+, foster, step and blended families. This paper argues that to ensure inclusive and equitable literacy learning opportunities for all, educators need to go beyond award-listed books when selecting books for early literacy environments.
Collaborative Channel Perception of UAV Data Link Network Based on Data Fusion
Authors: Zhao Zhiyong , Mao Zhongyang , Zhang Zhilin , Pan Yaozong , Xu Jianwu
Published: September 2024

The existing collaborative channel perception suffers from unreasonable data fusion weight allocation, which mismatches the channel perception capability of the node devices. This often leads to significant deviations between the channel perception results and the actual channel state. To solve this issue, this paper integrates the data fusion algorithm from evidence fusion theory with data link channel state perception. It applies the data fusion advantages of evidence fusion theory to evaluate the traffic pulse statistical capability of network node devices. Specifically, the typical characteristic parameters describing the channel perception capability of node devices are regarded as evidence parameter sets under the recognition framework. By calculating the credibility and falsity of the characteristic parameters, the differences and conflicts between nodes are measured to achieve a comprehensive evaluation of the traffic pulse statistical capabilities of node devices. Based on this evaluation, the geometric mean method is adopted to calculate channel state perception weights for each node within a single-hop range, and a weight allocation strategy is formulated to improve the accuracy of channel state perception.