bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of Tracer Gas Method to Improve Indoor Air Quality: A Study on Ventilation Performance in Apartment Buildings in South Korea
Authors: Lee Soo Man , Lee Sang Yoon , Kim Gil Tae , Kwag Byung Chang
Published: December 2024

This study analyzes the shortcomings of South Korea’s current evaluation method of ventilation performance for apartment buildings and suggests improvements. The current Korean regulations rely on the air change rate method, which is a prescriptive method and thus inadequately measures indoor air quality practically. Therefore, this study reviews various standards, finding that these standards can be categorized into those evaluating the mechanical performance of ventilators and those assessing indoor ventilation performance. This study highlights that the standards evaluating indoor ventilation performance are based on the tracer gas method but lack clear testing procedures and boundary conditions. This research also reviews the various previous research articles, noting that Korean research places emphasis on system design parameters, while international research focuses on architectural factors. It also identifies inconsistencies in the experimental setups across studies. To improve the current evaluation methods, the research suggests enhancing the tracer gas method with clear testing procedures and introducing indicators such as the age of air and uniformity coefficient together. Since the air change rate method does not consider the actual airflows and distribution in indoor spaces, this method is limited to deriving improvements in indoor ventilation performance. However, the suggested tracer gas method and indicators can be used to discover the optimal locations of vents for better indoor air quality or to drive a better building design to achieve better indoor ventilation performance. In other words, these enhancements aim to provide more accurate and comprehensive insights into the effectiveness of indoor ventilation systems, helping engineers, designers, and residents better understand and improve indoor air quality.
Fatigue Life of Pre-Cut Seam Asphalt Mixture Composite Beams: A Combined Study of Fatigue Damage Evolution and Reflective Cracking Extension
Authors: Liu Hongfu , Lu Hong , Zhu Xun , Yi Zhengwei , Yu Xin , Jin Dongzhao , Peng Xinghai , Lv Songtao
Published: December 2024

This study investigated the impact of reflective cracking on the fatigue performance of asphalt pavements after milling and resurfacing under various conditions. Fatigue life was assessed through four-point flexural fatigue tests, while the crack extension pattern of composite beams was analyzed by digital image correlation (DIC) at both macroscopic and microscopic scales. Evaluation parameters such as stress ratios, immersion time, porosity, and types of viscous oils were assessed. A fatigue life prediction model of composite beams was established, accounting for the combined influence of these factors. To enhance the accuracy of determining composite beam failure, the critical fatigue damage was calculated by defining the damage variable in terms of the dynamic modulus. A nonlinear fatigue damage model was proposed, incorporating this critical damage under the combined influence of various factors. Additionally, a modified logistic function model was developed to describe the relationship between crack extension and failure life under different stress ratios, porosities, and viscous layer oil conditions. It was found that the modulus decay curves and the crack extension curves intersected at different stress levels as the life ratio increased. At the intersection, the modulus ratios were consistently around 0.55, marking the transition of the specimen from a stable to an unstable state. Beyond this point, the crack rapidly propagated, leading to a sharp reduction in the modulus until the specimen ultimately failed. Our results provide a basis for timing and conservation decisions.
Study on the Influence and Deformation Control of Rich Water Foundation Excavation on Adjacent Buildings
Authors: Wang Zhouya , Shen Xiaole , Tian Xiaoxu , Song Zhanping , Zhou Pengyuan
Published: December 2024

Taking the foundation pit of the Suzhou Chunshenhu Road Expressway Reconstruction Project as an example, the excavation process of the foundation pit was numerically simulated using a three-dimensional finite element method. The measured data and simulated data of the lateral deformation of the enclosure structure, surface settlement deformation of the ground outside the pit, and settlement deformation of the building were compared to analyze the impact of foundation pit construction on adjacent buildings. The influence of foundation pit floor and diaphragm wall thickness on wall displacement, building settlement, and foundation pit uplift was also discussed. The results showed the following: (1) Adding a foundation pit floor has a significant effect on reducing the lateral displacement of the diaphragm wall, settlement of the building, and uplift of the foundation pit. Increasing the thickness of the foundation pit floor has a limited effect on reducing the displacement, while increasing the thickness of the diaphragm wall has a small effect. (2) The displacement curve of the underground diaphragm wall increases with depth. It reaches a maximum at the excavation surface and then decreases gradually. (3) The surface settlement increases first and then decreases with distance from the foundation pit, showing a concave shape. As the depth of excavation increases, the settlement value increases. (4) Through analysis of the monitoring data of vertical displacement of buildings, it can be seen that during foundation pit excavation, buildings undergo five stages: initial slow descent, steep descent, mid-term slow descent, late steep descent, and stable deformation. The buildings are dominated by settlement deformation.
Effects of Incorporating Fine Aggregates and Polypropylene Microfibres on the Cracking Control of 3D Printed Cementitious Mixtures
Authors: Vargas Armando , Robayo-Salazar Rafael , Mejía de Gutiérrez Ruby
Published: December 2024

One of the most significant challenges for 3D printing of construction elements from cementitious materials is the control of cracking caused by various contraction–shrinkage mechanisms, such as drying, chemical, plastic and autogenous shrinkage. This study addresses the effects of incorporating fine aggregates (maximum size ≤ 1.18 mm), both natural and recycled, as well as short (6 mm long) polypropylene (PP) fibres on the control of cracking in cementitious mixtures based on Portland cement. Admixtures and/or mineral additions (modifiers), such as metakaolin, micro-silica, calcium carbonate, and fine powders obtained from construction and demolition wastes were used in the mixtures. Mini-slump, flow rate and buildability tests were used to characterize the mixtures in their fresh state. Extrudability was evaluated using laboratory-scale 3D printing tests conducted with a plunger–piston extrusion system. It was demonstrated that the physical characteristics of the aggregates directly influence the extrusion capacity. Mixtures containing natural aggregates exhibited greater fluidity and lower water demand than those containing recycled aggregates. The results indicated that the maximum allowable volume of fibres was 0.75%. To evaluate the cracking susceptibility of the mixtures, both with and without reinforcement, hollow beams composed of seven layers were printed, and subsequently the elements were exposed to the outdoor natural environment and inspected for a period of 90 days. The inclusion of the PP fibres effectively prevented the occurrence of fissures and/or cracks associated with shrinkage phenomena throughout the inspection period, unlike in unreinforced mixtures, which cracked after 14 days of exposure to the environment.
Research on the Relationship Between Urban Visual Quality and Students’ Emotional Experience Driven by Multimodal Data: A Case Study of Beijing Olympic Park Museum Group
Authors: Zhang Ruoshi , Chai Dingnan , Zhou Zhenzhi , Sun Rui , Zhang Zekai , Chen Chuhuan
Published: December 2024

The technological leap in the digital age has triggered a higher demand for emotional experiences. Since vision has long been recognized as the most important source of information for people to perceive the city, the visual characteristics of the urban built environment have an important impact on the emotional experience it creates. This study takes the facades and external environments of the representative urban public building category, museums, as the research objects, to explore how different types of built environment elements that make up the museum’s facade and surrounding environment affect the people’s emotional experience by affecting the urban visual quality. Tobii Pro Fusion devices and emotion scales are used for the collection of multimodal data. A total of 298 participants aged between 20 and 25 were recruited to participate in the experiment voluntarily and 229 valid data were finally obtained. The results show that different types of museum facades and external environmental elements have different effects on visual quality and people’s emotional experience: (1) Interactive elements show the most significant impact on visual quality and emotional experience. (2) The impact of artificial elements on visual quality is related to their size and spatial composition on the museum facade. When artificial elements have uniqueness, regionality, and symbolism associated with the museum, they are more likely to trigger people’s emotional experiences. (3) Visual quality is significantly correlated with people’s emotional experience through both preconscious and conscious emotional cognition. The results reveal the impact of different types and characteristics of built environment elements on the visual quality of the urban environment and proves the important role of visual quality in students’ emotional experience, further illustrating that designing and creating a good visual environment is conducive to promoting a humanistic urban environment. Meanwhile, this study also promotes a method of urban visual quality research and evaluation from an emotional perspective, providing a more scientific and objective way for the intervention of “emotions” in built environment research.
Preclinical Models for Functional Precision Lung Cancer Research
Authors: Yu Jie-Zeng , Kiss Zsofia , Ma Weijie , Liang Ruqiang , Li Tianhong
Published: December 2024

Patient-centered precision oncology strives to deliver individualized cancer care. In lung cancer, preclinical models and technological innovations have become critical in advancing this approach. Preclinical models enable deeper insights into tumor biology and enhance the selection of appropriate systemic therapies across chemotherapy, targeted therapies, immunotherapies, antibody–drug conjugates, and emerging investigational treatments. While traditional human lung cancer cell lines offer a basic framework for cancer research, they often lack the tumor heterogeneity and intricate tumor–stromal interactions necessary to accurately predict patient-specific clinical outcomes. Patient-derived xenografts (PDXs), however, retain the original tumor’s histopathology and genetic features, providing a more reliable model for predicting responses to systemic therapeutics, especially molecularly targeted therapies. For studying immunotherapies and antibody–drug conjugates, humanized PDX mouse models, syngeneic mouse models, and genetically engineered mouse models (GEMMs) are increasingly utilized. Despite their value, these in vivo models are costly, labor-intensive, and time-consuming. Recently, patient-derived lung cancer organoids (LCOs) have emerged as a promising in vitro tool for functional precision oncology studies. These LCOs demonstrate high success rates in growth and maintenance, accurately represent the histology and genomics of the original tumors and exhibit strong correlations with clinical treatment responses. Further supported by advancements in imaging, spatial and single-cell transcriptomics, proteomics, and artificial intelligence, these preclinical models are reshaping the landscape of drug development and functional precision lung cancer research. This integrated approach holds the potential to deliver increasingly accurate, personalized treatment strategies, ultimately enhancing patient outcomes in lung cancer.
A Two-Step Protocol for Isolation and Maintenance of Lung Cancer Primary 3D Cultures
Authors: Strocchi Silvia , Santandrea Giacomo , Zanetti Eleonora , Verna Giulio , Cusenza Vincenza Ylenia , Nicoli Davide , Fantini Valentina , Grieco Alessandra , Paci Massimiliano , Ciarrocchi Alessia , Sancisi Valentina
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: Despite the introduction of innovative therapeutics, lung cancer is still the leading cause of cancer-related death. For this reason, lung cancer still requires deep characterization to identify cellular and molecular targets that can be used to develop novel therapeutic strategies. Three-dimensional cellular models, including patient-derived organoids (PDOs), represent useful tools to study lung cancer biology and may be employed in the future as predictive tools in therapeutic decisions. However, the successful establishment of lung cancer organoids cultures that faithfully represent the respective patient tissues is still challenging due to low success rate and/or overgrowth of normal airway epithelial cells. Methods: We set up a two-step protocol that allows for establishing both short-term and long-term 3D cultures, with different characteristics and success rates. Results: Cancer tissue-originated spheroids (CTOSs) show a 100% success rate and allow for the concomitant isolation of autologous tumor infiltrating leukocytes (TILs). On the contrary, PDOs can be expanded for a medium-long term and bio-banked but retain a lower success rate and the possibility of contamination with normal airway epithelial cells. To overcome these problems, we set up an optimal medium formulation and we implemented rigorous quality controls, leading to a substantial improvement in the success rate of tumoral PDO establishment. Conclusions: Overall, this protocol guarantees flexibility and reliability, also providing useful guidelines for quality control checks to support different experimental settings. The setting up of a robust protocol for lung cancer PDO culture establishment and expansion is a key requirement for their employment both in cancer research and as predictive tools in clinical practice.
Does the Performance of a Six-Minute Walking Test Predict Cardiopulmonary Complications After Uniportal Video-Assisted Thoracic Surgery Anatomic Lung Resection?
Authors: Salati Michele , Andolfi Marco , Roncon Alberto , Guiducci Gian Marco , Xiumè Francesco , Tiberi Michela , Nanto Anna Chiara , Cingolani Sara , Ricci Eleonora , Refai Majed
Published: December 2024

Objectives: The purpose of the present study was to verify if performance in the 6-min walking test (6MWT) during the preoperative evaluation phase is associated with the development of cardiopulmonary postoperative complications in patients who underwent uniportal VATS (U-VATS) for lung cancer. Methods: This retrospective, monocentric study included patients submitted to U-VATS anatomical lung resections (March 2022–December 2023). The patients were enrolled in a preoperative rehabilitation program carried out 15 days before surgery. The 6MWT was performed at counseling (T0) and after pre-habilitation (T1). Univariate analysis followed by logistic regression verified the association of baseline patients’ characteristics and performance in the 6MWT (meters walked during T0 and T1 and the difference between T1 and T0—T1-T0 variation) with postoperative cardiopulmonary complications (CPCs). Youde’s index was used to establish the optimal cut-offs for ergometric parameters significantly correlated with CPCs. Results: We enrolled 212 patients scheduled to undergo U-VATS lung resection (lobectomies: 177; bilobectomies: 2; segmentectomies: 33). Twenty-three (10.8%) patients developed CPCs. None of the baseline patients’ characteristics were associated with CPCs. Complicated patients showed more significant differences compared to non-complicated ones for meters walked during the 6MWT T1 (6MWT-T1-complicated: 450 vs. 6MWT-T1-non-complicated: 517; p: 0.01) and for variation-T1-T0 (variation-T1-T0-complicated: 4 m vs. variation-T1-T0-non-complicated: 20 m; p: 0.02). The best cut-offs for discriminating between patients with CPCs and those with uneventful courses were 458 m for 6MWT-T1 and 31 m for variation-T1-T0. After multivariate analysis, 6MWT-T1 < 458 m and variation-T1-T0 < 31 m were the unique parameters independently correlated with CPCs (p: 0.03 and p: 0.05, respectively). Conclusions: The 6MWT results (in particular, 6MWT-T1 < 458 m and variation-T1-T0 < 31 m) in the context of a pre-habilitation program are associated with the development of CPCs after U-VATS lung resection.
Tuning Surface State in CoFe (Oxy)Hydroxide for Improved Oxygen Evolution Electrocatalysis
Authors: Guo Wen , Wang Chizhong , Qiu Lei , Liu Fanghua , Chen Sizhe , Chang Huazhen
Published: December 2024

CoFe-based catalysts have shown excellent activity for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER), with the oxidation states of the active sites playing a crucial role in determining catalytic performance. However, how to effectively increase the oxidation state of these active sites remains a key challenge. In this work, a facile treatment with NaBH4 solution was employed to modulate the surface state of CoFeOxHy catalysts, inducing an enhanced OER activity. The overpotential at 10 mA cm−2 for the NaBH4-treated CoFe catalyst was reduced to 270 mV, indicating improved OER activity. X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) results reveal that NaBH4 treatment induced a phase reconstruction of the CoFe oxalate framework, a critical step in enhancing its catalytic properties. The strong reducing ability of NaBH4 strengthened the Co-Fe interaction, allowing the retention of low-valence Co species while facilitating the formation of high-valence Fe sites. This dual modulation of Co and Fe oxidation states significantly accelerated charge transfer kinetics, ultimately boosting OER performance. These findings highlight the importance of improving the oxidation states of active sites in CoFe-based catalysts, providing insights for developing efficient catalysts for electrochemical water splitting.
The Influence of Socio-Affective Relationships Between Adolescents in Educational Experiences of Cooperation–Opposition: A Systematic Review
Authors: Pla-Pla Paula , Franchi Silvester , Lavega-Burgués Pere , Sáez de Ocáriz Unai
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: Socio-affective relationships have garnered increasing attention in recent years as a means to enhance coexistence and well-being. Within this context, educational institutions play a pivotal role in shaping peaceful coexistence and promoting well-being among future generations. Physical Education (PE) is particularly significant, because it integrates cooperative–opposition activities, which blend collaboration and competition, fostering socio-emotional development. This systematic review aimed to investigate how PE contributes to coexistence and socio-affective well-being in adolescents aged 12 to 18. Methods: Using the PRISMA 2020 framework, 15 empirical studies were analyzed from seven databases. Studies were selected based on PICOS criteria: secondary education students (Population), cooperative–opposition activities (Intervention), control groups or pre-post designs (Comparison), relational and emotional dimensions (Outcomes), and quantitative methodologies (Study design). Results: Interventions grounded in the Motor Conduct Education and Sports Education Model significantly reduced interpersonal conflicts and improved social skills and emotional well-being. Positive emotions predominated in these activities, fostering stronger peer relationships within classroom groups. Approaches emphasizing task-oriented pedagogies were less effective than those centered on peer support in eliciting positive emotional responses. Conclusions: This review underscores the transformative potential of innovative educational strategies in PE to enhance coexistence and socio-affective well-being. Future research should explore the comparative efficacy of various pedagogical models and their long-term impact. These findings provide valuable guidance for educators and policymakers seeking to promote holistic development in adolescents through PE.
Effects of Therapeutic Hypothermia and Minimal Enteral Nutrition on Short-Term Outcomes in Neonates with Hypoxic–Ischemic Encephalopathy: A 10-Year Experience from Oman
Authors: Malviya Manoj , Murthi Sathiya , Jayaraj Dhanya , Ramdas Vidya , Nazir Malik Fadia , Nair Valsala , Marikkar Nusrabegam , Talreja Mukesh , Sial Tariq , Manikoth Prakash , Varghese Renjan , Al Ramadhani Khalsa Ali Al , Al Aisry Salima , Al Kindi Said , Al Habsi Ahmed , Torgalkar Ranjit , Ahmed Munawwar , Al Yahmadi Mohammed
Published: December 2024

Background: Therapeutic hypothermia (TH) is the standard treatment for moderate to severe hypoxic–ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) in developed countries, but data on its safety and efficacy in low-middle-income countries are limited and often conflicting. The impact of enteral feeding during TH remains inadequately explored. We aimed to examine TH’s effects on mortality and brain injury and evaluate the safety and effectiveness of minimal enteral feeding during TH. Here, we report our single-center experience with TH over a 10-year period”. Methods: A total of 187 neonates with moderate to severe HIE who underwent cooling were included in this retrospective study. Post-rewarming MRI scans were scored using a validated MRI scoring system. The primary outcomes were mortality and composite outcomes of mortality and brain injury. Results: The mortality rate was 3% in moderate and 25% in severe cases (p < 0.001). Overall, 85% (160/187) of neonates received minimal enteral nutrition. Multivariate regression analysis revealed that the severity of HIE at admission (OR 3.4 (1.03–11.6); p < 0.04) and gestational age (OR: 0.624 (0.442–0.882); p < 0.008) were independent predictors of composite outcomes of death and brain injuries. MRI score was a strong predictor of mortality (AUC: 0.89; p < 0.001) and of ability to orally feed at discharge (AUC: 0.73; p < 0.001). Conclusions: Mortality rates associated with TH in infants with moderate–severe HIE align with those in high-income countries, and minimal enteral feeding during TH is safe. The severity of HIE, MRI scores, and feeding status are important predictors of outcomes.
Advancing Applications of Robot Audition Systems: Efficient HARK Deployment with GPU and FPGA Implementations
Authors: Lin Zirui , Amano Hideharu , Takigahira Masayuki , Terakado Naoya , Itoyama Katsutoshi , Gulzar Haris , Nakadai Kazuhiro
Published: December 2024

This paper proposes efficient implementations of robot audition systems, specifically focusing on deployments using HARK, an open-source software (OSS) platform designed for robot audition. Although robot audition systems are versatile and suitable for various scenarios, efficiently deploying them can be challenging due to their high computational demands and extensive processing times. For scenarios involving intensive high-dimensional data processing with large-scale microphone arrays, our generalizable GPU-based implementation significantly reduced processing time, enabling real-time Sound Source Localization (SSL) and Sound Source Separation (SSS) using a 60-channel microphone array across two distinct GPU platforms. Specifically, our implementation achieved speedups of 23.3× for SSL and 3.0× for SSS on a high-performance server equipped with an NVIDIA A100 80 GB GPU. Additionally, on the Jetson AGX Orin 32 GB, which represents embedded environments, it achieved speedups of 14.8× for SSL and 1.6× for SSS. For edge computing scenarios, we developed an adaptable FPGA-based implementation of HARK using High-Level Synthesis (HLS) on M-KUBOS, a Multi-Access Edge Computing (MEC) FPGA Multiprocessor System on a Chip (MPSoC) device. Utilizing an eight-channel microphone array, this implementation achieved a 1.2× speedup for SSL and a 1.1× speedup for SSS, along with a 1.1× improvement in overall energy efficiency.
Mechanisms and Emerging Regulators of Neuroinflammation: Exploring New Therapeutic Strategies for Neurological Disorders
Authors: Kim Mi Eun , Lee Jun Sik
Published: December 2024

Neuroinflammation is a complex and dynamic response of the central nervous system (CNS) to injury, infection, and disease. While acute neuroinflammation plays a protective role by facilitating pathogen clearance and tissue repair, chronic and dysregulated inflammation contributes significantly to the progression of neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and Multiple Sclerosis. This review explores the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying neuroinflammation, focusing on the roles of microglia, astrocytes, and peripheral immune cells. Key signaling pathways, including NF-κB, JAK-STAT, and the NLRP3 inflammasome, are discussed alongside emerging regulators such as non-coding RNAs, epigenetic modifications, and the gut–brain axis. The therapeutic landscape is evolving, with traditional anti-inflammatory drugs like NSAIDs and corticosteroids offering limited efficacy in chronic conditions. Immunomodulators, gene and RNA-based therapeutics, and stem cell methods have all shown promise for more specific and effective interventions. Additionally, the modulation of metabolic states and gut microbiota has emerged as a novel strategy to regulate neuroinflammation. Despite significant progress, challenges remain in translating these findings into clinically viable therapies. Future studies should concentrate on integrated, interdisciplinary methods to reduce chronic neuroinflammation and slowing the progression of neurodegenerative disorders, providing opportunities for revolutionary advances in CNS therapies.
The Influence of Load and Ball on the Sliding Wear Characteristics of HVOF-Sprayed WC-12Co Composite Coating
Authors: Avcı Ali
Published: December 2024

This study examines the impact of various abrasive balls and sliding loads on WC-12Co coatings. For this purpose, 4 N, 8 N, and 12 N loads were applied to the WC-12Co composite coatings with Al2O3 and Si3N4 balls. WC-12 Co composite was deposited by the high-velocity oxygen fuel method on the AISI 304 substrate. The wear tests were conducted in accordance with ASTM G99 on a ball-on-disc tribometer at room temperature. In order to study the results of the coating tests, wear volume loss was measured against each counter body. Surface roughness and microstructure changes before and after wear were examined by electron microscopy. The resulting wear tracks were examined with an optical profilometer and the wear amount was calculated. When comparing the Al2O3 ball with the Si3N4 ball, the Al2O3 ball corrodes WC-12Co coatings more and is most susceptible to abrasive grooving, brittle cracking, and spalling. Wear rates rose by 77%, 58%, and 67% when the Si3N4 abrasive sample and the samples with Al2O3 coating were subjected to 4 N, 8 N, and 12 N loads, respectively. WC-12Co coating layers and powders were subjected to X-ray diffraction analyses, which revealed that coarse WC-12Co powder underwent less decarburization due to HVOF spraying.
Preparation and Properties of PEDOT-PSS/Waterborne Acrylic Resin Coating
Authors: Li Congcong , Bian Haifeng , Wang Yongkang , Liu Xiao , Su Linyan , Bu Wenhao , Wang Yunfei , Yang Beibei , Bin Duan , Zhu Peng , Lu Hongbin
Published: December 2024

Stainless steel (SS) is highly susceptible to corrosion in acidic environments, which significantly limits its applicability in such conditions. In this paper, a poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)-polystyrene sulfonic acid (PEDOT-PSS)/waterborne acrylic resin (AR) composite coating was designed and prepared for enhancing the corrosion resistance of 304SS. Corrosion current density (jcorr) of the PEDOT-PSS/AR-coated 304SS at the simulated PEMFCs’ operating temperature (80 °C) is only 0.86 μA·cm−2 which achieves the 2025 DOE goal (jcorr < 1 μA·cm−2). The improved corrosion resistance would be attributed to both the anode protection and barrier effect provided by the PEDOT-PSS/AR coating. Moreover, the 304SS coated by the PEDOT-PSS/AR obtains a lower interfacial contact resistance (ICR) of 37.01 mΩ·cm2 at 1.4 MPa than that coated by the pure AR coating with the ICR of 167.95 mΩ·cm2. This eco-friendly, conducting, and anti-corrosive PEDOT-PSS/AR coating offers a new insight into high-performance applications for SS.
Remediation of Caffeine from Aqueous Solutions Using Waste-Derived Adsorbents: A Polyaniline/Cuttlefish Bone Nanocomposite for Pollutant Removal
Authors: Salama Esraa , Mahgoub Samar M. , Allam Ahmed A. , Alfassam Haifa E. , Mahmoud Rehab
Published: December 2024

Caffeine is commonly used in pharmaceutical and personal care products, where it serves both therapeutic and cosmetic purposes. However, its widespread presence in wastewater from the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries has raised concerns about environmental contamination. This study explores the use of a polyaniline (PANI)/cuttlefish bone (CB) nanocomposite as an effective adsorbent for the removal of caffeine from aqueous solutions. The nanocomposite was synthesized by incorporating polyaniline (PANI) onto cuttlefish bone (CB) flakes, resulting in a material with a hybrid morphology consisting of layered nanosheets and flaky structures. Adsorption experiments were conducted to determine the optimal conditions for caffeine removal, with results showing the best adsorption efficiency at pH 7 and an adsorbent dosage of 0.1 g/L for the nanocomposite, achieving an 80.73% removal efficiency. The maximum adsorption capacity of the nanocomposite was 108.33 mg/g—significantly higher than for pure CB (55.05 mg/g) and PANI (57.71 mg/g). The adsorption process followed the pseudo-second-order kinetic model and the Langmuir isotherm, indicating a chemisorption mechanism and monolayer adsorption. Additionally, the nanocomposite demonstrated excellent reuse capacity, maintaining over 85% of its initial efficiency after multiple adsorption–desorption cycles, highlighting its potential for sustainable long-term use. This work demonstrates the potential of using waste-derived materials like cuttlefish bone as an effective support for PANI in the development of low-cost, sustainable adsorbents for pollutant remediation in pharmaceutical wastewater. Future studies will explore the adsorbent’s applicability for other contaminants and its potential antimicrobial properties.
Analysis of Human Kidney Stones Using Advanced Characterization Techniques
Authors: Brdarić Kosanović Jelena , Živković Kristijan , Šerić Vatroslav , Marković Berislav , Szenti Imre , Kukovecz Ákos , Matijaković Mlinarić Nives , Stanković Anamarija
Published: December 2024

A comprehensive analysis of kidney stones is essential for the future treatment of patients. Almost all of the methods available for kidney stone analysis were used in this study. The chemical analysis included powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA-DSC). Following the chemical analysis, a detailed morphological analysis was carried out using stereoscopic microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM-EDX), and micro-computed tomography (micro-CT). These investigations showed that the sixteen kidney stones analyzed in detail had a heterogeneous mineralogical structure, consisting of at least two different minerals. Kidney stones consist mainly of calcium oxalate (whewellite or weddellite) but also contain significant amounts of phosphate (mainly apatite and struvite). A thorough analysis of kidney stones can determine the cause of their formation and investigate possible treatments.
Progress in Tungsten Trioxide-Based Materials for Energy Storage and Smart Window Applications
Authors: Ahmad Khursheed , Oh Tae Hwan
Published: December 2024

Previous years have witnessed a rapid surge in WO3-based experimental reports for the construction of energy storage devices (ESDs) and electrochromic devices (ECDs). WO3 is a highly electrochromic (EC) material with a wide band gap that has been extensively used for the construction of working electrodes for supercapacitor (SC) and ECD applications. Previously, WO3-based hybrid composites were explored for SC and ECD applications. In this review report, we have compiled the WO3-based hybrid electrode materials for SC and ECD applications. It is believed that the present review would benefit the researchers working on the fabrication of electrode materials for SC and ECD applications. In this review article, challenges and future perspectives have been discussed for the development of WO3-based SCs and ECDs.
Non-Indigenous Species (NIS) Know No Geopolitical Borders—An Update of NIS in the Aegean Sea
Authors: Zenetos Argyro , Doğan Alper , Bakir Ahmet Kerem , Chatzigeorgiou Georgios , Corsini-Foka Maria , Dağli Ertan , Evangelopoulos Athanasios , Meriç Engin , Stoumboudi Maria , Taşkin Ergun , Yokeş Mehmet Baki , Galanidi Marika
Published: December 2024

In this work, combined efforts by Greek and Turkish scientists produced an updated validated NIS inventory of the Aegean ecoregion, covering 120 years of records up to August 2024. Of the 342 NIS currently present in the Aegean Sea, the majority (281 species) have invaded the South Aegean, followed by the North Aegean (128 species out of 206 NIS). A total of 73 species were added to the list, while 56 were removed. Overall, unaided spread of Lessepsian immigrants from the Levantine Sea and shipping are equally responsible for NIS reported at the regional level. An increase in publications addressing NIS matches the upward trend of NIS since the mid-1990s, which continues to the present day. While unaided introductions of Lessepsian species and/or direct introductions via the Suez Canal peaked in the South Aegean during 2000–2005, they peaked in 2012–2017 in the North Aegean—a decade later. The opposite pattern was observed in ship-transferred NIS. The spatial distribution of introduction hotspots largely reflects the following phenomena/processes: unaided introduction is witnessed initially in the southeastern Aegean Sea; monitoring efforts are concentrated in vulnerable and at-risk areas; and research efforts relate to the spatial allocation of institutions and marine experts working on marine NIS along the Aegean coasts.
Factors Affecting the Length of Hospital Stay in Hypercapnic Respiratory Failure
Authors: Ari Maşide , Ozdemir Tarkan , Yildiz Murat , Celik Deniz , Usul Eren , Ari Emrah , Tüten Ömer Faruk
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: Hypercapnic respiratory failure (HRF) is a primary cause of admittance to the intensive care unit (ICU). This study aimed to investigate the factors that affect the length of hospital stay in HRF patients. Methods: This study was designed as a retrospective, cross-sectional analysis of patients who were admitted to the ICU because of HRF between 2022 and 2024. The demographic and clinical characteristics of the patients and laboratory results were recorded. The Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) was calculated. The relationship between these parameters and the length of hospital stay was assessed. Results: A total of 138 patients were included in the study. The average length of hospital stay was 11.45 days, and 37% of the patients were included in the long-term hospitalization group. The degree of hypercapnia was not associated with the length of hospital stay. It was determined that the patients’ albumin levels and CCI were significant determinants of the length of hospital stay. The combined assessment of these two parameters was found to be superior compared to their separate evaluations. Conclusions: In our study, hypoalbuminemia and a higher CCI were identified as predictors of a prolonged ICU stay in HRF patients. Albumin levels of <3.25 g/dL and CCI scores of ≥5 were linked to longer stays, with this combined evaluation offering greater predictive value. These factors can guide patient management.
Association Between Gastrointestinal-Related Quality of Life and Frailty Using Baseline Data of the Prospective Cohort Study (JUSTICE-TOKYO Study)
Authors: Asaoka Daisuke , Nomura Osamu , Sugano Koji , Matsuno Kei , Inoshita Hiroyuki , Shibata Nobuto , Sugiyama Hideki , Endo Noemi , Iwase Yoshiyuki , Tajima Miyuki , Sakuma Naoko , Inoue Megumi , Nagata Mariko , Mizutani Taeko , Ishii Mizuki , Iida Sachi , Miura Yoshiko , Nishizaki Yuji , Yanagisawa Naotake , Takeda Tsutomu , Nagahara Akihito , Miyauchi Katsumi
Published: December 2024

Objective: To determine the prevalence of frailty and examine its association with gastrointestinal-related quality of life (QOL) among older outpatients in a geriatric hospital. Methods: This cross-sectional study involved 1042 outpatients (age: ≥65 years) diagnosed using the revised Japanese version of the cardiovascular health study criteria. Data collection was performed by a multidisciplinary team. Results: Of the 1039 eligible subjects (male: n = 460 [44.3%]; mean age: 78.2 ± 6.1 years), 172 (16.6%) had frailty (male: n = 77 [44.8%]; mean age: 80.9 ± 6.2 years). The multivariate analysis revealed that age (odds ratio [OR]: 1.070, p < 0.001), QOL (OR: 0.982, p = 0.009), a history of falls (OR: 1.702, p = 0.029), sarcopenia (OR: 4.708, p < 0.001), steroid use (OR: 3.741, p = 0.001), analgesic drug use (OR: 2.056, p = 0.014), Mini Mental State Examination (OR: 0.915, p = 0.011), Geriatric Depression Scale 15 (OR: 1.101, p = 0.008), fullness-related QOL score (OR: 1.119, p = 0.010), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease assessment test (OR: 1.048, p = 0.007), and 10-item Eating Assessment Tool (OR: 1.071, p = 0.009) were related to frailty. Conclusions: The prevalence rate of frailty in older outpatients at a university hospital specializing in geriatric medicine was higher than that previously reported in community-dwelling individuals. Our study clarified that the fullness-related QOL score was related to frailty.
Standardizing and Classifying Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injuries: An International Multicenter Study Using a Mobile Application
Authors: Portillo-Ortíz Nadia Karina , Sigala-González Luis Raúl , Ramos-Moctezuma Iván René , Bermúdez Bencomo Brenda Lizeth , Gomez Salgado Brissa Aylin , Ovalle Arias Fátima Cristal , Leal-Berumen Irene , Berumen-Nafarrate Edmundo
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: This international multicenter study aimed to assess the effectiveness of the Pivot-Shift Meter (PSM) mobile application in diagnosing and classifying anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries, emphasizing the need for standardization to improve diagnostic precision and treatment outcomes. Methods: ACL evaluations were conducted by eight experienced orthopedic surgeons across five Latin American countries (Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, and Mexico). The PSM app utilized smartphone gyroscopes and accelerometers to standardize the pivot-shift test. Data analysis from 224 control tests and 399 standardized tests included non-parametric statistical methods, such as the Mann–Whitney U test for group comparisons and chi-square tests for categorical associations, alongside neural network modeling for injury grade classification. Results: Statistical analysis demonstrated significant differences between standardized and control tests, confirming the effectiveness of the standardization. The neural network model achieved high classification accuracy (94.7%), with precision, recall, and F1 scores exceeding 90%. Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) analysis yielded an area under the curve of 0.80, indicating reliable diagnostic accuracy. Conclusions: The PSM mobile application, combined with standardized pivot-shift techniques, is a reliable tool for diagnosing and classifying ACL injuries. Its high performance in predicting injury grades makes it a valuable addition to clinical practice for enhancing diagnostic precision and informing treatment planning.
The Gut–Kidney Axis in Chronic Kidney Diseases
Authors: Tsuji Kenji , Uchida Naruhiko , Nakanoh Hiroyuki , Fukushima Kazuhiko , Haraguchi Soichiro , Kitamura Shinji , Wada Jun
Published: December 2024

The gut–kidney axis represents the complex interactions between the gut microbiota and kidney, which significantly impact the progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and overall patient health. In CKD patients, imbalances in the gut microbiota promote the production of uremic toxins, such as indoxyl sulfate and p-cresyl sulfate, which impair renal function and contribute to systemic inflammation. Mechanisms like endotoxemia, immune activation and oxidative stress worsen renal damage by activating pro-inflammatory and oxidative pathways. Insights into these mechanisms highlight the impact of gut-derived metabolites, bacterial translocation, and immune response changes on kidney health, suggesting new potential approaches for CKD treatment. Clinical applications, such as dietary interventions, prebiotics, probiotics and fecal microbiota transplantation, are promising in adjusting the gut microbiota to alleviate CKD symptoms and slow disease progression. Current research highlights the clinical relevance of the gut–kidney axis, but further study is essential to clarify these mechanisms’ diagnostic biomarkers and optimize therapeutic interventions. This review emphasizes the importance of an integrated approach to CKD management, focusing on the gut microbiota as a therapeutic target to limit kidney injury.
Benefits of Liver Volume and Serum Zinc Level Assessment for the Screening of Covert Hepatic Encephalopathy in Patients with Child–Pugh Class A Cirrhosis
Authors: Fukushima Masanori , Miyaaki Hisamitsu , Sasaki Ryu , Nakao Yasuhiko , Haraguchi Masafumi , Takahashi Kosuke , Ozawa Eisuke , Miuma Satoshi , Nakao Kazuhiko
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: Covert hepatic encephalopathy (CHE) is associated with decreased quality of life. Detection of Child–Pugh class A is necessary for its early diagnosis. This study aimed to establish a simple diagnostic method of CHE in patients with Child–Pugh class A. Methods: One hundred patients with liver cirrhosis without overt hepatic encephalopathy and sixty-eight with liver cirrhosis and Child–Pugh class A who visited our institution were enrolled. CHE was diagnosed using number connection test B in the neuropsychiatric test (NPT). Clinical data were compared. Results: The liver volume/body surface area ratio (LV/BSA) was associated with CHE in patients with all-cause and Child–Pugh class A liver cirrhosis. Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that low LV/BSA and low serum zinc (Zn) levels were significantly associated with CHE in Child–Pugh class A liver cirrhosis. The best cutoff values in the receiver operating characteristic curve analysis showed that the complication rate of CHE was 54.8% in patients with LV/BSA < 620 mL/m2, which was 2.9 times higher than that in patients with larger liver volume. Referring to the cutoff values for LV/BSA and Zn (<70 µg/dL), in cases with LV/BSA < 620 mL/m2 and Zn < 70 µg/dL, 64.2% had CHE, whereas in cases with LV/BSA ≥ 620 mL/m2 and Zn ≥ 70 µg/dL, 94.5% did not have CHE. Conclusions: Liver volume can be used as a risk assessment tool for CHE. LV/BSA and serum Zn levels are considered effective diagnostic tools for CHE, serving as alternatives to NPT in patients with Child–Pugh class A liver cirrhosis.
Assessment of Exercise-Induced Dehydration Status Based on Oral Mucosal Moisture in a Field Survey
Authors: Tanabe Gen , Hasunuma Tetsuya , Takeuchi Yasuo , Churei Hiroshi , Hayashi Kairi , Togawa Kaito , Moriya Naoki , Ueno Toshiaki
Published: December 2024

Background/Objective: Conventional techniques for evaluating hydration status include the analysis of blood, urine, and body weight. Recently, advancements in dentistry have introduced capacitance sensor-based oral epithelial moisture meters as promising avenues for assessment. This study aimed to examine the correlation between oral mucosal moisture content, as determined using a capacitance sensor, and exercise-induced dehydration. Methods: A total of 21 participants engaged in a 120 min slow distance exercise session. A series of measurements were taken before and after the exercise session, including body weight, sweat rate, secretory immunoglobulin A (s-IgA) concentration in saliva samples, saliva flow rate, and oral mucosal moisture content, which were assessed using a capacitance sensor. The relationship between physical dehydration and oral mucosal moisture content was investigated using statistical analysis. Receiver operating characteristic curves were constructed to ascertain whether variations in oral mucosal moisture content could discern body mass losses (BMLs) of 1.5% and 2%. Results: A significant correlation was observed between the sweat rate during exercise and the change in oral mucosal moisture content before and after exercise (Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient: ρ = −0.58, p < 0.001). The salivary flow and s-IgA secretion rates were lower after the exercise period than before, whereas the s-IgA concentration was higher. Oral mucosal moisture decreased during the exercise period. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis revealed that differences in oral mucosal moisture content exhibited discriminative capabilities, with area under the curve values of 0.79 at 1.5% BML and 0.72 at 2% BML. Conclusions: The measurement of oral mucosal moisture using capacitance sensors represents a promising noninvasive approach for the assessment of exercise-induced dehydration.
Effects of Tank-Mix Adjuvants on Spray Performance Under Downwash Airflow Fields Using an Indoor Simulated UASS Spraying Platform
Authors: Wongsuk Supakorn , Li Yangfan , Zhu Zhaoyan , Yang Mengran , Zhang Hao , Zhang Li , Wang Changling , He Xiongkui
Published: December 2024

The unmanned aerial spraying system (UASS) has emerged as an advanced tool in precision agriculture for applying plant protection products (PPP). The addition of tank-mix adjuvants to PPP solutions is a common practice to enhance aerial spray performance. However, the effects of these adjuvants on spray performance under the downwash airflow fields generated by UASS rotors remain unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the impacts of adjuvant addition (AGE852B, AGE825, AGE809, and CCL846) on droplet size spectrum and spray deposition distribution with various rotor speeds and layouts, using an indoor simulated single-rotor/multi-rotor UASS spraying platform. The results showed that adding AGE809 and AGE825 made the droplet size and distribution much better in the flat fan nozzle LU110-015 under the downwash airflow field. The spray volume fractions made with droplets smaller than 100 µm (V100) went down by 48.15% and 21.04%, respectively. Furthermore, rotor speed was found to have a significant impact on volume median diameter, relative span, and V100 (p < 0.05). The downwash airflow field was observed to increase the vertical droplet velocity, achieving a more uniform spray distribution in the central airflow area. These results show that choosing the right adjuvants and making the most of the operational parameters can improve spray deposition, coverage uniformity, and drift reduction. This gives us useful information for making PPP applications more efficient and effective in precision agriculture.