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Investigation into fatigue micro-crack identification of steel bridge decks based on acoustic emission detection technology

With increasing traffic loads and extended bridge service life, fatigue damage in steel bridge decks has become a significant concern. Traditional detection methods often lack the accuracy and responsiveness needed for practical engineering applications. To address the non-stationary nature of acoustic emission (AE) signals during crack initiation and propagation, this study combines the K-singular value decomposition (K-SVD) dictionary learning algorithm with convolutional neural networks (CNN) to enhance AE signal processing and fatigue crack detection. The K-SVD algorithm functions as an adaptive filter, learning from AE signals in various damage states to remove background noise and retain critical structural characteristics. This processed AE data is then input into a CNN, where the improved signal clarity enables higher classification accuracy. Specifically, the integration of K-SVD with CNN achieved recognition accuracies of 93.64% and 92.56% for AE signals from damaged areas, and 95.32% and 94.27% for undamaged signals, on training and test sets, respectively. This approach demonstrates strong engineering potential by providing a scalable solution for real-time, accurate crack detection in bridge inspections. Though computationally intensive, K-SVD’s adaptive dictionary learning enhances CNN performance, making the combination viable with optimization strategies in practical settings. These results provide a theoretical foundation and practical guidance for improving fatigue crack detection in steel bridge decks, supporting future applications in automated bridge inspection.

Tactile contribution extends beyond exteroception during spatially guided finger movements

Prevalence and socio-demographic correlates of depression and anxiety among late adolescents (15 to 21 years) in Mymensingh division, Bangladesh: A cross-sectional study

Background Depression and anxiety are prevalent mental health disorders among adolescents worldwide, including Bangladesh. However, mental health disorders are often overlooked in developing countries like Bangladesh. This study aims to assess the prevalence of depression and anxiety, as well as the socio-demographic factors that contribute to these conditions, among late adolescents aged 15–21 in Mymensingh division, Bangladesh. Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted among 400 adolescents aged 15–21 in the Mymensingh division of Bangladesh. The study used a structured questionnaire to collect sociodemographic and lifestyle-related information from the respondents. The questionnaire included PHQ-9 and GAD-7 scales to assess depression and anxiety among the respondents. Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and ordinal logistic regression were performed as statistical analyses of this study. Results The overall prevalence of depression was 47.8% (33.5% moderate, 10.5% moderately severe, and 3.8% severe depression), and anxiety 32.8% (31% moderate and 1.8% severe anxiety). Across most of the socio-demographic and lifestyle-related factors, the prevalence of depression and anxiety was higher among adolescent boys. Individuals aged 19–21 are most likely to experience depression and anxiety. The study found that unmarried adolescents, mobile phone users, rural adolescents, and those whose parents had no formal education were more likely to experience moderate to severe depression and anxiety than their counterparts. The ordinal logistic regression revealed that adolescents whose fathers had no formal education were 2.77 times more likely to experience depression (95% CI = 1.21–6.35, p < 0.05). Besides depression was more likely to be associated with those who were businessmen (OR = 1.95; 95% CI = 1.02–3.72, p < 0.05), and day laborers (OR = 0.41; 95% CI = 0.20–0.82, p < 0.05) and living with anxiety (OR = 0.05; 95% CI = 0.01–0.24, p <.000). Anxiety is prevalent among adolescents who had no formal education (OR = 0.15; 95% CI = 0.03–0.75, p < 0.05), no family savings (OR = 0.42; 95% CI = 0.23–0.78, p < 0.05) and depression (OR = 0.06; 95% CI = 0.01–0.22, p < 0.05). Conclusions The findings of this study emphasize the importance of screening individuals for depressive and anxiety disorder symptoms to reduce the prevalence of mental health disorders among adolescents. In addition to screening, policymakers should incorporate policies to increase access to mental health services and promote mental health education for parents and the community.

Hypoparathyroidism is associated with bladder dysfunction, a preliminary study

Subjective and objective indices in determining stretching effect

Stretching is widely used in clinical settings to maintain and enhance physical functions. Despite numerous studies investigating its effects, subjective evaluations by therapists remain common, lacking objective assessment criteria. This study aims to bridge this gap by correlating objective measures with subjective evaluations by therapists and patients. The hypotheses are: (1) significant correlation between objective measures and subjective assessments, (2) consistency in therapist judgments, and (3) identification of objective criteria. This research aims to formalize clinical knowledge and enhance stretching interventions’ applicability. Sixteen physiotherapists participated, with varying clinical experience. Straight leg raising stretching was performed on a simulated patient. Objective measures included joint angle, electromyography, and posterior thigh stiffness. Subjective evaluations were made by therapists and simulated patient using numerical rating scales. Therapists’ ratings correlated positively with straight leg raising angle change and stretching duration. Simulated patient’s ratings correlated positively with an integral electromyographic values of semitendinosus muscle activity but negatively with joint angle change. Regression analysis did not yield significant predictive models. Subjective evaluations may deviate from objective outcomes, highlighting the need for a better understanding of their relationship. Physiotherapists detected small joint angle improvements subjectively, but no objective predictor of this change was found. Patients’ subjective evaluations did not align with objective outcomes. This suggests therapists’ evaluations may be more accurate. Additional investigation into subjective evaluation criteria is warranted. Therapists should be cautious in relying solely on patient feedback, emphasizing the need for objective assessment in clinical practice.

Evaluation of grafting compatibility and prediction modelling in Sapindus mukorossi

Exposure to plastic debris alters expression of biomineralization, immune, and stress-related genes in the eastern oyster (Crassostrea virginica)

The degradation of marine plastic debris poses a threat to organisms by fragmenting into micro- and nano-scale pieces and releasing a complex chemical leachate into the water. Numerous studies have investigated harms from plastic pollution such as microplastic ingestion and exposure to single chemicals. However, few studies have examined the holistic threat of plastic exposure and the synergistic impacts of chemical mixtures. The objective of this study was to measure changes in gene expression of gill and gonadal tissue of the eastern oyster (Crassostrea virginica) in response to plastic debris exposure during their first year, using RNA-seq to explore multiple types of physiological responses. Shell and polyethylene terephthalate plastic were used as substrate for the metamorphosis of larval oysters in a settlement tank. Substrate pieces were then transferred to metal cages and outplanted in pairs – shell cage and plastic cage – onto restoration reefs in the St. Mary’s River, Maryland, USA. After 10 months of growth, the oysters were collected, gill and gonadal tissue removed, and sex identified. The tissues of six oysters from each sex and substrate type were then analyzed in RNA-seq. Both gill and gonadal tissue samples had altered expression of immune and stress-response genes in response to plastic exposure. Genes upregulated in response to plastic were enriched for gene ontology functions of proteolysis and fibrinolysis. Downregulated genes were involved in shell biomineralization and growth. One male oyster exposed to plastic had “feminized” gene expression patterns despite developing mature sperm, suggesting plastic leachate can alter gene expression and shift protandric individuals to develop as females. Plastic pollution may therefore reduce shell growth, initiate immune and stress responses, alter sex differentiation, and impact reproductive output of eastern oysters through changes in transcription.

Preparation and mechanical characterization of pressed carbonized wood sawdust bio-composite

Abstract This study investigates the development and performance of carbonized bio-composites derived from wood sawdust, integrated with sustainable binders such as cement, lime, and shale ash, to create environmentally friendly construction materials. The research systematically optimizes mix compositions and curing techniques to enhance mechanical properties, softening, and sustainability, with a focus on reducing cement content and mitigating CO2 emissions. Wood sawdust, treated with various solutions (water, Al2(SO4)3, CaCl2, Ca(OH)2), was combined with binders and additives (sand, shale ash) in precise proportions, followed by a controlled carbonization process (19% CO2, 65% RH). Compressive strength tests revealed that cement-based composites with water-treated sawdust and 20% sand achieved a 44% strength increase (up to 9.6 MPa), while 30% cement replacement with shale ash yielded a 55% strength gain and improved water resistance (softening coefficient: 0.55). Carbonization, preceded by air-drying, further enhanced strength by 12% and density by 2%, demonstrating superior durability under moisture exposure. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analyses confirmed the formation of calcite and a cohesive microstructure, respectively, underpinning the mechanical improvements. CO2 emissions were reduced by up to 65% in optimized formulations compared to traditional cement production, aligning with circular economy principles. These bio-composites, suitable for lightweight masonry applications, outperform prior sawdust-based materials (1–3 MPa) in strength and sustainability. This work advances the field of sustainable construction by offering a scalable, high-performance alternative to conventional materials, with rigorous methodology and robust data supporting its potential for industrial adoption.

SS-31: A promising therapeutic agent against bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis in Mice

Objective The aim of this research was to investigate if the mitochondria- targeting peptide SS-31 could serve as a protective measure against bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis in mice. Method Mice were split into four groups named CON group, SS-31 group, BLM group, and the BLM + SS-31 group. SS-31 (intraperitoneal injection, 5mg/Kg) was administered daily from the day prior to the experiment for the control and model groups. Mice were euthanized after 28 days of the experiment, following which blood, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, and lung tissue were collected for analysis. Results BLM caused a large decrease in body weight in mice. However, the intraperitoneal injection of SS-31 slowed down the body weight loss in the mice. It was observed through HE and Masson staining, immunohistochemistry, hydroxyproline detection, and fibrosis index measurement via Western blot that SS-31 could alleviate pulmonary fibrosis caused by BLM. Electron microscopy and ATP detection further suggested that SS-31 might help protect mitochondrial structure and function. It was also found that SS-31 could reduce reactive oxygen species and myeloperoxidase, thereby alleviating the reduction of antioxidant factor MPO and SOD, as well as diminishing the inflammatory factors TNF-α, IL-1 β, and IL-6. Conclusion The mitochondria-targeting drug SS-31 exhibited potential in mitigating bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis, improving mitochondrial structural and functional damage, stabilizing the balance between oxidative and antioxidant systems, reducing inflammatory factor expression, and improving apoptosis in lung tissue.

MetaStackD A robust meta learning based deep ensemble model for prediction of sensors battery life in IoE environment

Abstract Advancements in Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and Deep Learning have paved the way for ample applications in real-time. One of the major applications of this advancement is the innovative systems influenced by the Internet of Everything (IoE). The IoE environment greatly relies on the interconnection of an enormous number of sensors that are used for collecting and transmitting data. The data gathered helps for monitoring, decision-making, and automation of smart systems in multi-disciplinary domains. These sensors operate on battery power. The battery life of the sensors limits their efficiency in operation. The mechanism for analyzing the Remaining Battery Life (RBL) plays a major role in optimizing the network performance, thereby ensuring the reliability and availability of data throughout. This work focuses on proposing a novel framework integrating pre-processing, standardization, encoding scheme, and predictive modeling that includes two algorithms, RFRImpute and MetaStackD, for predicting the RBL of sensors in any IoE device using a meta-learning-based deep ensemble approach blue for analyzing factors such as power consumption, environmental conditions, operational frequency, and workload patterns. Leveraging regression algorithms such as Random Forest, Gradient Boosting, Light Gradient Boosting, Categorical Boosting and Extreme Gradient Boosting, we have modeled the non-linear and temporal dynamics of sensor battery degradation, thereby enabling proactive maintenance strategies, dynamic energy management, and resource allocation. Experimental results on the real-world Chicago Park District Beach water IoE dataset validate the effectiveness of our proposed approach, showing a 1.4% improvement in accuracy over the traditional voting ensemble model and a 93.3% reduction in training time as well as prediction time. The model size is reduced by 95.23% when compared to traditional voting ensembles.

“People are shortening the lifetime of mentally ill persons”; Community’s perception towards mental illness and help-seeking behavior in Bench Sheko, Sheka, Kaffa and West Omo zones, South West Ethiopia, 2021

Background Mental diseases or mental disorders are conditions that affect the mind and are defined by changes in emotion, thought, or behavior. Many studies have demonstrated that people with mental illnesses are not receiving the necessary care and treatments, despite the fact that they need basic healthcare services and supportive strategies. Particularly in Ethiopia, there is a severe paucity of research on the topic. The aim of this study was to investigate how South West Ethiopians perceive and act when seeking treatment for mental illness. Methods We conducted a descriptive qualitative study in Bench-Sheko, Kaffa, West Omo, and Sheka Zones, Southwest Ethiopia, from February to May 30, 2021. A purposively selected 58 individuals were interviewed by research experts using interview guides and responses were audio recorded. The recorded data were transcribed verbatim and analyzed by following a thematic analysis approach and the findings were narrated by supporting with quotes. Results In this study, 58 participants took part, and they were let to discuss on: the definitions of mental disease, its origins and symptoms, caregiving practices, methods of treatment, and difficult tasks related to mental illness. The study showed that people’s perceptions and descriptions of people with mental illnesses, as well as how they interact with and behave when seeking care, were discriminatory. In the early stages of the illness, some family members attempt to take the mentally ill individuals to their respective places of worship, but very rarely to medical facilities. However, as the illness progresses, almost all mentally ill individuals are typically left to live on the streets, where they frequently encounter prejudice and social exclusion. Conclusion The local community does not take a supportive stance toward those who are mentally ill, and there is no formalized system in place for them to receive care and treatment. Few people who are willing to give them food, clothing, and shelter were proven to have the power to influence their fate. Therefore, it is crucial to provide mental health services to those in need and develop effective awareness-raising initiatives, especially by working with local authorities, religious leaders, and other influential individuals.

Characterization of the daily and circadian valve behavior of the European flat oyster Ostrea edulis

Abstract Marine organisms exhibit a multitude of biological rhythms synchronized with the interactions of the sun-, earth-, and moon cycles. However, the biological rhythms in bivalves remain poorly studied. This study focuses on the native European flat oyster (Ostrea edulis), an endangered species of coastal ecosystems and a key organism in restoring of biogenic reef habitats. We aim to determine whether a molecular endogenous circadian rhythm exists in O. edulis and to characterize its daily expression. To address these questions, the oysters’ valve behavior, as an output of the circadian clock expression, was recorded under different light conditions and free-running regimes using non-invasive valvometry. This work demonstrates the existence of a circadian clock mechanism that generates a labile behavioral circadian oscillation under free-running conditions. In light: dark conditions, a diel rhythm appears nocturnal, synchronizable to a shift of light phase, and remains unmodified whether the oysters are fed or not. This rhythm anticipates light: dark changes, indicating its endogenous origin. Finally, when exposed to artificial light at night the daily behavior is disrupted. This study characterizes the circadian behavioral rhythm of O. edulis’s as plastic and labile. This plasticity would be advantageous in terms of ecological adaptability but increases sensitivity to anthropogenic pressures such as light pollution.

Correction: Investigation of injury severity level in truck-related crashes at school zones using mixed generalized ordered models

Pot losses and associated implications in Barents sea snow crab fishery

Abstract Snow crab (Chionoecetes opilio) is considered an invasive species in the Barents Sea, with the first observations dating back to 1996. The Norwegian commercial snow crab fishery started in 2012. In this fishery conical baited pots are adopted, similar to fisheries in other areas that target snow crabs. Over the last decade, different management measures have been implemented to ensure sustainability in this relatively new fishery. One central challenge is pot loss during deployment caused by challenging weather and operational conditions. Lost snow crab pots exhibit considerable potential for the continuous capture of crabs, so-called ghost fishing, which has been documented during lost gear retrieval and experimental trials. This study accounted for different snow crab pot loss scenarios and associated economic implications. The results show that given the substantial number of pots on snow crab fishing vessels, even small variations in pot loss rates (pot losses ranging from 0.5 to 3.0%) could result in considerable differences in ghost fishing amounts and the associated environmental and economic effects. The estimated amounts of ghost fishing in this study ranged from 11.5 to nearly 70 tonnes of ghost-fished crabs over a 3-year period, assuming 0.5–3.0% pot loss scenarios, resulting in significant differences in the amount of ghost-fished snow crabs and the value of the ghost fishing catch. These results highlight the importance of incentives and technical measures that can reduce pot losses and the associated ghost fishing time.

Role conflict, satisfaction, and performance in administrative staff at public universities: The role of optimism and sex differences

Background This study addresses a critical gap in the literature by examining how optimism can moderate the effects of role conflict specifically among administrative staff at public universities. Role conflict is a prevalent challenge for these workers, who must navigate the demands of various groups with opposing needs, such as the university’s governing body, different professors and researchers, students, and suppliers. This situation can be a stressor that depletes their resources. Previous research has shown the negative impact of role conflict on job satisfaction and performance; however, few studies analyze this relationship in administrative employees at public universities considering their individual characteristics. One individual factor that has been shown to mitigate the negative effects of role conflict is employees’ optimism, but it is necessary to analyze whether this effect is also observed in this uniquely characterized work context and across both sexes (women/men). Objectives The purpose of this study is to verify whether role conflict has a negative impact on job satisfaction and perceived performance among administrative employees. Additionally, it aims to investigate whether employees’ optimism moderates the negative effects of role conflict on job satisfaction and performance. Moreover, this study will explore whether the effects of role conflict and optimism vary based on the employee’s sex (women/men), considering potential differences in how these factors influence their experiences and outcomes in the workplace. Design and Methods Data were collected from 334 employees with administrative and customer service roles at a public university (172 men and 162 women). This sample size provides sufficient statistical power to detect significant effects, allows for reliable subgroup analysis by gender, and aligns with typical sample sizes in organizational and psychological research. Results The results confirm that role conflict has a significantly negative influence on performance through job satisfaction (mediation effect), although only in the men group. Moreover, this process is moderated by optimism (Men: IE =.0733, SE =.028, 95% CI BC from.0210 to.1296; Women: IE =.0312, SE =.046, 95% CI BC from -.0660 to.1146). Conclusions It is concluded that role conflict negatively affects the perception of one’s own performance among administrative employees. However, while in the men group this relationship is mediated by job satisfaction and moderated by optimism, in women, role conflict directly affects performance. This difference may be due to distinct coping strategies and emotional responses to work demands between men and women, which influence how job satisfaction impacts perceived performance. These findings suggest that interventions aimed at increasing optimism and other personal resources may be particularly effective in mitigating the negative effects of role conflict, especially in men. Nonetheless, in the case of women, it is important to further investigate other potential individual factors that may moderate role conflict, as well as implement strategies that directly reduce stress sources in the workplace.

On-demand generation of nondiffracting Helmholtz–Gauss laser beams

Exploring the prevalence of atopic disease among adult cancer survivors: insights from the 2021 NHIS

Cancer survivors who undergo radiotherapy, immunotherapy, and chemotherapy experience a decline in immune system function. Atopic diseases (ADs) are associated with systemic immunosuppressant medications and exposure to environmental allergens. However, the relationship between cancer survivorship and the prevalence of ADs remains poorly understood. This study investigated whether the prevalence of ADs is increased among cancer survivors. A cross-sectional survey was conducted using data from the 2021 US National Health Interview Survey (NHIS). The data were on 28,617 adults aged 18 years and older. Data analysis was performed between May 11, 2024, and July 30, 2024. The NHIS participants reported whether they had a history of current hay fever, still asthma, current skin allergy, and/or current food allergy. A history of cancer was defined on the basis of self-reported data from the NHIS. The weighted prevalence and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of ADs were calculated. Comparisons of AD prevalence between cancer survivors and the general population were conducted using chi-square tests and multiadjusted logistic regression models. Of the 28,617 adults sampled in the 2021 NHIS, the prevalence of ADs among the cancer survivors was as follows: current hay fever (54.5%; 95% CI, 52.6%–56.4%), persistent asthma (14.7%; 95% CI, 12.9%–13.9%), current skin allergy (13.6%; 95% CI, 10.1%–15.0%), and current food allergy (11.2%; 95% CI, 10.0%–12.4%). In multivariable logistic regression models adjusted for age, sex, race/ethnicity, family income, educational level, insurance status, body mass index, general health status, region, location, and comorbidity burden, the cancer survivors had significantly higher odds of ADs than did the general population. In particular, they had higher odds of current hay fever (aOR, 1.14; 95% CI, 1.05–1.23), persistent asthma (aOR, 1.17; 95% CI, 1.03–1.33), current skin allergy (aOR, 1.26; 95% CI, 1.13–1.41), and current food allergy (aOR, 1.22; 95% CI, 1.08–1.38). The findings of this cross-sectional study indicated that the prevalence of ADs was significantly higher in cancer survivors than in the general population. Future research is required to elucidate the underlying mechanisms, optimize treatment strategies, and enhance the overall well-being of individuals with ADs and a history of cancer.

Surrogate analyte approach for the determination of endogenous cortisol, cortisone, DHEA, DHEAS in horse hair and sheep wool by LC-HRMS/MS

How have unintended pregnancies and contraceptive use among adolescent girls and young women changed in Uganda? Evidence from the 2014 and 2019 PMA national surveys

Unintended pregnancies among adolescent girls and young women (AGYW), and any pregnancy among adolescent girls are still a challenge, especially in Sub-Saharan Africa and Uganda. We assess prevalence of unintended pregnancy in Uganda, associated factors and contraceptive use following unintended pregnancy among adolescent girls and young women in 2014 and 2019 in Uganda. Data are from the 2014 and 2019 performance monitoring for action (PMA) surveys. There were 1,479 AGYW reporting ever/ or current pregnancy in the two surveys, 780 in 2014 and 699 in 2019. Data included socio-demographics and pregnancy intendedness. Descriptive analyses were conducted stratified by adolescent girls and young women and compared between surveys. The percent of unintended pregnancies was determined as the number of AGYW reporting unintended pregnancy divided by eligible participants. A weighted comparison of the prevalence of unintended pregnancies was made between the surveys, and statistical significance determined at a 5% type-1 error rate. All analyses were conducted with Stata version15 using svy surveyset methodology accounting for complex survey design. Relative to 2014, the 2019 survey showed a significant reduction in percent of AGYW reporting ever pregnant or given birth, 60% to 49%, p = 0.007; a decline in unintended pregnancy among adolescent girls, 52% to 42%, p = 0.049, and among young women with secondary education, 36% to 13%, p = 0.001. Conversely, the 2019 survey showed significant increase in contraception among those ever pregnant, 26% to 40%, p < 0.001; higher in young women (30% to 47%, p = 0.001) compared to adolescent girls (16% to 25%, p = 0.005). The commonest contraceptive methods were short-acting at both surveys, while the long-acting methods significantly increased among young women (20% to 35%, p = 0.003). The decline in unintended pregnancies was consistent with increased use of contraceptive methods. Although we observed a significant decline in unintended pregnancy among adolescent girls, the proportion reporting unintended pregnancy remains high.

Relationship between parenting styles and psychological quality of Li ethnic primary schoolchildren