bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Role of Gut Microbiota in Thromboangiitis Obliterans: Cohort and Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Sheng Chang , Huang Weihua , Liao Mingmei , Yang Pu
Published: July 2024

Background and aims: Thromboangiitis obliterans (TAO), also known as Buerger’s disease, is a rare vasculitis. Observational epidemiology studies have suggested a relationship between the gut microbiota and TAO. However, due to confounding factors and reverse causality, the causal relationship remains unclear. Based on the assumption of their association, this study sought specific gut microbiota causally linked to TAO. Methods: The case–control study was conducted at the Xiangya Hospital of Central South University from November 2022 to January 2023 including twelve TAO patients and nine healthy controls. We conducted a Mendelian randomization (MR) study using summary statistics from a genome-wide association study (GWAS) of gut microbiota and TAO. Considering the scale and accessibility of the data, the MiBioGen consortium served as the exposure, whereas the FinnGen consortium GWAS study served as the outcome. Finally, we compared the results of the MR with those of the case–control studies. Results: The inverse variance weighted (IVW) (OR = 0.119, 95% CI: 0.021–0.688, p = 0.017) and maximum likelihood (ML) (OR = 0.121, 95% CI: 0.020–0.742, p = 0.022) estimates suggest that Ruminiclostridium 5 has a suggestive protective effect on TAO while the IVW (OR = 5.383, 95% CI: 1.128–25.693, p = 0.035) and ML (OR = 5.658, 95% CI: 1.142–28.021, p = 0.034) estimates suggest that Eubacterium (xylanophilum group) has a suggestive risk effect on TAO, and the ML (OR = 0.055, 95% CI: 0.004–0.755, p = 0.030) estimates suggest that Lachnospira has a suggestive protective effect on TAO. No significant heterogeneity of instrumental variables or horizontal pleiotropy was found. The results of the case–control study showed that the TAO had a lower relative abundance of Ruminiclostridium 5 (p = 0.015) and Lachnospira (p = 0.048), and a higher relative abundance of Eubacterium (xylanophilum group) (p = 0.029) than the healthy controls. These results were consistent with the MR analysis. Conclusions: Our study demonstrates that Ruminiclostridium 5, Lachnospira, and Eubacterium (xylanophilum group) are causally related to TAO, suggesting their potential significance for the prevention and treatment of TAO.
Biosensor with Microchannel for Broadband Dielectric Characterization of Nanoliter Cell Suspensions up to 110 GHz
Authors: Sun Wen , Wang Jianhua , Chen Jin , Huang Xiwei , Rao Xin , Su Jiangtao , Huang Yuqiao , Zhang Boyu , Sun Lingling
Published: July 2024

Cell dielectric property measurement holds significant potential for application in cell detection and diagnosis due to its label-free and noninvasive nature. In this study, we developed a biosensor designed to measure the permittivity of liquid samples, particularly cell suspensions at the nanoliter scale, utilizing microwave and millimeter wave coplanar waveguides in conjunction with a microchannel. This biosensor facilitates the measurement of scattering parameters within a frequency domain ranging from 1 GHz to 110 GHz. The obtained scattering parameters are then converted into dielectric constants using specific algorithms. A cell capture structure within the microchannel ensures that cell suspensions remain stable within the measurement zone. The feasibility of this biosensor was confirmed by comparison with a commercial Keysight probe. We measured the dielectric constants of three different cell suspensions (HepG2, A549, MCF-7) using our biosensor. We also counted the number of cells captured in multiple measurements for each cell type and compared the corresponding changes in permittivity. The results indicated that the real part of the permittivity of HepG2 cells is 0.2–0.8 lower than that of the other two cell types. The difference between A549 and MCF-7 was relatively minor, only 0.2–0.4. The fluctuations in the dielectric spectrum caused by changes in cell numbers during measurements were smaller than the differences observed between different cell types. Thus, the sensor is suitable for measuring cell suspensions and can be utilized for label-free, noninvasive studies in identifying biological cell suspensions.
Sandplay Therapy and Active Imagination: What Are the Similarities and Differences? Reflections about Jung’s Writings on Active Imagination
Authors: Loscalzo Yura
Published: July 2024

Jung stated that active imagination is a fundamental component of the second phase of an analysis that can continue even outside the analytic setting. Since it can be conveyed through various expressive techniques, such as writing, drawing, and painting, it is possible to argue that all forms of psychotherapy based on art (e.g., poetry, dance, and theater) originate from Jung’s contribution about active imagination. This paper focuses on Sandplay Therapy as one of the forms of expression rooted in active imagination. Apart from some critical differences between the two analytic processes (e.g., active imagination is usually prompted in the last phase of the analysis, while Sandplay Therapy might be used since the first sessions), there are several convergences. Among the principal analogies, consciousness lends its expressive means to the unconscious, which decides what to depict. Also, the resulting image is determined from both the consciousness and the unconscious and is related to the person’s conscious situation. Finally, I suggest that Sandplay Therapy—aside from contributing to the subsequent development of active imagination itself (as suggested by Dr. Carducci)—might also be used to practice active imagination in a “facilitated” and protected setting. It would help let the unconscious come up while creating the image in the sandtray, and it fosters the confrontation between the unconscious and the consciousness through the contemplation of the image in the sandtray.
A Study on the Thermodynamic Response of Double-Armed Thin-Walled Piers under an FRP Anti-Collision Floating Pontoon Fire
Authors: Zhang Yan-Kun , Yuan Pei , Geng Bo , Shang Jun-Nian , Long Bin
Published: July 2024

As a potential fire scenario for bridge structures, the safety impact of an FRP anti-collision floating pontoon fire on bridge structures cannot be ignored. Taking the FRP anti-collision floating pontoon fire that occurred in a continuous rigid-frame bridge as the engineering background, the damage condition of the actual bridge fire scene was first investigated. In addition, FDS 5.3 software was used to simulate the FRP anti-collision floating pontoon fire scenario. Furthermore, the thermal–structural coupling method was used to investigate the thermodynamic response of double-armed thin-walled piers under fire. The results show that the FRP anti-collision floating pontoon fire causes localized concrete carbonization and spalling on the surface of the P2 pier, and the FRP anti-collision floating pontoons are largely destroyed. The fire has the greatest impact on the P2-1 pier, with the highest temperature of 667 °C on the windward side and the highest temperature of 326 °C on the leeward side. The temperature impact range is 6 m above the bearing platform, and the maximum damage depth of pier body concrete is 84.58 mm. The deformation and stress of the P2 pier under fire do not show significant changes and do not exceed the allowable limits for structural deformation and material stress. Therefore, the impact of this fire accident on the structural safety of the continuous rigid-frame bridge is minor. This study’s results provide reliable guidance for the fire safety assessment and post-fire structural repair of the continuous rigid-frame bridge.
Computational and Experimental Substantiation of Strengthening Reinforced Concrete Structures with Composite Materials of Power Plants under Seismic Action
Authors: Rubin Oleg , Bellendir Evgeny , Antonov Anton , Baklykov Igor
Published: July 2024

In Russia, a significant number of power facilities built in the 1960s and 1970s are located in regions where seismic effects were revised upward. This has led to an increase in the seismicity of the sites of facilities’ locations by magnitude 1–2 (MSK-64) in comparison with the data of design documentation. During the long-term operating period of power facilities, the load-bearing capacity of building structures, as a rule, decreases. This article presents the results of computational and experimental studies of reinforced concrete structures of thermal power plants and hydroelectric power plants for seismic effects in the range of magnitude 4–10 (MSK-64). The computational studies were carried out using ANSYS 16.0 software, and experimental studies were carried out on stands modeling seismic impacts with the help of hydraulic cylinders. The results of the studies showed that cracking of reinforced concrete structures without strengthening occurs at magnitude 6.0 (MSK-64) of seismic impact, and destruction occurs at magnitude 7.5. Thus, the seismic resistance of structures without reinforcement does not meet the requirements for seismic resistance, and strengthening is required. This study considers a variant of strengthening based on external composite reinforcement with CFRP. It is shown that the strengthening of structures with composite material increases their earthquake resistance up to magnitude 9–10 (MSK-64). This article presents recommendations on the CFRP strengthening of building structures of power facilities, both after receiving damage under seismic impact and in a planned manner to increase seismic resistance. The novelty of this work lies in the fact that quantitative results of increasing the seismic resistance of structures depending on the placement and number of layers of composite material are given.
Energy Efficiency Assessment of Existing Rural Houses in Nantong Based on Human Thermal Comfort
Authors: Duan Zhongcheng , Li Haoran , Hu Kuntao , Shi Chen
Published: July 2024

Current research on rural houses in China mainly focuses on improving energy efficiency, with relatively few studies addressing energy-saving measures and enhancing thermal comfort for residents. Therefore, this paper focuses on existing rural houses in Nantong City, Jiangsu Province, as the research object. Through on-site measurements and questionnaire surveys, it was found that the average indoor temperature of rural houses is 28.5 °C in summer and below 10 °C in winter, failing to meet the comfort needs of the villagers. To further study human thermal comfort, a linear regression method was used to establish an indoor Mean Thermal Sensation (MTS) model for Nantong’s rural houses. The neutral temperature in summer was found to be 26.46 °C, and an adaptive thermal comfort model for rural residents in the Nantong area was established. Through single-factor simulation and orthogonal experiments, the optimal comprehensive energy-saving renovation scheme was proposed. Finally, a typical rural house in Zhangzhuang Village was used as a case for building renovation practice. After the renovation, the number of thermal comfort hours increased by 145 h per year, the thermal comfort compliance rate reached 47.07%, and the overall energy-saving rate was 57.41%.
Life Cycle Assessment of Single-Story Low-Income Housing: A Brazilian Case Study
Authors: Di Domênico Marianne , Ribeiro Lauro André , Silva Thaísa Leal da
Published: July 2024

This study aims to assess the environmental impacts of different construction systems employed in a single-story low-income housing development utilizing Life Cycle Assessment (LCA). The LCA was applied to the roof, wall, coating, and floor systems, considering the initial and recurring impacts from extraction to material replacement. Data were quantified using the CML 2001 method with OpenLCA 1.9 software. The analyzed impact categories are the potential for the depletion of abiotic resources—non-fossil (ADP); potential for the depletion of abiotic resources—fossil (ADP f); soil and water acidification potential (AP); eutrophication potential (EP); global warming potential—100 (GWP); stratospheric ozone layer depletion potential (ODP); and photochemical oxidation potential (POCP). The results highlight the impacts related to the maintenance and replacement of materials as the most significant, with walls being the system with the highest concentration of impacts, presenting the highest results among five of the seven categories. In the GWP category, the wall system resulted in 42% of total impacts (initial + recurring impacts). These findings show that the selection and definition of construction materials in the design phase can either mitigate or exacerbate environmental burdens. Therefore, this research contribution lies in pinpointing the environmental impacts of each construction system of low-income housing to support architects and engineers in addressing environmental impacts when making project decisions.
Exploring the Spatially Heterogeneous Effects of Street-Level Perceived Qualities on Listed Real Estate Prices Using Geographically Weighted Regression (GWR) Modeling
Authors: Wang Rui , Zhang Guoqin , Zhang Yu , Lan Yanzhe
Published: July 2024

The listed price of real estate is a subjective reflection of its value by sellers, usually related to structural, neighborhood, and environmental attributes. Although previous studies have proposed the hedonic pricing model, factors related to perception are rarely seen in explanatory variables. This study aims to explore the impact of street-level perceived qualities on the listed price per square meter of plot set by the seller of the real estate using the Geographically Weighted Regression (GWR)-based hedonic pricing model and analyzes the spatially heterogeneous effects of the coefficients. In the city of Eindhoven, the Netherlands, Google Street View photos collected at 200 m intervals were employed to calculate representative variables of perceptual quality via a validated convolutional neural network, alongside structural and neighborhood attributes. The final model includes eight explanatory variables, and the results indicate that, apart from the plot area and the number of rooms, the influencing mechanisms of other factors are different. The impact of perceived beautiful quality on listed real estate prices demonstrates obvious distinctions between the north and the south. Perceived livability (positive) and depressing (negative) qualities show similar heterogeneous characteristics. This study offers a comprehensive approach to promote diverse strategies for real estate development across urban areas and recommends a heightened emphasis on the design quality of residential streets.
Exploring the Collaboration Skills among Architecture Students: A Quantitative Study in North Cyprus
Authors: Karimi Hirou , Farivarsadri Guita
Published: July 2024

This research investigates the collaboration competencies among architecture students at Eastern Mediterranean University, in North Cyprus, highlighting the necessity for curricular enhancements to foster teamwork skills essential for professional practice. A structured questionnaire was administered to 77 final-year students, evaluating their knowledge, abilities, and experiences in collaborative settings. Factor analysis revealed twelve key components of collaboration, indicating moderate skill levels overall. Notably, students excelled in work quality, self-reflection, and time management yet exhibited deficiencies in team learning, role adaptability, and equitable idea contribution. This study identified five critical dimensions of teamwork: interpersonal facilitation, collaborative leadership, engagement contribution, active listening, and transparent information exchange. A strong correlation emerged between students’ perceived readiness for collaborative work and their self-rated leadership and interpersonal skills. Comparative analysis showed distinct collaboration skill sets between international and domestic students and across different academic years. These insights emphasize the imperative for architectural education to progressively incorporate specific learning activities and interventions to cultivate teamwork competencies systematically. The development of such skills is vital for preparing graduates to effectively navigate and lead within the multidisciplinary contexts they will face. Recommendations include curriculum redesign to integrate explicit teamwork instruction, faculty development programs, and fostering an educational culture that consistently values collaboration. Future studies should investigate effective pedagogical strategies for nurturing collaboration skills and examine how individual variances affect the acquisition of these critical abilities.
Enhancing Construction Performance: A Critical Review of Performance Measurement Practices at the Project Level
Authors: Ibrahim Abdelazim , Zayed Tarek , Lafhaj Zoubeir
Published: July 2024

The construction industry faces significant challenges in measuring and assessing performance effectively. Conventional methods of measuring construction performance have become less effective, prompting a need to adopt non-financial performance measurements. This shift acknowledges the shortcomings of relying solely on financial performance measurement systems. As a result, there has been a substantial increase in research and focus on non-financial performance measurement systems in recent decades. This study focuses on analyzing performance measurement practices and key performance indicators (KPIs) in the construction industry, specifically at the project level. By examining 146 relevant articles, the study offers a thorough overview of various aspects of project performance. In addition to the traditional dimensions of the project management triangle (cost, time, and quality performance), the study emphasizes the importance of considering other dimensions. These include stakeholder performance, safety performance, technology utilization performance, value performance, environmental impact performance, and the application of maturity models. By incorporating these additional KPIs, a more comprehensive and holistic evaluation of project performance can be achieved. This study’s findings make notable contributions to the methodological framework of performance measurement in construction projects. By consolidating diverse research sources, the study offers valuable guidance for future research in the field of project performance. Moreover, it provides insights into selecting suitable performance measurement methods, empowering practitioners to effectively assess and manage project performance.
Thermal Load Prediction in Residential Buildings Using Interpretable Classification
Authors: Abdel-Jaber Fayez , Dirks Kim N.
Published: July 2024

Energy efficiency is a critical aspect of engineering due to the associated monetary and environmental benefits it can bring. One aspect in particular, namely, the prediction of heating and cooling loads, plays a significant role in reducing energy use costs and in minimising the risks associated with climate change. Recently, data-driven approaches, such as artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML), have provided cost-effective and high-quality solutions for the prediction of heating and cooling loads. However, few studies have focused on interpretable classifiers that can generate not only reliable predictive systems but are also easy to understand for the stakeholders. This research investigates the applicability of ML techniques (classification) in the prediction of the heating and cooling loads of residential buildings using a dataset consisting of various variables such as roof area, building height, orientation, surface area, wall area, and glassing area distribution. Specifically, we sought to determine whether models that derive rules are competitive in terms of performance when compared with other classification techniques for assessing the energy efficiency of buildings, in particular the associated heating and cooling loads. To achieve this aim, several ML techniques including k-nearest neighbor (kNN), Decision Tree (DT)-C4.5, naive Bayes (NB), Neural Network (Nnet), Support Vector Machine (SVM), and Rule Induction (RI)- Repeated Incremental Pruning to Produce Error (RIPPER) were modelled and then evaluated based on residential data using a range of model evaluation parameters such as recall, precision, and accuracy. The results show that most classification techniques generate models with good predictive power with respect to the heating or cooling loads, with better results achieved with interpretable classifiers such as Rule Induction (RI), and Decision Trees (DT).
Long-Term Monitoring of RC Beams under Different Partial Alkali–Silica Reactions: Experimental Results and Restraint Mechanisms
Authors: Sheng Feng , An Xuehui , Wang Yuan , Zhou Yuxiang
Published: July 2024

The alkali–silica reaction significantly impacts the durability of reinforced concrete structures. This paper aims to investigate the structural expansion properties of reinforced concrete beams under different partial alkali–silica reactions. Alkali–silica reaction tests were conducted on four reinforced concrete beams, focusing on immersion depth and NaOH solution position as key parameters. Subsequently, the spatial and temporal distribution characteristics of the beam expansion rate were analyzed. Results indicate notable variations in the expansion’s initiation, rate, and final magnitude at different measurement points on the concrete beam, depending on the soaking positions and depths used. The expansion rate was higher in areas directly immersed in the NaOH solution, decreasing near the reinforcement regions. However, strain distribution, along with beam height, satisfied plane-section assumption in the reinforced beam section. Finally, a regional expansion index was established to quantitatively assess the non-uniform damage by alkali aggregates in beams, and the uniaxial restraint mechanism in reinforced concrete structures was also described.
Drilling Process Monitoring for Predicting Mechanical Properties of Jointed Rock Mass: A Review
Authors: Yu Xiaoyue , He Mingming , Hao Wei , Wang Haoteng
Published: July 2024

Reliably assessing the quality and mechanical properties of rock masses is crucial in underground engineering. However, existing methods have significant limitations in terms of applicability and accuracy. Therefore, a field measurement method that meets the real-time monitoring and safety requirements for the quality of engineering rock masses is needed. Firstly, the research findings of domestic and international scholars on the application of drilling process monitoring technology are comprehensively analyzed. Rotary cutting penetration tests are conducted on tuff rock masses containing fractures and joints. Various rock mass classification and evaluation standards are integrated with rotary penetration tests. Rotary cutting penetration tests are used to determine the residual strength of rock, based on this review. The rationality of the calculated mi parameter values is validated. The peak strength, residual strength, and errors of the rock are obtained based on the penetration method. The rock quality index rock quality designation from drilling (RQDd) is redefined, based on the drilling process monitoring apparatus (DPMA). Rock mass classification is conducted, based on the correlation between the standard deviation of rotary drilling energy and the rock quality designation (RQD). Additionally, a new relational formula is introduced to determine the RQD from variations in drilling energy, based on discontinuity frequency. This field measurement method undoubtedly provides a crucial scientific basis for rock design and construction, ensuring long-term safety in engineering applications.
System Optimization and Operating Strategy of Single-Stage Air Source Heat Pump with Thermal Storage to Reduce Wind Power Curtailment
Authors: Ren Qianyue , Gao Chuang , Jia Jie
Published: July 2024

Wind power generation has increased in China to achieve the target of decreasing CO2 emissions by 2050, but there are high levels of wind curtailment due to the mismatch between electricity supply and demand. This paper proposes a single-stage air source heat pump coupled with thermal storage for building heating purposes. The main objective is to find the proper system designs and operating strategy, which can help to avoid peak demand periods while obtaining minimized running costs and reduced wind energy curtailment. Dynamic simulations were performed using TRNSYS to investigate its use in a typical office building based on an actual electricity tariff, wind power, and meteorological data. The proper system designs, including the tank size and thermal storage temperature, were determined to maximize the system’s performance. It was found that a proper combination of the two parameters exists for a specific application. Further, results showed that the use of auxiliary electric heating is necessary for single-stage air source heat pumps to participate in a wind curtailment reduction. The operating strategy of the system was also studied. Results indicate that by implementing a proper operating strategy, non-renewable power consumption can be reduced by 11% for the studied building, with a total wind power utilization of 3348 kWh during the heating season while still satisfying the heating demands of users. These findings can contribute to the green and low-carbon development of the building industry and further enhance the grid’s accommodation capacity for renewable energy sources.
Sex Differences in the Survival of Patients with Neuroendocrine Neoplasms: A Comparative Study of Two National Databases
Authors: Mortagy Mohamed , El Asmar Marie Line , Chandrakumaran Kandiah , Ramage John
Published: June 2024

Background: Neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs) are increasing in incidence globally. Previous analysis of the UK cancer database (National Cancer Registration and Analysis Service (NCRAS)) showed a notable female survival advantage in most tumour sites. This study aims to compare NCRAS to the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Program (SEER) to validate these results using the same statistical methods. Methods: A total of 14,834 and 108,399 patients with NENs were extracted from NCRAS and SEER, respectively. Sixty-months survival for both males and females for each anatomical site of NENs were calculated using restricted mean survival time (RMST) and Kaplan–Meier Survival estimates. The sixty-month RMST female survival advantage (FSA) was calculated. Results: FSA was similar in NCRAS and SEER. The highest FSA occurred in lung and stomach NENs. Conclusions: The data from SEER confirm the findings published by NCRAS. Female survival advantage remains unexplained.
Conditional Inhibition of Eip75B Eliminates the Effects of Mating and Mifepristone on Lifespan in Female Drosophila
Authors: Landis Gary N. , Bell Hans S. , Peng Oscar K. , Fan Yijie , Yan Karissa , Baybutt Britta , Tower John
Published: July 2024

Mating in female Drosophila melanogaster causes midgut hypertrophy and reduced lifespan, and these effects are blocked by the drug mifepristone. Eip75B is a transcription factor previously reported to have pleiotropic effects on Drosophila lifespan. Because Eip75B null mutations are lethal, conditional systems and/or partial knock-down are needed to study Eip75B effects in adults. Previous studies showed that Eip75B is required for adult midgut cell proliferation in response to mating. To test the possible role of Eip75B in mediating the lifespan effects of mating and mifepristone, a tripartite FLP-recombinase-based conditional system was employed that provides controls for genetic background. Expression of a Hsp70-FLP transgene was induced in third instar larvae by a brief heat pulse. The FLP recombinase catalyzed the recombination and activation of an Actin5C-GAL4 transgene. The GAL4 transcription factor in turn activated expression of a UAS-Eip75B-RNAi transgene. Inhibition of Eip75B activity was confirmed by loss of midgut hypertrophy upon mating, and the lifespan effects of both mating and mifepristone were eliminated. In addition, the negative effects of mifepristone on egg production were eliminated. The data indicate that Eip75B mediates the effects of mating and mifepristone on female midgut hypertrophy, egg production, and lifespan.
The Prodrug DHED Delivers 17β-Estradiol into the Retina for Protection of Retinal Ganglion Cells and Preservation of Visual Function in an Animal Model of Glaucoma
Authors: Kapic Ammar , Zaman Khadiza , Nguyen Vien , Neagu George C. , Sumien Nathalie , Prokai Laszlo , Prokai-Tatrai Katalin
Published: July 2024

We report a three-pronged phenotypic evaluation of the bioprecursor prodrug 10β,17β-dihydroxyestra-1,4-dien-3-one (DHED) that selectively produces 17β-estradiol (E2) in the retina after topical administration and halts glaucomatous neurodegeneration in a male rat model of the disease. Ocular hypertension (OHT) was induced by hyperosmotic saline injection into an episcleral vein of the eye. Animals received daily DHED eye drops for 12 weeks. Deterioration of visual acuity and contrast sensitivity by OHT in these animals were markedly prevented by the DHED-derived E2 with concomitant preservation of retinal ganglion cells and their axons. In addition, we utilized targeted retina proteomics and a previously established panel of proteins as preclinical biomarkers in the context of OHT-induced neurodegeneration as a characteristic process of the disease. The prodrug treatment provided retina-targeted remediation against the glaucomatous dysregulations of these surrogate endpoints without increasing circulating E2 levels. Collectively, the demonstrated significant neuroprotective effect by the DHED-derived E2 in the selected animal model of glaucoma supports the translational potential of our presented ocular neuroprotective approach owing to its inherent therapeutic safety and efficacy.
Interfacial Behavior of Copper/Steel Bimetallic Composites Fabricated by CMT-WAMM
Authors: Liu Yan , Li Bo , Zhang Wenguang , Liu Zhaozhen , Jiang Maofa
Published: June 2024

Copper/steel bimetallic composites were made by using cold metal transfer wire and arc additive manufacturing (CMT-WAAM) with 1.2 mm diameter ER120S-G high-strength steel and 1.2 mm diameter ERCuSi-A silicon bronze welding wires. Based on the optimal tensile strength, the optimal CMT additive parameters of the copper layer were determined by the single-factor method under the conditions of the fixed steel layer process parameters of a 100 A welding current and 550 mm/min welding speed. The interfacial behavior of copper/steel bimetallic composites with the optimum parameters was investigated in particular. The results show that the optimum CMT additive process parameters for depositing a copper layer on a steel layer are a welding current of 100 A and a welding speed of 500 mm/min. The steel side consists mainly of martensite and ferrite, and the copper side consists of α-Cu matrix, Cu3Si, and Cu15Si4 reinforcing phases. The composite interfacial region is mainly composed of the FeSi2 reinforcing phase. At the optimum parameters, the ultimate tensile strength of the composites can reach 404 MPa with a ductile fracture on the copper side. Under the optimum parameters, the microhardness of the composites declines gradually from the steel side to the copper side, and the microhardness at the interface is higher than that at copper side, reaching 190 HV. In addition, the corrosion current density of the copper-side metal is 2.035 × 10−6 A·cm−2, and the corrosion current density of the steel-side metal is 7.304 × 10−6 A·cm−2. The corrosion resistance of the copper-side metal is higher than that of the steel-side metal. The CMT-WAAM process can produce copper/steel bimetallic composites with excellent comprehensive performance. The advantage of material integration makes it a broad application prospect.
Comparative Analysis of Machine Learning Models for Predicting Viscosity in Tri-n-Butyl Phosphate Mixtures Using Experimental Data
Authors: Hatami Faranak , Moradi Mousa
Published: July 2024

Tri-n-butyl phosphate (TBP) is essential in the chemical industry for dissolving and purifying various inorganic acids and metals, especially in hydrometallurgical processes. Recent advancements suggest that machine learning can significantly improve the prediction of TBP mixture viscosities, saving time and resources while minimizing exposure to toxic solvents. This study evaluates the effectiveness of five machine learning algorithms for automating TBP mixture viscosity prediction. Using 511 measurements collected across different compositions and temperatures, the neural network (NN) model proved to be the most accurate, achieving a Mean Squared Error (MSE) of 0.157% and an adjusted R2 (a measure of how well the model predicts the variability of the outcome) of 99.72%. The NN model was particularly effective in predicting the viscosity of TBP + ethylbenzene mixtures, with a minimal deviation margin of 0.049%. These results highlight the transformative potential of machine learning to enhance the efficiency and precision of hydrometallurgical processes involving TBP mixtures, while also reducing operational risks.
Cosmetic Packaging: European Regulatory Aspects and Sustainability
Authors: Morel Silvia , Mura Giulia , Gallarate Marina , Sapino Simona
Published: July 2024

This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of various aspects related to cosmetic product packaging, highlighting both advancements and challenges in the field. Initially, it offers a general description of the main materials used in cosmetic containers, including plastic, glass, paper, and aluminum. This is followed by an analysis of the existing EU legislative frameworks that govern cosmetic packaging, encompassing chemical, food, and waste regulations. The paper also discusses recent EU regulatory proposals and guidelines from trade associations aimed at enhancing the sustainability of cosmetic packaging materials. Additionally, the role of recycled and bio-based packaging materials in promoting environmental sustainability is analyzed. Overall, this review aims to provide insights for experts in the field on how to balance safety, functionality, and environmental responsibility in cosmetic packaging.
Influence of Amino Acids on Calcium Oxalate Precipitation in Systems of Different Chemical Complexity
Authors: Stanković Anamarija , Matijaković Mlinarić Nives , Kontrec Jasminka , Njegić Džakula Branka , Lyons Daniel M. , Marković Berislav , Kralj Damir
Published: June 2024

The mechanisms and conditions under which urinary stones, pathological biominerals in the kidneys and bladder, are formed have not yet been fully clarified. This study aims to understand the role of the system complexity and seven different amino acids (alanine, phenylalanine, glycine, serine, cysteine, histidine, and aspartic acid) in the spontaneous precipitation of calcium oxalate. To elucidate these effects, the conditions simulating hyperoxaluria (ci(Ca2+) = 7.5 mmol dm−3 and ci(C2O42−) = 6.0 mmol dm−3) were used for the first time. In this work, systematic research on calcium oxalate precipitation was performed in three systems of different chemical complexities: (a) only calcium and oxalate ions, (b) increased ionic strength, and (c) artificial urine at two initial pHs (pHi = 5.0 and 9.0). In all the investigated systems, the dominant precipitation of calcium oxalate monohydrate (COM) was observed, except in the artificial urine system at pHi = 9.0, in which a mixture of COM and calcium oxalate dihydrate (COD) was obtained. In all the investigated systems, a significant influence of the selected amino acids on the morphology and crystal growth of COM was observed, with more pronounced changes at pHi = 9.0. Overall, polar amino acids and nonpolar phenylalanine inhibit the growth of COM, which is a more pathogenic hydrate form. The artificial urine system proved to be more relevant for the observation of effects relevant to kidney stone formation in the human body.
Nonspecific Signs and/or Symptoms of Cancer: A Retrospective, Observational Analysis from a Secondary Care, US Community Oncology Dataset
Authors: Benton Christopher B. , He Ding , Todoroff Karen , Coignet Marie V. , Luan Ying , Wong Jason C. , Kurtzman Kathryn N. , Zackon Ira
Published: June 2024

To help determine the unmet need for improved diagnostic tools to evaluate patients with nonspecific signs and/or symptoms (NSSS) and suspicion of cancer, we examined patient characteristics, diagnostic journey, and cancer incidence of patients with NSSS within The US Oncology Network (The Network), a secondary care community oncology setting. This retrospective, observational cohort study included patients aged ≥40 years with ≥1 NSSS in their problem list at their first visit within The Network (the index date) between 1 January 2016 and 31 December 2020. Patients were followed longitudinally with electronic health record data for initial cancer diagnosis, new noncancer diagnosis, death, end of study observation period, or 12 months, whichever occurred first. Of 103,984 patients eligible for inclusion, 96,722 presented with only 1 NSSS at index date; 6537/103,984 (6.3%) were diagnosed with 1 primary cancer within 12 months after the index date; 3825/6537 (58.5%) with hematologic malignancy, and 2712/6537 (41.5%) with solid tumor. Among patients diagnosed with cancer (n = 6774), the median time to cancer diagnosis after their first visit within The Network was 5.13 weeks. This study provides a real-world perspective on cancer incidence in patients with NSSS referred to a secondary care setting and highlights the unmet need for improved diagnostic tools to improve cancer outcomes.
Long-Term Outcomes following Cytoreductive Surgery and Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy for Peritoneal Carcinomatosis of Colorectal Origin
Authors: Taqi Kadhim , Lee Jay , Hurton Scott , Stockley Cecily , Mack Lloyd , Rivard Justin , Temple Walley , Bouchard-Fortier Antoine
Published: June 2024

Background: Cytoreductive surgery (CRS) combined with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) is a major treatment of colorectal peritoneal carcinomatosis (CPC). The aim was to determine the disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) of patients undergoing CRS–HIPEC for CPC and factors associated with long-term survival (LTS). Methods: consecutive CPC patients who underwent CRS–HIPEC at a HIPEC center between 2007 and 2021 were included. Actual survival was calculated, and Cox proportional hazards models were used to identify factors associated with OS, DFS and LTS. Results: there were 125 patients with CPC who underwent primary CRS–HIPEC, with mean age of 54.5 years. Median follow-up was 31 months. Average intraoperative PCI was 11, and complete cytoreduction (CC-0) was achieved in 96.8%. Median OS was 41.6 months (6–196). The 2-year and 5-year OS were 68% and 24.8%, respectively, and the 2-year DFS was 28.8%. Factors associated with worse OS included pre-HIPEC systemic therapy, synchronous extraperitoneal metastasis, and PCI ≥ 20 (p < 0.05). Progression prior to CRS–HIPEC was associated with worse DFS (p < 0.05). Lower PCI, fewer complications, lower recurrence and longer DFS were associated with LTS (p < 0.05). Conclusion: CRS and HIPEC improve OS in CPC patients but they have high disease recurrence. Outcomes depend on preoperative therapy response, extraperitoneal metastasis, and peritoneal disease burden.
A Novel Feature Selection Strategy Based on the Harris Hawks Optimization Algorithm for the Diagnosis of Cervical Cancer
Authors: Dong Minhui , Wang Yu , Todo Yuki , Hua Yuxiao
Published: July 2024

Cervical cancer is the fourth most commonly diagnosed cancer and one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths among females worldwide. Early diagnosis can greatly increase the cure rate for cervical cancer. However, due to the need for substantial medical resources, it is difficult to implement in some areas. With the development of machine learning, utilizing machine learning to automatically diagnose cervical cancer has currently become one of the main research directions in the field. Such an approach typically involves a large number of features. However, a portion of these features is redundant or irrelevant. The task of eliminating redundant or irrelevant features from the entire feature set is known as feature selection (FS). Feature selection methods can roughly be divided into three types, including filter-based methods, wrapper-based methods, and embedded-based methods. Among them, wrapper-based methods are currently the most commonly used approach, and many researchers have demonstrated that these methods can reduce the number of features while improving the accuracy of diagnosis. However, this method still has some issues. Wrapper-based methods typically use heuristic algorithms for FS, which can result in significant computational time. On the other hand, heuristic algorithms are often sensitive to parameters, leading to instability in performance. To overcome this challenge, a novel wrapper-based method named the Binary Harris Hawks Optimization (BHHO) algorithm is proposed in this paper. Compared to other wrapper-based methods, the BHHO has fewer hyper-parameters, which contributes to better stability. Furthermore, we have introduced a rank-based selection mechanism into the algorithm, which endows BHHO with enhanced optimization capabilities and greater generalizability. To comprehensively evaluate the performance of the proposed BHHO, we conducted a series of experiments. The experimental results show that the proposed BHHO demonstrates better accuracy and stability compared to other common wrapper-based FS methods on the cervical cancer dataset. Additionally, even on other disease datasets, the proposed algorithm still provides competitive results, proving its generalizability.
On the Influence of Fractional-Order Resonant Capacitors on Zero-Voltage-Switching Quasi-Resonant Converters
Authors: Cao Wangzifan , Chen Xi
Published: July 2024

This paper focuses on the influence of the fractional-order (FO) resonant capacitor on the zero-voltage-switching quasi-resonant converter (ZVS QRC). The FO impedance model of the capacitor is introduced to the circuit model of the ZVS QRC; hence, a piecewise smooth FO model is developed for the converter. Numerical solutions of the converter are obtained by using both the fractional Adams–Bashforth–Moulton (F-ABM) method and Oustaloup’s rational approximation method. In addition, the analytical solution of the converter is obtained by the Grünwald–Letnikov (GL) definition, which reveals the influence of the FO resonant capacitor on the zero-crossing point (ZCP) and resonant state of the converter. An experimental platform was built to verify the results of the theoretical analysis and numerical calculation.
Safety Aspects of In-Vehicle Infotainment Systems: A Systematic Literature Review from 2012 to 2023
Authors: Krstačić Rafael , Žužić Alesandro , Orehovački Tihomir
Published: July 2024

This systematic literature review investigates the safety aspects of in-vehicle infotainment systems (IVISs) from 2012 to 2023, analyzing 96 studies. IVISs have significantly evolved, incorporating technologies such as navigation systems, parking assistance, and video games. However, these innovations introduce safety concerns like driver distraction and cognitive overload. This review identifies six primary safety issues: driving distraction, situational awareness, cognitive load, driving performance, interaction success, and emotional state. Head-down displays and touchscreens often have negative safety implications, while speech-based interfaces and Bluetooth-integrated systems are generally considered safer. Suggested improvements include enhancing interface design for touchscreens and exploring gesture-based alternatives. Despite these developments, significant gaps remain in real-world evaluations and studies in diverse driving conditions, highlighting the need for standardized manufacturing norms. Addressing these issues is essential for creating future IVIS that are both reliable and safe. This review serves as a foundation for future research, safety regulations, and design principles aimed at improving IVIS safety. Overcoming these challenges will require a multi-faceted approach that considers user-friendly design, adaptive technologies, and predictive analytics. The goal is to balance technological advancements with road safety, ensuring that IVISs contribute to a safer driving experience without compromising convenience and functionality.
Detection and Classification of Obstructive Sleep Apnea Using Audio Spectrogram Analysis
Authors: Serrano Salvatore , Patanè Luca , Serghini Omar , Scarpa Marco
Published: July 2024

Sleep disorders are steadily increasing in the population and can significantly affect daily life. Low-cost and noninvasive systems that can assist the diagnostic process will become increasingly widespread in the coming years. This work aims to investigate and compare the performance of machine learning-based classifiers for the identification of obstructive sleep apnea–hypopnea (OSAH) events, including apnea/non-apnea status classification, apnea–hypopnea index (AHI) prediction, and AHI severity classification. The dataset considered contains recordings from 192 patients. It is derived from a recently released dataset which contains, amongst others, audio signals recorded with an ambient microphone placed ∼1 m above the studied subjects and apnea/hypopnea accurate events annotations performed by specialized medical doctors. We employ mel spectrogram images extracted from the environmental audio signals as input of a machine-learning-based classifier for apnea/hypopnea events classification. The proposed approach involves a stacked model which utilizes a combination of a pretrained VGG-like audio classification (VGGish) network and a bidirectional long short-term memory (bi-LSTM) network. Performance analysis was conducted using a 5-fold cross-validation approach, leaving out patients used for training and validation of the models in the testing step. Comparative evaluations with recently presented methods from the literature demonstrate the advantages of the proposed approach. The proposed architecture can be considered a useful tool for supporting OSAHS diagnoses by means of low-cost devices such as smartphones.
Multi-Height and Heterogeneous Sensor Fusion Discriminant with LSTM for Weak Fire Signal Detection in Large Spaces with High Ceilings
Authors: Wang Li , Li Boning , Yu Xiaosheng , Chen Jubo
Published: July 2024

Fire is a significant cause of fatalities and property loss. In tall spaces, early smoke dispersion is hindered by thermal barriers, and initial flames with limited smoke production may be obscured by ground-level structures. Consequently, smoke, temperature, and other fire sensor signals are weakened, leading to delays in fire detection by sensor networks. This paper proposes a multi-height and heterogeneous fusion discriminant model with a multilayered LSTM structure for the robust detection of weak fire signals in such challenging situations. The model employs three LSTM structures with cross inputs in the first layer and an input-weighted LSTM structure in the second layer to capture the temporal and cross-correlation features of smoke concentration, temperature, and plume velocity sensor data. The third LSTM layer further aggregates these features to extract the spatial correlation patterns among different heights. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed algorithm can effectively expedite alarm response during sparse smoke conditions and mitigate false alarms caused by weak signals.