bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Functional and Combined Training Promote Body Recomposition and Lower Limb Strength in Postmenopausal Women: A Randomized Clinical Trial and a Time Course Analysis
Authors: Pereira-Monteiro Marcos Raphael , Aragão-Santos José Carlos , Vasconcelos Alan Bruno Silva , de Resende-Neto Antônio Gomes , de Almeida André Filipe Santos , Gobbo Luis Alberto , Hermosilla-Perona Francisco , Heredia-Elvar Juan Ramón , Del Vecchio Fabricio Boscolo , Aidar Felipe J. , Da Silva-Grigoletto Marzo Edir
Published: May 2024

Encouraging healthy aging in postmenopausal women involves advocating for lifestyle modifications, including regular physical exercise like combined training (CT) and functional training (FT). Regarding this population, age-related alterations in body composition, such as decreased muscle mass and heightened adipose tissue, impact health. The aim of this study was to analyze the effects of FT and CT on body recomposition in postmenopausal women. About the methods, we randomly allocated 96 post-menopausal women to the FT, CT, or control group (CG). We measured body composition by bioimpedance and lower limb muscle strength by sit-to-stand test in five repetitions, respectively. The training protocol lasted 16 weeks, and we measured body composition and lower limb muscle strength every 4 weeks, totaling five assessments. Regarding results, we notice that both training groups increased lean mass from the 8th week of training. In addition, a reduction was observed in total fat percentage and an increase in appendicular lean mass from the 12th week of intervention. No differences were found for body mass. Furthermore, only the experimental groups increase muscle strength, starting from the 4th week of training. The conclusion was that FT and CT promote similar adaptations in body recomposition without affecting body mass in postmenopausal women.
Prevalence and Risk Factors of Deep Venous Thrombosis in Intensive Inpatient Neurorehabilitation Unit
Authors: Pugliese Maria Elena , Battaglia Riccardo , Ursino Maria , Lucca Lucia Francesca , Quintieri Maria , Vatrano Martina , Tonin Paolo , Cerasa Antonio
Published: May 2024

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) (deep vein thrombosis and its complication, pulmonary embolism) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in hospitalized patients and about 7% of these cases are due to immobility secondary to a neurological impairment. Acquired brain injury (ABI) has also been recognized as one of the main risk factors for VTE. Numerous epidemiological studies have been conducted to assess the risk factors for VTE in institutionalized polytrauma patients, although there is a lack of information about neurorehabilitation wards. Since VTE is often undiagnosed, this prospective study aimed to determine the prevalence and clinical characteristics of lower-limb deep venous thrombosis (DVT) in ABI patients at neurorehabilitation admission. Methods: ABI patients were screened for DVT on admission to the intensive rehabilitation unit (IRU) with compression ultrasonography and basal D-dimer assay and were daily clinically monitored until discharge. A total of 127 consecutive ABI patients (mean age: 60.1 ± 17.6 years; 63% male; time from event: 30.9 ± 22.1 days; rehabilitation time in IRU: 84.6 ± 58.4 days) were enrolled. Results: On admission to the IRU, the DVT prevalence was about 8.6%. The mean D-dimer level in patients with DVT was significantly higher than in patients without DVT (6 ± 0.9 vs. 1.97 ± 1.61, p-value = 0.0001). ABI patients with DVT did not show any significant clinical characteristics with respect to ABI without DVT, although a prevalence of hemorrhagic strokes and patients originating from the Intensive Care Unit and Neurosurgery ward was revealed. During the rehabilitation period, patients with DVT showed a significant difference in pharmacological DVT prophylaxis (high prevalence of nadroparin with 27.3% vs. 1.7%, p-value = 0.04) and a prevalence of transfers in critical awards (36% versus 9.5% of patients without DVT, p-value = 0.05). The mortality rate was similar in the two groups. Conclusions: Our research offers a more comprehensive view of the clinical development of DVT patients and confirms the prevalence rate of DVT in ABI patients as determined upon IRU admission. According to our findings, screening these individuals regularly at the time of rehabilitation admission may help identify asymptomatic DVT quickly and initiate the proper treatment to avoid potentially fatal consequences. However, to avoid time-consuming general ultrasonography observation, a more precise selection of patients entering the rehabilitation ward is required.
Prioritizing Disease Diagnosis in Neonatal Cohorts through Multivariate Survival Analysis: A Nonparametric Bayesian Approach
Authors: Seo Jangwon , Seok Junhee , Kim Yoojoong
Published: May 2024

Understanding the intricate relationships between diseases is critical for both prevention and recovery. However, there is a lack of suitable methodologies for exploring the precedence relationships within multiple censored time-to-event data, resulting in decreased analytical accuracy. This study introduces the Censored Event Precedence Analysis (CEPA), which is a nonparametric Bayesian approach suitable for understanding the precedence relationships in censored multivariate events. CEPA aims to analyze the precedence relationships between events to predict subsequent occurrences effectively. We applied CEPA to neonatal data from the National Health Insurance Service, identifying the precedence relationships among the seven most commonly diagnosed diseases categorized by the International Classification of Diseases. This analysis revealed a typical diagnostic sequence, starting with respiratory diseases, followed by skin, infectious, digestive, ear, eye, and injury-related diseases. Furthermore, simulation studies were conducted to demonstrate CEPA suitability for censored multivariate datasets compared to traditional models. The performance accuracy reached 76% for uniform distribution and 65% for exponential distribution, showing superior performance in all four tested environments. Therefore, the statistical approach based on CEPA enhances our understanding of disease interrelationships beyond competitive methodologies. By identifying disease precedence with CEPA, we can preempt subsequent disease occurrences and propose a healthcare system based on these relationships.
Bridging Horizons: Exploring STEM Students’ Perspectives on Service-Learning and Storytelling Activities for Community Engagement and Gender Equality
Authors: Tripon Cristina
Published: May 2024

This study explores STEM students’ perspectives on service-learning and story-telling activities to enhance community engagement and advance gender equality, investigating their impact on students’ perceptions, experiences, and understanding of gender dynamics within rural communities. Through qualitative analysis of interviews, reflective journals, and participatory videos, this study explores the transformative potential of service-learning and storytelling initiatives in empowering rural women, challenging traditional societal roles, and advocating for equal opportunities, particularly in STEM disciplines. Findings reveal the multifaceted benefits of these activities, including the development of empathy, cultural awareness, leadership skills, and a commitment to social justice among participating students. This study highlights the importance of integrating service-learning and storytelling into STEM education to cultivate inclusive practices, promote community development, and advance gender equality in rural settings.
The Case of Renewable Methane by and with Green Hydrogen as the Storage and Transport Medium for Intermittent Wind and Solar PV Energy
Authors: Ingersoll John G.
Published: May 2024

Long-duration energy storage is the key challenge facing renewable energy transition in the future of well over 50% and up to 75% of primary energy supply with intermittent solar and wind electricity, while up to 25% would come from biomass, which requires traditional type storage. To this end, chemical energy storage at grid scale in the form of fuel appears to be the ideal option for wind and solar power. Renewable hydrogen is a much-considered fuel along with ammonia. However, these fuels are not only difficult to transport over long distances, but they would also require totally new and prohibitively expensive infrastructure. On the other hand, the existing natural gas pipeline infrastructure in developed economies can not only transmit a mixture of methane with up to 20% hydrogen without modification, but it also has more than adequate long-duration storage capacity. This is confirmed by analyzing the energy economies of the USA and Germany, both possessing well-developed natural gas transmission and storage systems. It is envisioned that renewable methane will be produced via well-established biological and/or chemical processes reacting green hydrogen with carbon dioxide, the latter to be separated ideally from biogas generated via the biological conversion of biomass to biomethane. At the point of utilization of the methane to generate power and a variety of chemicals, the released carbon dioxide would be also sequestered. An essentially net zero carbon energy system would be then become operational. The current conversion efficiency of power to hydrogen/methane to power on the order of 40% would limit the penetration of wind and solar power. Conversion efficiencies of over 75% can be attained with the on-going commercialization of solid oxide electrolysis and fuel cells for up to 75% penetration of intermittent renewable power. The proposed hydrogen/methane system would then be widely adopted because it is practical, affordable, and sustainable.
Warm-Mix Asphalt Containing Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement: A Case Study in Switzerland
Authors: Bueche Nicolas , Probst Samuel , Eskandarsefat Shahin
Published: May 2024

Among the technologies proposed for achieving carbon neutralization in asphalt road pavements, warm-mix asphalt (WMA) has garnered increasing attention in recent years. While WMA holds the potential for various environmental and technical benefits, a comprehensive understanding of its implementation, technology selection, and additives is essential for successful application. This study presents a case where a bio-based chemical additive was employed to produce WMA containing 50% reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) for a surface course in Bern, Switzerland. To minimize additional variables during testing and analysis, no other additive or rejuvenator was introduced into the mixtures. The testing plan encompassed laboratory tests on samples collected during material placement and recompacted at varying temperatures in the laboratory, as well as cores extracted from the job site. As anticipated, the presence of the chemical WMA additive did not alter the rheological properties of the reference bitumen. Although in the mixture-scale tests, the WMA mixture exhibited comparable properties to the control hot-mix asphalt (HMA), it is not expected that the small dosage of the chemical additive functions the same grade after reheating and compaction. Nevertheless, the cores extracted from the job site proved the efficiency of the applied WMA technology. In addition, consistent with existing literature, the cracking tolerance (CT) index values of 62 for HMA and 114 and 104.9 for WMA mixtures indicated that the latter is less susceptible to cracking. Consequently, this characteristic could contribute to the enhanced durability of asphalt pavements.
Passwordless Authentication Using a Combination of Cryptography, Steganography, and Biometrics
Authors: Oduguwa Tunde , Arabo Abdullahi
Published: May 2024

User-generated passwords often pose a security risk in authentication systems. However, providing a comparative substitute poses a challenge, given the common tradeoff between security and user experience. This paper integrates cryptographic methods (both asymmetric and symmetric), steganography, and a combination of physiological and behavioural biometrics to construct a prototype for a passwordless authentication system. We demonstrate the feasibility of scalable passwordless authentication while maintaining a balance between usability and security. We employ threat modeling techniques to pinpoint the security prerequisites for the system, along with choosing appropriate cryptographic protocols. In addition, a comparative analysis is conducted, examining the security impacts of the proposed system in contrast to that of traditional password-based systems. The results from the prototype indicate that authentication is possible within a timeframe similar to passwords (within 2 s), without imposing additional hardware costs on users to enhance security or compromising usability. Given the scalable nature of the system design and the elimination of shared secrets, the financial and efficiency burdens associated with password resets are alleviated. Furthermore, the risk of breaches is mitigated as there is no longer a need to store passwords and/or their hashes. Differing from prior research, our study presents a pragmatic design and prototype that deserves consideration as a viable alternative for both password-based and passwordless authentication systems.
SVD-Based Mind-Wandering Prediction from Facial Videos in Online Learning
Authors: Anh Nguy Thi Lan , Bach Nguyen Gia , Tu Nguyen Thi Thanh , Kamioka Eiji , Tan Phan Xuan
Published: May 2024

This paper presents a novel approach to mind-wandering prediction in the context of webcam-based online learning. We implemented a Singular Value Decomposition (SVD)-based 1D temporal eye-signal extraction method, which relies solely on eye landmark detection and eliminates the need for gaze tracking or specialized hardware, then extract suitable features from the signals to train the prediction model. Our thorough experimental framework facilitates the evaluation of our approach alongside baseline models, particularly in the analysis of temporal eye signals and the prediction of attentional states. Notably, our SVD-based signal captures both subtle and major eye movements, including changes in the eye boundary and pupil, surpassing the limited capabilities of eye aspect ratio (EAR)-based signals. Our proposed model exhibits a 2% improvement in the overall Area Under the Receiver Operating Characteristics curve (AUROC) metric and 7% in the F1-score metric for ‘not-focus’ prediction, compared to the combination of EAR-based and computationally intensive gaze-based models used in the baseline study These contributions have potential implications for enhancing the field of attentional state prediction in online learning, offering a practical and effective solution to benefit educational experiences.
Effect of Flashlamp Heating System Parameters on the Wedge Peel Strength of Thermoplastic Carbon Fiber Tape in the Automated Tape Placement Process
Authors: Legenstein Alexander , Fauster Ewald
Published: May 2024

Laser-assisted automated tape placement systems are currently the state of the art regarding thermoplastic tape placement. Flashlamp heating systems are rather new in this field of application and offer high energy density with low safety requirements and moderate costs compared to laser-assisted automated tape placement systems. In this study, the effect of processing parameters on interlaminar bonding of carbon fiber-reinforced polyamide 6 tapes is investigated using a flashlamp heating system. The temperature during placement is monitored using an infrared camera, and the bonding strength is characterized by a wedge peel test. The bonding quality of the tapes placed between 210 °C and 330 °C at a lay-up speed of 50 mm/s is investigated. Thermogravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, and micrographs are used to investigate the material properties and effects of the processing conditions on the thermophysical properties and geometric properties of the tape. No significant changes in the thermophysical or geometric properties were found. Moisture within the tapes and staining of the quartz guides of the flashlamp system have significant influence on the bonding strength. The highest wedge peel strength of dried tapes was found at around 330 °C.
Analysis of Tool Load Concerning the Cross-Sectional Size of Removed Material
Authors: Kozový Peter , Matuš Miroslav , Bechný Vladimír , Holubják Jozef , Joch Richard , Šajgalík Michal
Published: May 2024

High-feed milling (HFM) represents a progressive manufacturing technology that has recently found widespread application across various industries. HFM is characterized by high machining speed, reduced cycle times, increased overall productivity, and increased tool life. Due to its versatility, HFM is a suitable technology for the application of various materials. The study deals with experimental analysis of cutting forces, machined surface integrity, and statistical evaluation in high-feed machining. In the present study, nickel-copper-based alloy (Monel) was chosen as the machined material, employing HFM with a monolithic ceramic milling cutter. The Monel material is characterized by its excellent mechanical properties and chemical resistance in harsh environments. During machining, cutting forces were recorded in three mutually perpendicular directions. This paper delves into the analysis of the impact of the depth of cut (ap), width of cut (ae), and lead-in angle (ε). The chosen evaluation characteristics encompass the tool load, primary profile, and the attained roughness of the machined surface. It is noteworthy that the technology under consideration predominantly aligns with the roughing phase of the manufacturing process. Additionally, the investigation incorporates a statistical analysis of the response surface pertaining to the cutting force components, namely Fx, Fy, Fz, and the resultant cutting force F.
Estimation of Mariculture Carbon Sinks in China and Its Influencing Factors
Authors: Guo Simiao , Nie Hongtao
Published: May 2024

The scientific assessment of mariculture carbon sinks is crucial to recognize its potential as a significant component of marine blue carbon in global climate change mitigation. Therefore, the objective of the research was to estimate the seaweed and shellfish mariculture carbon sink of different varieties in various sea areas. The paper emphasized the distinction between short-term carbon sequestration in seaweed and shellfish that can be removed and long-term carbon sequestration that is deposited. Methodologically, the evaluation was based on the carbon sequestration mechanism and systematic pathways in shellfish and seaweeds. Additionally, the carbon sequestration of shellfish and seaweed aquaculture over the last decade was evaluated by the carbon sink assessment model, and the reasons for the differences in the carbon sink capacity of mariculture in China’s coastal provinces were discussed by using the LMDI decomposition model. The results indicated the carbon sequestration of offshore seaweeds and shellfish mariculture in China was huge. From 2010 to 2020, offshore seaweed aquaculture in China amounted to 7.959 Mt C/a, while shellfish aquaculture contributed 33.542 Mt C/a to the carbon sinks. Sedimentary carbon sequestration by shellfish accounted for 51% of the total carbon sequestration in mariculture involving shellfish and seaweeds. Especially noteworthy is the sedimentary carbon sequestration by shellfish, which is an indispensable and crucial component of mariculture carbon sequestration estimation. It is concluded that improvements in farming efficiency exerted the greatest influence on the variations of the mariculture carbon sink, while adjustments in farming structure had a relatively minor impact in the case of little change in aquaculture yield. Enhancing farming efficiency emerges as a practical approach to bolstering the carbon sink potential of marine aquaculture fisheries in the future.
Pore Structure Characteristics and Reservoir Classification of Tight Sandstones within the Upper Permian Longtan Formation in the Laoshan Uplift, South Yellow Sea Basin: Implications for Hydrocarbon Exploration
Authors: Zhang Haoran , Yuan Yong , Chen Jianwen , Liang Jie , Zhao Hualin
Published: May 2024

The Upper Permian Longtan Formation in the Laoshan Uplift of the South Yellow Sea Basin hosts thick and distinctive tight sandstones. However, a comprehensive understanding of its pore structure and reservoir classification remains lacking. This study investigates the fully cored well, CSDP-2, utilizing thin section analysis, scanning electron microscopy, energy spectrum analysis, X-ray diffraction, high-pressure mercury intrusion, and nuclear magnetic resonance to characterize its petrophysical properties, pore space, and movable fluid characteristics. Additionally, fractal principles are further employed to examine reservoir heterogeneity and conduct a quantitative assessment, considering the complexity of tight sandstone pore structures. The findings reveal that the sandstones predominantly comprise feldspathic litharenites, with an average porosity of 1.567% and permeability of 0.099 mD, primarily containing intragranular pores. Two distinct sets of pores with significantly different sizes (r < 2 μm; r > 6 μm) were identified, displaying relatively high fractal dimensions and discrete distribution. Movable fluids primarily occupy pores with radii > 0.019 μm, reflecting pronounced overall heterogeneity. The reservoir was classified into three categories utilizing permeability, median radius, and movable fluid saturation as key evaluation parameters, with Class I representing a relatively high-quality reservoir. These findings advance our understanding of the pore development mechanism of tight sandstone reservoirs and provide geological evidence for further hydrocarbon exploration in this study area.
Vibration Isolation Performance of a Constrained Damping Base for a High-Pressure Plunger Pump
Authors: Zheng Zepeng , Wang Shuqing , Song Xiancang , Wang Xichen
Published: May 2024

Based on the effect of damped shear deformation on energy dissipation, a new constrained damping base for a polymer injection platform deck is proposed to reduce the excessive vibrations caused when multiple plunger pumps are jointly operated. A model for analyzing the vibration response of an I-beam-constrained damping base for a polymer injection platform with multiple plunger pumps was established using Abaqus 6.14 software and compared with rigid base and traditional rubber vibration isolators in terms of its vibration isolation performance. Furthermore, the effects of the damping material’s loss factor, the thickness of the damping layer, and the number of expansion layers on the vibration isolation characteristics of the constrained damping base were explored. This study shows that, with an increase in the damping material’s loss factor, the thickness of the damping layer and the number of extended layers, the vibration isolation performance of the constrained damping base is gradually enhanced. When the damping material’s loss factor is 1.0, the thickness of the damping layer is 20 mm, and the number of extended layers is 3, the constrained damping base’s vibration damping effect is optimized, and its vibration isolation rate becomes as high as 46.63%, which can significantly reduce the vibration response of the polymer injection platform.
A Study on the Influence of Unsteady Forces on the Roll Characteristics of a Submarine during Free Ascent from Great Depth
Authors: Xiang Guo , Ou Yongpeng , Chen Junjie , Wang Wei , Wu Hao
Published: May 2024

The maximum diving depth of modern submarines has always been increasing. Although this has been useful and in some cases necessary, it usually comes with some risks. For instance, when a submarine encounters an emergency situation that requires immediate ascent from great depths, the situation becomes more dangerous, especially due to its rolling characteristics. To investigate the effect of unsteady forces during free ascent motion of submarines at great depths on submarine rolling, in this study, the SST-DDES model combined with the overset grid technique was used for the numerical simulation of a submarine free ascent. Water tank experiments for free ascent were conducted to validate the numerical approach, which confirmed the reliability of the numerical method. Following this, the CFD method was employed to conduct an initial exploratory investigation into the free ascent motion of deep-submergence submarines. The free ascent motion of submarines at great depths under five different degrees of freedom combinations was studied. The computational results indicated that submarines are more prone to roll over during free ascent at great depths. At a depth six times the length of the submarine, the maximum roll angle underwater reaches 22.8°. In addition, unsteady rolling moments, lateral forces, and yawing moments have a significant effect on submarine rolling, intensifying the tendency to roll. Furthermore, it was observed that the vertical hydrodynamic attack angle β is related to the rolling stability of the submarine, such that a moderate decrease in β is beneficial for the rolling stability. The numerical calculation method and preliminary research findings can provide theoretical support for controlling the ascent motion of real submarines.
Multidecadal Phase Changes in the Thermodynamic State of the System: Ocean–Atmosphere–Continent
Authors: Byshev Vladimir , Gusev Anatoly , Sidorova Alexandra
Published: May 2024

The present-day climate (the recent 100–150 years) obviously constitutes the structure of a global intra-system rhythmic process with an individual rhythm of about 60 years. In turn, each of the rhythms is presented by the two climate phases of about 25–35 years characterized by qualitative differences: one phase is relatively continental, while the other is humid. Globality and quasi-synchronism of environmental changes are accompanied by planetary structures: the Global Atmospheric Oscillation (GAO) in the atmosphere and the Multidecadal Oscillation of the Heat content in the Ocean (MOHO) discovered relatively recently. Unexpected and rapid qualitative phase changes in the climate, which first focused attention in the mid-1970s of the last century, were titled “climate shifts”. The revealed features of the present-day climate are of exceptional scientific and practical interest and deserve the development of methods for predicting the timing of the forthcoming climate shift. Arising unexpectedly and accompanied by rapid significant changes, these shifts identified the problem of understanding the nature and establishing the processes and mechanisms causing them. First of all, of interest are phase changes in the thermodynamic state of the climate system components: the ocean, atmosphere, and continents. As a result of the World Ocean (WO) thermohydrodynamics numerical modelling, it is shown that MOHO is localized in the layer of the main thermocline, where the most important elements of the WO circulation are located. The performed study based on observational data allows us to conclude that, during the phase of the WO thermal discharge (1975–1999), the two key systems of currents, the Kuroshio and the Gulf Stream, were under similar thermodynamic conditions.
Cross-Shore Modeling Features: Calibration and Impacts of Wave Climate Uncertainties
Authors: Romão Frederico , Coelho Carlos , Lima Márcia , Ásmundsson Hrólfur , Myer Eric M.
Published: May 2024

Numerical models can be powerful tools for evaluating the best scenarios for the construction of artificial nourishments to mitigate coastal erosion. Until recent decades, when looking at medium- to long-term simulations, cross-shore and alongshore processes have been studied separately. Accounting for both processes in a shoreline evolution numerical model would improve the understanding and predictive capacity of future changes in coastline evolution. The AX-COAST project aims to develop new capacities in modeling cross-shore sediment transport processes by adding the CS-Model, a cross-shore numerical model, into the existing LTC (Long-Term Configuration) model. The LTC model is a shoreline evolution numerical model which is a module of the cost–benefit assessment tool COAST. This work presents the first steps of the CS-Model implementation, which involve evaluating its performance by calibrating the model with extensive measured datasets of wave climate, beach profiles, tide levels, etc., from coastal areas in IJmuiden and Sand Motor in the Netherlands. The results show good agreement between modeled and observed values. Additionally, wave climate datasets derived from global and regional wave models were considered to evaluate modeling performance at IJmuiden. Using derived timeseries from the wave models did not significantly lead to different results compared to using measured data. The obtained mean absolute and relative errors for each profile were low for both types of datasets. Calibration processes with consistent data are important in modeling simulations to accurately represent the study area and ensure the credibility of future simulations.
Integrating Computational Fluid Dynamics for Maneuverability Prediction in Dual Full Rotary Propulsion Ships: A 4-DOF Mathematical Model Approach
Authors: Yu Qiaochan , Yang Yuan , Geng Xiongfei , Jiang Yuhan , Li Yabin , Tang Yougang
Published: May 2024

To predict the maneuverability of a dual full rotary propulsion ship quickly and accurately, the integrated computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and mathematical model approach is performed to simulate the ship turning and zigzag tests, which are then compared and validated against a full-scale trial carried out under actual sea conditions. Initially, the RANS equations are solved, employing the Volume of Fluid (VOF) method to capture the free water surface, while a numerical simulation of the captive model test is conducted using the rigid body motion module. Secondly, hydrodynamic derivatives for the MMG model are obtained from the CFD simulations and empirical formula. Lastly, a four-degree-of-freedom mathematical model group (MMG) maneuvering model is proposed for the dual full rotary propulsion ship, incorporating full-scale simulations of turning and zigzag tests followed by a full-scale trial for comparative validation. The results indicate that the proposed method has a high accuracy in predicting the maneuverability of dual full-rotary propulsion ships, with an average error of less than 10% from the full-scale trial data (and within 5% for the tactical diameters in particular) in spite of the influence of environmental factors such as wind and waves. It provides experience in predicting the maneuverability of a full-scale ship during the ship design stage.
Unlocking the Potential of Gold as Nanomedicine in Cancer Immunotherapy
Authors: Kumar Panangattukara Prabhakaran Praveen , Lee Maggie , Kim Taeho
Published: May 2024

Nanotechnology advancements have resulted in many sensors and devices for biomedical applications. Among the various nanomaterials, gold nanoparticles (AuNPs), due to their size, shape, biocompatibility, and unique plasmonic property, are an excellent candidate for many biomedical applications. AuNPs, known for their easy surface modifications, robust nature, and photothermal activities, find application in drug delivery and cancer treatment studies. In this review, we are highlighting the recent trends in using AuNPs as nanomedicine for cancer immunotherapy. Cancer immunotherapy not only eliminates the primary tumors but also allows for the treatment of metastasis along with the recurrence of the tumor. AuNPs possess tissue-specific delivery functions that depend on the tunability in size and surface functionalization of AuNPs. AuNPs can be used to activate the tumor’s immune defense ability, or they can be used to enhance the anti-tumor immune response. Understanding the interaction of the tumor environment and nanobiomedicine is very important. In the present review, we give an idea of the mode of action of AuNPs and various combinations of therapies for cancer immunotherapy.
Comparative Analysis of Land and Air Temperature in Romania since A.D. 1961
Authors: Manea Ancuta , Birsan Marius-Victor , Dima Viorica , Havriș Loredana-Elena
Published: May 2024

Daily time series with continuous records of mean air and soil temperature from 127 meteorological stations—fairly distributed over the country—were used to compute monthly temperature trends, as well as changes in the timing of the first and the last frost days over Romania since 1961. Results show that the frequency of the number of days with daily temperature averages below 0 °C in case of air and soil surface temperature is stable for most months, except for January, when (for both soil and air temperature), the number of days with a temperature below 0 °C is decreasing in the majority of the stations. The occurrence of the first day with (mean air and soil surface) temperatures below 0 °C, presents a delay in the south, south-east, and west, and an earlier occurrence in eastern and central regions. The occurrence of the last day with a mean air and soil surface temperature below 0 °C shows a stable trend for most stations (except for some small areas in the north, south-east and south-west of Romania). The regime of the land temperature is more stable, due to the physical characteristics of the soil, compared to the more versatile atmosphere. Linkages between thermal parameters and large-scale atmospheric circulation are also discussed.
Exploring Urban Service Location Suitability: Mapping Social Behavior Dynamics with Space Syntax Theory
Authors: Qanazi Saleh , Hijazi Ihab , Shahrour Isam , Meouche Rani
Published: May 2024

Assessing urban service locations is a key issue within city planning, integral to promoting the well-being of citizens, and ensuring effective urban development. However, many current approaches emphasize spatial analysis focused solely on physical attributes, neglecting the equally vital social dimensions essential for enhancing inhabitants’ comfort and quality of life. When social factors are considered, they tend to operate at smaller scales. This paper addresses this gap by prioritizing integrating social factors alongside spatial analysis at the community level. By employing space syntax theory, this study investigates urban service suitability in Hajjah, a Palestinian urban community, presenting a novel approach in the literature. The research identifies good spots for essential governmental facilities like health clinics and fire stations using axial map analysis. It also suggests reallocation for some schools. Additionally, it shows ways to improve the placement of community amenities, finding ideal park locations but suboptimal mosque placements. Commercial services also exhibit areas for enhancement including gas stations and shops. The insights from this research can offer policymakers and planners insights to create more efficient, equitable, and accessible cities. The research approach incorporates social behavior dynamics into spatial analysis, promoting inclusive urban planning.
Nonlinear Effects of Land-Use Conflicts in Xinjiang: Critical Thresholds and Implications for Optimal Zoning
Authors: Wu Jinhua , Wang Can , He Xiong , Zhou Chunshan , Wang Hongwei
Published: May 2024

Land-use conflicts (LUCs) are pivotal in assessing human–land interaction, reflecting the intricate interplay between natural and anthropogenic drivers. However, existing studies often overlook nuanced non-linear responses and critical threshold recognition, focusing solely on linear correlations between isolated factors and LUCs. This study, situated in Xinjiang, China’s arid and semiarid region, introduces a novel analytical framework and threshold application model for LUCs. Integrating land-use and socioeconomic data, we quantified LUCs using Fragstats, correlation analysis, and restricted cubic spline (RCS) regression. Exploring non-linear dynamics between LUCs and 14 potential drivers, including natural and anthropogenic factors, we identified critical thresholds. LUC zones were delineated using a four-quadrant method, allowing tailored mitigation strategies. Our findings reveal Xinjiang’s distinct LUC spatial pattern, with intense conflicts surrounding mountainous areas and milder conflicts in basin regions, showing marked diminishment from 2000 to 2020. RCS effectively identifies LUC thresholds, indicating persisting severity pre- or post-specific thresholds. Xinjiang’s LUCs are categorized into key control areas, urgent regulation zones, elastic development territories, and moderate optimization regions, each with significant regional disparities. Tailored optimization suggestions mitigate linear analysis limitations, providing a fresh perspective on land zoning optimization. This research supports comprehensive land management and planning in Xinjiang, China.
A Feature Alignment Approach to Plural Realization in Eastern Andalusian Spanish
Authors: Davis Stuart , Pollock Matthew
Published: May 2024

Using an optimality theoretic analysis, this study offers a conception of the problem of plural realization in Eastern Andalusian Spanish (EAS) where plural suffix /s/ was deleted diachronically that differs from other accounts that assign the EAS plural an underlying suffixal /s/ synchronically. Using alignment constraints, we argue that plural /s/ does not appear in the underlying form synchronically in EAS, but that instead the plural morpheme is represented by a floating [–ATR]PL feature that aligns to the right edge of the word and spreads left. The [–ATR] feature, represented phonetically as a laxing or opening of vowels, applies to all mid vowels, low vowels in word final position, and combines with vowel epenthesis to explain Eastern Andalusian pluralization tendencies in words with final consonants. We discuss the behavior of high vowels, which can be transparent to harmony, and focus in particular on the plural of words that end in a final stressed vowel that have been rarely discussed in the EAS literature. We develop an optimality-theoretic analysis on the Granada variety and extend that analysis to other varieties with somewhat different patterns.
The Effect of Barley Bran Polyphenol-Rich Extracts on the Development of Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis in Sprague–Dawley Rats Fed a High-Fat and High-Cholesterol Diet
Authors: Omagari Katsuhisa , Ishida Juna , Murata Konomi , Araki Ryoko , Yogo Mizuki , Shirouchi Bungo , Suruga Kazuhito , Sera Nobuko , Koba Kazunori , Ichimura-Shimizu Mayuko , Tsuneyama Koichi
Published: May 2024

Oxidative stress and inflammation play a central role in the progression of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), which can lead to liver cirrhosis. Barley bran has potential bioactivities due to its high content of functional substances, such as anthocyanins, with anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative properties. Here, we investigated whether barley bran polyphenol-rich extracts (BP) can prevent NASH in Sprague–Dawley rats fed a high-fat and high-cholesterol diet including 1.25% or 2.5% cholesterol for 9 weeks. In the rat model of NASH with advanced hepatic fibrosis, BP prevented NASH development by ameliorating the histopathological findings of lobular inflammation. The BP also tended to attenuate serum aspartate aminotransferase level in this model. In the rat model of NASH with mild-to-moderate hepatic fibrosis, BP tended to attenuate the serum levels of transaminases. BP-dose-dependent effects were revealed for several parameters, including monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, transforming growth factor-β, and manganese superoxide dismutase gene expressions in the liver. These results suggest that BP may prevent NASH development or progression, presumably due to its anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative properties.
Concept Paper for a Digital Expert: Systematic Derivation of (Causal) Bayesian Networks Based on Ontologies for Knowledge-Based Production Steps
Authors: Pfaff-Kastner Manja Mai-Ly , Wenzel Ken , Ihlenfeldt Steffen
Published: May 2024

Despite increasing digitalization and automation, complex production processes often require human judgment/decision-making adaptability. Humans can abstract and transfer knowledge to new situations. People in production are an irreplaceable resource. This paper presents a new concept for digitizing human expertise and their ability to make knowledge-based decisions in the production area based on ontologies and causal Bayesian networks for further research. Dedicated approaches for the ontology-based creation of Bayesian networks exist in the literature. Therefore, we first comprehensively analyze previous studies and summarize the approaches. We then add the causal perspective, which has often not been an explicit subject of consideration. We see a research gap in the systematic and structured approach to ontology-based generation of causal graphs (CGs). At the current state of knowledge, the semantic understanding of a domain formalized in an ontology can contribute to developing a generic approach to derive a CG. The ontology functions as a knowledge base by formally representing knowledge and experience. Causal inference calculations can mathematically imitate the human decision-making process under uncertainty. Therefore, a systematic ontology-based approach to building a CG can allow digitizing the human ability to make decisions based on experience and knowledge.
A Hybrid Image Augmentation Technique for User- and Environment-Independent Hand Gesture Recognition Based on Deep Learning
Authors: Awaluddin Baiti-Ahmad , Chao Chun-Tang , Chiou Juing-Shian
Published: May 2024

This research stems from the increasing use of hand gestures in various applications, such as sign language recognition to electronic device control. The focus is the importance of accuracy and robustness in recognizing hand gestures to avoid misinterpretation and instruction errors. However, many experiments on hand gesture recognition are conducted in limited laboratory environments, which do not fully reflect the everyday use of hand gestures. Therefore, the importance of an ideal background in hand gesture recognition, involving only the signer without any distracting background, is highlighted. In the real world, the use of hand gestures involves various unique environmental conditions, including differences in background colors, varying lighting conditions, and different hand gesture positions. However, the datasets available to train hand gesture recognition models often lack sufficient variability, thereby hindering the development of accurate and adaptable systems. This research aims to develop a robust hand gesture recognition model capable of operating effectively in diverse real-world environments. By leveraging deep learning-based image augmentation techniques, the study seeks to enhance the accuracy of hand gesture recognition by simulating various environmental conditions. Through data duplication and augmentation methods, including background, geometric, and lighting adjustments, the diversity of the primary dataset is expanded to improve the effectiveness of model training. It is important to note that the utilization of the green screen technique, combined with geometric and lighting augmentation, significantly contributes to the model’s ability to recognize hand gestures accurately. The research results show a significant improvement in accuracy, especially with implementing the proposed green screen technique, underscoring its effectiveness in adapting to various environmental contexts. Additionally, the study emphasizes the importance of adjusting augmentation techniques to the dataset’s characteristics for optimal performance. These findings provide valuable insights into the practical application of hand gesture recognition technology and pave the way for further research in tailoring techniques to datasets with varying complexities and environmental variations.
Right and Left Coronary and Conus Arteries Originating from Three Separate Ostia in the Right Valsalva Sinus in a Japanese Cadaver: A Case Study with Literature Review
Authors: Kiyoshima Daisuke , Tanaka Osamu , Terayama Hayato , Qu Ning , Nagahori Kenta , Ueda Yoko , Yamamoto Masahito , Suyama Kaori , Hayashi Shogo , Sakabe Kou
Published: May 2024

A rare case of an anomalous location of the orifice of the coronary artery was found in a 99-year-old male cadaver undergoing routine dissection. The presence of the right coronary artery (RCA), left coronary artery (LCA), and conus artery (conus branch) originating from the right Valsalva sinus are the characteristic findings of this case. Then, the LCA passed through the aorta and the pulmonary artery. The LCA and RCA branches were normal. These findings are useful for future surgical procedures, including cardiac catheterization.
Leukemia Types and Subtypes Analysis: Epidemiological Age-Standardized Exploration in the Mexican Bajio Region
Authors: Romero-Morelos Pablo , González-Yebra Ana Lilia , Bueno-Rosario Luis Jonathan , González-Yebra Beatriz
Published: May 2024

Background and Objectives: Leukemia, characterized by abnormal leukocyte production, exhibits clonal origin from somatic mutations. Globally, it ranked 15th in cancer incidence in 2020, with higher prevalence in developing countries. In Mexico, it was the ninth most frequent cancer. Regional registries are vital for understanding its epidemiology. This study aims to analyze the prevalence and age-standardized incidence rates of leukemias in a tertiary care hospital in the Mexican Bajio region. Materials and Methods: Leukemia cases from 2008–2018 were analyzed, and 535 medical records were included in this study. The prevalence, distribution, and age-specific incidence rate of different types and subtypes of leukemia were determined according to sex and age groups. Results: Overall, 65.79% consisted of lymphocytic leukemia, 33.64% of myeloid leukemia, and 0.56% of monocytic leukemia. No significant sex-based differences were found, but age-specific patterns were observed. Leukemia distribution by age revealed significant associations. Lymphocytic leukemia dominated in the pediatric population, particularly acute lymphocytic leukemia, while myeloid leukemia shifted towards adulthood. Age-specific incidence patterns showed, first, that lymphocytic leukemia is the most common leukemia in pediatric ages, and second, there is a shift from acute lymphocytic leukemia dominance in pediatric ages to myeloid leukemia incidence in late adulthood, emphasizing nuanced epidemiological dynamics. Conclusions: Acute leukemia cases occurred with high prevalence in our study population, with a high incidence in pediatric and adulthood populations, especially for acute lymphocytic leukemia, showing a (<18 years) 153.8 age-standardized incidence rate in the pediatric group, while in the adult population, the age-standardized rate was 59.84. In the age-specific analysis, we found that the childhood group (5–9 years) were the most affected by acute lymphocytic leukemia in the pediatric population, while in the adult population, the early-adulthood group (15–29 years) were the most affected age group. In contrast, chronic myeloid leukemia affected both adults and the pediatric populations, while chronic lymphocytic leukemia and monocytic leukemia were exclusive to adults. The study underscores the need for tailored diagnostic, treatment, and preventive strategies based on age, contributing valuable insights into the leukemia epidemiology of the Bajio region.