bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cartilage Collagen Neoepitope C2C Expression in the Articular Cartilage and Its Relation to Joint Tissue Damage in Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis
Authors: Torga Taavi , Suutre Siim , Kisand Kalle , Aunapuu Marina , Arend Andres
Published: May 2024

Pathological cleavage of type II collagen (Col2) and generation of Col2 neoepitopes can serve as useful molecular markers of the progression of osteoarthritis (OA). One of such potential biomarkers is type II collagen neoepitope C2C. The aim of this study was to correlate the degree of articular cartilage damage in OA patients with C2C expression in histological samples of tissues removed during total knee replacement. Cartilage samples were obtained from 27 patients ranging in age from 55 to 66 years. In each patient, medial and lateral tibia plateau samples were analyzed according to the OARSI histopathology grading system. The C2C expression was evaluated on histological slides by semi-quantitative analysis using ImageJ Fiji 2.14.0 software. Spearman’s rank correlation analysis revealed a positive weak correlation (rho = 0.289, p = 0.0356) between the histological grade of tissue damage and the percentage of C2C staining. In addition, a highly significant positive correlation (rho = 0.388, p = 0.0041) was discovered between the osteoarthritis score (combining the histological grade of damage with the OA macroscopic stage) and the percentage of C2C staining in the samples. The C2C expression was detected in all the regions of the articular cartilage (i.e., the superficial zone, mid zone, deep zone and tidemark area, and the zone of calcified cartilage). Our findings imply that local expression of C2C correlates with the articular cartilage damage in OA-affected knees. This confirms that C2C can be used as a prospective marker for assessing pathological changes in the OA course and OA clinical trials.
Analysis of the Associations of Measurements of Body Composition and Inflammatory Factors with Cardiovascular Disease and Its Comorbidities in a Community-Based Study
Authors: Tarabeih Nader , Kalinkovich Alexander , Ashkenazi Shai , Cherny Stacey S. , Shalata Adel , Livshits Gregory
Published: May 2024

The associations of cardiovascular disease (CVD) with comorbidities and biochemical and body composition measurements are repeatedly described but have not been studied simultaneously. In the present cross-sectional study, information on CVD and comorbidities [type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), hypertension (HTN), and hyperlipidemia (HDL)], body composition, levels of soluble markers, and other measures were collected from 1079 individuals. When we examined the association of each comorbidity and CVD, controlling for other comorbidities, we observed a clear pattern of the comorbidity-related specific associations with tested covariates. For example, T2DM was significantly associated with GDF-15 levels and the leptin/adiponectin (L/A) ratio independently of two other comorbidities; HTN, similarly, was independently associated with extracellular water (ECW) levels, L/A ratio, and age; and HDL was independently related to age only. CVD showed very strong independent associations with each of the comorbidities, being associated most strongly with HTN (OR = 10.89, 6.46–18.38) but also with HDL (2.49, 1.43–4.33) and T2DM (1.93, 1.12–3.33). An additive Bayesian network analysis suggests that all three comorbidities, particularly HTN, GDF-15 levels, and ECW content, likely have a main role in the risk of CVD development. Other factors, L/A ratio, lymphocyte count, and the systemic inflammation response index, are likely indirectly related to CVD, acting through the comorbidities and ECW.
Sequential Evaluation of Hematology Markers as a Prognostic Factor in Glioblastoma Patients
Authors: Gonçalves João Meira , Carvalho Bruno , Tuna Rui , Polónia Patricia , Linhares Paulo
Published: May 2024

In our study, we investigated the prognostic significance of hematological markers—NLR (Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio), PLR (Platelet-to-Lymphocyte Ratio), and RDW-CV (Red Blood Cell Distribution Width—Coefficient of Variation)—in 117 glioblastoma patients. The data collected from January 2016 to December 2018 included demographics, clinical scores, and treatment regimens. Unlike previous research, which often examined these markers solely before surgery, our unique approach analyzed them at multiple stages: preoperative, postoperative, and before adjuvant therapies. We correlated these markers with the overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) using statistical tools, including ANOVA, Cox regression, and Kaplan–Meier survival analyses, employing SPSS version 29.0. Our findings revealed notable variations in the NLR, PLR, and RDW-CV across different treatment stages. The NLR and PLR decreased after surgery, with some stabilization post-STUPP phase (NLR: p = 0.007, η2p = 0.06; PLR: p = 0.001, η2p = 0.23), while the RDW-CV increased post-surgery and during subsequent treatments (RDW-CV: p < 0.001, η2p = 0.67). Importantly, we observed significant differences between the preoperative phase and other treatment phases. Additionally, a higher NLR and RDW-CV at the second-line treatment and disease progression were associated with an increased risk of death (NLR at 2nd line: HR = 1.03, p = 0.029; RDW-CV at progression: HR = 1.14, p = 0.004). We proposed specific marker cut-offs that demonstrated significant associations with survival outcomes when applied to Kaplan–Meier survival curves (NLR at 2nd line < 5: p < 0.017; RDW-CV at progression < 15: p = 0.007). An elevated NLR and RDW-CV at later treatment stages correlated with poorer OS and PFS. No significant preoperative differences were detected. These biomarkers may serve as non-invasive tools for glioblastoma management.
Prevalence of Dysmagnesemia among Patients with Diabetes Mellitus and the Associated Health Outcomes: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Al Harasi Salwa , Al-Maqbali Juhaina , Falhammar Henrik , Al-Mamari Ali , Al Futisi Abdullah , Al-Farqani Ahmed , Kumar Suneel , Osman Alaa , Al Riyami Sulaiman , Al Riyami Nafila , Al Farai Qatiba , Al Alawi Hiba , Al Alawi Abdullah
Published: May 2024

Introduction: Magnesium is a vital intracellular cation crucial for over 320 enzymatic reactions related to energy metabolism, musculoskeletal function, and nucleic acid synthesis and plays a pivotal role in human physiology. This study aimed to explore the prevalence of dysmagnesemia in patients with diabetes mellitus and evaluate its correlations with glycemic control, medication use, and diabetic complications. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at Sultan Qaboos University Hospital, including 316 patients aged 18 years or older with diabetes mellitus. Data included demographics, medical history, medications, and biochemical parameters. Serum total magnesium concentrations were measured, and dysmagnesemia was defined as magnesium ≤ 0.69 mmol/L for hypomagnesemia and ≥1.01 mmol/L for hypermagnesemia. Results: The prevalence of hypomagnesemia in patients with diabetes was 17.1% (95% CI: 13.3–21.7%), and hypermagnesemia was 4.1% (95% CI: 2.4–7.0%). Females were significantly overrepresented in the hypomagnesemia group, while the hypermagnesemia group showed a higher prevalence of hypertension, retinopathy, an increased albumin/creatinine ratio, chronic kidney disease (CKD), elevated creatinine levels, and a lower adjusted calcium concentration. The multinominal logistic regression exhibited that the female sex and higher serum-adjusted calcium were independent risk factors of hypomagnesemia. In contrast, the presence of hypertension, higher levels of albumin/creatinine ratio, and stage 5 CKD were independent risk factors of hypermagnesemia. Conclusions: Hypomagnesemia was common among patients with diabetes mellitus; however, hypermagnesemia was associated with microvascular complications.
Tacrolimus Treatment for TAFRO Syndrome
Authors: Shirai Taiichiro , Ichikawa Shinya , Saegusa Jun
Published: May 2024

TAFRO syndrome is an acute systemic inflammatory disorder characterized by thrombocytopenia, anasarca, fever, reticulin myelofibrosis, renal dysfunction, and organomegaly. While its lymph node pathology is similar to that of idiopathic multicentric Castleman disease (iMCD), the clinical features of TAFRO syndrome differ from those of typical iMCD, as they include a more aggressive clinical course and high mortality. However, an optimal treatment strategy for TAFRO syndrome has not yet been established, owing to a poor understanding of its pathogenesis. The limited cases we encountered suggest that tacrolimus treatment in combination with glucocorticoids may potentially be effective and well tolerated as an initial treatment, and hold promise as a glucocorticoid-sparing agent. Herein, we report an additional case and review the sparse literature available regarding TAFRO syndrome treated via tacrolimus.
Ubiquitin-Specific Protease 18 in Chronic Kidney Disease—Another Emerging Biomarker to Consider?
Authors: Dziamałek-Macioszczyk Paulina , Winiarska Agata , Pawłowska Anna , Macioszczyk Jan , Wojtacha Paweł , Stompór Tomasz
Published: May 2024

Ubiquitin-specific protease 18 (USP18) is a protein recognized for its dual enzymatic and non-enzymatic nature. It is involved in many physiological processes like the cell cycle and cell signaling. It also suppresses heart muscle remodeling upon an increase in the afterload. The role of USP18 in kidney pathology remains unknown. The objective of the study was to assess the relationship between serum and urine USP18 levels, the factors contributing to cardiovascular risk, and the markers of kidney disease activity at different stages of chronic kidney disease (CKD). One hundred participants, aged between 24 and 85 years (mean 53.1 ± 17.1 years), were included. Five groups (n = 20 each) were recruited according to their renal status (healthy individuals, patients with proteinuric glomerulonephritis, patients with non-proteinuric CKD, patients who were treated with hemodialysis, and kidney transplant recipients). The measurements of serum and urine USP18 levels were performed using ELISA. The median serum USP18 level was the highest in healthy participants (1143.0 pg/mL) and kidney transplant recipients (856.6 pg/mL), whereas, in individuals with different forms of CKD, it fitted within the range of 402.1–471.9 pg/mL. Urinary USP18 reached the highest level in the group of CKD patients not yet on dialysis (303.3 pg/mL). Only in this group did it correlate with serum creatinine and urea concentrations. Our results suggest the inhibition of cardioprotective USP18 signaling when kidney function is impaired. Moreover, an increased level of urinary USP18 may indicate chronic tubular damage.
Platelets Induce Cell Apoptosis of Cardiac Cells via FasL after Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Krott Kim J. , Reusswig Friedrich , Dille Matthias , Krüger Evelyn , Gorressen Simone , Karray Saoussen , Polzin Amin , Kelm Malte , Fischer Jens W. , Elvers Margitta
Published: May 2024

Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Cell apoptosis in the myocardium plays an important role in ischemia and reperfusion (I/R) injury, leading to cardiac damage and dysfunction. Platelets are major players in hemostasis and play a crucial role in vessel occlusion, inflammation, and cardiac remodeling after I/R. Here, we studied the impact of platelets on cell apoptosis in the myocardium using a close-chest mouse model of AMI. We found caspase-3-positive resident cardiac cells, while leukocytes were negative for caspase-3. Using two different mouse models of thrombocytopenia, we detected a significant reduction in caspase-3 positive cells in the infarct border zone after I/R injury. Further, we identified platelet FasL to induce cell apoptosis via the extrinsic pathway of Fas receptor activation of target cells. Mechanistically, hypoxia triggers platelet adhesion to FasR, suggesting that platelet-induced apoptosis is elevated after I/R. Platelet-specific FasL knock-out mice showed reduced Bax and Bcl2 expression, suggesting that platelets modulate the intrinsic and extrinsic pathways of apoptosis, leading to reduced infarct size after myocardial I/R injury. Thus, a new mechanism for how platelets contribute to tissue homeostasis after AMI was identified that should be validated in patients soon.
Rapamycin Induces Phenotypic Alterations in Oral Cancer Cells That May Facilitate Antitumor T Cell Responses
Authors: Yonesi Amirmoezz , Tomihara Kei , Takatsuka Danki , Tachinami Hidetake , Yamazaki Manabu , Jadidi Amir Reza Younesi , Takaichi Mayu , Imaue Shuichi , Fujiwara Kumiko , Yamada Shin-Ichi , Tanuma Jun-Ichi , Noguchi Makoto
Published: May 2024

Objectives: In this study, we investigated the antitumor immunomodulatory effects of rapamycin in oral cancer. Study Design: We examined the proliferation, apoptosis, and migration of cancer cells and investigated the cell surface expression levels of immune accessory molecules and T cell immune responses in vitro. We investigated the effect of in vivo administration of rapamycin on immune cell distribution and T cell immune responses in oral tumor-bearing mice. Results: Rapamycin treatment significantly inhibited OSCC cell proliferation and migration, increased apoptotic cell death, and upregulated cell surface expression of several immune accessory and adhesion molecules, including CD40, CD83, PD-L1, PD-L2, MHC class I, P-selectin, and VCAM-1. These cancer cells augmented T cell proliferation. In vivo rapamycin administration significantly attenuated mouse tumor growth with an increased proportion of immune cells, including CD4+ T cells, CD8+ T cells, and dendritic cells (DCs); decreased the proportion of immune suppressive cells, such as myeloid-derived suppressor cells and regulatory T cells; enhanced DC maturation and upregulated the surface expression of CD40, CD86, and ICAM-1. Conclusions: Our results suggest that the therapeutic effect of mTOR inhibition in oral cancer can cause direct antitumor and immunomodulatory effects.
Crystal-Inspired Cellular Metamaterials and Triply Periodic Minimal Surfaces
Authors: Arsentev Maxim , Topalov Eduard , Balabanov Sergey , Sysoev Evgenii , Shulga Igor , Akhmatnabiev Marsel , Sychov Maxim , Skorb Ekaterina , Nosonovsky Michael
Published: May 2024

Triply periodic minimal surfaces (TPMSs) are found in many natural objects including butterfly wings, sea urchins, and biological membranes. They simultaneously have zero mean curvature at every point and a crystallographic group symmetry. A metamaterial can be created from such periodic surfaces or used as a reinforcement of a composite material. While a TPMS as a mathematical object has been known since 1865, only novel additive manufacturing (AM) technology made it possible to fabricate cellular materials with complex TPMS shapes. Cellular TPMS-based metamaterials have remarkable properties related to wetting/liquid penetration, shock absorption, and the absence of stress concentrators. Recent studies showed that TPMSs are also found in natural crystals when electron surfaces are considered. Artificial crystal-inspired metamaterials mimic such crystals including zeolites and schwarzites. These metamaterials are used for shock, acoustic waves, and vibration absorption, and as structural materials, heat exchangers, and for other applications. The choice of the crystalline cell of a material, as well as its microstructure, plays a decisive role in its properties. The new area of crystal-inspired materials has many common features with traditional biomimetics with models being borrowed from nature and adjusted for engineering applications.
A Sheet-Shaped Transforming Robot That Can Be Thrown from the Air
Authors: Iida Naoki , Matsumoto Mitsuharu
Published: May 2024

In this paper, we describe a sheet-shaped throwable transforming robot. Sheet-type robots can change their shape to perform tasks according to the situation. Therefore, they are expected to be useful in places with many restrictions, such as disaster sites. However, most of them can only move slowly on the ground. Therefore, in order to actually deliver the robot to the disaster site, it must be carried manually. To solve this problem, we are developing a sheet-shaped robot that can be thrown from the sky. Previously developed prototypes could only move in the forward direction, and the transition from falling to walking was complicated and uncertain. In this paper, we report on a new prototype that improves on these shortcomings.
A Microphysiological Model to Mimic the Placental Remodeling during Early Stage of Pregnancy under Hypoxia-Induced Trophoblast Invasion
Authors: Jeong Seorin , Fuwad Ahmed , Yoon Sunhee , Jeon Tae-Joon , Kim Sun Min
Published: May 2024

Placental trophoblast invasion is critical for establishing the maternal–fetal interface, yet the mechanisms driving trophoblast-induced maternal arterial remodeling remain elusive. To address this gap, we developed a three-dimensional microfluidic placenta-on-chip model that mimics early pregnancy placentation in a hypoxic environment. By studying human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) under oxygen-deprived conditions upon trophoblast invasion, we observed significant HUVEC artery remodeling, suggesting the critical role of hypoxia in placentation. In particular, we found that trophoblasts secrete matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) proteins under hypoxic conditions, which contribute to arterial remodeling by the degradation of extracellular matrix components. This MMP-mediated remodeling is critical for facilitating trophoblast invasion and proper establishment of the maternal–fetal interface. In addition, our platform allows real-time monitoring of HUVEC vessel contraction during trophoblast interaction, providing valuable insights into the dynamic interplay between trophoblasts and maternal vasculature. Collectively, our findings highlight the importance of MMP-mediated arterial remodeling in placental development and underscore the potential of our platform to study pregnancy-related complications and evaluate therapeutic interventions.
Microfluidic Electroporation Arrays for Investigating Electroporation-Induced Cellular Rupture Dynamics
Authors: Park Insu , Choi Seungyeop , Gwak Youngwoo , Kim Jingwon , Min Gyeongjun , Lim Danyou , Lee Sang Woo
Published: May 2024

Electroporation is pivotal in bioelectrochemistry for cellular manipulation, with prominent applications in drug delivery and cell membrane studies. A comprehensive understanding of pore generation requires an in-depth analysis of the critical pore size and the corresponding energy barrier at the onset of cell rupture. However, many studies have been limited to basic models such as artificial membranes or theoretical simulations. Challenging this paradigm, our study pioneers using a microfluidic electroporation chip array. This tool subjects live breast cancer cell species to a diverse spectrum of alternating current electric field conditions, driving electroporation-induced cell rupture. We conclusively determined the rupture voltages across varying applied voltage loading rates, enabling an unprecedented characterization of electric cell rupture dynamics encompassing critical pore radius and energy barrier. Further bolstering our investigation, we probed cells subjected to cholesterol depletion via methyl-β-cyclodextrin and revealed a strong correlation with electroporation. This work not only elucidates the dynamics of electric rupture in live cell membranes but also sets a robust foundation for future explorations into the mechanisms and energetics of live cell electroporation.
Trends and Future Directions in Research on the Protection of Traditional Village Cultural Heritage in Urban Renewal
Authors: Xia Jun , Gu Xuefei , Fu Tianru , Ren Yangzhi , Sun Yazhen
Published: May 2024

The process of urbanization has accelerated economic growth while also presenting social challenges. Urban renewal is crucial for achieving sustainable urban development, especially by preserving traditional villages as cultural heritage sites within cities. This study employs Python algorithm programming and visual analysis functions to conduct a bibliometric analysis of 408 research papers on the preservation of traditional village cultural heritage in urban renewal from 1999 to 2023 in the Web of Science core database. The objective is to examine the historical background, current status, and future trends in this area. The analysis explores cooperation networks, co-citation relationships, co-occurrence patterns, and emerging characteristics of research on traditional village cultural heritage protection in urban renewal. It focuses on various aspects, such as authors, institutions, countries, journals, documents, and keywords. The results indicate that the study of traditional village cultural heritage protection in urban renewal can be divided into three developmental stages. “Sustainable development”, “cultural heritage”, “historic urban landscapes”, and “rural revitalization” are the research hotspots and future trends in this field. The results of this study provide a comprehensive overview of the evolution of research hotspots in this field and can help researchers willing to work in this research area quickly understand the research frontiers and the general situation.
Developing Guidelines to Increase Green Space in Communities in Thailand Based on the Integration of Green Space into Commercial and Waterfront Routes in Singapore and Hangzhou (China)
Authors: Pachankoo Maneerat , Shen Zhongwei
Published: May 2024

The objective of this study is to determine how to increase green space that can overlap with areas that are primarily used for transport in commercial areas and waterfront routes in communities in Thailand, where transportation is limited, in order to provide urban populations an opportunity to access green space in various forms. In this study, the following was found: (1) Commercial routes should be considered. Specifically, green spaces should be created in various forms by considering the sizes of footpaths as well as restrictions on planting; the plants should be native plants because they are easy to care for and help convey the boundaries of an area. A “landmark” that represents the identity of a community should be used to create a meeting point for people entering the commercial area, and designers should use the principles of universal design to make all groups of people feel confident and safe when accessing the area. Finally, vacant or abandoned areas between buildings may also be used. (2) Waterside travel routes should also be considered. Green spaces should be distributed into points, or some routes should be made wider to accommodate various activities; areas along canals or river banks or degraded waterways should be developed or improved to create a recreational area designed with the community’s unique identity in mind, which may develop into a destination for tourists. Importantly, agencies who are responsible for working with the people in the community need to continuously care for these green spaces to enhance sustainability.
Research on Double-Layer Support Control for Large Deformation of Weak Surrounding Rock in Xiejiapo Tunnel
Authors: Sun Changhai , Li Zhuang , Wu Jin , Wang Rui , Yang Xin , Liu Yiyuan
Published: May 2024

Double-layer primary support is proposed to control the deformation of surrounding rock in tunnels within weak geological conditions, where engineering challenges such as large deformations, tunnel faces, and arch collapse are encountered. This approach is based on the principle of combined resistance and release. A combined approach of numerical modeling and on-site surveillance was utilized to analyze the displacement and stress state of the tunnel support structure at different construction stages of primary support for the second layer, using Xiejiapo Tunnel as an engineering case. The findings indicate that the implementation of two-layer primary support can mitigate the progression of large deformations effectively in weak surrounding rock; the sooner the primary support for the second layer is applied, the better the deformation control, and the later the application takes place, the more effectively the tension in the surrounding rock is diminished, whereby the self-supporting capacity of surrounding rock comes into its own. The force of the shotcrete is reduced. Considering the structural deformation and stress state, as well as combination of resistance and release, it is best to implement the primary support for the second layer 10 feet behind the primary support for the first layer.
Experimental Investigation on Shear Behavior of Non-Stirrup UHPC Beams under Larger Shear Span–Depth Ratios
Authors: Zhang Lifeng , Deng Bowen , He Beini , Jiang Haibo , Xiao Jie , Tian Yueqiang , Fang Junfa
Published: May 2024

Due to the extraordinary mechanical properties of ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC), the shear stirrups in UHPC beams could potentially be eliminated. This study aimed to determine the effect of beam height and steel fiber volume content on the shear behavior of non-stirrup UHPC beams under a larger shear span–depth ratio (up to 2.8). Eight beams were designed and fabricated including six non-stirrup UHPC beams and two comparing stirrup-reinforced normal concrete (NC) beams. The experimental results demonstrated that the steel fiber volume content could be a crucial factor affecting the ductility, cracking strength, and shear capacity of non-stirrup UHPC beams and altering their failure modes. Additionally, the height of the beam had a considerable effect on its shear resistance. French standard formulae were more accurate for the UHPC beams with larger shear span–depth ratios, PCI-2021 formulae greatly overestimated the shear capacity of UHPC beams with larger shear span–depth ratios, and Xu’s formulae were more accurate for the steel fiber-reinforced UHPC beams with larger shear span–depth ratios. In summary, French standard formulae were the most suitable formulae for predicting the shear capacity of UHPC beams in this paper.
Evaluation of Rotation Capacity and Bauschinger Effect Coefficient of I-Shaped Beams Considering Loading Protocol Influences
Authors: Kimura Yoshihiro
Published: May 2024

Recent catastrophic earthquake events have reinforced the necessity of evaluating the seismic performance of buildings. Notably, the buildings can go into the plastic phase during a striking earthquake disaster. Under this condition, the current design codes assume seismic response reduction by virtue of the energy dissipation capacity of the structural members. In the strong-column–weak-beam design, which involves I-shaped beams and boxed columns, the mechanism is defined as a standard design scheme to prevent the building from collapsing. Therefore, energy dissipation relies highly on the I-shaped beam performance. However, the I-shaped beam performance can differ depending on the loading history experienced, whereas this effect is untouched in the prevailing evaluation equation. Hence, this study first performs cyclic loading tests of 11 specimens using different loading protocols. The experimental results clarify the fluctuation in the structural performance of I-shaped beams depending on the applied loading hysteresis, proving the necessity of considering the stress history for proper assessment. Furthermore, the database of experimental results is constructed based on the previous experimental studies. Ultimately, the novel evaluation equation is proposed to reflect the influences of the loading protocol. This equation is demonstrated to effectively assess the member performance retrieved from the experiment of 65 specimens, comprising 11 specimens from this investigation and 54 specimens from the database. The width–thickness ratio, shear span-to-depth ratio, and loading protocols are utilized as the evaluation parameters. Moreover, the prediction equation of the Bauschinger effect coefficient is newly established to convert the energy dissipation capacity under monotonically applied force into hysteretic energy dissipation under the cyclic forces.
Light as a Form of Visual Language Supporting Daily Schedules in Educational Spaces: A Design Framework
Authors: Angelaki Stavroula , Triantafyllidis Georgios A.
Published: May 2024

This study explores how lighting can be employed as a visual language to enhance communication between the space and its users and develop a design framework for educational spaces. A primary school is used as a case study to apply the proposed design framework. The study focuses on lighting interventions in existing educational spaces to support daily schedules and transitions between activities. In this context, electric light is used as an indicator, highlighting the daily schedule and activities in the space. A theoretical approach is used as a foundation for establishing the design framework that leads to lighting proposals based on the specific spatial characteristics of each study. The outcome is a design solution based on the dominant spatial elements that define the space’s identity and function. The study focuses on educational spaces and lighting for peripheral vision while considering pupils’ visual and spatial development. The proposal has the role of an additional light layer that signals transitions in terms of activities or spatial mobility.
Study of Panel Zone Behavior in Interior Beam–Column Joints with Reduced Beam Section (RBS)
Authors: Yang Ke-Jia , Yang Yang , Ye Heng , Li Wei , Yang Zhao-Yu
Published: May 2024

Based on the post-earthquake investigation of the Beiling and Hanshen earthquakes, many welded rigid beam–column joints were found to exhibit brittle failure. The failure modes of the joint region and the overall steel frame structure under the action of the earthquake need to be studied. The seismic performance of different types of weakened beam-end interior joints was investigated. The finite element method was verified by high-strength steel beam–column joint tests conducted by our research team. Finite element modeling of weakened steel beam flanges and weakened steel beam web joints was carried out based on the validated finite element modeling method. The joints were studied and analyzed using seismic parameters such as joint stress clouds, equivalent story shear–inter-story displacement ratio curves, panel zone bending moment–shear ratio curves, ductility, stiffness, and energy dissipation. The results of this study showed that honeycomb open hole-type joints exhibit a better deformation and energy dissipation capacity compared to open circular web hole-type joints. However, their load carrying capacity is reduced, which is mainly due to the larger area of the web openings. Additionally, double reduced beam section (DRBS) joints exhibit superior seismic performance and plastic hinge outward movement characteristics compared to single reduced beam section (RBS) joints. It was also found that the deformation and energy dissipation of DRBS joints and steel beam honeycomb hole-type joints are mainly borne by the beams, with the panel zone’s participation in energy dissipation accounting for a smaller proportion of the energy.
Influence of Extra-Short Extra-Fine Steel Fibers on Mechanical Properties of Self-Compacting Concrete with Single-Doped Fly Ash
Authors: Yang Qingguo , Zeng Liuyuan , Wang Honghu , Xiang Rui , Guan Longfei , Cheng Jiawei
Published: May 2024

This study assesses the influence of extra-short extra-fine steel fibers on the performance of self-compacting concrete (SCC) modified with fly ash. Replacing standard steel fibers with volume fractions ranging from 0%, 1.5%, 3%, 5% and 6%, the study optimizes the mix design for enhanced workability and mechanical properties. The findings reveal that, although the addition of steel fibers had a negative effect on the flowability, the cohesion is significantly improved, providing a basis for a significant improvement in the mechanical properties. The optimal fiber content is identified at 5%, achieving the highest compressive strength of 71.7 MPa, split tensile strength of 8.2 MPa, and flexural strength of 12.8 MPa at 28 d. However, further increases in fiber content beyond 5% lead to a deceleration in compressive and splitting tensile strength improvement and a 27.5% drop in flexural strength at 28 d. The study also emphasizes the good dispersion within the concrete, which helps to enhance its ductility and crack resistance, to some extent.
Flexural Capacity of the Normal Sections of Concrete Beams Strengthened with Corrugated Steel Plates
Authors: Feng Xianda , Liu Dejun , Long Xiao , Duan Kang , Zuo Jianping , Liu Wei , Dong Haiyang
Published: May 2024

To explore the law of load-carrying performance enhancement of concrete beams reinforced with corrugated steel plates (CSPs), three groups of controlled bending tests were conducted on five beam specimens. The load-bearing capacity of concrete members commensurately increased with the thickness of reinforcing flat and corrugated steel plates. Additionally, for the same amount of steel, the load-bearing capacity of concrete beams improved more with CSP reinforcement than with reinforcement with flat steel plates. Accordingly, a theoretical formula for the moment of inertia of the combined section of a CSP-reinforced concrete beam was derived. Comparison verification showed that the calculation results for the beams reinforced with CSPs of different thicknesses were highly accurate. Finally, based on the damage mode of the CSP-reinforced concrete beam specimens, a formula for calculating the flexural bearing capacity of the positive cross-section of the beam with corrugated steel reinforcement was established. The calculated values agreed with the experimental values, which validated the flexural load capacity theory pertaining to positive sections and the flexural capacity model for reinforced beams.
Co-Creating a Seniors’ Meeting Place: A Prototype Pop-Up Installation on a Popowice Housing Estate in Wrocław, Poland
Authors: Miśniakiewicz Anna
Published: May 2024

Citizens worldwide are increasingly engaged in co-creation processes. It can be applied to meet the needs of seniors regarding their living arrangements or activities in public spaces. This article presents a fragment of research aimed at identifying problems and needs faced by older adults (aged 65 and older) in the Popowice neighborhood in Wrocław, Poland, and co-creating solutions with them. Using the co-creation method—both qualitative and quantitative research—a series of activities were conducted (workshops, interviews, surveys) during five phases of the Living Lab, culminating in the creation of a physical prototype. Intervention through a physical prototype allowed for verifying the validity of the conclusions drawn in the earlier part of the study, serving as an activator and accelerator of neighborhood life. The research suggests that the co-creation process and the prototype can influence the social activity of seniors. Recommendations for future co-design processes with older people include establishing relationships with stakeholders and beneficiaries, which is essential for the success of co-creation projects, and involving participants in directly creating solutions to increase their engagement and willingness to collaborate. In the face of aging societies, co-creation can be a useful method for creating tailored solutions to meet users’ needs.
Enhancing Workplace Safety through Personalized Environmental Risk Assessment: An AI-Driven Approach in Industry 5.0
Authors: Lemos Janaína , de Souza Vanessa Borba , Falcetta Frederico Soares , de Almeida Fernando Kude , Lima Tânia M. , Gaspar Pedro Dinis
Published: May 2024

This paper describes an integrated monitoring system designed for individualized environmental risk assessment and management in the workplace. The system incorporates monitoring devices that measure dust, noise, ultraviolet radiation, illuminance, temperature, humidity, and flammable gases. Comprising monitoring devices, a server-based web application for employers, and a mobile application for workers, the system integrates the registration of workers’ health histories, such as common diseases and symptoms related to the monitored agents, and a web-based recommendation system. The recommendation system application uses classifiers to decide the risk/no risk per sensor and crosses this information with fixed rules to define recommendations. The system generates actionable alerts for companies to improve decision-making regarding professional activities and long-term safety planning by analyzing health information through fixed rules and exposure data through machine learning algorithms. As the system must handle sensitive data, data privacy is addressed in communication and data storage. The study provides test results that evaluate the performance of different machine learning models in building an effective recommendation system. Since it was not possible to find public datasets with all the sensor data needed to train artificial intelligence models, it was necessary to build a data generator for this work. By proposing an approach that focuses on individualized environmental risk assessment and management, considering workers’ health histories, this work is expected to contribute to enhancing occupational safety through computational technologies in the Industry 5.0 approach.
Novel Feature Generation for Classification of Motor Activity from Functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy Signals Using Machine Learning
Authors: Akila V. , Christaline J. Anita , Edward A. Shirly
Published: May 2024

Recent research in the field of cognitive motor action decoding focuses on data acquired from Functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (fNIRS) and its analysis. This research aims to classify two different motor activities, namely, mental drawing (MD) and spatial navigation (SN), using fNIRS data from non-motor baseline data and other motor activities. Accurate activity detection in non-stationary signals like fNIRS is challenging and requires complex feature descriptors. As a novel framework, a new feature generation by fusion of wavelet feature, Hilbert, symlet, and Hjorth parameters is proposed for improving the accuracy of the classification. This new fused feature has statistical descriptor elements, time-localization in the frequency domain, edge feature, texture features, and phase information to detect and locate the activity accurately. Three types of independent component analysis, including FastICA, Picard, and Infomax were implemented for preprocessing which removes noises and motion artifacts. Two independent binary classifiers are designed to handle the complexity of classification in which one is responsible for mental drawing (MD) detection and the other one is spatial navigation (SN). Four different types of algorithms including nearest neighbors (KNN), Linear Discriminant Analysis (LDA), light gradient-boosting machine (LGBM), and Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGBOOST) were implemented. It has been identified that the LGBM classifier gives high accuracies—98% for mental drawing and 97% for spatial navigation. Comparison with existing research proves that the proposed method gives the highest classification accuracies. Statistical validation of the proposed new feature generation by the Kruskal–Wallis H-test and Mann–Whitney U non-parametric test proves the reliability of the proposed mechanism.
Molecular Diagnostics of Cryptococcus spp. and Immunomics of Cryptococcosis-Associated Immune Reconstitution Inflammatory Syndrome
Authors: Vlasova-St. Louis Irina , Mohei Hesham
Published: May 2024

Cryptococcal infection poses a significant global public health challenge, particularly in regions near the equator. In this review, we offer a succinct exploration of the Cryptococcus spp. genome and various molecular typing methods to assess the burden and genetic diversity of cryptococcal pathogens in the environment and clinical isolates. We delve into a detailed discussion on the molecular pathogenesis and diagnosis of immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS) associated with cryptococcosis, with a specific emphasis on cryptococcal meningitis IRIS (CM-IRIS). Our examination includes the recent literature on CM-IRIS, covering host cellulomics, proteomics, transcriptomics, and genomics.
Clinical Experience Comparison of Foreign-Trained Dentists and Domestic Dental Students: One Institution’s Experience
Authors: Ahmadi Zabihulla , Yuan Judy Chia-Chun , Spector Michael , Semprum-Clavier Adriana , Sukotjo Cortino , Afshari Fatemeh S.
Published: May 2024

This study compared the clinical experiences of foreign-trained dentists (FTDs) enrolled in an Advance Standing DMD Dental Program (DMDAS) with those of the domestic dental students (DMD) at the University of Illinois Chicago, College of Dentistry (UIC-COD). A cross-sectional retrospective chart review of patients treated by 295 DMD and 253 DMDAS predoctoral dental students was completed at the UIC-COD. The data were retrieved from the electronic health record system (axiUm) for the graduated classes of 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, and 2022 on various performed clinical procedures as measured by relative value units (RVUs). The retrieved data were used to compare the clinical experiences of DMDAS vs. DMD students. Descriptive (mean) and statistical (independent t-test) analyses were used (α = 0.05). The results indicated that DMD and DMDAS students had comparable clinical experiences in several disciplines, including diagnosis, prevention, direct/indirect restorations, endodontics, periodontics, complete dentures, removable partial dentures, implants/fixed partial dentures, and oral surgery. There was a statistical difference in total RVUs for diagnosis (p = 0.002) and direct restorations (p < 0.001), in which DMD students had more experience. The 28 month program for FTDs appeared to be a reasonable timeframe to obtain an adequate number of varied clinical experiences as compared with the traditional four-year program at the UIC-COD.
Design and Development of an Air–Land Amphibious Inspection Drone for Fusion Reactor
Authors: Qin Guodong , Xu Youzhi , He Wei , Qi Qian , Zheng Lei , Hu Haimin , Cheng Yong , Zuo Congju , Zhang Deyang , Ji Aihong
Published: May 2024

This paper proposes a design method for a miniature air–land amphibious inspection drone (AAID) to be used in the latest compact fusion reactor discharge gap observation mission. Utilizing the amphibious function, the AAID realizes the function of crawling transportation in the narrow maintenance channel and flying observation inside the fusion reactor. To realize miniaturization, the mobile platform adopts the bionic cockroach wheel-legged system to improve the obstacle-crossing ability. The flight platform adopts an integrated rotor structure with frame and control to reduce the overall weight of the AAID. Based on the AAID dynamic model and the optimal control method, the control strategies under flight mode, hover mode and fly–crawl transition are designed, respectively. Finally, the prototype of the AAID is established, and the crawling, hovering, and fly–crawling transition control experiments are carried out, respectively. The test results show that the maximum crawling inclination of the AAID is more than 20°. The roll angle, pitch angle, and yaw angle deviation of the AAID during hovering are all less than 2°. The landing success rate of the AAID during the fly–crawl transition phase also exceeded 77%, proving the effectiveness of the structural design and dynamic control strategy.
Strategies for Optimized UAV Surveillance in Various Tasks and Scenarios: A Review
Authors: Fang Zixuan , Savkin Andrey V.
Published: May 2024

This review paper provides insights into optimization strategies for Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) in a variety of surveillance tasks and scenarios. From basic path planning to complex mission execution, we comprehensively evaluate the multifaceted role of UAVs in critical areas such as infrastructure inspection, security surveillance, environmental monitoring, archaeological research, mining applications, etc. The paper analyzes in detail the effectiveness of UAVs in specific tasks, including power line and bridge inspections, search and rescue operations, police activities, and environmental monitoring. The focus is on the integration of advanced navigation algorithms and artificial intelligence technologies with UAV surveillance and the challenges of operating in complex environments. Looking ahead, this paper predicts trends in cooperative UAV surveillance networks and explores the potential of UAVs in more challenging scenarios. This review not only provides researchers with a comprehensive analysis of the current state of the art, but also highlights future research directions, aiming to engage and inspire readers to further explore the potential of UAVs in surveillance missions.
LDPC-Net: A Lightweight Detail–Content Progressive Coupled Network for Single-Image Dehazing with Adaptive Feature Extraction Block
Authors: Dai Lingrui , Liu Hongrui , Li Shuoshi
Published: May 2024

Image dehazing is an effective means to enhance the quality of images captured in foggy or hazy weather conditions. However, the existing dehazing methods either cannot obtain satisfactory recovery results or have large model parameters. This limits the application of the model on resource-limited platforms. To overcome these limitations, we propose a lightweight yet effective image-dehazing method, named the lightweight detail–content progressive coupled network (LDPC-Net). Within the framework of LDPC-Net, we propose a progressive coupling dehazing paradigm. Specifically, we first estimate the details and content information of the haze-free image, and then fuse these estimations using the progressive coupling method. This proposed dehazing framework markedly enhances the operational efficiency of the model. Meanwhile, considering both the effectiveness and efficiency of the network, we also design a lightweight adaptive feature extraction block serving as the basic feature extraction module of the proposed LDPC-Net. Extensive experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness of our LDPC-Net, outperforming the state-of-the-art methods by boosting the PSNR index over 38.57 dB with only 0.708 M parameters.
Deep Reinforcement Learning-Driven UAV Data Collection Path Planning: A Study on Minimizing AoI
Authors: Huang Hesong , Li Yang , Song Ge , Gai Wendong
Published: May 2024

As a highly efficient and flexible data collection device, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) have gained widespread application because of the continuous proliferation of Internet of Things (IoT). Addressing the high demands for timeliness in practical communication scenarios, this paper investigates multi-UAV collaborative path planning, focusing on the minimization of weighted average Age of Information (AoI) for IoT devices. To address this challenge, the multi-agent twin delayed deep deterministic policy gradient with dual experience pools and particle swarm optimization (DP-MATD3) algorithm is presented. The objective is to train multiple UAVs to autonomously search for optimal paths, minimizing the AoI. Firstly, considering the relatively slow learning speed and susceptibility to local minima of neural network algorithms, an improved particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm is utilized for parameter optimization of the multi-agent twin delayed deep deterministic policy gradient (MATD3) neural network. Secondly, with the introduction of the dual experience pools mechanism, the efficiency of network training is significantly improved. Experimental results show DP-MATD3 outperforms MATD3 in average weighted AoI. The weighted average AoI is reduced by 33.3% and 27.5% for UAV flight speeds of v = 5 m/s and v = 10 m/s, respectively.