bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring Factors Influencing Speech Intelligibility in Airport Terminal Pier-Style Departure Lounges
Authors: Li Xi , Zhao Yuezhe
Published: January 2025

This study investigates speech intelligibility and its influencing factors within pier-style airport lounges and assesses the applicability of the Speech Transmission Index (STI) in these large, elongated spaces. Field impulse response measurements were conducted in two pier-style departure lounges with volumes of 98,099 m3 and 60,414 m3, respectively, complemented by simulated binaural room impulse responses for subjective speech intelligibility testing in Mandarin. The research explores the correlations between various acoustic parameters—Early Decay Time (EDT), Reverberation Time (T30), and Definition(D50)—and speech intelligibility scores under different Signal-to-Noise Ratios (SNRs). Findings indicate a significant impact of SNR on speech intelligibility, with a coefficient of determination (R2) of 0.849, suggesting substantial variability explained by SNR. As SNR increases to 10 dB(A), speech intelligibility scores improve significantly; however, further enhancements in clarity diminish beyond this threshold. Additionally, the study reveals a significant relationship between room acoustic parameters, particularly EDT and D50, and speech intelligibility scores, with EDT having a negative impact and D50 a positive impact on speech clarity. The results confirm the suitability of STI in evaluating speech intelligibility in these specific architectural contexts. This study recommends maintaining an SNR of 10 dB(A) and a minimum STI of 0.45 for public address broadcasts in pier-style departure lounges to ensure that announcements are clearly audible to passengers.
Lo-Fi Adaptive Re-Use in the Ouseburn Valley: What the Physical Materiality of Everyday Historical Industrial Buildings Can Tell Us About Sustaining Cultural and Creative Clusters
Authors: Muldoon-Smith Kevin , Moreton Leo , Loxley Jane
Published: January 2025

In the adaptive re-use of buildings, the physicality of buildings—the way they are designed, planned, constructed and maintained—has fallen out of fashion in favour of socio-economic conceptualisations and critical urban interpretations of the redevelopment process. However, the materiality of buildings plays a key part in how locations are re-produced in response to socio-economic circumstances—in this case, the creation and sustaining of cultural and creative clusters. In response, this paper adopts a forensic approach to the characteristics of physical buildings in order to develop an original taxonomy of lo-fi adaptive features and interventions that enable the authors to infer which types and aspects of industrial buildings lend themselves to sustaining cultural and creative clusters. The focus on lo-fi interventions is an original contribution to the adaptive re-use literature where attention tends to focus on more formal and traditional design-based interactions with existing buildings. In doing so, the research utilises a comparative case study approach of several former industrial buildings associated with the contemporary independent food and drink industry in the Ouseburn Valley cultural and creative quarter of Newcastle upon-Tyne in England. The research finds that it is the functional tolerance and malleability of the case study buildings—their inherent adaptive capacity, that in part helps to sustain the cultural and creative cluster in this location.
Decoding ISO 19650 Through Process Modelling for Information Management and Stakeholder Communication in BIM
Authors: Abanda Fonbeyin Henry , Balu Bharathi , Adukpo Selorm Emmanuel , Akintola Adeyemi
Published: January 2025

Poor information management is predominant in construction projects and tends to have a negative effect on project outcomes. The use of technology, in particular building information modelling (BIM), has been promoted to address information management issues. However, the adoption of BIM is fraught with challenges, such as a lack of standardisation and difficulties in effectively adopting standards such as ISO 19650. This research aims to deepen knowledge and improve the management of BIM standards, particularly in using ISO 19650 to collaboratively deliver construction projects by applying process modelling techniques. By employing a mixed-methods approach that combines document analysis and qualitative interviews, this study critically examines the principles and requirements of ISO 19650 and their practical implications. It focuses on how process modelling can clarify complex concepts and improve information management. The findings indicate that process modelling significantly aids in comprehending ISO 19650, making its intricate concepts more accessible to multidisciplinary teams, enhancing stakeholder communication, improving project execution efficiency, and reducing errors and rework. Furthermore, this research emphasises the need to distinguish ISO 19650-derived elements from those adapted from other sources to ensure transparency and integrity in project management practices. The main implications of this study are two-fold. From a research perspective, it contributes to the academic discourse by addressing a critical gap in the literature, which has largely focused on BIM technology implementation rather than the processes and workflows necessary for effective standard adoption. From a practical perspective, this study promotes transparency and integrity in project management practices, enabling organisations to adopt and adhere to standardised practices more effectively in collaborative environments.
Unveiling Prostate-Specific Membrane Antigen’s Potential in Breast Cancer Management
Authors: Motta Lucia , Puglisi Marialuisa , Pavone Giuliana , Motta Gianmarco , Martorana Federica , Bambaci Michelangelo , Aricò Demetrio , Vigneri Paolo
Published: January 2025

Background. In recent years, the role of prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) in the imaging and treatment of prostate cancer (PCa) has been extensively investigated. However, despite its name, PSMA is not exclusively specific to PCa. It has been found to be expressed in the neo-vasculature of various solid tumors, including breast cancer (BC), in which it is associated with tumor angiogenesis. Methods. This review aims to assess the potential of PSMA-based radiopharmaceuticals for BC diagnosis and treatment. It explores the current landscape by analyzing preclinical and clinical studies, as well as ongoing clinical trials, to provide insights into the PSMA-targeted approaches in BC management. Results. Early studies suggest PSMA-based imaging could improve BC lesion detection, especially in TNBC. The available data remains too preliminary to conclusively assess whether PSMA-based imaging or therapy will offer a significant advantage in BC. However, some preclinical findings suggest that this approach may hold promise as a novel strategy for managing this widespread malignancy. Conclusions. PSMA-based strategies show potential for BC diagnosis and treatment, but further research is needed. Ongoing and future clinical trials are expected to provide deeper insights into the potential utility of this approach.
Identifying Optimal Prostate Biopsy Strategy for the Detection Rate of Clinically Significant Prostate Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomised Controlled Trials (RCTs) in Biopsy-Naïve Population
Authors: Aloufi Wafa D. , Al Mopti Abdulrahman , Al-Tawil Anas , Huang Zhihong , Nabi Ghulam
Published: January 2025

Background: The growing role of multiparametric MRI (mpMRI) and MRI-targeted biopsy (MRI-TBx) suggests they may replace random systematic biopsy (SBx), specifically detection and subsequent treatment of clinically significant prostate cancer (csPCa). Objectives: To perform a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing the detection rates (DR) of csPCa using MRI-TBx alone, SBx alone, or their combination in biopsy naïve patients suspected of having prostate cancer (PCa). Methods: PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, and the Cochrane Library were searched up to 23 March 2023, for RCTs comparing PCa DR between biopsy strategies in patients with suspected prostate cancer. Detection rates were pooled using random/fixed effect models, and the study quality was assessed using the Cochrane risk of bias revised tool. Results: Ten RCTs (involving 3646 patients) were analysed, revealing that the combined biopsy method achieved higher overall csPCa DR compared to the SBx method alone (RR = 1.40 [95% CI = 1.15–1.71] and 1.47 [95% CI = 1.13–1.92], respectively). However, there was no significant difference in DR for clinically insignificant prostate cancer (ciPCa) between the two methods. Conclusions: This review concludes that MRI-TBx and SBx detect overall and clinically significant prostate cancer (csPCa) better than SBx alone. The variety of factors requires cautious interpretation, yet these findings are the strongest evidence. The combination technique is recommended for biopsy-naïve groups, but more study is needed to optimise execution and overcome uncertainties.
Pharmacological Targeting of the NMDAR/TRPM4 Death Signaling Complex with a TwinF Interface Inhibitor Prevents Excitotoxicity-Associated Dendritic Blebbing and Organelle Damage
Authors: Ramírez Omar A. , Hellwig Andrea , Zhang Zihong , Bading Hilmar
Published: January 2025

Focal swellings of dendrites (“dendritic blebbing”) together with structural damage of mitochondria and the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) are morphological hallmarks of glutamate neurotoxicity, also known as excitotoxicity. These pathological alterations are generally thought to be caused by the so-called “overactivation” of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDARs). Here, we demonstrate that the activation of extrasynaptic NMDARs, specifically when forming a protein–protein complex with TRPM4, drives these pathological traits. In contrast, strong activation of synaptic NMDARs fails to induce cell damage despite evoking plateau-type calcium signals that are comparable to those generated by activation of the NMDAR/TRPM4 complex, indicating that high intracellular calcium levels per se are not toxic to neurons. Using confocal laser scanning microscopy and transmission electron microscopy, we show that disrupting the NMDAR/TRPM4 complex using the recently discovered small-molecule TwinF interface inhibitor FP802 inhibits the NMDA-induced neurotoxicity-associated dendritic blebbing and structural damage to mitochondria and the ER. It also prevents, at least in part, the disruption of ER–mitochondria contact sites. These findings establish the NMDAR/TRPM4 complex as the trigger for the structural damage of dendrites and intracellular organelles associated with excitotoxicity. They also suggest that activation of the NMDAR/TRPM4 complex, in addition to inducing high-amplitude, plateau-type calcium signals, generates a second signal required for glutamate neurotoxicity (“two-hit hypothesis”). As structural damage to organelles, particularly mitochondria, is a common feature of many human neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), TwinF interface inhibitors have the potential to provide neuroprotection across a broad spectrum of these diseases.
Emotion Regulation, Peer Acceptance and Rejection, and Emotional–Behavioral Problems in School-Aged Children
Authors: Salerni Nicoletta , Messetti Marina
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: Children showing emotional–behavioral problems experience lower psychosocial well–being concurrently and in later stages. Developmental research suggests that emotion regulation abilities and the quality of peer relationships play a central role in predicting several behavioral and emotional difficulties. The present study investigates the way emotion regulation skills and peer acceptance and rejection contribute to behavior problems in a sample of Italian schoolers, also verifying the role of gender. Methods: The participants were 220 children (97 boys) aged between 7 and 9 years attending four primary schools in northern Italy. The level of social acceptance and rejection of each child was measured using the sociometric technique of Peer Nomination. In addition, the Emotion Regulation Checklist filled in by the teachers, and the Child Behavior Checklist, completed by the parents, were used to assess children’s emotion regulation abilities and the presence of behavior difficulties, respectively. Results: The main results confirm that behavioral problems are both negatively associated with emotional regulation skills and positively with the social rejection level. However, the impact of peer rejection on the manifestation of problem behavior is fully mediated by children’s ability to regulate their emotions. Interestingly, this pattern of interrelationships only applies to male participants. Conclusions: The study helps to clarify the mechanism through which the degree of peer rejection influences emotional–behavioral difficulties and emphasizes the importance of considering gender-specific processes within interpersonal risk models of problem behavior.
Perioperative Blood Transfusion and Infectious Complications Among Pediatric Patients with Cancer
Authors: Cochran Elizabeth D. , Jacobson Jillian C. , Machchhar Arti , Qiao Jingbo , Chung Dai H.
Published: January 2025

Background: Perioperative blood transfusion has been identified as a risk factor for postoperative infectious complications in adult patients with cancer. This study aimed to determine whether this association also exists in pediatric patients with cancer. Methods: A retrospective analysis was performed using the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program Pediatric (NSQIP-P) database. Pediatric patients with an active cancer diagnosis at the time of surgical intervention from 2015 to 2019 were reviewed. Statistical analysis was performed using Pearson chi-square and Fisher’s exact tests as well as multiple logistic regression. Result: In total, 14,973 pediatric patients who underwent a surgical procedure and had an active cancer diagnosis at the time of operation were identified. Of these, 2602 patients (17.4%) received a perioperative blood transfusion (PBT). Patients who received a PBT experienced higher rates of postoperative infectious complications, including surgical-site infection (p < 0.0001), pneumonia (p < 0.0001), urinary tract infection (p < 0.0001), C. difficile infection (p < 0.0001), central-line-associated bloodstream infection (p < 0.0001), and sepsis (p < 0.0001). Patients who received a PBT also had increased 30-day mortality compared with those who did not receive a PBT (p < 0.0001). On multivariate analysis, PBT remained an independent risk factor for postoperative infectious complications (OR 1.9, 95% CI 1.61–2.32) and death (OR 1.8, 95% CI 1.23–2.71). Conclusions: Pediatric patients with cancer who undergo surgery and receive a blood transfusion in the perioperative period have increased 30-day mortality and are at increased risk for postoperative infectious complications. Considering that these patients are often immunosuppressed at baseline, infections can be particularly devastating in this population. As such, it is important to carefully consider the risks and benefits of PBT prior to transfusion.
Mitigation of Risks Associated with Distrustful Routers in OSPF Networks—An Enhanced Method
Authors: Obelovska Kvitoslava , Snaichuk Yaromyr , Liskevych Oleh , Mitoulis Stergios-Aristoteles , Liskevych Rostyslav
Published: January 2025

Packet routing in computer networks provides complex challenges in environments with distrustful routers due to security vulnerabilities or potential malicious behaviors. The literature offers solutions to the problem designed for different types of networks. This paper introduces a novel method to mitigate risks associated with distrustful routers by constructing secure and efficient routing paths in Open Shortest Path First (OSPF) networks. Networks in which routing is carried out based on OSPF protocols are currently the most widespread, hence ensuring the security of data transmission in such networks is urgently needed. In turn, distrustful routers can degrade the overall security and performance of the network, creating vulnerabilities that can be used for malicious purposes. The proposed method is based on the Dijkstra algorithm which is enhanced to identify and mitigate the risk connected with potential distrustful network nodes. Analysis of the proposed method shows its ability to build efficient routes exclusively through trusted routers if such paths exist. As a criterion for effectiveness, a metric such as the channel weight is used. The proposed method is validated using applications across networks of varying topologies and sizes, including large-scale networks. For networks containing post-distrustful routers to which there is no path without distrustful nodes, the proposed method is able to build the shortest paths that are marked as not secure but have a minimum number of distrustful nodes on their path. In scenarios with multiple compromised routers with different locations in the network, the proposed method significantly increases network resilience.
Data-Driven Scheduling Optimization for SMT Lines Using SMD Reel Commonality
Authors: Quijano Jorge , Torres Cruz Nohemi , Quijano-Quian Leslie , Poblano-Ojinaga Eduardo Rafael , Noriega Morales Salvador Anacleto
Published: January 2025

Optimizing production efficiency in Surface-Mount Technology (SMT) manufacturing is a critical challenge, particularly in high-mix environments where frequent product changeovers can lead to significant downtime. This study presents a scheduling algorithm that minimizes changeover times on SMT lines by leveraging the commonality of Surface-Mount Device (SMD) reel part numbers across product Bills of Materials (BOMs). The algorithm’s capabilities were demonstrated through both simulated datasets and practical validation trials, providing a comprehensive evaluation framework. In the practical implementation, the algorithm successfully aligned predicted and measured changeover times, highlighting its applicability and accuracy in operational settings. The proposed approach integrates heuristic and optimization techniques to identify scheduling strategies that not only minimize reel changes but also support production scalability and operational flexibility. This framework offers a robust solution for optimizing SMT workflows, enhancing productivity, and reducing resource inefficiencies in both greenfield projects and established manufacturing environments.
The Importance of MRI in the Early Diagnosis of Acute Invasive Fungal Rhinosinusitis
Authors: Voruz François , Neofytos Dionysios , Van Delden Christian , Lobrinus Johannes , De Vito Claudio , Macario Sonia , Daskalou Dimitrios , Hsieh Julien W. , Becker Minerva , Landis Basile N.
Published: January 2025

Acute invasive fungal rhinosinusitis (AIFR) is a rare, severe, and life-threatening opportunistic infection associated with high mortality and morbidity. Rapid and accurate diagnosis and treatment are crucial for survival and effective disease management. Diagnosing AIFR is challenging because no single pathognomonic feature exists other than surgical biopsy showing fungal angioinvasion and necrosis. This narrative review focuses on the diagnostic challenges and pitfalls, emphasizing the critical clinical value of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for early diagnosis of AIFR. It includes selected cases that illustrate the significance of MRI. When AIFR is suspected, clinical symptoms, nasal endoscopy, blood samples, and facial computed tomography all provide non-specific information. In contrast, MRI can identify signs of devitalized sinonasal mucosa consistent with AIFR. The absence of mucosal enhancement on T1-weighted images, combined with restricted diffusivity, are characteristic MRI features of AIFR. The cases presented underscore the usefulness of MRI in supporting clinical suspicion of AIFR and accurately determining its topography, thereby guiding early surgical biopsies and debridement. In suspected cases of AIFR, MRI serves as a valuable supplementary, non-invasive tool to help determine whether prompt surgical biopsy or debridement is necessary, thereby enhancing early diagnosis and improving survival rates. Therefore, the threshold for conducting an MRI in these cases should be low.
The Prognostic Value of Inflammatory Indices in Acute Pulmonary Embolism
Authors: Haba Mihai Ștefan Cristian , Manole Oana Mădălina , Buburuz Ana Maria , Tudorancea Ionuț , Costache-Enache Irina-Iuliana , Onofrei Viviana
Published: January 2025

Background: Acute pulmonary embolism (PE) is a condition with increased morbidity and mortality. It is important to identify patients with high mortality risk. Inflammation and thrombosis are interconnected in the pathophysiology of PE. The aim of the study was to investigate the prognostic value of multiple blood cellular indices such as neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio (LMR), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), neutrophil-to-lymphocyte platelet ratio (NLPR), systemic immune–inflammation index (SII), systemic inflammation response index (SIRI) and aggregate index of systemic inflammation (AISI) in acute PE. Methods: A total of 157 patients with acute PE confirmed by chest computed tomographic angiography (CTPA) were enrolled. These patients were divided into two categories according to the simplified pulmonary embolism severity index (sPESI): high risk and low risk. Results: Univariate logistic regression analysis showed that right ventricle dysfunction, NLR, SII and SIRI were significantly associated with high risk of acute PE. NLR of 4.32 was associated with high-risk PE with a sensitivity of 57.4% and specificity of 65.7% (AUC = 0.635). SII of 1086.55 was associated with high-risk PE with a sensitivity of 55.7% and specificity of 71.4% (AUC = 0.614). SIRI of 2.87 was associated with high-risk PE with a sensitivity of 59% and specificity of 62.9% (AUC = 0.624). Multivariate logistic regression analysis demonstrated that right ventricle dysfunction, NLR, PLR and NLPR are independent predictors of high-risk acute PE. Secondly, NLR, NLPR, SII and SIRI were significantly correlated with in-hospital mortality of acute PE. Based on receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curve values of 7.66 for NLR (AUC 0.911, sensitivity of 85.7% and sensibility of 83%), 0.02 for NLPR (AUC 0.871, sensitivity of 85.7% and sensibility of 70%), 1542.71 for SII (AUC 0.782, sensitivity of 71.4% and sensibility of 72%) and 5.72 for SIRI (AUC 0.788, sensitivity of 71.4% and sensibility of 73%) could predict in-hospital mortality. Conclusions: The blood cellular indices (NLR, NLPR, SII and SIRI) are associated with high-risk acute PE and in-hospital mortality. Right ventricular dysfunction, NLR and NLPR are independent predictors for high-risk acute PE.
Evaluation of NAPLES Prognostic Score to Predict Long-Term Mortality in Patients with Pulmonary Embolism
Authors: Kaya Süheyla , Tekin Veysi
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: Acute pulmonary embolism (APE) is a clinical syndrome characterized by the obstruction of blood flow in the pulmonary artery, whose main pathophysiological features are respiratory and circulatory dysfunction. Acute pulmonary embolism is associated with a high mortality rate. Diagnostic and therapeutic delays can exacerbate mortality and result in prolonged hospitalization. With the increasing understanding that APE is associated with inflammation, various indices based on systemic inflammation have been shown to predict prognosis in patients with APE. The NAPLES Prognostic Score (NPS) is a new scoring system that indicates the inflammatory and nutritional status of the patient based on albumin (ALB) levels, total cholesterol (TC) levels, lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio (LMR) and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR). Our study aimed to examinate the effect of NPS on APE prognosis, so the relationship between NPS and APE prognosis was evaluated in our study. In addition, this study seeks to lay the groundwork for further investigations into this association and expand the existing body of knowledge. Methods: The clinical data of patients who applied to the Dicle University Faculty of Medicine and were diagnosed with APE between March 2014 and April 2024 were evaluated retrospectively, with 436 patients aged 18 years and over included in the study. Patients were divided into two groups according to NPS. It was statistically investigated whether there was a significant difference in long-term mortality between the two groups. Statistical analyses were performed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 21.0. Results: Survival was found to be statistically significantly lower in patients with NPS 3–4 (p < 0.05). In the multivariate regression analyses, no statistically significant effect of NPS or other parameters except lactate on 3-month mortality was found (p > 0.05). The short-term prognostic value of the NPS has been found to be equivalent to that of the sPESI score. It may be considered that APE patients with high NPS scores should be monitored more frequently. Conclusions: Increased NPS was found to be associated with poor APE prognosis in our study.
Study of Podoplanin-Deficient Mouse Bone with Mechanical Stress
Authors: Kanai Takenori , Osawa Kyoko , Kajiwara Koichiro , Sato Yoshiaki , Sawa Yoshihiko
Published: January 2025

Objective: We investigated morphological differences in osteocyte processes between aged mice and our original podoplanin-conditional knockout (cKO) mice in which the floxed exon 3 of podoplanin was deleted by Dmp-1-driven Cre (Dmp1-Cre;PdpnΔ/Δ). Methods: SEM observation on osteocyte cell process, histochemistry for bone remodeling with mechanostress, and RT-PCR for RANKL and M-CSF in podoplanin cKO mouse bone with mechanostress was investigated. Results: SEM observations showed fewer and thinner osteocyte processes in femurs from 23-week-old Dmp1-Cre;PdpnΔ/Δ mice than from 23-week-old wild-type mice, while the numbers of osteocyte processes in femurs and calvarias were similar in 23-week-old Dmp1-Cre;PdpnΔ/Δ mice and 48-week-old wild-type mice. Furthermore, cell process numbers in femurs and calvarias were significantly smaller in 23-week-old Dmp1-Cre;PdpnΔ/Δ mice than in 48-week-old wild-type mice. In the test for differences in alveolar bone resorption under mechanical stress between Dmp1-Cre;PdpnΔ/Δ and wild-type mice, the area of TRAP-positive resorption pits was larger in wild-type mice than in Dmp1-Cre;PdpnΔ/Δ mice. In a quantitative tissue PCR analysis, the mRNA expression levels of RANKL and M-CSF in alveolar bone under mechanical stress were significantly lower in Dmp1-Cre;PdpnΔ/Δ mice than in wild-type mice. These results suggest that a reduction in cell process formation in osteocytes with podoplanin cKO affected the absorption of alveolar bone under mechanical stress in Dmp1-Cre;PdpnΔ/Δ mice. Conclusions: In podoplanin-deficient bone, the deformation of osteocyte processes by mechanical stimuli is not recognized as a stress due to the lower number of cell processes with podoplanin deficiency; therefore, the production of osteoclast migration/differentiation factors by activated osteocytes is not fully induced and macrophage migration to alveolar bone with mechanical stress appeared to be suppressed. These results indicate that podoplanin-dependent osteocyte process formation indirectly plays a key role in sensing mechanical stress in bone.
Tele Haptic Handshake Using Distributed Pressure Presentation Device and Mutual Interaction Pressure Model
Authors: Watatani Shun , Nagano Hikaru , Tazaki Yuichi , Yokokohji Yasuyoshi
Published: January 2025

This study investigates the mutual interaction between self- and partner-induced actions in determining pressure distribution during a handshake and proposes a tele haptic handshake system based on these findings. To achieve this, experiments were conducted to examine how pressure distribution in face-to-face handshakes is influenced by mutual actions. Based on the experimental results, an interaction force model was developed to calculate stimulus intensities, incorporating region-specific weights for different parts of the hand. Additionally, a tele haptic handshake system was designed, integrating flex sensors to measure finger joint angles and a distributed haptic stimulus presentation device to provide tactile feedback. While this study lays the foundation for understanding the dynamics of handshake interactions and their application in remote environments, further validation of the system’s effectiveness in replicating real-world handshake experiences remains a subject for future work.
Evaluation of Impact of Soil on Performance of Monopole Antenna for IoT Applications in Urban Agriculture
Authors: Atanasov Nikolay Todorov , Atanasov Blagovest Nikolaev , Atanasova Gabriela Lachezarova
Published: January 2025

Built indoor IoT-based urban farms successfully combine the cultivation of fresh vegetables with attractive architectural designs. Moreover, implementing IoT-driven urban agriculture requires installing multiple IoT devices containing sensors, controllers, transceivers, and antennas for real-time data transmission. In this context, several factors, including the height of the IoT device above the soil level and the water content in the soil, can affect antenna performance and, consequently, the propagation of radio waves. This paper presents the results from numerical and experimental studies that evaluate the impact of soil on the performance of a monopole antenna for three different antenna positions relative to the soil in a pot and two soil water contents, presented by twelve scenarios. The results show that the antenna has a stable performance in six of the twelve scenarios, with a minimal shift in the resonant frequency of 3% and a narrowing of the frequency bandwidth by 2% compared to the antenna in free space. In the worst-case scenario, the antennas demonstrate a reduction in radiation efficiency of 44%, with the frequency bandwidth narrowing by up to 14% for the antenna fabricated on a PLA substrate and up to 17% for the one built on a foam board substrate.
Real-Time Power System Optimization Under Typhoon Weather Using the Smart “Predict, Then Optimize” Framework
Authors: Zhang Haoran , Liu Haoran
Published: January 2025

With the increase of extreme weather events caused by global climate change, the issue of power system resilience has become more and more important. Traditional power system management methods cannot cope with dynamic real-time changes, and it is difficult to effectively predict and respond to potential failures caused by extreme weather. To this end, this paper proposes a real-time power system optimization method based on the Smart “Predict, then Optimize” (SPO) framework. The SPO method first uses the Transformer model to predict, in real time, the future line damage states and then dynamically adjusts the optimization strategy based on the prediction results. This method can efficaciously enhance the prediction accuracy of faulty lines under extreme weather conditions and optimize generation scheduling, load management, as well as EV battery scheduling to minimize the system cost. This study proposes a solution based on the SPO loss function, artificial intelligence prediction model, and bi-level optimization model to address the dynamic optimization of power systems under extreme conditions, significantly enhancing the system’s response to extreme weather events. The experimental results demonstrate that the SPO method can optimize system operation in real time, significantly reducing load shedding and total system cost during typhoon weather, which not only improves the system’s economic efficiency but also effectively enhances power system resilience.
Hydrogen as a Renewable Fuel of Non-Biological Origins in the European Union—The Emerging Market and Regulatory Framework
Authors: Graczyk Andrzej , Brusiło Paweł , Graczyk Alicja Małgorzata
Published: January 2025

The European Union continues to lead global efforts toward climate neutrality by developing a cohesive regulatory and market framework for alternative fuels, including renewable hydrogen. This review article critically examines the recent evolution of the EU’s policy landscape specifically for hydrogen as a renewable fuel of non-biological origin (RFNBO), highlighting its growing importance in hard-to-abate sectors such as industry and transportation. We assess the interplay of market-based mechanisms (e.g., EU ETS II), direct mandates (e.g., FuelEU Maritime, RED III), and support auction-based measures (e.g., the European Hydrogen Bank) that collectively shape both the demand and the supply of hydrogen as RFNBO fuel. The article also addresses emerging cost, capacity, and technical barriers—ranging from constrained electrolyzer deployment to complex certification requirements—that hinder large-scale adoption and market rollout. The article aims to discuss advancing and changing regulatory and market environment for the development of infrastructure and market for hydrogen as RFNBO fuel in the EU in 2019–2024. Synthesizing current research and policy developments, we propose targeted recommendations, including enhanced cross-border coordination and capacity-based incentives, to accelerate investment and infrastructure development. This review informs policymakers, industry stakeholders, and researchers on critical success factors for integrating hydrogen as a cornerstone of the EU’s climate neutrality efforts.
Design and Performance Characterization of the E-Core Outer-Rotor Hybrid-Excitation Flux Switching Machine
Authors: Xu Zhiyuan , Cheng Ming
Published: January 2025

This paper proposes an E-core outer-rotor hybrid-excitation flux switching (OR-HEFS) machine for in-wheel direct driving application. According to the general air gap field modulation theory, the magneto-motive force (MMF) permeance model was established to investigate the air gap flux density, and then the torque generation, the flux regulation principle, and the excitation-winding-induced voltage of the E-core OR-HEFS machine were analyzed. To characterize the output performances, the influence of the design parameters was investigated for the E-core OR-HEFS machine, including the split ratio, stator tooth arc, PM arc, fault-tolerant tooth arc, rotor tooth arc, stator yoke width and rotor yoke width. The performances contained the output torque, torque ripple, flux regulation ratio, and the excitation-winding-induced voltage. On this basis, the aforementioned four performances were optimized by means of the non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm II (NSGA-II). Based on the optimization result, a prototype was manufactured and tested to verify the whole investigation of this paper.
Sustaining Vaccine Potency in Cold Chain Logistics: Numerical Analysis of Extended Cooling Duration in Glycerol-Infused n-Tetradecane Phase-Change Materials
Authors: Bhatt Tapasvi , Jain Naman , Yin Kwee Ng Eddie
Published: January 2025

Vaccination cold chains depend critically on maintaining temperatures within the 2–8 °C range, with phase-change materials (PCMs) like n-tetradecane offering substantial potential due to their high latent heat and optimal melting characteristics. Despite extensive research on PCM melting enhancement, strategies to extend melting duration and thermal stability remain underexplored. This pioneering numerical study investigates the impact of incorporating 5% glycerol additive in n-tetradecane, aiming to decelerate the melting rate and sustain the desired temperature range over prolonged periods. This study numerically assesses the effect of a 5% glycerol additive on n-tetradecane, revealing a substantial 20.6 h extension in safe temperature maintenance, from 123.3 h in pure n-tetradecane (T) to 143.9 h with the additive (T + G). Although T reaches full melting in 121.7 h, the air temperature inside the cold box breaches 8 °C only 1.6 h after; in contrast, T + G reaches this threshold 2.2 h before full melting, resulting in an effective extension of 20.6 h. Entropy analysis shows a delayed rise in T + G, indicating enhanced thermal stability, while temperature contours confirm T + G sustains cooling until day 6, a full day beyond T. These findings highlight glycerol’s potential to modulate thermal dynamics within PCM-based cold boxes, offering a cost-effective improvement in vaccine transport sustainability.
Application of Chia and Flaxseed Meal as an Ingredient of Fermented Vegetable-Based Spreads to Design Their Nutritional Composition and Sensory Quality
Authors: Waszkowiak Katarzyna , Szymandera-Buszka Krystyna , Kidoń Marcin , Kobus-Cisowska Joanna , Brzozowska Anna , Kowiel Angelika , Jarzębski Maciej , Radziejewska-Kubzdela Elżbieta
Published: January 2025

Fermented vegetable spreads could offer an opportunity to diversify the range of plant-based foods. The challenge in developing the spreads is to achieve high quality, including stable consistency, consumer desirability and high nutritional value. The aim was to evaluate the application of chia and flaxseed meal for fermented zucchini-cucumber spread production. The effect on the chemical composition, phenolic compound content, antioxidant activity, and sensory quality of the vegetable spread was evaluated. Its color, viscosity, and microstructure were also analyzed using instrumental methods. The meal addition varied from 4.0 to 14.0%. The spread with meal addition had higher fat, protein, ash, and dietary fiber content than the control. Total free phenolic compound content and antioxidant activity also increased, and chia seed meal impacted the parameters more. On the contrary, flaxseed meal improved more the product’s consumer desirability than chia. Both were effective gelling agents that increased viscosity and enhanced product spreadability, and only flaxseed meal showed a masking ability. Its addition reduced the perception and intensity of the bitter, tart, and sour taste. The spread formula consisting of fermented zucchini and cucumber with 9 to 11.5% flaxseed meal addition was the most recommended to achieve the product with high consumer desirability.
Effects of Eucommia ulmoides Leaf Extract on the Technological Quality, Protein Oxidation, and Lipid Oxidation of Cooked Pork Sausage During Refrigerated Storage
Authors: Zhao Yanan , Wang Wenhui , Wu Yuqi , Sun Qimeng , Pan Jinfeng , Dong Xiuping , Li Shengjie
Published: January 2025

The present research work was based on evaluating the effects of Eucommia ulmoides leaf extract (EULE) on the technological quality and protein oxidation of cooked pork sausage during refrigerated storage. Sausages were manufactured with different levels of EULE (0, 0.15, and 0.3 g/kg) and stored at 4 °C for 3, 20, and 40 d, respectively. Quality attributes including cooking loss, texture, and color were evaluated, and the total carbonyl and total sulfhydryl as well as the specific markers α-aminoadipic acid semialdehyde (AAS) and lysinonorleucine (LNL) were analyzed for protein oxidation. The results revealed that the inclusion of EULE exhibited effectiveness in reducing the formation of protein carbonyls, particularly AAS and LNL, while inhibiting the loss of total sulfhydryl. Nevertheless, EULE increased the cooking loss, hardness, and chewiness of the sausages compared to the control group. These findings demonstrated that EULE could be considered a potential natural antioxidant for use in sausage production.
A Zoocritical Reading of Mungo Park’s Travels in the Interior Districts of Africa (1799)
Authors: Cliff Neil
Published: January 2025

Thinking about how animals are categorised in Mungo Park’s journey into the interior of Africa provides a deeper understanding of their significance in the early exploration experiences of Africa by Europeans during this era. As it stands, there certainly exists a small but growing body of animal criticism in literary studies, and what can be suitably described as the animal turn is certainly gaining momentum more broadly within twenty-first century literary criticism and debate. However, there has been scant scholarly research on this theme of animals within eighteenth-century travelling practices. In recent times, the scholarship on Park’s journey has been highly particular; new understandings of Park’s trip are still being reached. Considering such specificity, an examination of Park’s narration of nonhuman animals during his trip will not only provide original insight into this aspect of his African experience but also interpret the ways that his narrative differentiates and categorises the various animal experiences he had whilst in Africa.
Psychological Impact on Firefighters After the 2022 Amok Attack in Berlin at Tauentzienstraße
Authors: Pahnke Francesco , Hüttermann Nils , Krüger Jan Philipp , Wesemann Ulrich
Published: January 2025

Objective: Exposure of emergency service personnel to disasters can lead to significant mental health challenges. The psychological impact of intentionally caused disasters, such as terrorist attacks, tends to be more severe than that of natural disasters. While much research has focused on terrorist attacks, little is known about the effects of intentional vehicular assaults (IVAs). This study examines the impact of an IVA on the mental health of firefighters. We hypothesized that firefighters deployed to the scene (deployed group (DG)) would experience more mental health problems compared to those not on duty (comparison group (CG)). Methods: The study included n = 115 firefighters, with 60 in the DG and 55 in the CG from the same units. Validated psychometric tools were used to assess anxiety, panic attacks (PHQ-D), and post-traumatic stress symptoms (PCL-5). Participation was voluntary, and informed consent was obtained. The study received approval from the Charité Berlin Ethics Committee (number: EA4/085/18). Results: A significantly higher prevalence of panic attacks was found in the DG (12.5%) compared to the CG (1.8%), with an odds ratio of 8.0 (95% CI: 1.0–67.3). Correlation analysis revealed a significant positive relationship between non-occupational tasks and hostility (r = 0.312, p = 0.015, n = 60), while parenthood had no significant effect on panic attacks or generalized anxiety. Conclusion: These results highlight the severe mental health impact of intentional disasters like IVAs on firefighters, emphasizing the need for targeted psychological support and interventions. Future research should focus on tailored interventions to address the high prevalence of panic attacks among this population.
Identification of Lipid Species Signatures in FOLFOXIRI-Resistant Colorectal Cancer Cells
Authors: Ramzy George M. , Meister Isabel , Rudaz Serge , Boccard Julien , Nowak-Sliwinska Patrycja
Published: January 2025

Chronic drug treatment can alter the lipidome of cancer cells, potentially leading to significant biological changes, such as drug resistance or increased tumor aggressiveness. This study examines the lipidome profiles of four human colorectal cancer (CRC) cell lines, comparing treatment-naïve cells with the same cells after chronic exposure to a clinically used combination therapy (FOLFOXIRI: folinic acid, 5-fluorouracil, oxaliplatin, and irinotecan). Lipidomic profiling was obtained with untargeted liquid chromatography coupled with high-resolution mass spectrometry (LC-HRMS). For data deconvolution and to interpret the multifactorial dataset generated, Analysis of Variance Multiblock Orthogonal Partial Least Squares (AMOPLS) was used. Our results indicate specific shifts in triglycerides (TGs), sphingolipids, and phospholipids in CRC cells resistant to FOLFOXIRI. The overall shift in TGs, phosphatidylcholine, and cholesteryl ester species was notably linked to FOLFOXIRI resistance (-R) in SW620 cells, whereas an increased abundance of phospholipids, mainly hexosylceramide and sphingomyelin, was present in the signatures of HCT116-R, LS174T-R, and DLD1-R cells. These altered lipid species may serve as potential prognostic markers in CRC following chemotherapy. Furthermore, lipid-targeting therapies aimed at reprogramming the lipid profiles of drug-resistant cells could play a crucial role in restoring drug sensitivity and improving patient survival.
Comparison of Lysis and Amplification Methodologies for Optimal 16S rRNA Gene Profiling for Human and Mouse Microbiome Studies
Authors: Rastegari Farzaneh , Driscoll Mark , Riordan Jesse D. , Nadeau Joseph H. , Johnson Jethro S. , Weinstock George M.
Published: January 2025

When conducting sequence-based analysis of microbiome samples, it is important to accurately represent the bacterial communities present. The aim of this study was to compare two commercially available DNA isolation and PCR amplification approaches to determine their impact on the taxonomic composition of microbiome samples following 16S rRNA gene sequencing. A well-established 16S rRNA gene profiling approach, which was widely used in the Human Microbiome Project (HMP), was compared with a novel alkaline degenerative technique that utilizes alkaline cell lysis in combination with a degenerate pool of primers for nucleic acid extraction and PCR amplification. When comparing these different approaches for the microbiome profiling of human and mouse fecal samples, we found that the alkaline-based method was able to detect greater taxonomic diversity. An in silico analysis of predicted primer binding against a curated 16S rRNA gene reference database further suggested that this novel approach had the potential to reduce population bias found with traditional methods, thereby offering opportunities for improved microbial community profiling.
Adjunctive Treatment Effect of Non-Thermal Atmospheric Pressure Plasma in Periodontitis-Induced Rats
Authors: Choi Hee-Young , Kim Hyun-Joo , Lee Ju-Youn , Joo Ji-Young
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: As non-thermal atmospheric pressure plasma (NTP) is known to have advantages in application in the medical field, we consider its applicability to periodontitis, a representative chronic inflammatory disease. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of NTP in inhibiting the progression of periodontitis in a rat model when additionally used in scaling and root planing (SRP). Methods: To induce experimental periodontitis in 20 rats, ligatures were placed in the maxillary second molar and lipopolysaccharide from Porphyromonas gingivalis was injected around the teeth. Then, NTP treatment was performed for 2 or 5 min, together with scaling and root planing (SRP). To evaluate alveolar bone loss, micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) analysis and hematoxylin–eosin (H-E) staining were performed. Tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) analysis was performed to compare the number of osteoclasts, while immunohistochemistry (IHC) analysis was performed to determine the expression levels of receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand (RANKL) and osteoprotegerin (OPG). Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) analysis was performed for the detection of cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-10) in tissues and sera. Results: When SRP was combined with NTP, alveolar bone loss was decreased, the number of osteoclasts and RANKL expression were decreased, OPG expression was increased, and pro-inflammatory cytokine (TNF-α and IL-1β) levels were significantly decreased. Compared with the NTP treatment for 2 min, when treated for 5 min, less alveolar bone loss, fewer osteoclasts, a lower RANKL expression level, and a higher OPG expression level were observed. Conclusions: This study evaluated the adjunctive treatment effect of NTP in periodontitis-induced rats. Based on the results of this study, we suggest that supplemental NTP treatment may be a good option for non-surgical periodontal treatment; however, further studies are needed to elucidate the mechanism through which NTP suppresses periodontal inflammation.