bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SmartLabAirgap: Helping Electrical Machines Air Gap Field Learning
Authors: Terron-Santiago Carla , Martinez-Roman Javier , Burriel-Valencia Jordi , Sapena-Bano Angel
Published: July 2024

Undergraduate courses in electrical machines often include an introduction to the air gap magnetic field as a basic element in the energy conversion process. The students must learn the main properties of the field produced by basic winding configurations and how they relate to the winding current and frequency. This paper describes a new test equipment design aimed at helping students achieve these learning goals. The test equipment is designed based on four main elements: a modified slip ring induction machine, a winding current driver board, the DAQ boards, and a PC-based virtual instrument. The virtual instrument provides the winding current drivers with suitable current references depending on the user selected machine operational status (single- or three-phase/winding with DC or AC current) and measures and displays the air gap magnetic field for that operational status. Students’ laboratory work is organized into a series of experiments that guide their achievement of these air gap field-related abilities. Student learning, assessed based on pre- and post-lab exams and end-of-semester exams, has increased significantly. The students’ opinions of the relevance, usefulness, and motivational effects of the laboratory were also positive.
The Impact of Historic Underground Buildings on Land Use
Authors: Wu Tsung-Chiang , Lu Wei-Cheng
Published: July 2024

During the Second Taiwan Strait Crisis from 1958 to 1979, a large number of underground tunnels were dug to meet the needs of the war on the island of Kinmen, which is located between Taiwan and China, to provide defense, refuge, and transportation of materials. However, the tunnels caused many problems during the post-war development of the island. For example, there are problems of property ownership between underground and aboveground objects, and difficulties in infrastructure construction. Therefore, it is necessary to clarify the relationship between assets of historical significance and value and aboveground objects to ensure that cultural assets are adequately protected and properly planned. In this study, the 3D point cloud model of underground tunnels and the ground surface will be integrated by ground-based lidar technology and analyzed by overlapping with cadastral maps and urban planning maps to obtain accurate spatial relationships. The point cloud data measurements can be used to obtain the location and depth of the tunnels, which can be used as a reference for land disputes, urban planning, engineering design, and preservation or restoration plans for cultural assets.
Chilean Spanish Intonational Plateaus and Their Pragmatic Functions: A Case of Contact with Mapudungun
Authors: Rogers Brandon M. A. , Face Timothy L.
Published: July 2024

Intonational plateaus exist in Chilean Spanish in contexts in which they do not exist in any other variety of Spanish. Mapudungun, which has been in contact with Chilean Spanish for centuries, also has plateaus in similar contexts, although for years, the possibility of any influence of Mapudungun on Spanish has been largely dismissed. The present study examines the discourse contexts in which intonational plateaus occur in both Chilean Spanish and Mapudungun and finds that their pragmatic function is similar, with the vast majority of cases highlighting information based on the subjective communicative desire of the speaker rather than falling into established syntactic or pragmatic categories such as narrow focus. However, while the pragmatic function is similar between the languages, Mapudungun has a wider use of the plateaus, indicating a likely longer presence in this language. Based on the similarities in pragmatic function, the absence of such plateaus in any other variety of Spanish, and the wider use of plateaus in Mapudungun, this paper argues that the Chilean Spanish plateaus originate from Mapudungun due to their centuries-long history of intense language contact.
Mental Manifestations and Biomarkers of Alcohol Consumption
Authors: Sarpe (Paduraru) Ana-Maria , Dodul Cristina , Vlase Emil-Andrei , Onișor Cristian , Niculet Elena , Ciobotaru Octavian Catalin , Drima Eduard Polea
Published: July 2024

The purpose of this study is to examine healthcare usage, morbidities, and alcohol consumption monitoring in patients before a diagnosis of mental manifestations to assist in the early identification of individuals at risk. Biological markers of alcoholism are separated into two groups: those biological variables that highlight with great confidence and validate the presence of a predisposition to alcoholism, also called trait markers, or those that highlight alcohol consumption, called markers of alcoholism (“status markers”). Biomarkers are the true “gold standard” for the diagnosis of alcoholism. They are valuable for tracking evolution and progress during biological and psychological therapy and for highlighting relapse. This review compiles the existing data from research on healthcare utilization, comorbidities, and alcohol consumption monitoring in patients before a diagnosis of mental manifestations to aid in the early identification of individuals at risk. This documentary study took place over three to four months by searching for terms on the Science Direct platform, PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar such as alcoholism, alcohol use disorders, alcohol abuse, and biomarkers. Studies reporting on the development, characteristics, and utilization of blood biomarkers for alcohol consumption were included in the search. The initial search included a number of 11.019 articles that contained the keywords biomarkers and alcohol. Finally, a total of 50 research articles were considered. I am involved in clinical studies, meta-analyses, reviews, and case studies regarding alcohol consumption detection, as well as potential alcohol markers.
Pulmonary Drug Delivery through Responsive Materials
Authors: Politakos Nikolaos , Gregoriou Vasilis G. , Chochos Christos L.
Published: July 2024

Drug delivery is essential to provide correct treatments in many ways. The critical points in any drug delivery method are patient compliance, maximum efficacy in therapy, minimum toxicity, and enabling new medical treatments. Pulmonary drug delivery is one way of delivering therapeutics locally and systemically. The lung microenvironment and mechanical and biological barriers must be surpassed for successful drug delivery. This makes the delivery challenging. Formulations that can be delivered through the lung and have a responsive character are of great interest since they can hold the key to the successful delivery of therapeutics. This review has gathered fundamental studies related to materials (polymeric, lipidic, inorganic, and biomolecules) that are responsive to pH, enzymes, ROS, magnetism, and other variables, and it shows the advances and applications in pulmonary drug delivery for different diseases in vitro as well as in vivo.
Modeling and Research on the Defects of Pressed Rigging in a Geomagnetic Field Based on Finite Element Simulation
Authors: Zhao Gang , Han Changyu , Yu Zhongxiang , Zhang Hongmei , Zhao Dadong , Yu Guoao , Jiang Zhengyi
Published: July 2024

It is very important to carry out effective safety inspections on suppression rigging because of the bad service environment of suppression rigging: marine environments. In this paper, the multi-parameter simulation method in ANSYS and ANSYS Electronics Suite simulation software is used to simulate the effect of geomagnetic fields on the magnetic induction intensity of defective pressed rigging under the variable stress in marine environments. The results of the ANSYS simulation and geomagnetic flaw detection equipment are verified. The simulation results show that, according to the multi-parameter simulation results of ANSYS and ANSYS Electronics Suite simulation software, it can be found that, under the action of transverse force, the internal stress of the pressed rigging will affect the magnetic field around pressed rigging with defects. With an increase in internal stress in the range of 0~20 MPa, the magnetic induction intensity increases to 0.55 A/m, and with an increase in internal stress in the range of 20~150 MPa, the magnetic induction intensity decreases to 0.06 A/m. From the use of a force magnetic coupling analysis method, it can be obtained, under the lateral force of the defects in suppressing rigging, that magnetic flux leakage signals decrease with an increase in the rigging’s radial distance. The experiment results show that the difference between the peak and trough of the magnetic induction intensity at the pressed rigging defect calculated by the ANSYS simulation is very consistent with the results measured by the geomagnetic flaw detection equipment.
Study on the Fate of the Carbopol® Polymer in the Use of Hand Sanitizer Gels: An Experimental Model to Monitor Its Physical State from Product Manufacturing up to the Final Hand Rinse
Authors: Marchetti Marcello , Perini Alessandro , Zanella Michela , Benetti Federico , Donelli Daniela
Published: July 2024

Carbopol® is a typical jelly agent belonging to the family of cross-linked polyacrylic acid copolymers. It is largely used in antibacterial gels due to its self-wetting properties. In its pristine physical form, Carbopol® falls under the definition of microplastics, though significant changes could occur once added to hydroalcoholic solvents of the liquid formulations. To date, no life-cycle data regarding the physical state are available for this substance or for other similar polymers of the same chemical class. The aim of the present study was the investigation of the fate of Carbopol®-derived microplastics used in the formulation of typical hand sanitizer gels available in the Italian market, such as Amuchina® X-Germ, along the product life cycle. An experimental model was designed to detect the presence of Carbopol® microparticles from product manufacturing to the final use. FTIR and µ-FTIR were used to detect and characterize solid particles after the optimization of the sample preparation of different experimental matrices. While Carbopol® as such can be classified as a microplastic, in the commercial product, Carbopol® particles were not detected. Ten volunteers used the product according to the instructions reported on the label, and finally they rinsed their hands. Carbopol®-based particles were not detected in the water rinse, indicating that, after usage, the original form of the Carbopol microparticles was not retrieved. The study proposes, for the first time, a simple and comprehensive experimental approach to identify and characterize microplastics in finished products and along the life cycle by simulating their real-life usage. This approach could be also useful to evaluate the release of chemical components into the environment through the use of dermal products.
Microplastics Ingestion by Copepods in Two Contrasting Seasons: A Case Study from the Terminos Lagoon, Southern Gulf of Mexico
Authors: Montoya-Melgoza Ana , Coria-Monter Erik , Monreal-Gómez María Adela , Durán-Campos Elizabeth , Salas-de-León David Alberto , Armstrong-Altrin John S. , Quiroz-Martínez Benjamín , Cházaro-Olvera Sergio
Published: July 2024

This study evaluated the ingestion of microplastics (MP) by copepods in Terminos Lagoon (TL), a RAMSAR-listed site in the southern Gulf of Mexico. The evaluation was carried out in two contrasting seasons of 2022, as follows: the dry (April) and the rainy (October). Copepods were collected using a conical plankton net (mesh size of 200 μm). In the laboratory, a pool of all pelagic adult copepod taxa was picked, and the MP inside the organisms were extracted, classified, and photographed using traditional optical and scanning electron microscopy. A total of 268 MP particles were extracted from the interior of copepods; among them, 149 and 119 corresponded to the dry and rainy seasons, respectively. The ingestion rate in the dry season was 0.14, while in the rainy season, it was 0.11. In addition, fibers, plastic fragments, and microspheres with different colors (blue, red, black, green, transparent, and multicolored), sizes, forms (angular, round, triangular, and twisted), and textures were also detected. Fibers were the most abundant MP found in a proportion of more than 85%. In addition, in some sampling sites, microspheres were observed with high relative abundance values (80%). In some sites, fragments reach 20% of the total abundance. Significant differences were observed between the two seasons. The sites closest to the urban area adjacent to TL observed high diversity and abundance of MP. The higher abundance of MP in the dry season is due to lower river discharge, on the other hand. Thus, MP particles accumulate and become available for consumption by copepods. This is the first study that has revealed that the MP was ingested by the copepods in TL. Furthermore, this study provides a baseline information for future research on the abundance of MP in the Gulf of Mexico region.
Kinetic Model Evaluation of Arsenic and Selenium Sources in Waste Rock of the Powder River Basin, USA
Authors: Langman Jeff B.
Published: July 2024

Groundwater quality can be impacted by the backfilling of coal pits with waste rock containing new mineral surfaces and nanomaterials. This study was implemented to identify newly available arsenic and selenium sources in waste rock from the Cordero Rojo Mine in the Powder River Basin, Wyoming, to highlight the alteration of contaminant sources with the transition from an overburden geologic state to the mined waste rock. Basic kinetic models were constructed to replicate the possible weathering modeling scenario derived from published sources of arsenic and selenium in the Powder River Basin overburden—pyrite and gypsum, respectively. These basic prediction models were unable to capture the arsenic and selenium trends recorded for a saturated column loaded with waste rock from the Cordero Rojo Mine. Enhanced kinetic models were tested through trial and error to capture newly available sources created by the mining of the waste rock. The incorporation of new source contributions produced modeled arsenic and selenium trends similar to the observed trends in water extracted from the column. The identification of newly available contaminant sources in backfill waste rock is necessary to evaluate the potential release of contaminants and the exceedance of water quality criteria for overburden formations that have not previously shown the potential for water quality contamination.
Evaluation of Coconut Fiber in Corroded Reinforced Self-Healing Concrete Using NDT Methods
Authors: Zaki Ahmad , Aprilia Nabilah Cantika , Rosyidi Sri Atmaja P. , Mahbubi Khairil
Published: July 2024

The incorporation of natural fibers into concrete has recently emerged as a popular approach in the field of construction materials due to its sustainability and environmental friendliness. In comparison to artificial fibers, natural fibers are more cost-effective and widely available globally. Among the various natural fibers, coconut fiber (CF) stands out for its unique set of advantages. This study aims to investigate the mechanical properties and durability of coconut-fiber-reinforced self-healing concrete (CFR-SHC) in the context of corrosion resistance. Additionally, Bacillus subtilis bacteria (10% by mass) was incorporated into the CFR-SHC. The impact of ±50 mm long CF with varying contents of 0.25%, 0.5%, and 0.75% by mass was examined. Specimens were subjected to corrosion acceleration for 48, 96, and 168 h. Non-destructive testing (NDT) methods of Electrical Resistivity (ER) and Impact Echo (IE) were conducted to test the corrosion resistance. The experimental results demonstrate that CFR-SHC increased the compressive strength by 6% and the flexural strength by 40%. CFR-SHC also exhibits excellent resistance to corrosion, characterized by low inrush current, high ER value, and high IE frequency. The most favorable overall outcomes were observed for the CFR-SHC sample containing 0.5% of the cement mass.
Revisiting the Role of PD-L1 Overexpression in Prognosis and Clinicopathological Features in Patients with Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Leporace-Jiménez Fernando , Portillo-Hernandez Isabel , Jiménez-Almonacid Justino , Rodriguez Ignacio Zubillaga , Mejía-Nieto María , Caballero Pedrero Pablo , Aniceto Gregorio Sanchez
Published: July 2024

Background: PD1 and its ligand PD-L1 are related to prognosis in many solid tumors; however, their role in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) remains unclear. Methods: A retrospective monocentric study including all patients with OSCC diagnosed and treated between January 2020 and May 2022 was performed. PD-L1 expression was assessed per a combined positive score (CPS), considering a CPS of > or equal to 1 as positive (1–20 indicating “low expression” and ≥20 indicating “high”). A descriptive analysis of the patient cohort and tumors was performed, including tumor size, stage, lymph node involvement, recurrence, and survival. Results: In total, 65 patients (65 tumors) were analyzed. A total of 66.15% of the tumors were in advanced stages (III-IV), of which 97.67% expressed PD-L1+, compared with 71.42% in the early stages (I–II). T4 tumors expressed PD-L1 in 100% of cases, compared with 54% in T1 tumors. A total of 50.79% of the tumors showed lymph node involvement (pN+), with 100% of the pN+ showing PD-L1+. The prevalence of pN+ was 59.38% vs. 40.63% for high vs. low PD-L1 expression, respectively. Patients’ follow-ups ranged from 2 to 34.5 months. No significant difference was seen between overall survival (OS) and PD-L1 +/− (CPS ≥ 1 vs. CPS < 1) or high (CPS ≥ 20) and low (CPS < 20) PD-L1 expression (p < 0.97 and 0.64, respectively). Conclusions: The method used to measure PD-L1 (a laboratory test with Dako 22C3 anti-PD-L1 primary antibodies) was reliable and accurate, with a correlation coefficient between PD-L1 expression in the biopsy and the surgical piece of 0.83 (p < 0.0001). A CPS of ≥1 was observed in large tumors (p < 0.001) and was correlated with that of lymph node metastases (p < 0.004). Further analysis of PD-L1 expression in OSCC and studies to determine its relevance in tumor biology and prognosis is needed.
Flavonoids, Phenolic Acids, and Tannin Quantities and Their Antioxidant Activity in Fermented Fireweed Leaves Grown in Different Systems
Authors: Lasinskas Marius , Jariene Elvyra , Kulaitiene Jurgita , Vaitkeviciene Nijole , Hallmann Ewelina , Paulauskas Valdas
Published: July 2024

The increasing demand for organic and biodynamically cultivated fireweeds worldwide has led to a paucity of studies on the effects of solid-phase fermentation and various growth techniques on the quantities of biologically active substances and their antioxidant activity. This experiment was carried out in 2023 at the organic farm in the Jonava district (Safarkos village, Lithuania). The aim of this work was to investigate polyphenols (flavonoids and phenolic acids) and antioxidant activity in fireweed (Chamerion angustifolium (L.) Holub) leaves fermented for 24 and 48 h in solid-phase fermentation and natural, organic, and biodynamic cultivation. Fireweeds have high quantities of polyphenols and strong antioxidant activity. The method employed for determining antioxidant activity was spectrophotometric, for measuring polyphenols, high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Principal component analysis (PCA) was used to determine the relationships between the average content of total polyphenols and antioxidant activity in fermented fireweed leaves grown in different systems. This study’s findings demonstrated that the leaves of fireweed cultivated organically had the greatest concentration of total flavonoids, total phenolic acids, and total polyphenols. Comparing the fermentation process effect, the amount of predominant phenolic acids—chlorogenic, p-coumaric, and ellagic acids—as well as the content of oenothein B, during the fermentation process significantly decreased, but the concentration of quercetin-3-O-glucoside after a short time of the fermentation process significantly increased. According to the obtained results, it would be possible to create various health-giving and nature-friendly products from fireweeds.
Moderately Elevated Temperature Offsets the Adverse Effects of Waterlogging Stress on Tomato
Authors: Wen Junqin , Sui Shumei , Tian Jie , Ji Yanhai , Wu Zhen , Jiang Fangling , Ottosen Carl-Otto , Zhong Qiwen , Zhou Rong
Published: July 2024

Global warming and waterlogging stress due to climate change are expected to continue influencing agricultural production worldwide. In the field, two or more environmental stresses usually happen simultaneously, inducing more complex responses in plants compared with individual stresses. Our aim was to clarify how the two key factors (temperature and water) interacted and influenced physiological response and plant growth in tomatoes under ambient temperature, moderately elevated temperature, waterlogging stress, and moderately elevated temperature and waterlogging stress. The results showed that leaf photosynthesis was inhibited by waterlogging stress but enhanced by elevated temperature, as shown by both the light- and temperature-response curves. The elevated temperature decreased leaf water-use efficiency, but enhanced plant growth and fresh and dry weights of plants under both normal water supply and waterlogging stress conditions. Elevated temperature generally decreased the anthocyanin and flavonol index in tomato leaves compared with the control temperature, regardless of water status. The increase in the optimal temperature was more pronounced in plants under normal irrigation than under waterlogging stress. Waterlogging stress significantly inhibited the root length, and leaf number and area, while the moderately elevated temperature significantly enhanced the leaf number and area. Overall, the moderately elevated temperature offset the effects of waterlogging stress on tomato plants, as shown by leaf gas exchange, plant size, and dry matter accumulation. Our study will improve the understanding of how tomatoes respond to increasing temperature and excess water.
Optimization of Twist Winglets–Cross-Section Twist Tape in Heat Exchangers Using Machine Learning and Non-Dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II Technique
Authors: Cao Qiqi , Qian Zuoqin , Wang Qiang
Published: July 2024

This research delves into the impact of Twist Winglets–Cross-Section Twist Tape (TWs-CSTT) structures within heat exchangers on thermal performance. Utilizing Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and machine learning methodologies, optimal geometrical parameters for the TWs-CSTT configuration were examined. The outcomes demonstrate that fluid undergoing a rotational motion within tubes featuring this structure leads to more effective secondary flows, intensified mixing, and improved thermal boundary layer disturbance. Moreover, by integrating machine learning with multi-objective optimization techniques, the performance of heat exchangers can be accurately predicted and optimized, facilitating enhanced heat exchanger design. Through the application of the multi-objective optimization algorithm Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II (NSGA-II), the ideal configurations for TWs-CSTT were ascertained: L1 is the cross-sectional length of the Twisted Wings, L2 is the radius of the Central Straight Twisted, and P is the pitch. P = 50.699 mm, L1 = 4.3282 mm, L2 = 4.9736 mm for the Gaussian Process Regression (GPR) model; P = 50.864 mm, L1 = 4.4961 mm, L2 = 4.9992 mm for the LR model; and P = 50.699 mm, L1 = 4.3282 mm, L2 = 4.9736 mm for the Support Vector Regression (SVR) model, aiming to maximize heat exchange efficiency while minimizing friction losses. This study proposes a novel methodological approach to heat exchanger design, leveraging CFD and machine learning technologies to enhance energy efficiency and performance.
Quantitative Analysis of Complement Membrane Attack Complex Proteins Associated with Extracellular Vesicles
Authors: Turko Illarion V.
Published: July 2024

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) represent a universal mechanism of intercellular communication in normal and pathological conditions. There are reports showing the presence of complement proteins in EV preparations, specifically those that can form a membrane attack complex (MAC). In the present work, we have used a quantitative mass spectrometry method that allows for the measurement of multiple targeted proteins in one experimental run. The quantification of MAC-forming proteins, namely C5b, C6, C7, C8, and C9, in highly purified EVs from normal human plasma revealed the presence of MAC proteins at approximately equal stoichiometry that does not fit the expected stoichiometry of preformed MAC. We concluded that while MAC proteins can be associated with EVs from normal plasma and presumably can be delivered to the recipient cells, there is no evidence that the EVs carry preformed MAC.
Current Evidence of Natural Products against Overweight and Obesity: Molecular Targets and Mechanisms of Action
Authors: Elizalde-Romero Cristina Alicia , Leyva-López Nayely , Contreras-Angulo Laura Aracely , Cabanillas Ponce de-León Rigoberto , Rodriguez-Anaya Libia Zulema , León-Félix Josefina , Heredia J. Basilio , Beltrán-Ontiveros Saul Armando , Gutiérrez-Grijalva Erick Paul
Published: July 2024

Overweight and obesity are global health and economic concerns. This disease can affect every system of the human body and can lead to complications such as metabolic syndrome, diabetes, cancer, dyslipidemia, cardiovascular diseases, and hypertension, among others. Treatment may sometimes include diet, exercise, drugs, and bariatric surgery. Nonetheless, not all people have access to these treatments, and public health strategies consider prevention the most important factor. In this regard, recent investigations are aiming to find alternatives and adjuvants for the treatment of obesity, its prevention, and the reversion of some of its complications, using natural sources of anti-obesogenic compounds like polyphenols, terpenes, alkaloids, and saponins, among others. In this review, we gather the most current information using PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, Cochrane, and the Web of Science. We present and discuss the current information about natural products that have shown anti-obesogenic effects at a molecular level. We also consider the impact of dietary habits and lifestyle on preventing overweight and obesity due to the evidence of the benefits of certain foods and compounds consumed regularly. We discuss mechanisms, pathways, and receptors involved in the modulation of obesity, especially those related to inflammation and oxidative stress linked to this disease, due to the relevance of these two aspects in developing complications.
Operational Management and Improvement Strategies of Evacuation Centers during the 2024 Noto Peninsula Earthquake—A Case Study of Wajima City
Authors: Itatani Tomoya , Kojima Michio , Tanaka Junichi , Horiike Ryo , Sibata Kuniomi , Sasaki Ryohei
Published: July 2024

On 1 January 2024, a large earthquake occurred in Japan’s Noto region. Many buildings collapsed as a result of violent shaking. Electricity and water supplies were cut off, and communications were disrupted. On 5 January, four days after the earthquake, we visited Noto and conducted disaster-relief activities. This report integrates and discusses the results of the site visits, information broadcasts by public institutions, and previous research. Evacuation centers lacked water and proper sanitation, leading to health issues, including infectious diseases. Disaster Medical Assistance Teams (DMAT) were delayed in implementing infection control measures. Isolated evacuation centers faced communication and supply challenges. Infrastructure restoration, power supply, and toilet facilities at evacuation centers were delayed because of geographical challenges. It is important to have a team that can determine and carry out the necessary activities on site, even without instructions from the DMAT. It is believed to be effective to decide in advance how volunteer teams and the private sector will conduct their activities, assuming that they will be unable to contact public institutions during a disaster. In large-scale disasters, evacuees must operate evacuation centers autonomously. To achieve this, it is necessary for residents to regularly come together as a community. Systematically recording and accumulating these experiences will contribute to improved disaster prevention and mitigation planning. We hope that the experiences we obtained through the abovementioned disaster will be useful for preparing for future disasters.
Demonstration of Tunable Control over a Delayed-Release Vaccine Using Atomic Layer Deposition
Authors: Brubaker Sky W. , Walters Isabella R. , Hite Emily M. , Antunez Lorena R. , Palm Emma L. , Funke Hans H. , Steadman Bryan L.
Published: July 2024

Many vaccines require multiple doses for full efficacy, posing a barrier for patient adherence and protection. One solution to achieve full vaccination may be attained with single-administration vaccines containing multiple controlled release doses. In this study, delayed-release vaccines were generated using atomic layer deposition (ALD) to coat antigen-containing powders with alumina. Using in vitro and in vivo methods, we show that increasing the coat thickness controls the kinetics of antigen release and antibody response, ranging from weeks to months. Our results establish an in vitro–in vivo correlation with a level of tunable control over the antigen release and antibody response times with the potential to impact future vaccine design.
Integrated Surveillance of Disparities in Vaccination Coverage and Morbidity during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cohort Study in Southeast Sweden
Authors: Spreco Armin , Dahlström Örjan , Nordvall Dennis , Fagerström Cecilia , Blomqvist Eva , Gustafsson Fredrik , Andersson Christer , Sjödahl Rune , Eriksson Olle , Hinkula Jorma , Schön Thomas , Timpka Toomas
Published: July 2024

We aimed to use the digital platform maintained by the local health service providers in Southeast Sweden for integrated monitoring of disparities in vaccination and morbidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. The monitoring was performed in the adult population of two counties (n = 657,926) between 1 February 2020 and 15 February 2022. The disparities monitored were relocated (internationally displaced), substance users, and suffering from a psychotic disorder. The outcomes monitored were COVID-19 vaccination, SARS-CoV-2 test results, and hospitalization with COVID-19. Relocated residents displayed an increased likelihood of remaining unvaccinated and a decreased likelihood of testing as well as increased risks of primary SARS-CoV-2 infection and hospitalization compared with the general population. Suffering from a major psychiatric disease was associated with an increased risk of remaining unvaccinated and an increased risk of hospitalization but a decreased risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection. From the digital monitoring, we concluded that the relocated minority received insufficient protection during the pandemic, suggesting the necessity for comprehensive promotion of overall social integration. Persons with major psychiatric diseases underused vaccination, while they benefitted from proactively provided testing, implying a need for active encouragement of vaccination. Further research is warranted on legal and ethical frameworks for digital monitoring in vaccination programs.
Evaluation of the Effect of Influenza Vaccine on the Development of Symptoms in SARS-CoV-2 Infection and Outcome in Patients Hospitalized due to COVID-19
Authors: Gutierrez-Camacho Jose Roberto , Avila-Carrasco Lorena , Gamón-Madrid Araceli , Muñoz-Torres Jose Ramon , Murillo-Ruiz-Esparza Alberto , Garza-Veloz Idalia , Trejo-Ortiz Perla M. , Mollinedo-Montaño Fabiana E. , Araujo-Espino Roxana , Rodriguez-Sanchez Iram P. , Delgado-Enciso Ivan , Martinez-Fierro Margarita L.
Published: July 2024

Background: COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by SARS-CoV-2. It is unclear whether influenza vaccination reduces the severity of disease symptoms. Previous studies have suggested a beneficial effect of influenza vaccination on the severity of COVID-19. The aim of this study was to evaluate the possible protective effect of the influenza vaccine on the occurrence of SARS-CoV-2 infection symptoms and prognosis in patients hospitalized with COVID-19. Methods: This was a retrospective cohort study of patients who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2, identified by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Chi-square tests, Kaplan–Meier analysis, and multivariate analysis were performed to assess the association between influenza vaccination and the presence of symptoms in hospitalized patients with COVID-19 and their outcome. Results: In this study, 1712 patients received positive laboratory tests for SARS-CoV-2; influenza vaccination was a protective factor against the presence of characteristic COVID-19 symptoms such as polypnea, anosmia, dysgeusia, and fever (p < 0.001). Influenza-vaccinated patients had fewer days of hospitalization (p = 0.029). Conclusions: The findings of this study support that influenza vaccination is associated with a decrease in the number of symptoms in patients hospitalized due to COVID-19, with fewer days of hospitalization, but not with the outcome of disease.
Distribution of the Burden of Proof in Autonomous Driving Tort Cases: Implications of the German Legislation for China
Authors: Chen Zhihua , Cai Qianyi , Wei Hanbing
Published: July 2024

In the realm of autonomous driving tort, a significant disparity exists in the parties’ access to autonomous driving data and essential technical information, resulting in challenges in unilateral proof. The traditional burden of proof framework in driving litigation is inadequate for direct application in the autonomous driving sphere. As we approach the era of widespread autonomous driving operations, there is an urgent need to clarify and redefine the allocation of the burden of proof in specific litigations. Utilizing comparative legal analysis and case studies, this paper delves into the disparities in the legislative provisions concerning the burden of proof for autonomous driving in Germany and China. China can learn from Germany’s legislative precedence in shifting the burden of proof for “product defect” and “fault” onto the manufacturer, thereby requiring the infringed party to merely furnish preliminary evidence indicating a “causal relationship between the defect and the damage”. This approach mitigates the evidentiary burden on the aggrieved party, clarifies the litigation procedures, incentivizes manufacturers to enhance the technology, reinforces risk management, and ultimately facilitates the progression of autonomous driving technology.
Real-Time Multimodal 3D Object Detection with Transformers
Authors: Liu Hengsong , Duan Tongle
Published: July 2024

The accuracy and real-time performance of 3D object detection are key factors limiting its widespread application. While cameras capture detailed color and texture features, they lack depth information compared to LiDAR. Multimodal detection combining both can improve results but incurs significant computational overhead, affecting real-time performance. To address these challenges, this paper presents a real-time multimodal fusion model called Fast Transfusion that combines the benefits of LiDAR and camera sensors and reduces the computational burden of their fusion. Specifically, our Fast Transfusion method uses QConv (Quick Convolution) to replace the convolutional backbones compared to other models. QConv concentrates the convolution operations at the feature map center, where the most information resides, to expedite inference. It also utilizes deformable convolution to better match the actual shapes of detected objects, enhancing accuracy. And the model incorporates EH Decoder (Efficient and Hybrid Decoder) which decouples multiscale fusion into intra-scale interaction and cross-scale fusion, efficiently decoding and integrating features extracted from multimodal data. Furthermore, our proposed semi-dynamic query selection refines the initialization of object queries. On the KITTI 3D object detection dataset, our proposed approach reduced the inference time by 36 ms and improved 3D AP by 1.81% compared to state-of-the-art methods.
RESISTANCE OF MASONRY MADE OF CELLULAR CONCRETE BLOCKS ON POLYURETHANE ADHESIVE TO CENTRAL COMPRESSION
Authors: Suleymanova L. , Esipov S. , Se Di
Published: July 2024

In the article, the authors considered the prerequisites for the use of polyurethane glue in masonry made of cellular concrete blocks for housing construction, formulated theoretical hypotheses of the dependence of masonry made of cellular concrete blocks on the thickness and material of the seam during compression, presented the results of experimental studies of the resistance of masonry walls made of cellular concrete blocks to short-term central compression, established the dependence of the change in the compressive strength of masonry on the thickness and material of the seam. The test results were evaluated by comparing the destructive forces for samples with joints made of cement-sand mortar with a thickness of 5 mm and samples with joints made of polyurethane glue with a thickness of 3 mm. It was found that the strength properties of masonry change when the material of the masonry seam and its thickness change, in the most indicative series of tests, the strength increase was about 19%. At the same time, the nature of the destruction has not changed – it is fragile, due to the excessive opening of vertical main cracks in the stone and partially in the seams. The deformability of the masonry did not change, the maximum deformations for samples with polyurethane glue and cement-sand mortar turned out to be identical. The applicability of polyurethane adhesives as an analogue of classical mortar joints for masonry walls has been proven.
Implications of Senda Mitsuru9s architecture on the composition of play spaces in early childhood education institutions
Authors: Lee Hajeong ,   Education Research Institute
Published: July 2024

In this study, we attempted to derive implications for future innovative changes in play spaces in Korea through the research results on play spaces that Mitsuru Senda has studied so far and the analysis of play space-related literature implemented based on them. For this purpose, a literature study was conducted by collecting Mitsuru Senda's books and related papers and reports. The results of this study are summarized as follows. First, Senda Mitsuru has analyzed children's play status and play behavior from various angles to research play spaces, and as a result, presented six play spaces necessary for infants, and established an organic relationship between these spaces to circulate. It presented a circular structure that allows play to occur continuously while being able to do so. And it was characterized by the architectural design of play equipment that provides various play elements. Second, we looked into the implications of Mitsuru Senda's architectural theory and his design structure on the play spaces of Korea's early childhood education institutions. It was necessary to secure circular mobility that preserves children's play identity, introduce instability to encourage children's desire to play, and call attention to the need to provide various affordances to promote children's play.
Development of Geological Field Course and Proposal of Teaching and Learning Materials for Elementary School -Centered on Daecheon-ri, Yuchi-myeon, Jangheung-gun-
Authors: Park Ki Rak ,   Education Research Institute
Published: July 2024

The purpose of this study was to develop Daecheon-ri, Yuchi-myeon, Jangheung-gun, as an elementary school geological field course and to propose outdoor geology teaching and learning materials. To this purpose, the geological phenomena observable in this study area and the 2015 and 2022 revised elementary school science solid earth achievement standards were analyzed, and an outdoor geology teaching and learning model was examined. The results showed that this study area contains sedimentary rocks such as conglomerate, sandstone, and shale; igneous rocks such as dyke and tuff; sedimentary structures such as stratification and ripple mark; joint and pothole, free meander, and weathering by plant roots, all of which are aligned with the current and upcoming elementary science achievement standard. The outdoor geology teaching and learning materials were proposed in three phases: preparation, fieldwork, and summary, considering the ‘novelty space’. A limitation of this study area is that strata and fossils, which are learning components of the elementary science curriculum, do not occur in this study area, making it difficult to learn about them. In the future, it is necessary to conduct outdoor geological studies in this study area and modify and supplement the teaching and learning materials proposed in this study to suit reality.
A study on the perception of ‘teachers’ by secondary school pre-service teachers through metaphor analysis
Authors: Park Sunhee , Sim Hyeonae ,   Education Research Institute
Published: July 2024

The purpose of this study was to analyze how prospective secondary school teachers, who will become the next generation of teachers, perceive teachers by applying a metaphor analysis method. For this purpose, survey responses were collected from 118 university students taking a teaching course at H University in Daejeon, and 111 of them were analyzed using metaphor analysis methodology. The research results are as follows. Prospective secondary teachers' perceptions of teachers were divided into three categories: people with professional competencies, people with emotional competencies, and my future job. First, the image of a person with professional capabilities, a leader/guide role, and an all-rounder/skilled person appeared. Second, people with emotional competency include people who bring immaturity to maturity (gardeners or caregivers), recipients and providers of a safe environment, people who allow students to experience good emotions and develop their talents, and people who can reveal their true feelings. Third, in recognizing teaching as my future career, the meaning of the profession as a teacher, the reason and motivation for choosing to be a teacher, a job that requires continuous effort, and concerns regarding teachers were expressed. These results are meaningful in that they provided basic data for instructors who teach prospective secondary school teachers to refer to when understanding the characteristics of their learners.
Leukemic Stem Cell Content in the Bone Marrow of Patients with Various Types of Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: Мовчан Л.В. , Шман Т.В. , Ивуть У.С.
Published: July 2024

Цель. Определить количество потенциальных лейкозных стволовых клеток и оценить их содержание в зависимости от клинических факторов и биологических особенностей острого миелоидного лейкоза (ОМЛ) у пациентов детского возраста. Материалы и методы. В исследование были включены 63 пациента с первично установленным диагнозом ОМЛ, получавших лечение в рамках протокола ОМЛ-ММ-2014 и ОМЛ-ММ-2021. Анализ количественного содержания лейкозных стволовых клеток по фенотипу CD34+CD38 проводили в образцах костного мозга с помощью 7–10-цветной проточной цитофлуориметрии на момент диагностики заболевания. Результаты. Выявлено, что количество СD34+CD38– значимо выше при ОМЛ, относящихся к М0, М1, М2 FAB-вариантам, по сравнению с М7, М5. Содержание лейкозных стволовых клеток значимо выше у пациентов с наличием экспрессии на опухолевых клетках таких маркеров, как CD34, CD123, CD13, HLA-DR, CD25, CD200. Установлено, что статистически значимо выше количество СD34+CD38– клеток у пациентов с наличием молекулярно-генетических перестроек AML1/ETO, CBFb-MYH11 в лейкемических клетках по сравнению с перестройкой FLT3-ITD и отсутствием исследуемых перестроек. Заключение. Метод многоцветной проточной цитометрии позволяет идентифицировать лейкозные стволовые клетки у пациентов с ОМЛ. Установлена взаимосвязь содержания лейкозных стволовых клеток с морфологическими FAB-вариантами лейкоза, с экспрессией на опухолевых клетках определенных линейно-специфичных и аберрантных маркеров, а также с молекулярно-генетическими перестройками.

Purpose. To determine potential leukemic stem cell number and evaluate their content in relation to clinical factors and biological features of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in pediatric patients. Materials and methods. The study included 63 patients with newly diagnosed AML who were treated under the AML-MM-2014 and AML-MM-2021 protocols. Leukemic stem cell quantification by CD34+CD38 phenotype was performed in bone marrow samples using 7–10-color flow cytometry at the time of disease diagnosing. Results. It was revealed that the number of CD34+CD38– was significantly higher in AML related to M0, M1, M2 FAB variants compared to M7, M5. Leukemic stem cell content was significantly higher in patients exhibiting expression of such markers as CD34, CD123, CD13, HLA-DR, CD25, and CD200 on tumor cells. It was found that the number of CD34+CD38– cells was statistically significantly higher in patients presenting molecular genetic rearrangements AML1/ETO, CBFb-MYH11 in leukemic cells compared to the FLT3- ITD rearrangement and the absence of the studied rearrangements. Conclusion. Multicolor flow cytometry allows identifying leukemic stem cells in AML patients. A correlation was established between leukemic stem cell content and morphological FAB variants of leukemia, the expression of certain lineage-specific and aberrant markers on tumor cells, as well as molecular and genetic rearrangements.
Leveraging the BERT Model for Enhanced Sentiment Analysis in Multicontextual Social Media Content
Authors: Saragih Hondor , Manurung Jonson
Published: July 2024

The increasing prevalence of social media platforms has led to a surge in user-generated content, necessitating advanced techniques for accurate sentiment analysis. This study investigates the application of the BERT model for sentiment analysis on multicontextual social media content, aiming to enhance sentiment classification accuracy by leveraging contextual embeddings. The research objectives include examining the effectiveness of BERT in capturing sentiments across diverse social media posts and evaluating its performance in comparison to traditional methods. The methodology involves tokenizing text content, converting tokens into contextual embeddings using BERT, and integrating multimedia features for a comprehensive sentiment analysis framework. The results from a numerical example demonstrate that the BERT model achieves a high probability of correctly classifying sentiments, with a notable improvement in accuracy and a low cross-entropy loss. These findings underscore the model's capability to understand contextual nuances and its potential to optimize social media monitoring and analysis processes. The study also highlights limitations such as the need for larger and more diverse datasets and the inclusion of multimedia content to enhance generalizability. Future research should explore hybrid models and address ethical considerations to ensure data privacy and mitigate biases. This work contributes to advancing theoretical frameworks and offers practical implications for businesses and marketers seeking to leverage sentiment analysis for informed decision-making and improved customer engagement strategies.