bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing the Impact of Physical Activity on Dementia Progression Using Clustering and the MRI-Based Kullback–Leibler Divergence
Authors: Wosiak Agnieszka , Krzywicka Małgorzata , Żykwińska Katarzyna
Published: January 2025

Dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease, is a neurodegenerative illness characterized by the progressive impairment of cognitive functions, posing a significant global health threat. Physical exercise is widely recognized for its preventive role, providing benefits for both the body composition and brain health. This study aimed to explore the relationship between physical exercise, the body composition, and the progression of dementia. The analysis used clinical and neuroradiology data from 42 patients enrolled in the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI). Our study mainly focused on crucial parameters such as the body mass index (BMI), skeletal muscle index (SMI), and MRI biomarkers, including the hippocampal volume and white matter integrity. We grouped the participants according to the similarities of their body compositions through clustering techniques. Then, atrophy-related changes in the brain structures were computed using the Kullback–Leibler divergence. Our findings suggest that a higher BMI and greater muscle mass may slow down brain atrophy, suggesting a protective effect on the brain. Based on these results, preserving muscle mass and metabolic health through resistance and aerobic exercise appears crucial in reducing the risk of dementia. Body composition interventions may slow neurodegenerative changes and promote brain health. This is an essential piece of information about prevention strategies, especially for individuals at risk of dementia who may benefit from following structured physical activity strategies.
Evaluation of Impact Energy Absorption by Natural Fiber Composites in Motorcycle Helmets
Authors: de Andrade Tatiana Barbosa , Barbosa Carlos Roberto Hall , Moreira Rosana Medeiros , Eufrazio Edilvando Pereira , de Oliveira Elcio Cruz
Published: January 2025

In response to the growing concerns regarding motorcyclists’ safety and advancements in the motorcycle industry, this study investigated the potential of natural fibers as a sustainable approach for enhancing helmet protection, thus replacing the traditional use of expanded polystyrene. Utilizing statistical tools such as the Shapiro–Wilk test, Chauvenet’s criterion, and the interquartile range, we compared the impact energy absorption of composites reinforced with natural fibers, including sugarcane bagasse, coconut, and sisal, added to expanded polyurethane prototypes. The results, evaluated through confidence intervals, indicated that composites reinforced with 5% sugarcane bagasse, 5% and 10% coconut, and 10% and 15% sisal exhibited significantly superior impact absorption performance compared to pure expanded polyurethane. Composites with agave sisalana fibers exhibited low variability and reliable performance, with the 10% concentration showing the best results. Sugarcane bagasse fiber demonstrated strong stability, especially at a 5% concentration. Coconut fiber performed well at both 5% and 10% concentrations but showed the greatest variability among the fibers tested. These findings underscore the potential of natural fibers in enhancing helmet safety and suggest promising directions for future research into the ideal composite materials for motorcycle helmets, an inquiry that is currently underway.
Speed Advisor for Fuel Consumption Minimisation Under Real Driving Conditions
Authors: Pla Benjamín , Bares Pau , Pandey Varun , Sánchez Luís , Armas Octavio
Published: January 2025

This paper deals with minimisation of fuel consumption under real driving conditions using a vehicle speed advisor. The aim is to explore the potential of speed profile optimisation in real driving conditions while assessing the suitability of an application which recommends the driver the optimal vehicle speed sequence that minimises the fuel consumption on a particular route. The speed advisor is based on solving the Optimal Control problem of covering a particular route with minimum fuel consumption with a defined time constraint. The approach presented was applied to and implemented on a real passenger vehicle to obtain a trade-off between fuel consumption and travel time for several trips on the route. Experimental results are presented with and without advisory. With speed advisor, the results approach the pareto front with lesser dispersion. On the other hand, without advisory, the dispersion is higher and largely above the pareto front.
Model Test on the Behaviors of Deep Excavation with Lateral Confined Water
Authors: Wang Mingyuan , Hu Minyun , Li Chaohua , Xu Xiaobing , Ye Zefeng , Hu Qi
Published: January 2025

To investigate the excavation characteristics and mechanisms of a deep foundation under lateral confined water pressure, a model test was conducted with real-time monitoring of the stress and deformation of the foundation strut system. The results indicate that in stages 1 and 3 (the process of raising the lateral confined water level, O and F), the rise in lateral confined water levels caused the diaphragm wall to shift inward. However, the reduction in earth pressure due to the inward shift of the diaphragm wall exceeded the increase in water pressure from the raised confined water level, resulting in an overall decrease in lateral pressure on the diaphragm wall. During stage 2 (the excavation and supporting process, K1–Z4), as excavation and strut installation progressed, the lateral pressure on the diaphragm wall decreased, while both bending moment and horizontal displacement increased, with the most pronounced changes occurring when excavation reached the depth of the lateral confined aquifer. Upon reaching the soil layers within the depth of the lateral confined aquifer, the axial force of struts increased significantly, with the second level of strut experiencing the greatest axial force. In deep foundation design, it is essential to account for the maximum bending moment and horizontal displacement of the diaphragm wall within the depth range of the lateral confined aquifer, as well as the maximum vertical displacement in the range of 0.50%D–0.83%D outside the pit. Due to the rapid transmission of lateral confined water pressure changes in fine sand, and the delayed transmission in clay due to their low permeability, the diaphragm wall response is most pronounced within the depth range of the lateral confined aquifer.
Immersive Haptic Technology to Support English Language Learning Based on Metacognitive Strategies
Authors: Guanuche Adriana , Paucar Wilman , Oñate William , Caiza Gustavo
Published: January 2025

One of the most widely used strategies for learning support is the use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs), due to the variety of applications and benefits they provide in the educational field. This article describes the design and implementation of an immersive application supported by Senso gloves and 3D environments for learning English as a second language in Ecuador. The following steps should be considered for the app design: (1) the creation of a classroom with characteristics similar to a real classroom and different buttons to navigate through the scenarios; (2) the creation of a virtual environment where text, images, examples, and audio are added according to the grammatical topic; (3) the creation of a dynamic environment for assessment in which multiple choice questions are interacted with, followed by automatic grading with direct feedback. The results showed that the interaction between the physical and virtual environment through navigation tests with the glove in different 3D environments achieved a complete activation and navigation rate. Teachers showed a clear interest in using the application in their classes as an additional teaching tool to complement the English language teaching process, given that it can increase motivation and memorization in students, as it is an easy-to-use application, and the 3D environments designed are attractive, which would make classes more dynamic. In addition, the availability of the application at any place and time represents a support for the current academic community as it adapts to the needs of today’s world.
Protein Identification Improvement in Complex Samples Using Higher Frequency MS Acquisition and PEAKS Software
Authors: Kulyyassov Arman , Makhsatova Saya , Kurmanbay Aruzhan
Published: January 2025

Protein identification in complex biological samples using the shotgun mode of LC-MS/MS is typically enhanced by employing longer LC columns and extended gradient times. However, improved identification rates can also be achieved by optimizing MS acquisition frequencies and employing advanced software, without increasing analysis time, thus maintaining the throughput of the method. To date, we found only one study in the literature examining the influence of MS acquisition frequency on protein identification, specifically using two ion trap mass spectrometer models. This study aims to address the gap by analyzing the impact of MS acquisition tuning of the QTOF instrument on the analysis of complex samples. Our findings indicate that increasing acquisition frequency generally improves protein identification, although the extent of improvement depends on the sample type. For CHO cell lysates, protein identifications increased by over 10%, while E. coli and albumin-depleted plasma samples demonstrated gains of 3.6% and 2.6%, respectively. Higher contributions to protein identification were also achieved with extended LC gradients, resulting in improvements of 21.6% for CHO, 18.2% for E. coli, and 10.3% for plasma. Moreover, enabling PEAKS’ deep learning feature significantly boosted identifications, with increases of 22.9% for CHO, 23.2% for E. coli, and 9.2% for plasma.
Lunar Calendar Usage to Improve Forecasting Accuracy Rainfall via Machine Learning Methods
Authors: Darmawan Gumgum , Setyanto Gatot Riwi , Faidah Defi Yusti , Handoko Budhi
Published: January 2025

The lunar calendar is often overlooked in time-series data modeling despite its importance in understanding seasonal patterns, as well as economics, natural phenomena, and consumer behavior. This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of the lunar calendar in modeling and forecasting rainfall levels using various machine learning methods. The methods employed included long short-term memory (LSTM) and gated recurrent unit (GRU) models to test the accuracy of rainfall forecasts based on the lunar calendar compared to those based on the Gregorian calendar. The results indicated that machine learning models incorporating the lunar calendar generally provided greater accuracy in forecasting for periods of 3, 4, 6, and 12 months compared to models using the Gregorian calendar. The lunar calendar model demonstrated higher accuracy in its prediction, exhibiting smaller errors (MAPE and MBE values), whereas the Gregorian calendar model yielded somewhat larger errors and tended to underestimate the values. These findings contributed to the advancement of forecasting techniques, machine learning, and the adaptation to non-Gregorian calendar systems while also opening new opportunities for further research into lunar calendar applications across various domains.
Tuning of a Viscous Inerter Damper: How to Achieve Resonant Damping Without a Damper Resonance
Authors: Høgsberg Jan
Published: January 2025

Inerter dampers are effectively employed to mitigate and dampen structural vibrations in slender or high-rise buildings. The simple viscous inerter damper, with a viscous dashpot placed in series with an inerter, is designed to create resonant vibration damping, although the damper itself is without an internal resonance. The apparent resonant behavior is instead obtained by increasing the damper inertance until the two lowest modes of the considered building model interact, whereafter the viscous coefficient is adjusted until the desired response mitigation is achieved. The present modal interaction tuning requires that the reduced-order single-mode dynamic model of the building includes both inertia and flexibility from the (other) modes otherwise discarded by the model reduction. While the inertia correction adjusts the modal mass of the inerter damper, the corresponding flexibility introduces the apparent damper stiffness that creates the desired damper resonance. Thus, the accurate representation of other modes is essential for the design and resonant tuning of the simple viscous inerter damper. The resonant damper performance by the non-resonant viscous inerter damper is illustrated by a numerical example with a 20-story building model, for which the desired resonant modal interaction requires an inertance of almost ten times the entire translational building mass.
Regolith-Rich PEEK Composite Bricks: Steps Towards Space-Ready Lunar Construction Materials
Authors: Torre Roberto , Ferro Carlo Giovanni , Bono Lorenzo , Cowley Aidan
Published: January 2025

This study introduces a novel composite construction material composed of lunar regolith combined with PEEK in dry powder form. The work demonstrates significant advantages over alternative methods, primarily by reducing production power consumption and simplifying the manufacturing process. Building on previous research that explored binder optimization through process simplification and targeting predefined shapes, this work delves deeper into a comparative analysis of high-performance thermoplastics. Among the various options, PEEK demonstrates the most favorable properties. The study investigates key processing parameters and evaluates the effects of vacuum processing and temperature testing on mechanical properties. The research also evaluates the effects of vacuum processing and temperature testing to assess the material’s performance under lunar conditions. Comparative analysis is performed with standard performance of various reinforced and unreinforced concretes and with standard requirements for construction bricks as per ASTM standards. This shows that the composite, with an organic binder content as low as 5 wt%, has great potential. Notably, the improvements achieved through vacuum curing ensure compliance with lunar environmental conditions and alignment with most Earth-based engineering standards. Samples compacted at 7.50 MPa with 10 wt% binder, and tested at room temperature, achieve a compression strength of 16.3 MPa, exceeding that of industrial floor bricks and matching that of building bricks used on Earth. Bending strength (7.4 MPa) aligns with steel fiber-reinforced and high-strength concretes. Vacuum curing further enhances these properties, with an observed increase of +66% in bending strength and +33% in compression strength.
BWFER-YOLOv8: An Enhanced Cascaded Framework for Concealed Object Detection
Authors: Ijaz Khalid , Khosa Ikramullah , Ansari Ejaz A. , Ali Syed Farooq , Hussain Asif , Butt Faran Awais
Published: January 2025

Contact-free concealed object detection using passive millimeter-wave imaging (PMMWI) sensors is a challenging task due to a low signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and nonuniform illumination affecting the captured image’s quality. The nonuniform illumination also generates a higher false positive rate due to the limited ability to differentiate small hidden objects from the background of images. Several concealed object detection models have demonstrated outstanding performance but failed to combat the above-mentioned challenges concurrently. This paper proposes a novel three-stage cascaded framework named BWFER-YOLOv8, which implements a new alpha-reshuffled bootstrap random sampling method in the first stage, followed by image reconstruction using an adaptive Wiener filter in the second stage. The third stage uses a novel FER-YOLOv8 architecture with a custom-designed feature extraction and regularization (FER) module and multiple regularized convolution (Conv_Reg) modules for better generalization capability. The comprehensive quantitative and qualitative analysis reveals that the proposed framework outperforms the state-of-the-art tiny YOLOv3 and YOLOv8 models by achieving 98.1% precision and recall in detecting concealed weapons. The proposed framework significantly reduces the false positive rate, by up to 1.8%, in the detection of hidden small guns.
Predictive and Cross-Validation Analysis of Aerobic and Anaerobic Performance Based on Maximum Strength
Authors: Sá Filho Alberto Souza , Inacio Pedro Augusto , Aprigliano Vicente , Leonardo Patricia Sardinha , Oliveira-Silva Iransé , Cunha Raphael Martins , Chiappa Gaspar R. , Fajemiroye James Oluwagbamigbe , Vieira Rodolfo P. , Lopes-Martins Rodrigo Alvaro Brandão , Sales Marcelo Magalhães
Published: January 2025

To establish the capacity of absolute maximum strength and relative to body mass (BM) in deadlift (DL) and squat (SQ) exercises to estimate the maximum anaerobic running performance (MART) and maximum aerobic power (VPeak), among individuals stratified into high (HS) vs. low strength score (LS). The sum of workloads (DL+SQ) was also analyzed and cross-validation was tested. Thirty-four students performed five visits in the first phase. In the first three visits the following were performed: sample characterization and consistency analysis of the maximum repetition (RM) for DL and SQ. Participants were stratified based on DL and SQ relativized by BM (DL/BM and SQ/BM). In the last two visits, MART and VPeak were tested. Linear regression for HS participants did not predict MART for all strength measures. In contrast, the regressive model was significant for DL (R2 = 0.482; p = 0.002), DL/BM (R2 = 0.764; p < 0.001), SQ (R2 = 0.357; p = 0.011) and SQ/BM (R2 = 0.644; p < 0.001) in LS participants, compared to MART performance. For VPeak, linear regression also did not demonstrate an association for all strength measures in HS participants. However, SQ (R2 = 0.309; p = 0.021), DL/BM (R2 = 0.343; p = 0.013) and SQ/BM (R2 = 0.618; p < 0.001) were able to predict VPeak. The prediction from the sum of the DL+SQ produced an association for MART (R2 = 0.451; p = 0.003) and VPeak (R2 = 0.273; p = 0.031) in LS participants. In the second phase of the study, 17 participants performed cross-validation by testing the prediction equations. The same methodological procedures were performed for this phase, but only LS participants were tested. The Wilcoxon test compared real MART vs. predicted for DL (p = 0.02) and SQ (p = 0.043), showing differences, but not for DL/BM (p = 0.051) and SQ/BM (p = 0.093). The Wilcoxon test also showed differences for real VPeak vs. predicted for DL/BM (p = 0.002), SQ (p = 0.019) and SQ/BM (p = 0.05). The MART predictive equation based on DL+SQ did not show differences (p = 0.148), but the same did not occur for VPeak based on DL+SQ (p = 0.008). Maximum strength did not show predictive capacity in HS participants. However, it was significant for LS participants. DL showed greater predictive prominence for MART. In contrast, for VPeak, SQ/BM satisfactorily explained the variations in running performance (61%). The predictive equations of MART by DL/BM and SQ/BM were shown to be accurate, as well as DL+SQ to predict MART.
Research on Mechanical Behavior of Geogrid–Soil Interface Under Rainfall Infiltration
Authors: Lin Yongliang , Wang Yingying
Published: January 2025

With the objective of disaster prevention and the control of geotechnical structures under rainfall environments, an experimental method was adopted to study the mechanical behavior of the geogrid–soil interface. A series of monotonic direct shear tests under different working conditions were carried out to analyze the effects of normal stresses, shear rates and infiltration time on the shear characteristics of the geogrid–soil interface, and to investigate the interaction mechanism of the geogrid–soil interface under rainfall infiltration by means of an independently adapted experimental apparatus to simulate the actual rainfall infiltration situation. The results show that the soil under rainfall infiltration conforms to the Mohr–Coulomb criterion; with the increase in rainfall infiltration time, the peak shear stress at the geogrid–soil interface decreases, and the cohesion and friction angle of the geogrid–soil interface are significantly reduced, and the cohesion decreases by 45.5%, and friction angle decreases by 22.9% when the shear rate is 1.5 mm/min. The research results can provide theoretical and practical guidance for more accurate prediction and response to the effects of rainfall on soil properties in engineering practice. However, the research is only targeted at specific conditions. The variability of geotechnical engineering in aspects such as different soil types, various geosynthetic materials and diverse environmental conditions still needs to be further explored in depth, so as to contribute to the sustainable development of global geotechnical engineering and the effective prevention of disasters.
Blasting of Unstable Rock Elements on Steep Slopes
Authors: Casale Marco , Dino Giovanna Antonella , Oggeri Claudio
Published: January 2025

The improvement of safety conditions on hazardous rock slopes in civil work, mining and quarrying, and urban environments can be achieved through the use of explosives for the removal of unstable rock elements and final profiling. This technique is often applied because, in most cases, drill and blast operations, where they can be used, are cheaper and faster than other techniques and require fewer subsequent maintenance interventions. Blasting represents a suitable and effective solution in terms of different geometries, rock formation types, access to site, safety, and the long-term durability of results. The primary purpose of this approach is the improvement of the safety conditions of sites, depending on their local features, as well as the safety of workers, so that the blasting scheme, geometry, and firing can be carefully adapted, thus imposing relevant limitations on the operating techniques. All these constraints associated with complex logistics make it difficult to standardize the demolition technique, due to different situations in terms of extension, location, fracturing state, and associated traffic risk. Considering the significant number of influencing factors for both the rock mass features and for the topography, the present research has been necessarily validated through the analysis of several case histories, thus on an experiential basis focusing on some simple control parameters to help engineers and practitioners regarding the first design and control of blasting schemes.
The Genetic and Imaging Key to Understanding Bicuspid Aortic Valve Disease
Authors: Moosa Vaneeza , Garcia Julio
Published: January 2025

Bicuspid Aortic Valve (BAV) is a prevalent congenital heart defect, characterized by the presence of two cusps instead of three, leading to significant clinical implications such as aortic stenosis, regurgitation, and aneurysms. Understanding the genetic underpinnings of BAV is essential for early diagnosis and management, which can prevent severe complications like aortic dissection and heart failure. Recent studies have identified critical genes associated with BAV, including NOTCH1, GATA4, GATA5, SMAD6, NKX2.5, BMP2, and ROBO4, all of which play vital roles in aortic valve development and function. Imaging advancements, particularly in cardiac MRI and echocardiography, have enhanced the assessment of valve morphology and hemodynamics, with Wall Shear Stress emerging as a promising biomarker. This review consolidates current genetic and imaging research, elucidating the contributions of genetic variants to the etiology and progression of BAV, while emphasizing the importance of imaging biomarkers in clinical management. The findings aim to improve genetic screening strategies, facilitate early diagnosis, and guide the development of targeted therapies for individuals with BAV.
DICAUVACOOP: A Software Tool to Calculate and Visualize Differentiated Payment According to Grape Quality
Authors: Ruiz-Serrano Javier , Berenguer-García José C. , Mateo-Cortés José A. , Arias-Antúnez Enrique
Published: January 2025

Different physicochemical factors have an influence on wine quality, for instance, quantity of grapes, PH, temperature, and humidity over the growing season. However, despite the weather conditions of the season, the product, grapes, is deposited in the wineries. At that time, a set of analyses are conducted to determine some chemical parameters of the grapes. This work is focused on the chemical parameters obtained at wineries to establish a method to pay farmers according to quality parameters. These parameters have been determined by the technicians at wineries, that is, the experts on wine, as well as market expectations. The idea behind this work is to introduce policies that promote quality instead of quantity, bringing about a change in the mentality of the farmers. These policies pay attention to water consumption or reduction in fertilizers that, of course, affect the chemical parameters of wine but also the sustainability of the sector and the region, in this case, Castilla-La Mancha in Spain. The application developed in this work, called DICAUVACOOP, not only promotes good practices but also introduces penalties. On the other hand, the calculations of each campaign are stored in databases that allow users to conduct comparisons among different campaigns showing the data in a Geographic Information System (GIS) as a decision-making support tool. Another effect of this process is to improve the visibility and brand positioning of Castilla-La Mancha wines on the world stage.
Emotion Estimation Using Noncontact Environmental Sensing with Machine and Deep Learning Models
Authors: Isogami Tsumugi , Komuro Nobuyoshi
Published: January 2025

This paper presents a method for estimating arousal and emotional valence levels using non-contact environmental sensing, addressing challenges such as discomfort from long-term device wear and privacy concerns associated with facial image analysis. We employed environmental data to develop machine learning models, including Random Forest, Gradient Boosting Decision Trees, and the deep learning model CNN-LSTM, and evaluated their accuracy in estimating emotional states. The results indicate that decision tree-based methods, particularly Random Forest, are highly effective for estimating emotional states from environmental data.
Two-Party Quantum Private Comparison Protocol Based on Rotational Encryption
Authors: Hou Min , Wu Yue
Published: January 2025

In this paper, we introduce a two-party quantum private comparison (QPC) protocol that employs single photons as quantum resources and utilizes rotational encryption to safeguard the privacy of the inputs. This protocol enables two parties to compare their private data without disclosing any information beyond the outcome of the comparison. The participants’ private data are encoded as single photons, which are encrypted using a rotational encryption method. These encrypted single photons are then transmitted to a semi-honest third party (TP), who conducts single-particle measurements to determine if the users’ private data are equal and subsequently announces the results to the participants. By harnessing the principles of quantum mechanics, we ensure robust protection against potential eavesdropping and participant attacks. In contrast to numerous existing QPC protocols that rely on multi-qubit or d-dimensional quantum states, our method exhibits superior efficiency and practicality. Specifically, our protocol achieves a qubit efficiency of 50% by using two single photons to compare one bit of classical information, and single photons are easier to prepare than multi-qubit and d-dimensional quantum states.
Victim Verification with the Use of Deep Metric Learning in DVI System Supported by Mobile Application
Authors: Piotrowski Zbigniew , Bistroń Marta , Jekateryńczuk Gabriel , Kaczmarek Paweł , Pietrow Dymitr
Published: January 2025

This paper presents the design of a system to support the identification of victims of disasters and terrorist attacks. The system, called ID Victim (IDV), is a web application using a mobile app and data server. The DVI (Disaster Victim Identification) procedure, an international standard developed by Interpol, is used. The purpose of the IDV system is to facilitate and expedite the process of determining victims’ identities. A neural identification module was developed and trained on approximately 13,000 images from the LFW dataset and fine-tuned using 400 simulated PostMortem (PM) and AnteMortem (AM) images. Postmortem data include photographs of victims while antemortem data consist of pre-disaster photos of potential victims. The module generates a hypothesis, linking PM to AM, which is then verified. The module achieved test identification accuracy of up to 60% for 25 sample PM and AM sets. The system partially automates photo comparisons by DVI teams, improving efficiency, reducing identification time, and limiting the exposure of operators to graphic images. Implementing the system as a mobile application accelerates the process by enabling direct data entry during victim examinations on-site.
A Method and Engineering Practice for a Fully Mechanized Caving Coalface to Rapidly Pass Through a Large Fault
Authors: Zhang Wei , Yang Feili , Chang Jingyu , Zhao Shengxun , Xu Bin , Xiang Jinyong
Published: January 2025

One of the technical problems that must be solved in coal mine production is when the coalface rapidly crosses the fault. Based on the occurrence characteristics of the F6 fault (maximum throw: 13.5 m) in the #3up1101 fully mechanized caving coalface at Gaozhuang Coal Mine, two different solutions allowing the coalface to pass through this fault were proposed, and the solution of pre-driven roadways with rock pillars was optimally determined. The main implementation steps of the method include designing the layout parameters of the pre-driven roadways, determining the width for rock pillars between the adjacent pre-driven roadways, construction of pre-driven roadways by smooth wall blasting, and controlling the surrounding rock deformation of the pre-driven roadways. The results of engineering practice show that it took only 23 days for this coalface to pass through fault F6, about one month shorter than the time required by traditional methods (e.g., proactively taking a detour). Moreover, this method helped achieve stable coal production (an 8.5 × 104 t increase), prevented much gangue from mixing with coal, reduced wear and tear on the mining equipment, and enhanced safety. The economic benefits delivered totaled about CNY 71.1 million. Therefore, this method can ensure continuous, safe, and efficient mining at the coalface, alleviating the tight situation of mine production succession. The results of this study can provide a good reference to help coalfaces rapidly move across faults under similar geological conditions in other mines.
Naked-Eye Molecular Testing for the Detection of Xylella fastidiosa in Mallorca (Balearic Island) Almond Orchards by Colorimetric LAMP
Authors: Serena Amoia Serafina , Falcón-Piñeiro Ana , Pastar Milica , Garcìa-Madero José Manuel , Contaldo Nicoletta , Muegge Mikael , Compant Stéphane , Saldarelli Pasquale , Minafra Angelantonio
Published: January 2025

Xylella fastidiosa (Xf) is a quarantine pathogen heavily affecting economically important crops worldwide. Different sequence types (STs) belonging to Xf subspecies are present in various areas of Spain, including the Balearic Islands, and cause the almond leaf scorch disease (ALSD) in Prunus spp. The increased demand for rapid tests for early detection of the pathogen should enforce strict containment measures. Molecular detection through isothermal amplification reactions enables simplified instrumentation and the use of raw nucleic acid extracts. Colorimetric loop-mediated isothermal amplification (cLAMP) was applied to rapidly detect Xf in naturally infected almonds on Mallorca Island (Spain), using a quick crude sap extraction without DNA purification. Following tissue homogenization, an alkaline treatment for target DNA extraction was conducted before the cLAMP test. The cLAMP assay was able to detect up to 100 CFU/mL of the Xf bacterial suspension diluted in healthy almond sap. The same crude extracts used in the cLAMP test were also tested by qPCR. An overall positive agreement of about 47% was observed between the results of the two techniques, while a decrease in cLAMP sensitivity was evident as the bacterial titer declined in infected plants over Cq > 26–27. This study shows the potential of the cLAMP application as a rapid and low-cost point-of-care diagnostic method for the timely monitoring of Xf directly in the field.
Conversion of 10 min Rain Rate Time Series into 1 min Time Series: Theory, Experimental Results, and Application in Satellite Communications
Authors: Matricciani Emilio , Riva Carlo
Published: January 2025

We propose a semi-empirical method—based on a filtered Markov process—to convert 10 min rain rate time series into 1 min time series, i.e., quasi-instantaneous rainfall—the latter to be used as input to the synthetic storm technique, which is a very reliable tool for calculating rain attenuation time series in satellite communication systems or for estimating runoff, erosion, pollutant transport, and other applications in hydrology. To develop the method, we used a very large data bank of 1 min rain rate time series collected in several sites with different climatic conditions. The experimental and simulated 1 min rain rate time series agree very well. Afterward, we used them to simulate rain attenuation time series at 20.7 GHz, in 35.5° slant paths to geostationary satellites. The two simulated annual rain attenuation probability distributions show very small differences. We conclude that the rain rate conversion method is very reliable.
Rapid Degradation of Organic Dyes by Nanostructured Gd2O3 Microspheres
Authors: Michel Carlos R.
Published: January 2025

Pollution of freshwater by synthetic organic dyes is a major concern due to their high toxicity and mutagenicity. In this study, the degradation of Congo red (CR) and malachite green (MG) dyes was investigated using nanostructured Gd2O3. It was prepared using the coprecipitation method, using gadolinium nitrate and concentrated formic acid, with subsequent calcination at 600 °C. Its morphology corresponds to hollow porous microspheres with a size between 0.5 and 7.5 μm. The optical bandgap energy was determined by using the Tauc method, giving 4.8 eV. The degradation of the dyes was evaluated by UV-vis spectroscopy, which revealed that dissociative adsorption (in the dark) played a key role. It is explained by the cleavage and fragmentation of the organic molecules by hydroxyl radicals (•OH), superoxide radicals (•O2−) and other reactive oxygen species (ROS) produced on the surface of Gd2O3. For CR, the degradation percentage was ~56%, through dissociative adsorption, while UV light photocatalysis increased it to ~65%. For MG, these values were ~78% and ~91%, respectively. The difference in degradation percentages is explained in terms of the isoelectric point of solid (IEPS) of Gd2O3 and the electrical charge of the dyes. FTIR and XPS spectra provided evidence of the role of ROS in dye degradation.
A Nonstationary Daily and Hourly Analysis of the Extreme Rainfall Frequency Considering Climate Teleconnection in Coastal Cities of the United States
Authors: Yan Lei , Zhang Yuhan , Zhang Mengjie , Lall Upmanu
Published: January 2025

The nonstationarity of extreme precipitation is now well established in the presence of climate change and low-frequency variability. Consequently, the implications for urban flooding, for which there are not long flooding records, need to be understood better. The vulnerability is especially high in coastal cities, where the flat terrain and impervious cover present an additional challenge. In this paper, we estimate the time-varying probability distributions for hourly and daily extreme precipitation using the Generalized Additive Model for Location Scale and Shape (GAMLSS), employing different climate indices, such as Atlantic Multi-Decadal Oscillation (AMO), the El Niño 3.4 SST Index (ENSO), Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO), the Western Hemisphere Warm Pool (WHWP) and other covariates. Applications to selected coastal cities in the USA are considered. Overall, the AMO, PDO and WHWP are the dominant factors influencing the extreme rainfall. The nonstationary model outperforms the stationary model in 92% of cases during the fitting period. However, in terms of its predictive performance over the next 5 years, the ST model achieves a higher log-likelihood in 86% of cases. The implications for the time-varying design rainfall in coastal areas are considered, whether this corresponds to a structural design or the duration of a contract for a financial instrument for risk securitization. The opportunity to use these time-varying probabilistic models for adaptive flood risk management in a coastal city context is discussed.
Precision and Accuracy Analysis of PM2.5 Light-Scattering Sensor: Field and Laboratory Experiments
Authors: Samae Hisam , Suriyawong Phuchiwan , Yawootti Artit , Phairuang Worradorn , Sampattagul Sate
Published: January 2025

The widely used low-cost particulate matter (PM) sensors in Thailand, such as the DustBoy, require performance improvements to ensure their data align with the established standards set by the US Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA). This study evaluates the accuracy and reliability of the DustBoy, a commonly used PM2.5 monitoring device in Thailand. A comparative analysis was conducted between the DustBoy and the US EPA’s Federal Reference Method (FRM) and Federal Equivalent Method (FEM). The research involved both laboratory and field testing, where the DustBoy’s performance was analyzed at various particulate matter concentration levels and environmental conditions. The study demonstrated that the DustBoy readings diverged from those of standard monitors at higher PM2.5 concentrations; however, a positive correlation between the devices remained evident. Below 100 µg/m3, the DustBoy overestimated PM concentrations compared to the FRM devices but underestimated them compared to the FEM devices. At higher concentrations, the DustBoy showed a significant overestimation, although the data trends aligned with those of standard devices. The sensor performance was also affected by factors such as the sensor age and device model. Corrections were developed to adjust the DustBoy readings to match the reference devices more closely, enhancing the accuracy post-adjustment. These corrections will refine the DustBoy’s public data reporting and serve as guidelines for other low-cost sensors in Thailand.
An Analysis of Meteorological Anomalies in Kamchatka in Connection with the Seismic Process
Authors: Lyubushin Alexey , Kopylova Galina , Rodionov Eugeny , Serafimova Yulia
Published: January 2025

This study investigates the hypothesis that meteorological anomalies may precede earthquake events. Long-term time series of observations for air temperature, atmospheric pressure and precipitation at a meteorological station in Kamchatka are considered. Time series are subjected to Huang decomposition into sequences of levels of empirical oscillation modes (intrinsic mode functions—IMFs), forming a set of orthogonal components with decreasing average frequency. For each IMF level, the instantaneous amplitudes of envelopes are calculated using the Hilbert transform. A comparison with the earthquake sequence is made using a parametric model of the intensity of two interacting point processes, which allows one to quantitatively estimate the “measure of the lead” of the time instants of the compared sequences. For each IMF level, the number of time moments of the largest local maxima of instantaneous amplitudes which is equal to the number of earthquakes is selected. As a result of the analysis, it turned out that for the sixth IMF level (periods of 8–16 days), the “lead measure” of the instantaneous amplitude maxima of meteorological parameters in comparison with earthquake time moments significantly exceeds the inverse lead, which confirms the existence of prognostic changes in meteorological parameters in the problem of “atmosphere–lithosphere” interaction. This study reveals that certain meteorological anomalies can be a precursor for seismic activity.
Quantum–Fractal–Fractional Operator in a Complex Domain
Authors: Attiya Adel A. , Ibrahim Rabha W. , Hakami Ali H. , Cho Nak Eun , Yassen Mansour F.
Published: January 2025

In this effort, we extend the fractal–fractional operators into the complex plane together with the quantum calculus derivative to obtain a quantum–fractal–fractional operators (QFFOs). Using this newly created operator, we create an entirely novel subclass of analytical functions in the unit disk. Motivated by the concept of differential subordination, we explore the most important geometric properties of this novel operator. This leads to a study on a set of differential inequalities in the open unit disk. We focus on the conditions to obtain a bounded turning function of QFFOs. Some examples are considered, involving special functions like Bessel and generalized hypergeometric functions.
Exploring Alternative Potentialities of Portuguese and Spanish Craft Beers: Antioxidant and Photoprotective Activities
Authors: Pereira Maria João , Santos Diana , Cruz Agostinho , Jesus Ângelo , Martins João P. , Moreira Fernando , Santos Marlene , Pinho Cláudia , Oliveira Ana Isabel
Published: January 2025

Craft beer has gained popularity due to its unique sensory characteristics and complex matrix with nutritional and potential health benefits. Studies linking beer consumption to skin conditions are limited, however, the high content of bioactive compounds is related to biological activities such as antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative, and anti-carcinogenic. This study aims to evaluate the antioxidant, photoprotective and metabolic activity in human keratinocytes (HaCaT). Eighteen craft and four industrial beers were analyzed after dealcoholizing, degassing and freeze-drying. Total phenolic content (TPC) and antioxidant activity were determined. The most promising craft beer was studied for its photoprotective and metabolic activity. An India Pale Ale beer (ALM-IPA) presented the second best TPC (8.96 ± 0.64 mg of GAE/g) and promising antioxidant activity by ABTS (IC50 = 55.21 ± 4.68 µg/mL), H2O2 (IC50 = 23.54 ± 1.53 µg/mL) and FRAP (53.74 ± 1.27 µmol TE/g) assays. Regarding photoprotective activity, a solar photoprotection factor of 48.85 ± 0.39 was obtained. ALM-IPA showed no cytotoxicity up to a concentration of 250 µg/mL after 24 and 48 h of incubation. The potential benefits of beer extracts on skin can be seen, but further studies are essential to corroborate the findings and guarantee the safety of the extracts.
The Differential Expressions and Associations of Intracellular and Extracellular GRP78/Bip with Disease Activity and Progression in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Liu Guoyin , Wu Jianping , Wang Yongqiang , Xu Yuansheng , Xu Chun , Fang Guilin , Li Xin , Chen Jianmin
Published: January 2025

GRP78/BiP, a stress-induced protein and autoantigen in rheumatoid arthritis (RA), exhibits different expressions in various biological fluids and tissues, including blood, synovial fluid (SF), and synovium, all of which are pertinent to the disease activity and progression of RA; however, there is a scarcity of data linking both intracellular and extracellular GRP78/Bip to disease activity and progression of RA. This study was undertaken to investigate the differential expression of GRP78/Bip in blood, SF, and synovium, and to determine their association with disease activity and progression of RA. Patients with RA, osteoarthritis (OA), and traumatic meniscal injury (TMI) without radiographic OA were consecutively recruited for the study. Among patients with RA, six different subgroups were established based on their disease activity and progression. Disease activity was measured using the DAS28 (Disease activity scores in 28 joints) criterion, while disease progression was evaluated using the Steinbrocker classification grade. The levels of GRP78/Bip, TNF-α, and IL-10 were significantly elevated in the serum, SF, and synovium of patients with RA when compared to both the control (CON, TMI Patients) and the inflammation control (iCON, OA Patients) groups (p < 0.05). In terms of disease activity status, as opposed to remission status in RA, the levels of GRP78/Bip, TNF-α, and IL-10 were all elevated in serum and synovium (p < 0.05). However, GRP78/Bip and IL-10 levels were found to be reduced in SF, while TNF-α levels remained elevated. With respect to disease progression in RA, GRP78/Bip levels exhibited a positive correlation with both the stage of RA and the levels of TNF-α and IL-10 in serum and synovium. Nonetheless, a negative correlation was observed between GRP78/Bip levels and the stage of RA in SF, while positive correlations with the levels of TNF-α and IL-10 persisted. The differential expression of GRP78/Bip in blood, SF, and synovium indicated that the potential role and function of GRP78/Bip might vary depending on its specific location within these biological fluids and tissues. The presence of intracellular and extracellular GRP78/Bip was associated with disease activity and progression of RA, suggesting the involvement of GRP78/Bip in the pathogenesis and development of this debilitating autoimmune disorder, as well as its potential as a biomarker for monitoring disease activity and progression of RA.