bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Highly Robust Encoder–Decoder Network with Multi-Scale Feature Enhancement and Attention Gate for the Reduction of Mixed Gaussian and Salt-and-Pepper Noise in Digital Images
Authors: Tripathi Milan , Kongprawechnon Waree , Kondo Toshiaki
Published: February 2025

Image denoising is crucial for correcting distortions caused by environmental factors and technical limitations. We propose a novel and highly robust encoder–decoder network (HREDN) for effectively removing mixed salt-and-pepper and Gaussian noise from digital images. HREDN integrates a multi-scale feature enhancement block in the encoder, allowing the network to capture features at various scales and handle complex noise patterns more effectively. To mitigate information loss during encoding, skip connections transfer essential feature maps from the encoder to the decoder, preserving structural details. However, skip connections can also propagate redundant information. To address this, we incorporate attention gates within the skip connections, ensuring that only relevant features are passed to the decoding layers. We evaluate the robustness of the proposed method across facial, medical, and remote sensing domains. The experimental results demonstrate that HREDN excels in preserving edge details and structural features in denoised images, outperforming state-of-the-art techniques in both qualitative and quantitative measures. Statistical analysis further highlights the model’s ability to effectively remove noise in diverse, complex scenarios with images of varying resolutions across multiple domains.
The Transformation of Peri-Urban Agriculture and Its Implications for Urban–Rural Integration Under the Influence of Digital Technology
Authors: Lei Junchao , Xie Yi , Chen Yisi , Zhong Tianyue , Lin Yuancheng , Wang Min
Published: February 2025

Digital technology has facilitated the transformation and upgrading of agriculture, profoundly altering production and marketing methods, especially in peri-urban agriculture. Taking the peri-urban agriculture of Guangzhou, China, as an example, this paper delves into the digital transformation of peri-urban agriculture through in-depth interviews, field research, and participatory observation via a qualitative research approach. It explores the relationship between agricultural producers and consumers and its urban–rural integration mechanism. The findings reveal that digital technology promotes the digitization of agricultural production management and the networking of agricultural product sales markets. It further reconstructs the relationship between agricultural production and consumption, transcending traditional geographical constraints and fostering a direct production–consumption community link. With the empowerment of digital technology, peri-urban agriculture integrates seamlessly with manufacturing, services, culture, and ecology, thereby enhancing its value-added role in the metropolis’ fringes and facilitating the integration of urban and rural industries. Moreover, digital technology has significantly bolstered the role of peri-urban agriculture as a pivotal link between urban and rural areas, expanding its spatial function beyond mere production to include consumption and leisure. This not only solidifies the connection between urban and rural food systems but fosters social integration through subject interaction, cultural exchange, and value exchange. This paper broadens the interdisciplinary field of agricultural economics and digital technology, promoting sustainable agricultural development. It also accelerates urban–rural integration and harmonious development, providing new impetus for increasing farmers’ incomes and driving rural economic growth.
The Prevalence of Human Papillomavirus Genotypes in Women with Precancerous Lesions and Cervical Cancer in Arequipa, Peru
Authors: Medina Bueno Gonzalo Arturo , Ticona Ramos Deyné Maribel , Mares Cuadros Claudia Amparo , Quequezana Guevara Rocio Mary
Published: February 2025

The objective of this study was to determine the relationship between the prevalence of high-risk human papillomavirus (HRHPV) and age in women with cervical neoplasia or cervical cancer. This retrospective study involved 470 women referred for abnormal cervical cytology between January 2021 and December 2023. The Cobas 4800 test was used to identify HRHPV genotypes; it specifically identified genotypes 16 and 18 and grouped the other high-risk genotypes into another category. The Cobas 4800 test was performed together with colposcopy and biopsies of cervical lesions. From the analysis, we selected 470 women who underwent cervical biopsies and HPV testing. Of them, 208 (44.3%) were HPV-negative. Among the 262 women positive for HPV, 13.0% were positive for genotype 16 only, 1.3% for genotype 18 only, and 35.1% for other HPV genotypes. HPV-16 was found in 58.3% of cases of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 3 (CIN 3) in women under 35 years of age and in 20.9% of cases in women over 35 years of age. Furthermore, 51.9% of patients with cervical cancer tested positive for other high-risk HPV types, whereas 30.8% had HPV-16. Although other HPV genotypes were more frequent than HPV-16 and HPV-18 in individuals with cervical cancer, HPV-16 was the most common individual high-risk genotype in women ≥ 35 years of age with CIN-3.
Osteometric Study of the Dorsal (Lister’s) Tubercle of the Radius in Relation to the Neighboring Anatomical Elements: Suprastyloid, Accessory, and Oblique Crests
Authors: Grigoriță Laura Octavia , Bărbulescu Cătălin Prodan , Varga Norberth-Istvan , Grigoriță Andreea , Vaida Monica Adriana , Stana Loredana Gabriela , Jianu Adelina Maria
Published: February 2025

Background: The radius, a crucial bone in the human forearm, supports and facilitates complex movements like pronation and supination. Its anatomical landmarks, including Lister’s tubercle, provide vital attachment points for muscles, tendons, and ligaments involved in upper limb mobility. This study provides a detailed osteometric analysis of the dorsal radial tubercle of the radius, aiming to improve our understanding of its anatomy and clinical significance. Material and Methods: The study was conducted in the Department of Anatomy and Embryology, using 56 radius bones from cadavers. After applying inclusion and exclusion criteria, 46 bones remained in the study group. Results: The study found a significant positive correlation between the length of the radius and the width of the distal epiphysis. The distance from the suprastyloid crest to the dorsal radial tubercle (SC-DT) and the distal epiphysis width were strongly associated with the development of the distal radial epiphysis. The distance between the dorsal radial tubercle and the oblique ridge (OR-RI) and between the oblique ridge and the radial incisure (DT-OR) also showed a strong positive correlation with the distal epiphysis width. Conclusions: In conclusion, the osteometric study performed reveals significant correlations between the bony elements of distal radius epiphysis that can provide valuable information regarding anatomic variability and surgical treatment of distal radial epiphyseal fractures.
Effect of Aging Temperature on the Impact Wear Properties and Wear Mechanism of Lightweight Wear-Resistant Steel
Authors: Liang Liwen , Sun Jianchang , Cheng Ben , Wang Suotao , Chen Mintao , Wang Qingfeng
Published: February 2025

In this study, the microstructure, mechanical properties, wear resistance, and wear-hardening mechanism of Fe-28Mn-8.5Al-1.0C lightweight wear-resistant steel after heat treatment at different aging temperatures were examined. The results show that the nano-scale κ-carbides precipitated in the grains after aging treatment increased the strength and hardness of the material through the strengthening effect of the second phase. The yield strength of the material is 697 MPa, the tensile strength is 905 MPa, and the hardness is up to 294 HB after aging at 500 °C for 5 h. However, the large-sized κ-carbides precipitating continuously at the grain boundary are unfavorable to the plasticity and toughness of the material. Compared with the aging treatment at 300 °C for 5 h, the elongation and low-temperature impact energy decreased by 12.0% and 47.1%, respectively. Except for the dominant wear mechanism being plastic deformation after heat treatment at 500 °C for 5 h with a 4J impact energy, the predominant wear mechanisms for different impact energies under all other heat treatment conditions are micro-cutting. The increase in aging temperature increases the number and volume of κ-carbide precipitation, which leads to enhanced second-phase strengthening and dislocation strengthening, and the wear resistance of the material is improved. The hardening mechanism of the material after wear at different impact energy levels under aging treatment conditions is a cross-distributed dislocation wall and high-density dislocation entanglement. The increase in aging temperature reduces the spacing of the dislocation wall, increases the area and density of dislocation entanglement, and enhances the work-hardening effect.
The Potential Role of Intestinal Microbiota on the Intestine-Protective and Lipid-Lowering Effects of Berberine in Zebrafish (Danio rerio) Under High-Lipid Stress
Authors: Gao Chang , Wang Heng , Xue Xuan , Qi Lishun , Lin Yanfeng , Wang Lei
Published: February 2025

Background: Berberine has extremely low oral bioavailability, but shows a potent lipid-lowering effect, indicating its potential role in regulating intestinal microbiota, which has not been investigated. Methods: In the present study, five experimental diets, a control diet (Con), a high-lipid diet (HL), and high-lipid·diets·supplemented with an antibiotic cocktail (HLA), berberine (HLB), or both (HLAB) were fed to zebrafish (Danio rerio) for 30 days. Results: The HLB group showed significantly greater weight gain and feed intake than the HLA and other groups, respectively (p < 0.05). Hepatic triglyceride (TG) and total cholesterol (TC) levels, lipogenesis, and proinflammatory cytokine gene expression were significantly upregulated by the high-lipid diet, but significantly downregulated by berberine supplementation. Conversely, the expression levels of intestinal and/or hepatic farnesoid X receptor (fxr), Takeda G protein-coupled receptor 5 (tgr5), lipolysis genes, and zonula occludens 1 (zo1) exhibited the opposite trend. Compared with the HLB group, the HLAB group displayed significantly greater hepatic TG content and proinflammatory cytokine expression, but significantly lower intestinal bile salt hydrolase (BSH) activity and intestinal and/or hepatic fxr and tgr5 expression levels. The HL treatment decreased the abundance of certain probiotic bacteria (e.g., Microbacterium, Cetobacterium, and Gemmobacter) and significantly increased the pathways involved in cytochrome P450, p53 signaling, and ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters. The HLB group increased some probiotic bacteria abundance, particularly BSH-producing bacteria (e.g., Escherichia Shigella). Compared with the HLB group, the abundance of BSH-producing bacteria (e.g., Bifidobacterium and Enterococcus) and pathways related to Notch signaling and Wnt signaling were reduced in the HLAB group. Conclusions: This study revealed that berberine’s lipid-lowering and intestine-protective effects are closely related to the intestinal microbiota, especially BSH-producing bacteria.
Extraction and Interpretation of Gold Exploration Indexes in Jinya-Mingshan Area Based on Association Rule Algorithm and Statistical Analysis
Authors: Dong Xinzhu , Guo Guangfei , Huang Yang , Chen Weihe , Ni Zhiyuan , Meng Jiandong , Li Pingru
Published: February 2025

Geochemical data serve as crucial references for prospecting, and the effective extraction of prospecting information from such data determines the success rate of exploration. In the era of big data, novel prospecting methods based on geochemical data offer new ideas for exploring various ore deposits. By employing advanced data analysis techniques like machine learning and artificial intelligence, it becomes possible to identify elusive patterns and trends that are challenging to detect using traditional approaches, thereby significantly enhancing the success rate of prospecting endeavors. In this study, we selected drainage sediment geochemical data (Au, Ba, Mo, Sb, V, W, Zn) in the Jinya-Mingshan area to explore potential Carlin-type gold deposits. Traditional geochemical processing methods along with an association rule algorithm were employed for conducting comprehensive data mining analysis. The results demonstrate that the element combinations within the study area can be categorized into strong positive associations and enrichments (Mo, Sb, Zn) associated with vulcanization, strong negative associations, and decarbonation-related migration elements (Ba), as well as strong positive associations and weakly enriched elements (W) and weak positive associations and weakly enriched elements (V) not significantly related to mineralization. In comparison to Mo and Sb, which are closely linked to Au as revealed by cluster analysis and factor analysis, the association rule algorithm also reveals a relatively close correlation between Ba, Zn, and Au. Based on the element correlations obtained through the association rule algorithm, a new prospecting index was constructed for the study area. This new index is more reasonable than traditional indices. In conclusion, the association rule algorithm possesses unique advantages in information mining of geochemical data and holds promising applications in geological exploration.
Craft-Based Methodologies in Human–Computer Interaction: Exploring Interdisciplinary Design Approaches
Authors: Guerra Arminda
Published: February 2025

Craft-based methodologies have emerged as a vital human-computer interaction (HCI) approach, bridging digital and physical materials in interactive system design. This study, born from a collaboration between two research networks focused on affective design and interaction design, investigates how diverse professionals use craft-based approaches to transform design processes. Through carefully curated workshops, participants from varied backgrounds worked to identify specific problems, select technologies, and consider contextual factors within a creative framework. The workshops served as a platform for observing participant behaviors and goals in real-world settings, with researchers systematically collecting data through material engagement and visual problem-solving exercises. Drawing inspiration from concepts like Chindogu (Japanese “unuseless” inventions), the research demonstrates how reframing interaction design through craft-based methodologies can lead to more intuitive and contextually aware solutions. The findings highlight how interdisciplinary collaboration and sustainable and socially responsible design principles generate innovative solutions that effectively address user requirements. This integration of creative frameworks with physical and digital materials advances our understanding of meaningful technological interactions while establishing more holistic approaches to interactive system design that can inform future research directions in the field.
RNA Helicase DDX3 Interacts with the Capsid Protein of Hepatitis E Virus and Plays a Vital Role in the Viral Replication
Authors: Lin Shaoli , Sallapalli Bhargava Teja , Chang Peixi , He Jia , Coyaud Etienne , Pierce Brian G. , Zhang Yan-Jin
Published: February 2025

DDX3 is an ATP-dependent RNA helicase that is involved in multiple cellular activities, including RNA metabolism and innate immunity. DDX3 is known to assist the replication of some viruses while restricting others through its direct interaction with viral proteins. However, the role of DDX3 in the replication of the hepatitis E virus (HEV) is unknown. In this study, DDX3 was shown to interact with the HEV capsid protein and provide an important role in HEV replication. The DDX3 C-terminal domain was demonstrated to interact with the capsid protein. The depletion of DDX3 led to a significant reduction in HEV replication. Also, the ATPase motif of DDX3 was shown to be required in HEV replication as an ATPase-null mutant DDX3 failed to rescue the viral replication in the DDX3-depleted cells. These results demonstrate a pro-viral role of DDX3 in HEV replication, providing further insights on the virus–cell interactions.
Protective Effects of Oleanolic Acid on Human Keratinocytes: A Defense Against Exogenous Damage
Authors: Vasarri Marzia , Bergonzi Maria Camilla , Leri Manuela , Castellacci Rebecca , Bucciantini Monica , De Marchi Lucia , Degl’Innocenti Donatella
Published: February 2025

Background/objectives: Aging leads to increased oxidative stress and chronic inflammation in the skin, which contribute to various disorders such as dermatitis and cancer. This study explores the cytoprotective effects of oleanolic acid (OA), a natural triterpenoid compound known for its potential in mitigating oxidative damage, on human keratinocyte (HaCaT) cells exposed to oxidative stress from tert-butyl hydroperoxide (tBHP). Methods: Using in vitro experiments, we assessed cell viability, reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, nitric oxide (NO) production, and protein expression following OA pre-treatment. Advanced imaging techniques were employed to visualize protein localization. Results: Results demonstrated that OA significantly improved cell viability and reduced intracellular ROS levels compared with those in controls. Additionally, OA inhibited inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) expression and subsequent nitric oxide release, indicating a modulation of inflammatory responses. Notably, while tBHP activated the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway, OA did not enhance this response, suggesting that OA exerts cytoprotective effects through mechanisms independent of Nrf2 activation. Conclusion: OA shows promise in protecting HaCaT cells from tBHP-induced oxidative stress, highlighting its potential role in promoting skin health and addressing aging-related damage. The study proposes that OA operates through pathways distinct from Nrf2 and MAPKs, paving the way for new therapeutic strategies aimed at improving skin health against oxidative stress.
Comprehensive Genomic Analysis of the CDPK Gene Family in Pecan (Carya illinoinensis) and Their Potential Roles in Salt Stress Response
Authors: Wang Guoming , Hu Longjiao , Zhang Jiyu , Zhai Min , Jia Zhanhui , Mo Zhenghai , Xuan Jiping
Published: February 2025

Calcium-dependent protein kinases (CDPKs) are crucial for plant development and stress responses. In this study, we performed a comprehensive genomic analysis of the CDPK gene family in pecan (Carya illinoinensis) and evaluated their potential roles in salt stress responses. A total of 31 CiCDPK genes were identified and classified into four subgroups through phylogenetic analysis. Structural and promoter analyses revealed conserved motifs and regulatory elements linked to stress responses. Gene duplication analysis showed that WGD and DSD events were primary drivers of CiCDPK expansion, shaped by purifying selection. GO and KEGG annotations highlighted roles in kinase activity, calcium binding, and signal transduction, while interaction networks suggested involvement in ROS regulation and ATP-dependent phosphorylation. Tissue-specific expression patterns indicated distinct roles of CiCDPKs, with CiCDPK20 and CiCDPK31 predominantly expressed in male flowers and seeds, respectively. Transcriptome data showed that CiCDPKs exhibited distinct responses to abiotic and biotic stress, highlighting their functional specialization under various conditions. qRT-PCR analysis further confirmed the involvement of 16 CiCDPKs in salt stress adaptation, supporting their critical roles in signal transduction pathways during salinity stress. This study provides insights into CiCDPK functions, offering potential applications in breeding pecan varieties with enhanced salt tolerance.
Synthesis and Characterization of Innovative Double-Network Hydrogels with Potential as Adsorbent Materials for Wastewater Treatment
Authors: Vieru Alexandra , Yilmaz Onur , Rusu Alina Gabriela , Yilmaz Cătălina Natalia , Ghilan Alina , Nita Loredana Elena
Published: February 2025

Nowadays, large amounts of wastewater arise from various industrial applications. The discharge of wastewater into the environment represents a threat to the aquatic ecosystem and human health. Thus, in the present study, innovative double-network (DN) hydrogels with pH-sensitive features and applicability as adsorbents in the treatment of leather dye wastewater were prepared. The polyelectrolyte, poly(N,N-dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate (PDMAEMA), was obtained via the radical polymerization process, while the supramolecular structure was co-assembled through physical interactions. As a novelty, the double network was obtained through the interpenetration of the supramolecular network in the cross-linked polymeric one. The new hydrogels were physico-chemically and morphologically characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and in terms of thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), swelling degree measurements, and dye adsorption studies. The DN hydrogels present interconnected macropores and high thermal stability. The swelling capacity of the dual network gels highlights a superadsorbent behavior at pH 3. Furthermore, the dye adsorption study highlights the effects of several variables (pH, concentration dose of adsorbent) on the ability of the gels to adsorb an anionic dye. The adsorption kinetics of the anionic dyes fitted the pseudo-first-order model (PFO). The estimated maximum adsorption capacities for the anionic dyes was 451 mg g−1 for PDMAEMA and 545 mg g−1 for DN gel.
Optical Behavior of Clear Thermoplastic Dental Materials in a Simulated Oral Environment
Authors: Porojan Liliana , Bejan Flavia Roxana , Vasiliu Roxana Diana , Matichescu Anamaria
Published: February 2025

(1) Background: The intra-oral behavior of clear thermoplastic dental materials can be influenced by various intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Aim: The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate the optical properties, color changes and whiteness variations of four thermoplastic polymers used for dental appliances, in a simulated oral environment. (2) Methods: Customized thermoformed specimens of four PETG thermoplastics were selected and investigated in this study: Leone [L], Duran [D], Erkodur [E] and Crystal [C]. The thermoplastic samples were divided into three groups related to pH values (neutral, acidic and basic). A period of 14 days was simulated. Five stages resulted: I. dessicated specimens; II. hydrated in artificial saliva; III. subsequent desiccated; IV. artificial aged; V. further dessicated. Optical CIE L*a*b* coordinates were determined and optical properties, like TP (translucency), OP (opalescence) values, color differences ΔE-NBS, white indexes in dentistry WID and white index differences ΔWID were calculated for all stages of the study, for each group of the materials. Statistical analyses were performed. (3) Results: Optical properties of PETG clear thermoplastic materials, like TP and OP, increase in a simulated oral environment and the changes become significant after artificial aging. Related to pH values, the optical behavior between the materials is significantly different. During artificial aging, the tested materials behave significantly differently in terms of optical properties. (4) Conclusions: After the simulated period of 14 days, TP and OP values increase, with a migration of the color towards red and yellow. Color changes in some cases even reach the level of extremely marked. Whiteness increases, and the differences are mostly perceptible, but partially exceed the limit of acceptability.
Three-Dimensional Computational Fluid Dynamics-Based Improvements in Radial Turbine Design for Enhanced Thermal Energy Utilization: A Case Study in Ha’il Cement Company
Authors: Alshammari Fuhaid , Alshammari Ahmed S. , Alzamil Ahmed
Published: February 2025

Organic Rankine cycles (ORCs) are increasingly employed in power plants to recover waste energy and reduce environmental impacts. The radial turbine, a critical ORC component, experiences flow losses influenced by design parameters such as the rotor blade and stator vane numbers. Traditional empirical correlations developed for air often lack accuracy for ORCs due to differences in fluid properties and flow dynamics. This study uses advanced CFD models to evaluate and refine these correlations for ORC applications. For the ORC, waste heat from the Ha’il Cement Company in Saudi Arabia is used as the heat source. The CFD model was validated with experimental data and showed strong agreement, with a maximum deviation of 5.12% in mass flow rate and 3.97% in turbine outlet temperature. The results show that reducing vane numbers from 17 to 11 increased turbine power, efficiency, and thermal efficiency by 34.8%, 4.17%, and 35.16%, respectively. However, further reduction caused performance deterioration due to high Mach numbers and flow recirculation. Increasing the rotor blade number to 20 improved performance, but numbers beyond 20 caused declines. Among empirical correlations, Rohlik’s correlation with 20 blades achieved optimal outputs of 13.54 kW turbine power, 75% turbine efficiency, and 6.98% thermal efficiency. Further optimization yielded an ORC configuration with 11 vanes and 20 blades, achieving superior performance: 16 kW turbine power, 77% turbine efficiency, and 9% thermal efficiency.
Production, Characterization Physical, Chemical, and Structural Analysis of Biochar Fines for Bio-Reinforcement in Composite Materials
Authors: Dias Josinaldo , Conceição Amanda , Delatorre Fabíola Martins , Siqueira Paula
Published: February 2025

Several polymeric compounds are obtained from synthetic organic solids containing petrochemical derivatives. Biochar fines are considered waste and an alternative bio-reinforcement in composite materials, potentially serving as a possible substitute for non-renewable polymers based on petrochemical derivatives. In this context, the present study focuses on analyzing the properties of biochar fines obtained from the pyrolysis of Eucalyptus sp. biomass, aiming to support the use of this waste in the fabrication of a composite using biochar as a bio-reinforcement. The biochar was produced through pyrolysis in a muffle furnace at a final temperature of 800 °C, with a heating rate of 5 °C min−1 and a residence time of 60 min. The characterization of the obtained fines involved proximate analysis, Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The results show that the material has a high fixed carbon content, high density, and good thermal resistance, making it stand out for use in composites.
Factors Associated with Worsening Post-Earthquake Psychiatric Symptoms in Patients Receiving Psychiatric Visiting Nurse Services During the 2024 Noto Peninsula Earthquake: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Oe Shingo , Nakai Hisao , Nagayama Yutaka , Oe Masato , Yamaguchi Chinatsu
Published: February 2025

On 1 January 2024, a magnitude 7.5 earthquake struck the Noto Peninsula in Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan, causing substantial damage to northern Noto. This study aimed to clarify the experiences of patients using a psychiatric visiting nurse service who were affected by the earthquake, and the influencing factors of worsening mental health symptoms after the earthquake. Participants were 114 patients using a psychiatric visiting nurse service in northern Noto. Data were collected retrospectively from nursing records. Factors associated with signs of worsening mental health symptoms were the continued use of home visiting nursing services after the disaster (n = 43, 46.7%; p = 0.040) and the intervention of a disaster psychiatric assistance team (DPAT) (n = 7, 77.8%; p = 0.034). No significant correlation was found between the number of relocations owing to evacuation and signs of worsening mental health symptoms. Although 61.4% of participants experienced more than one evacuation, the number of evacuations and relocations did not seem to directly affect the worsening of mental health symptoms. However, the results suggest a need for more direct interventions, such as the continued use of home visiting nursing services and the involvement of DPATs as an external resource, for patients exhibiting signs of worsening mental health symptoms.
Research on Upper Limb Motion Intention Classification and Rehabilitation Robot Control Based on sEMG
Authors: Song Tao , Zhang Kunpeng , Yan Zhe , Li Yuwen , Guo Shuai , Li Xianhua
Published: February 2025

sEMG is a non-invasive biomedical engineering technique that can detect and record electrical signals generated by muscles, reflecting both motor intentions and the degree of muscle contraction. This study aims to classify and recognize nine types of upper limb motor intentions based on surface electromyography (sEMG) and apply them to the interactive control of an end-effector rehabilitation robot. The research begins with selecting muscles and data preprocessing, incorporating the generation mechanism of sEMG along with the anatomical and kinesiological principles of upper limb muscles. Next, a musculoskeletal model of the upper limb is established and validated through simulations in OpenSim. To avoid the drawbacks of modeling methods, traditional machine learning and deep learning methods are employed to perform a nine-class classification task on the sEMG data, comparing the classification accuracy of different approaches. Finally, the motor intentions extracted using a multi-stream convolutional neural network (MLCNN) are utilized to control the iReMo® end-effector rehabilitation robot, with the system’s motion smoothness and accuracy evaluated through tests involving different trajectories.
Development and Performance Evaluation of Enhanced Piezo-Electric Sensor Cum Energy Harvester Based on Flexural Strain Amplification in Real-Life Field Conditions
Authors: Singamsetty Sreenitya , Kaur Naveet , Bhalla Suresh
Published: February 2025

Driven by technological advancements and accelerated infrastructure development, an increase in the need to monitor the performance of prominent structures such as bridges, metro-corridors, and sea-link bridges is being advocated by experts to predict and minimize any hazards resulting from the degradation of the structures over time. However, accessing and replacing the batteries becomes problematic and expensive when the sensors are instrumented in remote areas of the bridge structures, especially when the sensors are embedded. For these reasons, a strong case can be made for harvesting and storing ambient energy from the surroundings to drive the sensors for structural health monitoring (SHM). This study aims to introduce a new trapezoidal strain-amplifying sensor/energy harvester (TSAH) for civil engineering structures that uses flexural strain amplification to enhance energy harvesting from structural vibrations. TSAH also serves as a sensor for integrated energy harvesting and SHM. This article examines the influence of the geometric properties of TSAH on strain amplification via numerical investigations under a specific set of external loads. Based on numerical studies, the sensors are bonded to the trapezoidal strain-amplifying plate to develop and assess the TSAH. Experimental investigations were carried out first in the laboratory to evaluate the effectiveness of the TSAH over the directly bonded (DB) sensors with two different types of piezo-transducers for energy harvesting. The host structure was exposed to impact and shaker vibrations for the laboratory research. For the various scenarios taken into consideration in the study, the typical amplification factor for peak voltage is determined to be between 1.45 and 3.75, while for the power, it is between 1.09 and 6.08. Further, for field verification, the TSAH configuration was evaluated on a real-life bridge structure, viz the Chipiyana rail over-bridge (ROB), Asia’s heaviest steel ROB located on the Delhi–Meerut expressway. The field experiments also establish the superior performance of TSAH, with an amplification factor ranging from 1.75 to 3.75 for peak voltage and 3.75 to 5.53 for peak power. As compared to the previously proposed curved configuration in the literature, the TSAH configuration is suitable for brittle sensors as well. Its ability to be permanently bonded by epoxy/welding, or temporarily using magnets, bolts, or clamps, offers it versatility over other surface bonded/embedded configurations. As a result of this, it imparts reusability in case of any damage, which promotes the goal of sustainability.
Nonlinear Compensation of the Linear Variable Differential Transducer Using an Advanced Snake Optimization Integrated with Tangential Functional Link Artificial Neural Network
Authors: Fan Qiuxia , Zhang Xinqi , Wen Zhuang , Xu Lei , Zhang Qianqian
Published: February 2025

The linear variable differential transformer is a key component for measuring vibration noise and active vibration isolation. The nonlinear output associated with increased differential displacement in LVDT constrains the measurement range. To extend the measurement range, this paper proposes an advanced Snake Optimization–Tangential Functional Link Artificial Neural Network (ASO-TFLANN) model to extend the linear range of LVDT. First, the Latin hypercube sampling method and the Levy flight method are introduced into the snake optimization (SO) algorithm, which enhances the global search ability and diversity preservation ability of the SO algorithm and effectively solves the common overfitting and local optimal problems in the training process of the gradient descent method. Second, a voltage–displacement test bench is constructed, collecting the input and output data of the LVDT under four different main excitation conditions. Then, the collected input and output data are fed into the ASO-TFLANN model to determine the optimal weight vectors of the tangential functional link Artificial Neural Network (TFLANN). Finally, by comparing with the simulation experiments of several algorithms, it is proven that the ASO proposed in this paper effectively solves the common overfitting and local optimization problems in the training process of the gradient descent method. On this basis, through offline simulation comparison experiments and online tests, it is proven that the method effectively reduces ϵfs while expanding the linear range of LVDT and significantly improves the measurement range, which provides a reliable basis for improving measurement range and accuracy.
Defect Detection for Enhanced Traceability in Naval Construction
Authors: Arcano-Bea Paula , Rubiños Manuel , García-Fischer Agustín , Zayas-Gato Francisco , Calvo-Rolle José Luis , Jove Esteban
Published: February 2025

The digitalization of shipbuilding processes has become an important trend in modern naval construction, enabling more efficient design, assembly, and maintenance operations. A key aspect of this digital transformation is traceability, which ensures that every component and step in the shipbuilding process can be accurately tracked and managed. Traceability is critical for quality assurance, safety, and operational efficiency, especially when it comes to identifying and addressing defects that may arise during construction. In this context, defect traceability plays a key role, enabling manufacturers to track the origin, type, and evolution of issues throughout the production process, which are fundamental for maintaining structural integrity and preventing failures. In this paper, we focus on the detection of defects in minor and simple pre-assemblies, which are among the smallest components that form the building blocks of ship assemblies. These components are essential to the larger shipbuilding process, yet their defects can propagate and lead to more significant issues in the overall assembly if left unaddressed. For that reason, we propose an intelligent approach to defect detection in minor and simple pre-assembly pieces by implementing unsupervised learning with convolutional autoencoders (CAEs). Specifically, we evaluate the performance of five different CAEs: BaseLineCAE, InceptionCAE, SkipCAE, ResNetCAE, and MVTecCAE, to detect overshooting defects in these components. Our methodology focuses on automated defect identification, providing a scalable and efficient solution to quality control in the shipbuilding process.
Overview of Respiratory Sensor Solutions to Support Patient Diagnosis and Monitoring
Authors: Karpiel Ilona , Mysiński Maciej , Olesz Kamil , Czerw Marek
Published: February 2025

Between 2018 and 2024, the global market has experienced significant advancements in sensor technologies for monitoring patients’ health conditions, which have demonstrated a pivotal role in diagnostics, treatment monitoring, and healthcare optimization. Progress in microelectronics, device miniaturization, and wireless communication technologies has facilitated the development of sophisticated sensors, including wearable devices such as smartwatches and fitness trackers, enabling the real-time monitoring of key health parameters. These devices are widely employed across clinical settings, nursing care, and daily life to collect critical data on vital signs, including heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen saturation, and respiratory rate. A systematic review of the developments within this period highlights the transformative potential of AI and IoT-based technologies in healthcare personalization, particularly in disease symptom prediction and public health management. Furthermore, innovative techniques such as respiratory inductive plethysmography (RIP) and millimeter-wave radar systems (mmTAA) have emerged as precise, non-contact solutions for respiratory monitoring, with applications spanning diagnostics, therapeutic interventions, and enhanced safety in daily life.
How the Digital Transformation of Chinese Traditional Manufacturing Enterprises Drives Green Innovation: A Moderated Mediation Model
Authors: Sun Yutong , Zhang Meili , Wang Chenggang , Li Mingmin
Published: February 2025

Ecological protection and sustainable economic development are focal points of global attention. The continuous promotion of green technology during digital transformation has made green innovation essential for reducing environmental pollution and achieving sustainability. China is actively exploring new development models to mitigate environmental damage through digital transformation. This paper examines the impact mechanism of digital transformation on green innovation. It introduces ambidextrous learning as a mediating variable and innovation appropriability as a moderating variable. Additionally, it establishes a moderated mediation model grounded in organizational learning theory and innovation appropriability theory. The survey data from 155 traditional Chinese manufacturing enterprises are analyzed using hierarchical regression, bootstrap sampling, and structural equation modeling. The results indicate that digital transformation significantly boosts corporate green innovation. Both exploitative and exploratory learning act as positive partial mediators in this relationship. Furthermore, innovation appropriability further reinforces this relationship. The findings of this paper provide empirical evidence that supports the promotion of green innovation in enterprises. This evidence is essential for helping enterprises achieve sustainability and facilitate their green transformation.
Exposure to Familiar Virtual Nature Promotes Pro-Environmental Behavior: Experimentally Examining the Mediating Role of Nature Connectedness
Authors: Tao Can , Xiao Huiwen , Wang Luxiao , Xin Ziqiang
Published: February 2025

Pro-environmental behavior (PEB) is crucial for achieving a sustainable future. Although prior research has investigated the relationship between virtual nature exposure and PEB, empirical findings have been inconsistent; some studies suggest a positive association, while others report null effects. Furthermore, the use of laboratory tasks to assess PEB often risks conflating it with cooperative behavior, potentially undermining the validity of the conclusions. To address these limitations, this study employed a double-randomization design, utilizing the Greater Good Game (GGG) as a measure of PEB. This research comprised two main studies, each consisting of two sub-studies. Study 1 examined the direct effect of virtual nature exposure on PEB (Study 1a) and the moderating role of familiarity with nature exposure (Study 1b). Study 2 included two phases: Study 2a investigated the effects of familiarity with nature exposure on both nature connectedness and PEB, while Study 2b implemented a randomized pre–post-intervention design to manipulate nature connectedness and examine its causal effect on PEB. Results indicated that virtual nature exposure more effectively enhanced PEB when participants were exposed to familiar virtual environments, and nature connectedness mediated this relationship. These findings provide insights into the reasons for previous inconsistencies and offer valuable practical implications for educational programs and policies aimed at promoting sustainable behaviors.
Spillover Effects of Financial Development and Globalisation on Environmental Quality in EAEU Countries
Authors: Shkiotov Sergei , Markin Maksim , Rodina Galina , Berkovich Margarita , Korechkov Yuri
Published: February 2025

One of the unexpected consequences of interregional integration is the risk of environmental degradation. The lack of barriers for goods, services, and economic resources within the area of integration association results in monetary expansion and facilitates economic growth. Indeed, the further consequence is environmental degradation in accordance with the Kuznets environmental curve hypothesis. Therefore, the dynamics of trade turnover and the GDP of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) countries for 2023, the lack of the environmental empirical studies in the EAEU, and the impact of integration processes on environmental quality within the integration association are extremely relevant. The aim of this study is to identify the impact of integration spillover effects on the ecological footprint of five EAEU countries between 1992 and 2023. In order to achieve this research objective, an analysis sequence was carried out through the following steps: analyse the stationarity of the variables; check for cross-sectional dependence; evaluate the consistency of an estimator; calculate the Moran’s I index; estimate research results using the Spatial Error Model (SEM), Spatial Autoregressive Model (SAR), and Spatial Dubin Model (SDM), or eliminate the spatial models; analyse and diagnose the model; correct multicollinearity. By applying the Common Correlated Effects Mean Group (CCEMG) model (the model obtained showed a high coefficient of determination R-squared ~69%), the results are summarised: (1) Economic growth and integration processes have a positive and statistically significant impact on ecological footprints. (2) Financial development does not have a long-term statistically significant impact on environmental quality in the EAEU countries. These findings underscore the urgent need for a sustainability-oriented approach to economic integration within the EAEU. This study proposes a comprehensive roadmap for policymakers, emphasising the integration of green finance mechanisms, the adoption of sustainable trade practices, and the establishment of a regional environmental governance framework.
HIV/AIDS Mortality Trends in Lang Son, Vietnam: Insights from a Population-Based Mortality Registration from 2005 to 2018
Authors: Le Ngoan Tran , Le Linh Thuy , Ta Ngan Dieu Thi , Nguyen Hung Manh , Ha Toan
Published: February 2025

The HIV epidemic remains a major public health issue globally and in Vietnam. This study assesses changes in HIV/AIDS-related mortality rates over time in Lang Son Province, Vietnam, from 2005–2018. We performed a descriptive epidemiological study using a population-based mortality registration system to examine HIV/AIDS-related mortality. HIV/AIDS-related mortality was converted to a crude and adjusted rate per 100,000 person-years using the World Health Organization’s standard population for 2000–2025. The mortality rate ratio and 95% confidence interval were estimated to examine the province’s time trend from 2005 to 2018. The adjusted mortality rate for HIV/AIDS in Lang Son Province was 12.3 and 2.4 per 100,000 for men and women, respectively, with a male-to-female ratio of 5.1. The province experienced a 94% reduction in HIV/AIDS-related deaths between 2005 and 2018. The mortality rate ratio for 2018 compared to 2005 was lower for men (0.056, 95% CI: 0.029, 0.110) than for women (0.080, 95% CI: 0.019, 0.338). The findings show a gradual decline in HIV/AIDS-related mortality rates in Lang Son Province, Vietnam. However, significant gender disparities in mortality remain a major concern, and HIV remains a significant burden. This highlights the urgency for major efforts to prevent HIV transmission and address these disparities to effectively end the HIV epidemic in Lang Son and throughout Vietnam.
Enterovirus D68 Subgenotype B3 Circulation in Children with Acute Respiratory Illness in the State of Alagoas, Brazil
Authors: Lima Alex Ranieri Jerônimo , Santos Hazerral de Oliveira , Pereira James Siqueira , Leite Anderson Brandão , Nascimento Jean Phellipe Marques do , Souza Juliana Vanessa Cavalcante , Lima Marlon Breno Zampieri , de Araújo Mykaella Andrade , Giovanetti Marta , Kallas Esper Georges , Sampaio Sandra Coccuzzo , Elias Maria Carolina , Slavov Svetoslav Nanev
Published: February 2025

Enterovirus D68 (EV-D68) is a leading cause of acute respiratory disease outbreaks, especially among children. EV-D68 infections can rapidly progress to severe clinical complications and potentially fatal outcomes. In Brazil, no diagnostic or genomic surveillance of this virus is currently performed. Between July and September 2023, cases of acute EV-D68 infection were identified among pediatric patients in several municipalities within the State of Alagoas, Northeast Brazil. Infections were confirmed by RT-qPCR using nasopharyngeal samples, and the complete EV-D68 genomes were sequenced and analyzed through phylogenetic inference. EV-D68 RNA was identified in four children aged 1–9 years from four geographically distinct municipalities in Alagoas. All infections were associated with lower respiratory tract symptoms, including dyspnea and wheezing; however, no fatalities were reported. Complete genomic sequencing revealed that the samples belonged to genotype B, subgenotype B3. This is the first study to report complete genomic data on EV-D68 infections from Brazil and South America. Enhanced genomic surveillance and focused EV-D68 diagnosis are critical to better understanding and managing the regional and national dissemination of this virus.