bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatiotemporal Influence Analysis Through Traffic Speed Pattern Analysis Using Spatial Classification
Authors: Chong Kyusoo
Published: December 2024

This study introduces a method for classifying traffic flow segments on expressways to estimate impact zones in merging/diverging sections and accident-prone sites. I propose a spatiotemporal dynamic segmentation approach that enables real-time identification of traffic hazard sections, reflecting changes in traffic flow, as opposed to traditional traffic analysis based on predefined segments in a node–link network. This methodology uses high-resolution vehicle trajectory data to precisely identify unstable and low-speed traffic sections. Using the geohash algorithm, the area is hierarchically segmented based on the standard deviation of speed in general traffic flow, facilitating the identification of unstable traffic flow patterns. For eight expressway routes, traffic flow was categorized into stable or minimum-size spaces. From a total of 1207 segments, 943 unstable flow segments were identified. The impact zones of the merging and diverging sections on Expressway 50 were analyzed using the results of spatial segmentation. Furthermore, by comparing traffic data before and after accidents, I assessed the short- and long-term effects of accidents on traffic flow. The proposed methodology provides precise data essential for reducing the likelihood of traffic accidents and for predicting post-accident congestion and duration. The patterns of such accident impact zones can contribute to preventing secondary accidents by providing advance information to following vehicles through various communication methods, including those involving autonomous vehicles. This enables effective traffic management strategies and rapid responses to accidents.
Non-Destructive Early Detection of Drosophila Suzukii Infestation in Sweet Cherries (c.v. Sweet Heart) Based on Innovative Management of Spectrophotometric Multilinear Correlation Models
Authors: Altieri Giuseppe , Avaei Mahdi Rashvand , Matera Attilio , Genovese Francesco , Verrastro Vincenzo , Admane Naouel , Mammadov Orkhan , Laveglia Sabina , Di Renzo Giovanni Carlo
Published: December 2024

Drosophila suzukii (Matsumura), also known as spotted wing drosophila (SWD), is invasive, with a preference for infesting commercially viable soft berries, particularly cherries. SWD infestations in sweet cherries are difficult to detect and remove in the field, packing houses, and processing lines, causing significant economic losses and reducing yields significantly, necessitating early detection of insect infestation in fruits during primary decaying stages. Few publications have addressed the use of non-destructive techniques for the detection of insect infestation in cherries. Based on the advantages and effectiveness of the spectrophotometric techniques, an attempt was made to use the spectrophotometry to rapidly detect postharvest SWD infestations of intact sweet cherry fruit, to employ it in sweet cherry fruit selection and grading processes. The main purpose of this study was to apply spectrophotometry as a rapid and non-destructive method in detecting and classifying healthy sweet cherry fruit versus that infested with SWD eggs. To model the data fit/prediction, principal components regression and partial least squares regression algorithms were considered. The external cross-validation set was initially set to 20% of the overall available samples and subsequently increased to 50% in the final selected optimal model. The identified procedure of management of regression algorithms allowed the selection of a very performant and robust model using the partial least squares regression algorithm: its false negative rate and false positive rate, after 500 Monte Carlo runs, were 0.004% +/− 0.003 and 0.02% +/− 0.01, respectively, and, in addition, the 50% of samples were used for the external cross-validation set.
Antioxidative and Photoprotective Activity of Pinus nigra, Pinus strobus and Pinus mugo
Authors: Oshetkova Daria , Klimowicz Adam
Published: December 2024

Substances that delay the skin aging process have become very popular lately. Undoubtedly, this is influenced by all kinds of efforts to maintain a youthful appearance for as long as possible. Plant-derived antioxidants are a group of compounds that exhibit protective properties against the degenerative effects of oxidative stress on skin aging. Another important factor that protects skin against aging is photoprotective agents. The comparison of antioxidant and photoprotective activities seems to be interesting. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antioxidant properties of Pinus strobus, Pinus nigra, and Pinus mugo extracts using two frequently applied methods, i.e., DPPH and ABTS. Moreover, the polyphenol content was evaluated using Folin–Ciocalteu method. The correlation between the polyphenol content, antioxidant potential of the extracts, and sun protection factor in vitro was evaluated. Extracts were prepared using methanol, ethanol, isopropanol, and n-propanol in three concentrations: 40% (v/v), 70% (v/v), and undiluted. Ultrasound-assisted extraction, which is a type of green extraction technique, was applied for 15, 30, or 60 min. The highest antioxidant activity determined by the DPPH and ABTS methods was observed for Pinus mugo extracts in 40% ethanol and 40% methanol, respectively, both after 15 min extraction. The highest total polyphenol content was also found in Pinus mugo extracts. These activities were significantly higher than those of Pinus strobus and Pinus nigra. Similarly, the highest SPF values were also found for Pinus mugo extracts. Moreover, a strong correlation was observed between the antioxidant potential and SPF—the highest values were found for the correlation between the SPF and antioxidant activity determined using the ABTS method. Based on the obtained results, Pinus mugo could be suggested as a possible component for use in cosmetics.
Machine Learning Models for Artist Classification of Cultural Heritage Sketches
Authors: Chirosca Gianina , Rădvan Roxana , Mușat Silviu , Pop Matei , Chirosca Alecsandru
Published: December 2024

Modern computer vision algorithms allow researchers and art historians to search for artist-characteristic contour extraction from sketches, thus providing accurate input for artwork analysis, for possible assignments and classifications, and also for the identification of the specific stylistic features. We approach this challenging task with three machine learning algorithms and evaluate their performance on a small collection of images from five distinct artists. These algorithms aim to find the most appropriate artist for a sketch (or a contour of a sketch), with promising results that have a higher level of confidence (around 92%). Models start from common Faster R-CNN architectures, reinforcement learning, and vector extraction tools. The proposed tool provides a base for future improvements to create a tool that aids artwork evaluators.
Effects of Manual Therapy and Strengthening Exercise on Pain in Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Serrano-García Beatriz , Martínez-Cepa Carmen Belén , Forriol Francisco , Angulo-Díaz-Parreño Santiago , Mesa-Jiménez Juan Andrés , Zuil-Escobar Juan Carlos
Published: December 2024

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to determine whether manual therapy (MT) and strengthening exercises (SE) reduce pain in patients with knee osteoarthritis (KO). Clinical trials were identified through a search of PubMed, PEDro, Scopus, and Ovid databases up to April 2024. Two independent reviewers screened articles, removing duplicates, and conducted full-text evaluations. Nineteen studies were included, with eight incorporated into the meta-analysis. Of these, seven addressed MT and twelve focused on SE. Although the studies included a variety of outcomes and follow-up periods, both interventions were shown to reduce pain immediately after the intervention, with MT providing superior short-term outcomes. Improvements were noted in the VAS scale for the MT group (effect size = 0.799; Z = 2.495; p = 0.013; IC 95%= 0.171 to 1.427; Q-value = 17.721; p = 0.001) and in the WOMAC pain score for the SE compared to controls (effect size = 0.364; Z = 1.993; p = 0.046; IC 95%= 0.006 to 0.722; Q-value = 2.4; p = 0.301). Both results showed high evidence according to GRADE. However, long-term effects are inconclusive, with low/very low levels of evidence. Both MT and SE are effective interventions in reducing pain in the short term. However, more clinical trials are needed to determine the best doses and the long-term effects.
Effect of Gaseous Ozone and Hydrogen Peroxide Treatment on the Polyphenolic Profile of Tomato Fruits Grown Under Cover
Authors: Zardzewiały Miłosz , Matłok Natalia , Kapusta Ireneusz , Piechowiak Tomasz , Gorzelany Józef , Balawejder Maciej
Published: December 2024

The aim of the study was to determine the effect of gaseous ozone, hydrogen peroxide and both factors used alternately on the profile of phenolic compounds of tomato fruits grown under cover. Phenolic compounds are natural substances, and their biosynthesis in plant tissues is affected by stress factors such as gaseous ozone and hydrogen peroxide. The experiment showed that the use of gaseous ozone at a dose of 2 ppm for 1.5 and 3 min significantly increased the total amount of phenolic compounds in tomato fruits compared to the control. In turn, in fruits obtained from plants to which hydrogen peroxide was applied at a concentration of 1 and 3% during vegetation, a lower amount of phenolic compounds was found compared to the control. In addition, the combined use of ozone and hydrogen peroxide in the case of four variants—2 ppm for 1.5 min + 1% H2O2; 2 ppm for 3 min + 1% H2O2; 2 ppm 1 min + 3% H2O2; 2 ppm 3 min + 3% H2O2—significantly increased the amount of phenolic compounds compared to the control.
Optimization of Directional Long Boreholes Unloading Gas Extraction Process and Application Research
Authors: Zhang Chunhua , Li Yuqi
Published: December 2024

In order to optimize the pressure relief gas extraction process for the 1504 working face in East 2 of Dalong Coal Mine based on its mining and gas conditions, a physical model of pressure relief gas extraction in the airspace using two preliminary extraction processes—a high-level oblique borehole and a directional long borehole—was established using COMSOL 6.2 software. The changes in the gas extraction effect of high-level oblique boreholes were analyzed through a simulation of the advancement of the working face, and the reasons for the low utilization rate of the high-level oblique boreholes were outlined. The effects of the horizontal distance of the directional long boreholes from the side of the air return lane, the borehole spacing, and the negative pressure of the boreholes on the gas extraction effect were analyzed, and the gas extraction process of the directional long boreholes was optimized and applied in the field. The results showed that the directional long borehole gas extraction process had a better extraction effect, a higher borehole utilization rate, and superior cost savings, and was thus was the preferred process. Additionally, the optimal parameters were a 30 m horizontal distance of the boreholes from the side of the air return lane, a 30 m spacing between the boreholes, and a 20 kPa negative extraction pressure.
Co-Digestion of Tea Extracts with Omega-3 Fatty Acids Enhances Digestive Stability and Intestinal Absorption of Omega-3 Fatty Acids by Increasing Antioxidant Activity and Micelle Stabilization
Authors: Na In-Su , Jeong Hyun Woo , Chung Jin-Oh , Suh Byung-Fhy , Sohn Jonghee , Shim Soon-Mi
Published: December 2024

The current study hypothesized that omega-3 fatty acids ω-3 FAs consumed with various tea extracts, which included green tea extract comprising 35% and 65% catechin (GTE35 and GTE65), naturally fermented green tea (Heukcha) extract (NFGT), and a complex of heat-treated green tea and enzymatically-modified isoquercitrin (1:1, w:w) (AdiphenonTM) would enhance the digestive stability and intestinal absorption of ω-3 FAs. The digestive stability of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) co-digested with GTE65 using an in vitro digestion model system was improved by up to 20.76% and 23.22%, respectively, compared to ω-3 FAs. The oxidative stability, measured using peroxide values, was the lowest, whereas the DPPH radical scavenging capacity during digestion was the highest in Adiphenon™, showing 1.03 ± 0.25 meq O2/kg oil and 1251.96 ± 26.03 µmol TE/g. The deviation in zeta potential was reduced when ω-3 FAs were co-treated with various tea extracts, indicating that the micelle of ω-3 FAs is stable. The intestinal absorption in Caco-2 cells increased by up to 34.53% for EPA and 60.23% for DHA with various tea extracts compared to ω-3 FAs alone. The co-treatment with GTE35 and Adiphenon™ did not alter the expression of P-glycoprotein (P-gp) compared to ω-3 FAs alone, which implies the efflux of tea polyphenols, such as catechins, could be limited due to the suppression of P-gp by ω-3 FA. The results from the current study suggest that the co-intake of ω-3 FAs with various tea extracts could increase the bioavailability of ω-3 FAs by preventing oxidation, stabilizing micelle structures, and minimizing intestinal efflux.
Energy Optimal Configuration Strategy of Distributed Photovoltaic Power System for Multi-Level Distribution Network
Authors: Wang Yanmin , Zhang Hanqing , Zhang Weiqi , Han Song , Yang Yuzhuo
Published: December 2024

As the strategic position of distributed photovoltaic (PV) power generation in multi-level distribution networks continues to rise, its impact on the stable operation of the grid is becoming increasingly significant. This study delves into the influence of two key factors, the integration location and penetration rate of PV systems, on the distribution and flow of energy and the steady-state performance of multi-level distribution networks. Based on this, the study proposes a simplified grid analysis framework for analyzing and optimizing the energy allocation strategy of distribution systems and develops a PV configuration strategy aimed at optimizing the energy planning and design process of engineering projects. Taking a typical PV-participating distribution system as an example, the study provides a detailed description of the typical three-layer distribution network structure and deduces the relationship of the PV, node voltage, and node voltage deviation. The study verifies the accuracy and practical value of the proposed simplified framework through real-time monitoring simulation of node voltages and line losses. Finally, to achieve optimal energy allocation, the study proposes a PV segmentation strategy applied to the system and compares it with the traditional reactive power control strategy, demonstrating the advantage of the strategy in improving the system’s clean energy ratio and reducing network losses. This paper’s research on the impact of PV systems and the proposed simplified theory for distribution networks is universally applicable, and it holds significant reference value for practical engineering design.
The Anisotropic Time-Dependent Properties and Constitutive Model Analysis of Carbonaceous Slate with Different Foliation Angles
Authors: Zhu Yuanguang , Wang Xuanyao , Liu Bin , Xue Haoyuan
Published: December 2024

In tunnel construction in western China, a vast amount of carbonaceous slate is encountered. High in situ stress and foliation structures cause the rock mass to exhibit pronounced anisotropic creep, readily inducing a series of engineering disasters like collapses and lining cracks. Investigating the anisotropic time-dependent characteristics of carbonaceous slate is beneficial to the long-term stability of tunnel construction and operation. In view of this, carbonaceous slate specimens with different angles, β, between the foliation plane and loading direction were studied using a graded loading method through uniaxial compression creep tests. The results show that the instantaneous axial strain, εi, the axial creep strain, εc, the duration time of decelerating creep stage, td, and the steady creep strain rate, ε˙s, increased with the rise in the loading ratio, k. Their variations followed a power law relationship, with the R2 (Coefficient of Determination) values all exceeding 0.95. The value of ε˙s was observed to be less than 1.5 × 10−4/h when β < 45°, while it was found to exceed 1.5 × 10−4/h in the cases of β≥45°. The long-term strength, σL, of carbonaceous slate showed a U-shaped pattern with the variation in β. The maximum σL occurred at β = 90° and the minimum was observed at β = 15°. A fractional nonlinear creep model (FNC model) was developed. The sensitivity analysis reveals that the larger the fractional order n is, the td and ε˙s increase. η2 and E2 primarily affect the decelerated creep stage, while the ε˙s exhibits a rapid increase with the rise of η1. To further validate the FNC model, a comparison is made with the traditional Nishihara model. The R2 of the FNC model is larger than 0.965, which is higher than that of the Nishihara model (R2 ≤ 0.911). The FNC model can effectively cope with the impact of the sudden increase in strain and well describe the characteristics of the decelerating, steady-state, and accelerating creep stages at any stress level and any angle. The results provide a reference for the study of the creep mechanism of layered rocks.
Testing the Wind Energy Data Based on Environmental Factors Predicted by Machine Learning with Analysis of Variance
Authors: Ayaz Atalan Yasemin , Atalan Abdulkadir
Published: December 2024

This study proposes a two-stage methodology for predicting wind energy production using time, environmental, technical, and locational variables. In the first stage, machine learning algorithms, including random forest (RF), gradient boosting (GB), k-nearest neighbors (kNNs), linear regression (LR), and decision trees (Tree), were employed to estimate energy output. Among these, RF exhibited the best performance with the lowest error metrics (MSE: 0.003, RMSE: 0.053) and the highest R2 value (0.988). In the second stage, analysis of variance (ANOVA) was conducted to evaluate the statistical relationships between independent variables and the predicted dependent variable, identifying wind speed (p < 0.001) and rotor speed (p < 0.001) as the most influential factors. Furthermore, RF and GB models produced predictions most closely aligned with actual data, achieving R2 values of 88.83% and 89.30% in the ANOVA validation phase. Integrating RF and GB models with statistical validation highlighted the robustness of the methodology. These findings demonstrate the robustness of integrating machine learning models with statistical verification methods.
Comprehensive Review of Storage Optimization Techniques in Blockchain Systems
Authors: Wang Yan , Wang Hao , Cao Yanghuang
Published: December 2024

Blockchain technology, known for its decentralization, traceability, immutability, and security, has attracted widespread attention in academia and has been extensively applied in numerous fields. However, as the application of blockchain expands, the demand for data storage has increased rapidly, leading to rising storage costs and reduced resource utilization efficiency. In practical scenarios, it is challenging to minimize storage redundancy in blockchain systems. Therefore, effectively optimizing blockchain storage has become a key research focus. This paper explores blockchain storage optimization from the perspective of data management, analyzing current techniques such as pruning technique, IPFS optimization, sharding, erasure coding, deduplication, and data compression. It also discusses the challenges in blockchain scalability and provides directions and prospects for future research.
Citric Acid-Based Treatment for Refining Mineral Fractions Recovered from Processed MSW Incinerator Bottom Ash
Authors: Adhiwiguna I. B. G. Sumbranang , Yu Xinqi , Warnecke Ragnar , Deike Rüdiger
Published: December 2024

This research examines the possibility of the washing process as a supplementary operation after extensive extended physical separation sequences for processed incinerator bottom ash (pr.IBA), which is the mineral fraction resulting from conventional separation operation of municipal solid waste (MSW) incinerator bottom ash (IBA) in Germany. Citric acid is employed as the only primary treatment agent in several variations of parameter combinations. It includes the type of solvent, washing duration, acid concentration, liquid-to-solid ratio, and introduction of external agitation (stirring and heating). The analysis results revealed that the concentration of copper, zinc, and manganese in the mineral phase of pr.IBA can be reduced by the citric acid washing process. The most significant change is observed in the zinc content, where a reduction of up to 50% is successfully achieved. In contrast, the silicon concentration is relatively unaffected during citric acid washing, but a concentration decrease is detected for calcium. The aluminum and iron contents in the studied fraction of pr.IBA are also soluble in citric acid solution, although the rates are expected to be exceptionally slow. In this instance, stirring and heating over a prolonged washing duration are necessary before a decrease in their concentration can eventually occur.
Impact of Rutting on Traffic Safety: A Synthesis of Research Findings
Authors: Fares Ali , Wong Man-Nok , Zayed Tarek , Faris Nour
Published: December 2024

Quantifying the impact of rutting on traffic safety contributes to the development of objective models for evaluating pavement performance. However, the existing literature shows significant discrepancies in the impact of rutting on traffic safety. To this end, this study analyzed about 40 studies to comprehensively understand the impact of rutting on traffic safety in field observations and simulation studies. This study analyzed the influence of ten factors that may impact the relationship between rutting and traffic safety, such as weather, speed, and road type. It also established rutting limits and developed machine learning-based prediction models for accident rates caused by rutting under varying conditions. These findings reveal distinct trends, with simulation studies generally suggesting a higher impact of rutting on safety compared to field observations. This discrepancy is attributed to the limitations of simulation models in capturing human factors, such as drivers’ ability to anticipate and adjust their behavior to mitigate risks. These results provide valuable insights for highway agencies and policymakers to develop more accurate rut limits and maintenance guidelines. These results also underscore the importance of considering rutting in the development of autonomous vehicles to ensure effective handling of rutting under varying conditions. This study highlights the need for more comprehensive field studies using larger datasets that account for various environmental and traffic factors. Additionally, integrating real-world driver behavior into simulation models could improve their accuracy.
Recent Improvements in the Development of Soft Grippers Capable of Dexterous Manipulation
Authors: Otti Manuela , Monsalve Daniel , Chapelle Frédéric , Bouzgarrou Chedli , Lapusta Yuri
Published: December 2024

Soft grippers perform various handling tasks using passive conformability. This article reviews the improvements in their capabilities of dexterous manipulations, including how they achieve dexterity and how their performance could be evaluated. This article particularly points out the correlations between potential and real dexterity, and the relationship between the space of degrees of freedom and the corresponding dexterity level. Our main contribution is the proposition of a uniform framework for the characterization of soft grippers and their performance. We first present an introduction to soft grippers and those capable of in-hand manipulation. We emphasize their hybridization by combining soft and rigid materials or using several active materials. Next, we define and discuss the manipulation tasks and how to achieve dexterity, making a distinction between stable grasping and stable in-hand manipulation. We finally discuss the means to achieve assessment and how the performance can be evaluated, and we develop a general exploitable approach for characterizing soft grippers and their dexterous performance based on their architecture, DOF space, and physical performance.
Development of a New Rubber Buckling-Restrained Brace System for Structures
Authors: Ostovar Nima , Hejazi Farzad
Published: December 2024

Buckling-Restrained Braces (BRBs) are widely utilized in structures as an anti-seismic system to enhance performance against lateral excitations. While BRBs are designed to yield symmetrically under both tension and compression without significant buckling, their effectiveness is often limited to moderate seismic events. During high-intensity earthquakes, repetitive yielding can lead to core failure, resulting in the loss of BRB functionality and potentially causing structural collapse. This study proposes an innovative design for BRBs to improve energy dissipation capacity under severe seismic activity. The new design incorporates Ultra-High-Performance Fiber-Reinforced Concrete (UHPFRC) filler and hyper-elastic rubber components as primary load-bearing elements. Through extensive testing and simulation, the proposed Rubber Buckling-Restrained Brace (RBRB) was developed and manufactured by integrating hyper-elastic rubber between the concrete and core to enhance the device’s strength. Additionally, a prototype of the conventional BRB device was fabricated to serve as a benchmark for evaluating the performance of the RBRB. Experimental testing of both the conventional BRB and the proposed RBRB prototypes was conducted using a heavy-duty dynamic actuator to assess the RBRB’s performance under applied loads. Based on the experimental results, an analytical model of the proposed RBRB was formulated for use in finite element modeling and analysis. Furthermore, a specialized seismic design procedure for structures equipped with the RBRB was developed, according to the performance-based design method. This procedure was applied to the design of a seven-story steel structure, and the impact of the RBRB on the seismic response of the structure was investigated through finite element simulations. The analysis results demonstrated that the RBRB significantly improves the loading capacity and energy dissipation capabilities of structures, thereby enhancing their overall performance against earthquake excitations.
Vibroarthrography as a Noninvasive Screening Method for Early Diagnosis of Knee Osteoarthritis: A Review of Current Research
Authors: Karpiński Robert , Prus Aleksandra , Jonak Kamil , Krakowski Przemysław
Published: December 2024

The ageing population and the resulting number of physical and health problems are now a major social and economic challenge around the world. Osteoarthritis is a common disease among older people. It can affect any joint, but it most often affects the knee, hip, and hand joints. Osteoarthritis of the knee joint significantly affects everyday life, limiting daily activities. Patients affected by this disease face many ailments, such as pain, stiffness, and a reduced of range of joint motion. In order to implement quick and effective treatment and prevent the development of the disease, accurate and early diagnosis is important. This will contribute to prolonging the health of the joints. Available methods for diagnosing osteoarthritis include conventional radiography, MRI, and ultrasound, but these methods are not suitable for screening. Over the years, there have been proposals to use vibroarthrography as a new, cheap, and noninvasive screening method for cartilage damage. The paper reviews recent studies on vibroarthrography as a diagnostic method for knee osteoarthritis. The aim of the study is to organise the current knowledge regarding the diagnosis of osteoarthritis of the knee joint and vibroarthrography as a proposal for a new diagnostic method.
Synthesis, Anti-Inflammatory Activity, and Docking Simulation of a Novel Styryl Quinolinium Derivative
Authors: Todorova Mina , Bakalska Rumyana , Feizi-Dehnayebi Mehran , Ziarani Ghodsi Mohammadi , Pencheva Mina , Stojnova Kirila , Milusheva Miglena , Nedialkov Paraskev , Cherneva Emiliya , Kolev Tsonko , Nikolova Stoyanka
Published: December 2024

Stilbenes, like resveratrol, are natural small molecules with several applications in the treatment of chronic illnesses, diabetes, and neurological and cardiovascular conditions. Considering the molecular structure of stilbenes and the biological activities of resveratrol, we investigated the synthesis and biological activity of a novel styryl quinolinium (SQ) derivative. The SQ was synthesized using the alkylation of lepidine and methyl 4-methylbenzenesulfonate and further Knoevenagel condensation with 2-hydroxy naphthaldehyde. Its structure was determined using NMR, IR, Raman, UV-Vis, and MS. The current trend of research has shifted toward the synthesis of novel SQ as resveratrol’s analog. Therefore, its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities were evaluated. The compound exerted very good anti-inflammatory effects in preventing albumin denaturation, which were confirmed by ex vivo immunohistochemical studies. Density functional theory (DFT) analyses were conducted on the SQ structure to gain detailed insights into its active sites, energy gap, quantum properties, and electronic behavior. The biological evaluation of the compound was completed, assessing its antioxidant potential using DPPH radical scavenging assay. In addition, molecular docking simulations were utilized to assess the SQ compound’s potential inhibitory effect on human serum albumin (HSA).
Machine-Learning-Powered Information Systems: A Systematic Literature Review for Developing Multi-Objective Healthcare Management
Authors: Bagheri Maryam , Bagheritabar Mohsen , Alizadeh Sohila , Parizi Mohammad (Sam) Salemizadeh , Matoufinia Parisa , Luo Yang
Published: December 2024

The incorporation of machine learning (ML) into healthcare information systems (IS) has transformed multi-objective healthcare management by improving patient monitoring, diagnostic accuracy, and treatment optimization. Notwithstanding its revolutionizing capacity, the area lacks a systematic understanding of how these models are divided and analyzed, leaving gaps in normalization and benchmarking. The present research usually overlooks holistic models for comparing ML-enabled ISs, significantly considering pivotal function criteria like accuracy, precision, sensitivity, and specificity. To address these gaps, we conducted a broad exploration of 306 state-of-the-art papers to present a novel taxonomy of ML-enabled IS for multi-objective healthcare management. We categorized these studies into six key areas, namely diagnostic systems, treatment-planning systems, patient monitoring systems, resource allocation systems, preventive healthcare systems, and hybrid systems. Each category was analyzed depending on significant variables, uncovering that adaptability is the most effective parameter throughout all models. In addition, the majority of papers were published in 2022 and 2023, with MDPI as the leading publisher and Python as the most prevalent programming language. This extensive synthesis not only bridges the present gaps but also proposes actionable insights for improving ML-powered IS in healthcare management.
Testing Consistency: Analyzing the Reliability of Two Lower Limb Isometric Force Measurements in Strength-Trained Athletes
Authors: Giuliano Francisco , Soriano Marcos A. , Pino-Mulero Victor , González-García Jaime
Published: December 2024

This study aimed to examine the intra- and inter-session reliability of kinetic variables in the isometric mid-thigh pull (IMTP) and isometric belt squat test (IBSqT) in strength-trained individuals. Fifteen men (26.9 ± 8.9 years; 1.78 ± 0.05 m; 86.9 ± 10.5 kg) and six women (23.8 ± 4.6 years; 1.66 ± 0.06 m; 65.8 ± 10.3 kg), experienced in strength training, completed a familiarization session followed by two experimental sessions. The peak force (PF) and relative peak force to body weight (RPF), were collected for both isometric tests. Additionally, force (F), impulse (I), and rate of force development (RFD) were analyzed across different time windows (50, 100, 150, 200, and 250 ms). The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), coefficient of variation (CV), standard error of measurement (SEM), smallest worthwhile change (SWC) and Bland-Altman plots were calculated and displayed. Intra-session reliability was excellent for PF and RPF (ICC ≥ 0.98, CV ≤ 10%) in both IMTP and IBSqT. However, RFD and IMP displayed higher variability (CV > 10%), with low to good reliability depending on time frames. Inter-session reliability was excellent for PF and RPF (ICC ≥ 0.96, CV ≤ 5.3%) in both tests. Force at various time points exhibited moderate to excellent reliability (ICC = 0.70–0.90). PF and RPF demonstrated the highest sensitivity to performance changes, with SWC0.2 values exceeding SEM. In contrast, RFD and impulse showed larger variabilities. These findings indicate that PF and RPF are the most reliable and sensitive metrics for monitoring performance. Coaches and practitioners can use IMTP and IBSqT to detect meaningful changes in maximal isometric force production.
Development of a 3D-Printed Chest Phantom with Simulation of Lung Nodules for Studying Ultra-Low-Dose Computed Tomography Protocols
Authors: Silberstein Jenna , Tran Steven , Wong Yin How , Yeong Chai Hong , Sun Zhonghua
Published: December 2024

This study aimed to 3D print a patient-specific chest phantom simulating multiple lung nodules to optimise low-dose Computed Tomography (CT) protocols for lung cancer screening. The chest phantom, which was developed from a single patient’s chest CT images, was fabricated using a variety of materials, including polylactic acid (PLA), Glow-PLA, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), and polyurethane resin. The phantom was scanned under different low-dose (LDCT) and ultra-low-dose CT (ULDCT) protocols by varying the kilovoltage peak (kVp) and milliampere-seconds (mAs). Subjective image quality of each scan (656 images) was evaluated by three radiologists using a five-point Likert scale, while objective image quality was assessed using signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR). Anatomical conformance was assessed by comparing tissue diameters of the phantom and patient scans using Bland–Altman analysis. The phantom’s lung tissue, lung nodules, and diaphragm demonstrated radiation attenuation comparable to patient tissue, as measured in Hounsfield Units (HU). However, significant variations in HU were observed for the skin, subcutaneous fat, muscle, bone, heart, lung vessels, and blood vessels compared to patient tissues, with values ranging from 93.9 HU to −196 HU (p < 0.05). Both SNR and CNR decreased as the effective dose was reduced, with a strong positive linear correlation (r = 0.927 and r = 0.931, respectively, p < 0.001, Jamovi, version 2.3.28). The median subjective image quality score from radiologists was 4, indicating good diagnostic confidence across all CT protocols (κ = −0.398, 95% CI [−0.644 to −0.152], p < 0.002, SPSS Statistics, version 30). An optimal protocol of 80 kVp and 30 mAs was identified for lung nodule detection, delivering a dose of only 0.23 mSv, which represents a 96% reduction compared to standard CT protocols. The measurement error between patient and phantom scans was −0.03 ± 0.14 cm. These findings highlight the potential for significant dose reductions in lung cancer screening programs. Further studies are recommended to improve the phantom by selecting more tissue-equivalent materials.
Active Biodegradable Packaging Films Based on the Revalorization of Food-Grade Olive Oil Mill By-Products
Authors: Chabni Assamae , Bañares Celia , Sanchez-Rey Irene , Torres Carlos F.
Published: December 2024

Synthetic packaging is being replaced by biodegradable packaging through the revalorization of food industry by-products. The olive oil (OO) industry, known for producing large quantities of antioxidant-rich by-products, can be a major supplier for sustainable packaging materials. This study aims to valorize a food-grade by-product (defatted flour, DF) from OO extraction produced using a zero-waste strategy that combines expeller press technology and supercritical CO2 extraction. DF and its aqueous extract (DFE) were combined with carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) to create biodegradable bioactive packaging films. DF contains a high content of insoluble dietary fiber (28.4%) and total phenolic compounds (35,000 ppm), including oleuropein, elenolic acid, hydroxytyrosol, and tyrosol (4324, 3603, 1525, and 157 ppm, respectively). This study examined the effects of DF and DFE on the physicochemical and barrier properties of the films, as well as their capacity to delay oxidation in polyunsaturated fatty acid-rich oil. Films with DF and DFE contained high phenolic content (1500 and 1200 ppm, respectively), and their inclusion improved ultraviolet visible barrier capacity. Additionally, oil oxidation was slower when protected by DF- and DFE-based films than when protected with CMC film alone. This allows their use as protective packaging and potential carriers of bioactive oils to enhance the nutritional and functional qualities of packaged foods.
Research on Width Optimization of Bearing Coal Pillar Between Roadways Under the Influence of Mining on Both Sides
Authors: Peng Linjun , Gong Kaixuan , He Manchao
Published: December 2024

The rational coal pillar width directly improves the utilization rate of coal resources and the safety of coal mines. Taking Jinjitan Coal Mine as the engineering background, using theoretical analysis and calculation through numerical simulation, the distribution of internal stress field and plastic zone of different widths coal pillars under the influence of mining on one side and mining on both sides is compared and analyzed; the original 20 m coal pillar between 113 working face transportation roadway and auxiliary transportation roadway (i.e., 111 working face air return roadway) in Jinjitan Coal Mine was optimized. The result shows that, compared to the 20 m coal pillar, the distribution of the stress field and plastic zone in the optimized 16 m coal pillar affected by mining on both sides is reasonable; the roadway with the 16 m coal pillar between roadways can maintain its stability. According to the field monitoring results, the rationality of the 16 m coal pillar is verified. The coal pillar optimization scheme proposed in this research improves the utilization rate of coal resources and coal mine safety and provides a reliable reference for the coal pillar optimization with the same engineering background as a coal mine.
Eye-Tracking Study on Reading Fluency in Relation to Typeface Pleasantness Influenced by Cross-Modal Correspondence Between Taste and Shape
Authors: Medved Tanja , Podlesek Anja , Možina Klementina
Published: December 2024

Reading fluency depends on the typographic design. Letters can have different shapes that evoke different feelings in the reader and influence reading fluency. Previous studies that explored the link between typeface shape and taste and its impact on reading and readers’ attitudes mainly focused on shorter texts or individual words. In contrast, our study investigated how the taste (sweetness) attributed to the typeface is related to reading fluency and the pleasantness of the typeface during reading longer texts, and whether these relationships are the same in children and adult readers. We found that readers of both age groups perceived rounded letters as sweeter than angular letters. The perceived sweetness correlated positively with the pleasantness of the typeface and reading fluency. Younger readers showed a higher general rating of sweetness and a stronger relationship between the perceived sweetness and the pleasantness of the typeface than older, more experienced readers. This suggests that the sweeter and more pleasant the typeface is perceived to be, the faster it can be read. When fast processing of longer texts is required, we recommend the use of rounded typefaces with more organic shapes, including serif typefaces with some characteristics of old-style typefaces, rather than using angular, sans serif typefaces.
A Novel Virtual Reality-Based Simulator for Maxillofacial Reconstruction Surgery: Development and Validation Study
Authors: Kim Jun-Seong , Kim Kun-Woo , Kim Hyo-Joon , Moon Seong-Yong
Published: December 2024

Maxillofacial reconstruction surgery involves restoring bones or skeletal structures in areas such as the mouth, jaw, and face using bones like the iliac crest and fibula. This surgery requires a high level of difficulty and precision, necessitating extensive practice and accurate 3D model simulations. However, due to limitations in training environments, opportunities for sufficient practice are restricted, and the precision of simulations may be compromised by the limitations of existing tools. To address these challenges, this paper proposes a maxillofacial reconstruction surgery simulator utilizing virtual reality technology. The proposed method allows users to explore a virtual space through a head-mounted display, where they can visualize, navigate, and manipulate bone models (move and rotate) using the joystick and buttons of a controller, as well as perform resection operations. Additionally, to verify the effectiveness of the simulator, performance evaluation is conducted through frame per second and resource usage analysis, usability testing is performed via questionnaires with dental students, and accuracy validation is carried out for the reconstruction models. The results of each evaluation method are analyzed to confirm the utility and potential of the proposed simulator.
Analysis of Hydrological Memory Characteristics in Taiwan’s Catchments
Authors: Fang Ting-Jui , Chen Hsin-Yu , Yeh Hsin-Fu
Published: December 2024

Climate change often affects streamflow, which can be categorized into immediate and lag responses. Historically, the phenomenon of lag responses, known as hydrological memory, has often been overlooked. This study aims to determine whether hydrological memory characteristics exist in Taiwan’s catchments and to identify the lag time in streamflow response. Using data from 67 catchments across Taiwan with a length of over 30 years, the study examines the response of streamflow to precipitation and potential evapotranspiration across different time scales. Streamflow elasticity was employed to quantify the sensitivity of catchment streamflow. Sensitivity analysis results indicate that the month scale better explains the sensitivity of streamflow to climatic factors compared to the year scale. Therefore, memory characteristics are discussed using the month scale. Only 19.4% of the studied catchments exhibit significant hydrological memory, making it a rare phenomenon in Taiwan. The conceptual model of hydrological memory shows that extreme precipitation and other hydrological climate anomalies primarily impact river streamflow generation 33 days (1.11 months) later, with the influence of precipitation on streamflow recharge lag up to 50 days (1.67 months). Catchments with hydrological memory characteristics are predominantly located in southwestern Taiwan, mainly in catchments smaller than 500 km2, with generally lower baseflow indices and a higher proportion of streamflow contributions. These characteristics are less common in high-elevation areas. The results of this study highlight that streamflow response to climatic factors exhibits a lag time, illustrating the memory characteristics of Taiwan’s catchments. This understanding will aid in the prediction of hydrological phenomena and provide valuable references for hydrological modeling and the development and management of water resources.
The Location of Hotels and Their Exposure to Hurricanes in Cuba—Implication for Tourism Development in the Context of Climate Change
Authors: Remond-Noa Ricardo , Torres-Reyes Antonio , Matos-Pupo Felipe , Echarri-Chávez Maite , Bouta-Numbo Antonio , Crespo-García Lisbet , Gómez-Martín María Belén
Published: December 2024

This study focuses on the relationship between hotel sites (current and planned) and exposure to hurricanes in Cuba. The hypothesis focused on demonstrating that Cuban tourist areas have differing degrees of exposure to tropical cyclones according to the month. The results indicate that although the whole Cuban archipelago is exposed to hurricanes, the tourist regions in Cuba’s western provinces have a greater chance of being affected than those located in the center, east, and south. The tourism development that will take place by 2030 in Cuba includes significant hotel expansion in coastal areas that are highly exposed to hurricanes. Information on the risk of hurricanes in tourist regions provides information that could enable the creation of the organizational conditions needed to tackle these phenomena in the short to medium term and to refine spatial and tourism planning approaches in the long term.
Study on the Impact of Land Use and Climate Change on the Spatiotemporal Evolution of Vegetation Cover in Chongqing, China
Authors: Liang Shuai , Xu Dandan , Luo Danni , Xiao Anjing , Yuan Xinyue
Published: December 2024

With the advance of industrialisation and urbanisation, land use change and climate change have significant impacts on the global ecosystem. Focusing on Chongqing Municipality, a municipality that plays a central role in regional economic development and national strategies, this study explores the impacts of land use and climate change on the evolution of its NDVI spatial and temporal patterns between 2000 and 2020 and reveals the driving mechanisms behind them. By analysing remote sensing image data and climate data, it was found that Chongqing Municipality experienced significant land use changes during the study period, especially urban expansion and the reduction of agricultural land, which led to the reduction of vegetation cover. Meanwhile, precipitation in climate change positively affected vegetation growth and coverage, while the increase in surface temperature during urbanisation negatively affected vegetation cover and exacerbated the urban heat island effect. NDVI was positively correlated with precipitation and negatively correlated with air temperature, suggesting that moderate precipitation promotes vegetation growth, while high temperatures may adversely affect vegetation activities. The results of this study can provide a scientific basis for urban planning and ecological conservation, especially in formulating effective urban management and land management strategies to protect the ecological environment and rationally utilise land resources.