Exit Point Research Articles

Reimagining the meninges from a neuroimmune perspective: a boundary, but not peripheral.

Recent advances in neuroscience have transformed our understanding of the meninges, the layers surrounding the central nervous system (CNS). Two key findings have advanced our understanding: researchers identified cranial bone marrow as a reservoir for meningeal immune cells, and rediscovered a brain lymphatic system. Once viewed merely as a protective barrier, the meninges are now recognized as a dynamic interface crucial for neuroimmune interactions. This shift in perspective highlights their unique role in maintaining CNS balance, shaping brain development, and regulating responses to injury and disease. This review synthesizes the latest insights into meningeal anatomy and function, with a focus on newly identified structures such as dural-associated lymphoid tissues (DALT) and arachnoid cuff exit (ACE) points. We also examine the diverse immune cell populations within the meninges and their interactions with the CNS, underscoring the emerging view of the meninges as active participants in brain immunity. Finally, we outline critical unanswered questions about meningeal immunity, proposing directions for future research. By addressing these knowledge gaps, we aim to deepen our understanding of the meninges' role in brain health and disease, potentially paving the way for novel therapeutic approaches.

Preparing students for success

With increased demand for skilled professionals in science and technology, universities are broadening entry requirements resulting in students entering these specialised degrees with potential knowledge gaps. This presents an opportunity to uplift student capability through personalised learning journeys, enhancing their university readiness. This report details the Monash College's new maths uplift program, which uses skills analysis tools and self-assessment processes to determine “where students are” on their learning journey, both at entry to the Monash College and through to their first year of university. Mapped to the maths requirements of their chosen degree, this program comprises three key components: (1) a comprehensive Teaching and Learning progression that maps the learning trajectory via six core domains of mathematics, (2) a set of skills analysis tests aimed at different entry and exit points in mathematics, and (3) a large set of self-paced online learning modules recommended to students based on the outcomes of their individual skills analysis tests. The three key components work together to provide a tailored educational experience supporting students towards their destination degrees. This paper reports on the development of this uplift program and presents preliminary findings indicating positive impacts on student preparedness and engagement.

Dynamic Navigation-Guided Robotic Placement of Zygomatic Implants.

To assess the feasibility and accuracy of a new prototype robotic implant system for the placement of zygomatic implants in edentulous maxillary models. The study was carried out on eight plastic models. Cone beam computed tomographs were captured for each model to plan the positions of zygomatic implants. The hand-eye calibration technique was used to register the dynamic navigation system to the robotic spaces. A total of 16 zygomatic implants were placed, equally distributed between the anterior and the posterior parts of the zygoma. The placement of the implants (ZYGAN®, Southern Implants) was carried out using an active six-jointed robotic arm (UR3e, Universal Robots) guided by the dynamic navigation coordinate transformation matrix. The accuracy of the implant placement was assessed using EvaluNav and GeoMagicDesignX® software based on pre- and post-operative CBCT superimposition. Descriptive statistics for the implant deviations and Pearson's correlation analysis of these deviations to force feedback recorded by the robotic arm were conducted. The 3D deviations at the entry and exit points were 1.80 ± 0.96 mm and 2.80 ± 0.95 mm, respectively. The angular deviation was 1.74 ± 0.92°. The overall registration time was 23.8 ± 7.0 minutes for each side of the model. Operative time excluding registration was 66.8 ± 8.8 minutes for each trajectory. The exit point and angular deviations of the implants were positively correlated with the drilling force perpendicular to the long axis of the handpiece and negatively correlated with the drilling force parallel to the long axis of the handpiece. The errors of the dynamic navigation-guided robotic placement of zygomatic implants were within the clinically acceptable limits. Further refinements are required to facilitate the clinical application of the tested integrated robotic-dynamic navigation system. Robotic placement of zygomatic implants has the potential to produce a highly predictable outcome irrespective of the operator's surgical experience or fatigue. The presented study paves the way for clinical applications.

Advancements in Dental Bioreactor Design: A Comprehensive Approach for Application in Dentistry.

The protocol introduces a novel multi-chamber bioreactor tailored for ex-vivo cell culture in dentistry research, emulating the 3D dental environment to propel research in dental applications. Constructed primarily from a polymeric material with a sophisticated 3D design, the bioreactor securely holds teeth structures within sealed chambers, enabling controlled perfusion of culture medium crucial for cell growth through a singular entry and exit point. An integrated electronic system manages flow and pressure, ensuring precise control over environmental conditions. This technology facilitates cell cultivation under conditions closely resembling natural tooth microenvironments, offering opportunities for varied studies from understanding cellular behavior in dental contexts to targeted therapy development. The bioreactor's amalgamation of polymeric components, 3D design, and electronic controls enhances adaptability and accuracy, rendering it a valuable asset in dental research. The report comprehensively delineates the bioreactor's design, operations, and potential applications, showcasing its significant contributions to dental research and regenerative medicine. By amalgamating advanced technologies, this bioreactor emerges as a pivotal tool for investigating cellular processes within dental structures, paving the way for scientific exploration and therapeutic advancements.

Small scale laboratory monotonic and cyclic pull out testing on grout and resin encapsulated cable bolts

Axial studies on cable bolts can be conducted using various scale testing apparatuses. Large scale testing, while providing a powerful platform for testing, is expensive and time consuming. This study presents details of a small scale pull out testing campaign on cable bolts and investigates the results achieved. Six popular types of cable bolts were studied using an anti rotation apparatus while encapsulated in cementitious grout and resin. The resin samples were tested under both monotonic and cyclic loading patterns. The results showed that grouted bulbed cables require higher displacement to reach their maximum load capacity which is lost at failure, while plain cables tend to hold lower loads for a longer time. Resin samples provided strain softening behaviour with low capacities, particularly in absence of cable indentation or bulbs. Cyclic loading tended to adversely affect the post peak behaviour of the resin samples, especially in the bulbed cables. Failed samples inspected after the testing suggested a non-uniform damage profile along the cable with extensive damage at the exit point transitioning into almost no damage at the entry point.

A modified protocol merging two published techniques for computer guided zygomatic implants surgery: a technical note

ObjectivesZygomatic implant surgery can be difficult due to the limited intraoperative visibility of the surgical field and the complex anatomy of the zygomatic bone, which could lead to serious complications. This study aims to assess the accuracy of zygomatic implants placement using computer-guided surgical templates.Materials and methodsA total of 13 zygomatic implants were placed in four participants. Double-sleeve drill guides were used with the help of computer-guided surgical templates designed with a lateral window. The accuracy was evaluated by measuring the linear deviations regarding the implants’ platforms and apices’ positions in addition to the angular deviations. Moreover, deviations of both implants from three fixed planes of space were measured.ResultsThe mean linear deviation at platforms was 2.44 mm ± 1.57 and at the apices 2.32 mm ± 1 while the mean angular deviation was 3.6˚ ± 1.92. Differences at the entry points were 0.43 ± 1.79 mm, 0.39 ± 1.12 mm, and − 0.54 ± 2.00 mm from the mid-sagittal, horizontal, and coronal planes respectively. Differences at the exit points were − 0.75 ± 1.25 mm, -0.06 ± 1.09 mm, and 0.63 ± 1.24 mm from the same planes respectively. Within all planes, there was no statistically significant difference.ConclusionGiven the limitations of this study, the use of the computer-guided surgical templates augmented by the double sleeve drill guides allowed favorable control over the tip of the long surgical drill away from vital structures during the zygomatic implant osteotomy. It also allowed control over alveolar crest osteotomy and its placement in a favorable prosthetic position. Overall, this protocol should be considered for further research and improvement to allow more predictable surgical outcomes while preventing the occurrence of complications. Before conducting this study, the protocol was reviewed and approved by the Research Ethical Committee of Faculty of Dentistry, Ain Shams University in meeting no. (105), on 15th of July 2020 with the application no.: (FDASU-RecD072029).

Sphingosine phosphate lyase insufficiency syndrome as a primary immunodeficiency state

Sphingosine phosphate lyase insufficiency syndrome (SPLIS) is a genetic disease associated with renal, endocrine, neurological, skin and immune defects. SPLIS is caused by inactivating mutations in SGPL1, which encodes sphingosine phosphate lyase (SPL). SPL catalyzes the irreversible degradation of the bioactive sphingolipid sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P), a key regulator of lymphocyte egress. The SPL reaction represents the only exit point of sphingolipid metabolism, and SPL insufficiency causes widespread sphingolipid derangements that could additionally contribute to immunodeficiency. Herein, we review SPLIS, the sphingolipid metabolic pathway, and various roles sphingolipids play in immunity. We then explore SPLIS-related immunodeficiency by analyzing data available in the published literature supplemented by medical record reviews in ten SPLIS children. We found 93% of evaluable SPLIS patients had documented evidence of immunodeficiency. Many of the remainder of cases were unevaluable due to lack of available immunological data. Most commonly, SPLIS patients exhibited lymphopenia and T cell-specific lymphopenia, consistent with the established role of the S1P/S1P1/SPL axis in lymphocyte egress. However, low B and NK cell counts, hypogammaglobulinemia, and opportunistic infections with bacterial, viral and fungal pathogens were observed. Diminished responses to childhood vaccinations were less frequently observed. Screening blood tests quantifying recent thymic emigrants identified some lymphopenic SPLIS patients in the newborn period. Lymphopenia has been reported to improve after cofactor supplementation in some SPLIS patients, indicating upregulation of SPL activity. A variety of treatments including immunoglobulin replacement, prophylactic antimicrobials and special preparation of blood products prior to transfusion have been employed in SPLIS. The diverse immune consequences in SPLIS patients suggest that aberrant S1P signaling may not fully explain the extent of immunodeficiency. Further study will be required to fully elucidate the complex mechanisms underlying SPLIS immunodeficiency and determine the most effective prophylaxis against infection.

Hydrological controls of a riparian wetland based on stable isotope data and model simulations.

Isotopic evidence of groundwater and stream water is frequently used to investigate water exchanges with groundwater. Monthly sampling of rain, stream water, and groundwater was conducted at Tims Branch watershed in South Carolina for the oxygen and hydrogen stable isotope (δ2H and δ18O) measurement, as well as pH and oxidation-reduction potential (ORP). Together with a mass balance perspective, it was determined that it takes a few weeks to one month for groundwater in the hyporheic zone to fully exchange with stream water. From hydrodynamic modelling, we show that substantial (up to 70 %) groundwater exchange occurs at gaining and losing sites. Groundwater exfiltration, i.e. inflow into stream water, contributes up to 4 % to stream water, with the remainder from upstream exfiltration. A 2-4 % per day renewal rate of adjacent groundwater would indirectly indicate a groundwater residence time in the order of half a month to a full month (assuming either a well-mixed case or large dispersion rate in pulse flow case), in agreement with a greatly reduced variability of δ2H and δ18O of groundwater compared to stream water and rain. This reduced variability of stable isotope signal from groundwater confirms our hypothesis that riparian groundwater mixing at Tims Branch is more of a mixed type rather than a pulse flow type. A monthly time scale is sufficient for groundwater to become anoxic at exit points into stream water resulting in the episodic production of natural organic matter- and iron-rich flocs upon oxidation.

Time–Frequency Co-Movement of South African Asset Markets: Evidence from an MGARCH-ADCC Wavelet Analysis

The growing prominence of generating a well-diversified portfolio by holding securities from multi-asset markets has, over the years, drawn criticism. Various financial market events have caused asset markets to co-move, especially in emerging markets, which reduces portfolio diversification and enhances return losses. Consequently, this study examines the time–frequency co-movement of multi-asset classes in South Africa by using the Multivariate Generalized Autoregressive Conditional Heteroscedastic–Asymmetrical Dynamic Conditional Correlation (MGARCH-DCC) model, Maximal Overlap Discrete Wavelet Transformation (MODWT), and the Continuous Wavelet Transform (WTC) for the period 2007 to 2024. The findings demonstrate that the equity–bond, equity–property, equity–gold, bond–property, bond–gold, and property–gold markets depict asymmetrical time-varying correlations. Moreover, correlation in these asset pairs varies at investment periods (short-term, medium-term, and long-term), with historical events such as the 2007/2008 Global Financial Crisis (GFC) and the COVID-19 pandemic causing these asset pairs to co-move at different investment periods, which reduces diversification properties. The findings suggest that South African multi-asset markets co-move, affecting the diversification properties of holding multi-asset classes in a portfolio at different investment periods. Consequently, investors should consider the holding periods of each asset market pair in a portfolio as they dictate the level of portfolio diversification. Investors should also remember that there are lead–lag relationships and risk transmission between asset market pairs, enhancing portfolio volatility. This study assists investors in making more informed investment decisions and identifying optimal entry or exit points within South African multi-asset markets.

Light-modulated neural control of sphincter regulation in the evolution of through-gut

The development of a continuous digestive tract, or through-gut, represents a key milestone in bilaterian evolution. However, the regulatory mechanisms in ancient bilaterians (urbilaterians) are not well understood. Our study, using larval sea urchins as a model, reveals a sophisticated system that prevents the simultaneous opening of the pylorus and anus, entry and exit points of the gut. This regulation is influenced by external light, with blue light affecting the pylorus via serotonergic neurons and both blue and longer wavelengths controlling the anus through cholinergic and dopaminergic neurons. These findings provide new insights into the neural orchestration of sphincter control in a simplified through-gut, which includes the esophagus, stomach, and intestine. Here, we propose that the emergence of the earliest urbilaterian through-gut was accompanied by the evolution of neural systems regulating sphincters in response to light, shedding light on the functional regulation of primordial digestive systems.

High pressure and high temperature Brillouin scattering measurements of pyrope single crystals using flexible CO2 laser heating systems

Single-crystal Brillouin scattering measurements are important for interpreting seismic velocities within the Earth and other planetary interiors. These measurements are rare, however, at temperatures above 1000 K, due to the fact that the transparent samples cannot be heated by common laser heating systems operating at a wavelength on the order of 1 μm. Here we present Brillouin scattering data on pyrope collected at pressures up to 23.8 GPa and temperatures between 850 and 1900 K using a novel CO2 laser heating system confined in either a flexible hollow silica waveguide or an articulated arm with mirrors mounted in each junction to direct the laser to the exit point. Pyrope has been chosen because it has been extensively studied at high pressures and moderate temperatures and therefore it is an excellent sample for bench-marking the CO2 laser heating system. The new high-temperature velocity data collected in this study allow the room pressure thermal parameters of pyrope to be constrained more tightly, resulting in values that reproduce the temperature dependence of the unit-cell volume of pyrope measured in recent studies at ambient pressure. Aggregate wave velocities of pyrope calculated along an adiabat using the thermoelastic parameters determined in this study are larger than those obtained using published values, implying that velocities for many mantle components may be underestimated at mantle temperatures because high temperature experimental data are lacking.

Comparative assessment of the scientific structure of biomass-based hydrogen from a cross-domain perspective

Biomass-based hydrogen production is an innovative approach for realizing carbon-neutral energy solutions. Despite their promise, both structures differ in terms of the biomass energy domain, which is at the entry point of the technology, and the hydrogen energy domain, which is at the exit point of the technology. In this study, we conducted structural and predictive analyses via cross-domain bibliometric analysis to clarify the differences in the structures and perspectives of researchers across domains and to suggest ways to strengthen collaboration to promote innovation. Our study revealed that the hydrogen energy domain has a balanced impact on realizing a hydrogen society using biomass-based hydrogen production technology, while the biomass energy domain has a strong interest in the process of processing biomass. The results reveal that different communities have different ideas about research, resulting in a divide in the areas to be achieved. This comparative analysis reveals the importance of synergistic progress through interdisciplinary efforts. By filling these gaps, our findings can lead to the development of a roadmap for future research and policy development in renewable energy and highlight the importance of a unified approach to sustainable hydrogen production. The contribution of this study is to provide evidence for the importance of cross-disciplinary cooperation for R&D directors and policy makers.

Early-Exit Deep Neural Network - A Comprehensive Survey

Deep neural networks (DNNs) typically have a single exit point that makes predictions by running the entire stack of neural layers. Since not all inputs require the same amount of computation to reach a confident prediction, recent research has focused on incorporating multiple ”exits” into the conventional DNN architecture. Early-exit DNNs are multi-exit neural networks that attach many side branches to the conventional DNN, enabling inference to stop early at intermediate points. This approach offers several advantages, including speeding up the inference process, mitigating the vanishing gradients problems, reducing overfitting and overthinking tendencies. It also supports DNN partitioning across devices and is ideal for multi-tier computation platforms such as edge computing. This paper decomposes the early-exit DNN architecture and reviews the recent advances in the field. The study explores its benefits, designs, training strategies, and adaptive inference mechanisms. Various design challenges, application scenarios, and future directions are also extensively discussed.

Semantics of Transition: Death and Resurrection of the Hero in Film Fantasy at the Turn of the 20th—21st Centuries

The article is devoted to the study of human metaphysical experience through cinema art. The material of the study is widely known fantasy films (“The Lord of the Rings”, “The Matrix”, “Harry Potter”, “The Chronicles of Narnia”, “Avatar”), in which the sacral space is realized as a magical fairy tale or a dream, and the hero acting in it is identified with the concept of “soul” or “consciousness”. The aim of the study is to semantically and cognitively analyze the visual image of transition through death, which is offered to the viewer by cinematography, and to model the director’s concepts included in it. The author’s concept of transition is based on the works of M. Eliade, A. van Gennep, C.G. Jung, M.P. Hall and is revealed as a multi-phase process of soul transformation in the conditions of spiritual or perceptual crisis. It is established that the transition scenario in the films considered includes an “entry point” into another world, a series of initiations and an “exit point”. In this context, death and resurrection are the climactic phase and have different symbolic connotations, their essence depending on the prototype that the hero imitates. As it has been revealed, the imitation of cyclical forces of nature (solar, agrarian deities) by contemporary directors is interpreted by them as a long stage of soul maturation, which is no longer opposed to, but naturally precedes the imitation of the “divine archetype” (in the Christian tradition, Christ the Saviour). The axis of transition from forced submission to the endless cycle of renewal to the evolutionary stage of spiritual maturity is the act of “awakening” expressed in the willingness to voluntarily sacrifice oneself out of love and compassion for others. Death and resurrection in this case manifest the metaphysical transformation of the soul aspect into the spiritual one. At the same time, in the process of studying the film material, a tendency of a transgressive nature was detected, namely the replacement of the concept “soul” by the concept “brain”. As a result of identifying the functions of the human brain with the functions of a computer in the mental space, there is a danger of substitution of the divine image by artificial intelligence, which can provoke the blocking of the channel “soul – spirit” and the involutionary turn from spirit to matter.

Pre-DNNOff: On-Demand DNN Model Offloading Method for Mobile Edge Computing

Deep Neural Networks (DNNs) are critical for modern intelligent processing but cause significant latency and energy consumption issues on mobile devices due to their high computational demands. Moreover, different tasks have different accuracy demands for DNN inference. To balance latency and accuracy across various tasks, we introduce PreDNNOff, a method that offloads DNNs at a layer granularity within the Mobile Edge Computing (MEC) environment. PreDNNOff utilizes a binary stochastic programming model and Genetic Algorithms (GAs) to optimize the expected latency for multiple exit points based on the distribution of task inference accuracy and layer latency regression models. Compared to the existing method Edgent, PreDNNOff has achieved a reduction of about 10% in the expected total latency, and due to the consideration of different tasks’ varying requirements for accuracy, it has a broader applicability.

A Framework for Assessing Ocean Mixed Layer Depth Evolution

AbstractThe ocean surface mixed layer plays a crucial role as an entry or exit point for heat, salt, momentum, and nutrients from the surface to the deep ocean. In this study, we introduce a framework to assess the evolution of the mixed layer depth (MLD) for realistic forcings and preconditioning conditions. Our approach involves a physically‐based parameter space defined by three dimensionless numbers: λs representing the relative contribution of the buoyancy flux and the wind stress at the air‐sea interface, Rh the Richardson number which characterizes the stability of the water column relative to the wind shear, and f/Nh which characterizes the importance of the Earth's rotation (ratio of the Coriolis frequency f and the pycnocline stratification Nh). Four MLD evolution regimes (“restratification,” “stable,” “deepening,” and “strong deepening”) are defined based on the values of the normalized temporal evolution of the MLD. We evaluate the 3D parameter space in the context of 1D simulations and we find that considering only the two dimensions (λs, Rh) is the best choice of 2D projection of this 3D parameter space. We then demonstrate the utility of this two‐dimensional λs − Rh parameter space to compare 3D realistic ocean simulations: we discuss the impact of the horizontal resolution (1°, 1/12°, or 1/60°) and the Gent‐McWilliams parameterization on MLD evolution regimes. Finally, a proof of concept of using observational data as a truth indicates how the parameter space could be used for model calibration.

Innovative 3D Navigation Module for Precise Unilateral Pedicle Screw Combined with Contralateral Translaminar Facet Screw Placement in Lumbar Spine Surgery.

The incidence of degenerative diseases of the lumbar spine has increased in recent years. Unilateral pedicle screw combined with contralateral translaminar facet screw fixation offers the advantages of less trauma, better stability, and fewer complications. However, the surgical difficulty and suboptimal pinning accuracy of translaminar facet screw placement in clinical practice limit its use. Therefore, in this study, we designed a novel suspended 3D-printed navigation module to facilitate fast and accurate intraoperative screw placement. The aim of this study is to investigate the digital design, precise implementation, and evaluation methods for placing unilateral pedicle screws in the lumbar spine combined with translaminar facet screw placement using a new suspended 3D navigation module. This retrospective study included 46 patients with single-level lumbar lesions who underwent spine surgery at the Affiliated Hospital of Putian University between June 2022 and December 2023. The suspended navigation module was designed digitally. Preoperative screw placement was simulated using 3D printed models, followed by an intraoperative accurate screw placement facilitated by the navigation module and a postoperative evaluation of the accuracy of screw placement. The absolute difference in three-dimensional coordinates of the inlet and outlet points of the preoperative design and the postoperative screw-nail channel served as the precision index. In a study involving 46 patients, surgery was successful with 92 pedicle screws and 46 translaminar facet screws placed without any penetration of the cortex. The difference in coordinates before and after screw insertion was minimal, with entry points varying between 1.21 to 1.36 mm and exit points between 1.97 to 2.46 mm. When screw accuracy met certain thresholds, there was no significant difference between preoperative design and postoperative coordinates, indicating precise replication of the surgical plan. The new suspended 3D navigation module enables the precise placement of unilateral pedicle screws in the lumbar spine combined with translaminar pedicle screws for precise surgery.

Prediction of difficult round window visibility during cochlear implantation via a reformatted CT facial recess view: A retrospective study with surgical correlation.

Cochlear implant surgery is performed commonly through the facial recess via the round window (RW) approach. This study aims to evaluate the utility of reformatting the pre-operative CT temporal bone scan into a CT facial recess view in alerting surgeons to a potentially difficult surgery with poorly visualized round window. This is a retrospective study of 41 patients (43 ears), who had undergone cochlear implant surgery. Intraoperative findings of round window position relative to 2nd genu-mastoid portion of facial nerve, and round window membrane orientation were recorded by the surgeons. Pre-operative CTs were analyzed by two radiologists in axial and a reformatted facial recess plane that simulates the surgeon's view via the facial recess. Radiological assessment markers include the facial nerve-chorda tympani nerve width (FN-CTN) measured 1.2mm inferior to the exit point of the chorda tympani nerve into the tympanic cavity, round window position relative to 2nd genu-mastoid segment of the facial nerve and RW membrane's angle from the vertical axis. The best predictor for difficult round window intraoperative visibility is the RW position relative to the 2nd genu-mastoid segment of the facial nerve lying lateral to it on CT facial recess reformatted images. A RW that lies partially to completely posterior to the posterior border of the 2nd genu-mastoid segment of the facial nerve had up to 55.6% risk of encountering difficult access, while those positioned anterior to or partially anterior to the anterior edge of the 2nd genu-mastoid segment of the facial nerve had 0% risk of difficult access (p<0.05). There are substantial agreements in the intra-rater (Kappa=0.751, p<0.001) and inter-rater reliability (Kappa= 0.698, p<0.001). There is no significant association between surgical difficulty and facial nerve-chorda tympani distance or RW angle (p>0.05). Identification of round window positions in the reformatted CT facial recess view is a useful tool in predicting potentially difficult round window access in cochlear implant surgery. RW= Round window, FN-CTN= facial nerve to chorda tympani nerve width.

Design of Municipal Transport Vehicles in Bali Province

Urban transport involves the movement of people and goods from one place to another using public vehicles, which can be either motorised or non-motorised. The presence of urban transport is crucial for supporting community mobility and can reduce the reliance on private vehicles. Ideally, urban transport should ensure both safety and comfort for drivers and passengers. However, in reality, safety and comfort are often inadequate. Issues such as overcrowded seating due to non-compliant designs, awkward entry and exit points that pose risks to passengers, lack of dedicated seating for disabled individuals, and absence of seat belts on all seats contribute to the problem. Moreover, many accidents involving urban transport are caused by the poor condition of the vehicles. Given these issues, this study is titled "Design of Urban Transport Vehicles in Bali Province." The research aims to analyse the current problems faced by urban transport systems. The goal is to develop a vehicle design that can restore the image of public transportation in Indonesia, particularly for urban transport or public minibus (angkot), and enhance safety, especially in Bali Province.

Joint-optimized coverage path planning framework for USV-assisted offshore bathymetric mapping: From theory to practice

Designing effective coverage routes for unmanned surface vehicles (USVs) is crucial to improve the efficiency of offshore bathymetric surveys. However, existing coverage planning methods for practical use are limited, primarily due to the large-scale surveying areas and intricate region geometries caused by coastal features. This study aims to address these challenges by introducing a coverage path planning framework for USV-assisted bathymetric mapping, specifically aimed at the joint optimization of paths to cover numerous complex regions. Initially, we conceptualize the large-scale bathymetric survey mission as an integer programming model. The model uses four distinct decision variables to meticulously formulate length calculations, inter-regional connections, entry and exit point selections, and line sweep direction. Then, a novel hierarchical algorithm is devised to solve the problem. The method first incorporates a bisection-based convex decomposition method to achieve optimal partitioning of complex regions. Additionally, a hierarchical heuristic optimization algorithm that seamlessly integrates the optimization of all influencing factors is designed, which includes order generation, candidate pattern finding, tour finding, and final optimization. The reliability of the framework is validated through semi-physical simulations and lake trials using a real USV. Through comparative studies, our model demonstrates clear advantages in computational efficiency and optimization capability compared to state-of-the-arts, with its superiority becoming more pronounced as the problem scale increases. The results from lake trials further affirm the efficient and reliable performance of our model in practical bathymetric survey tasks.