Life Technologies Research Articles

Does Digital Intergroup Contact Reduce Prejudice? A Meta-Analysis.

With the ubiquity of technology in the modern life, contact between different social groups via different digital means is an everyday reality. Can such a digital intergroup contact reduce prejudice, or does it exacerbate it? In this study, we summarize the present evidence on the links between intergroup digital contact and prejudice in a variety of intergroup contexts. We meta-analyzed experimental and correlational evidence from 88 independent samples (n = 9,385). Digital intergroup contact showed a small but significant effect consistent with prejudice reduction (g = 0.25). Direct digital contact showed larger effect than indirect forms of contact, and contact via computer-mediated communication showed larger effects than contact achieved via other activities such as interacting with nonplayable characters or embodiment. The effects were similar regardless of the type of out-group targeted by prejudice. Overall, meta-analytical results suggest that digital intergroup contact may reduce prejudice.

Performance evaluation of hybrid fiber reinforced concrete on engineering properties and life cycle assessment: A sustainable approach

Conventional concrete in its existing form possesses characteristics like better compressive strength, density, resistance against moisture and enhanced performance under various exposure conditions like elevated temperature and long-term durability etc. However, some of the shortcomings such as reduced ductility, brittleness can be improved by using additives like fibers to improve its properties. The present study highlights the performance evaluation of engineering properties and life cycle assessment (LCA) of hybrid fiber reinforced concrete (HFRC) incorporating with glass and polypropylene fibers in equal proportions (0%, 0.5%, 1.0%, 1.5%, and 2.0%). In addition to these, impact resistance at first crack phase and post cracking phase i.e., at failure have also been investigated to ascertain the effect of HFRC vs conventional concrete mixes. Sorptivity studies also performed to find its effect on HFRC, and control concrete mixes prepared with and without glass and polypropylene fibers. Reduction in workability of concrete was observed with increase in hybrid fiber content. Superior performance in terms of strength and durability properties was observed at 1% hybrid fiber content. Similarly, this study also focuses on studying the impact of HFRC and conventional concrete on environment using LCA approach. For LCA, SimaPro software and EcoInvent database is used to compare environmental impact assessment of HFRC and conventional concrete mixes. Impact on environment and cost comparison on HFRC mixes exhibits satisfactory results when compared to conventional mix. Finally, this research will address the need for HFRC mixes to achieve their adaptability in construction sector to make concrete economic and environmentally friendly.

A thrust vector control test system of large range solid rocket engine utilizing a four-point support piezoelectric dynamometer and a deflected flange structure

The accurate measurement of thrust vector is very important to improve the life and safety of aircraft engine. In order to meet the requirements of thrust vector test of a solid rocket engine and overcome the contradiction between large thrust (>50 kN) and high-frequency response (≫30 Hz)/high precision measurement (<3%), a thrust vector control test system utilizing a four-point support piezoelectric dynamometer (FSPD) and a deflected flange structure was proposed. The test system mainly consists of a four-point support piezoelectric dynamometer and some vector force simulation loading devices. The theoretical mechanical model and the thrust vector control test system was set up to study the performance of solid rocket engine. Firstly, the piezoelectric elements and four-point support piezoelectric dynamometer were calibrated by the three-direction force calibration loading device. Secondly, the rationality and feasibility of the thrust vector control test system were proved by the simulated loading experiment. The research results show that the static and dynamic performance of the test system meet the test requirements, and it has good linearity and repeatability, errors are less than 1.00 %, and interphase interference is less than 2.00 %. The measuring system proposed in this paper provides a new idea for the accurate measurement of vector force with large load and high-frequency response.

The smart home, a true home? How new technologies disrupt the experience of home for older persons

AbstractSmart home technologies (SHTs) can support older persons to age in place. However, adoption of SHTs remains low among this population. A reason for this is that they are not accustomed to having a home that is technologically enhanced. In this article, we focus on the older persons’ lived experience of “home” and show how SHTs potentially disrupt it. In consulting the currently available literature, both theoretical and empirical, we propose and use the concept of somatic capability assessment (SCA) in the discussion surrounding the design of SHTs for older persons. First, we propose SCA as a concept to grasp how humans take decisions while relying on their physical body, undisturbed by suggestions from technologies. Furthermore, we show that SCA functions best in a familiar and private environment—the home. SHTs have the potential to make the home seem unfamiliar and exposed, precisely through added data and the resulting suggestions, as we show through related empirical studies. Thus, SHTs hold an increased disruptive potential for older persons at home. By introducing SCA into the discussion of SHTs for older persons, and thus paying attention on how SHTs potentially disrupt the experience of home, further advances the ethical discussion on the adequate use and design of technologies in daily life, especially for the group of older persons. Our analysis offers important insights for the design and implementation processes of SHTs for older persons.

REAL TIME FACE ATTENDANCE SYSTEM USING DEEP LEARNING

One's face is a physical depiction of who they are. As a result, we have suggested a facial recognition- based automatic student attendance system. The usage of face recognition technology in everyday life is particularly beneficial for security control systems. Face recognition is used by the FBI (Federal Bureau of Investigation) for criminal investigations as well as the airport security system to identify criminals. In the first step of our suggested method, video framing, the camera is activated using a user-friendly interface. The Viola-Jones method is used to identify and segment the face ROI from the video frame. If necessary, image size scaling is done at the pre-processing step to prevent information loss. After using the median filter to reduce noise, color pictures are transformed into grayscale versions. Then, to improve the contrast of the pictures, contrast-limited adaptive histogram equalization (CLAHE) is applied. Principal component analysis (PCA) and improved local binary pattern (LBP) are used appropriately in the face identification stage to extract the characteristics from facial pictures. By minimizing the lighting impact and boosting identification rates, the improved local binary pattern outperforms the original local binary pattern in our suggested method. The features that were retrieved from the training pictures and the features that were extracted from the test images are then compared. The face pictures are then identified and categorized using the upgraded LBP, PCA, and algorithm that produced the best results. The acknowledged student's attendance will then be recorded and saved in the excel file. A warning will be sent if a student signs in more than once. The student who is not enrolled will also be allowed to register right away. When two photographs per person are trained, the average recognition accuracy is 100% for high-quality images, 94.12% for low-quality images, and 95.76% for the face database.

Community-Dwelling Older Adults' Readiness for Adopting Digital Health Technologies: Cross-Sectional Survey Study.

Digital health technologies offer the potential to improve the daily lives of older adults, maintain their health efficiently, and allow aging in place. Despite increasing evidence of benefits and advantages, readiness for adopting digital interventions among older people remains underexplored. This study aims to explore the relationships between sociodemographic-, health-, and lifestyle-related factors and technology use in everyday life and community-dwelling older adults' readiness to adopt telemedicine, smartphones with texting apps, wearables, and robotics. This was a cross-sectional, population-based survey study with a stratified probabilistic sample of adults aged 75 years or older living in South Tyrol (autonomous province of Bolzano/Bozen, Italy). A random sample of 3600 community-dwelling older adults living at home was invited to complete a questionnaire including single items (older adults' readiness to use health technology) and scales (PRISMA-7; Program of Research on Integration of Services for the Maintenance of Autonomy). Descriptive and logistic regression analyses were performed to analyze the data. In total, 1695 community-dwelling older adults completed the survey (for a response rate of 47%). In terms of potential digital health technology adoption, wearable devices were favored by 33.7% (n=571), telemedicine by 30.1% (n=510), smartphones and texting apps by 24.5% (n=416), and assistant robots by 13.7% (n=232). Sociodemographic-, health- and lifestyle-related factors, as well as the use of technology in everyday life, played a significant role in explaining readiness to adopt digital health technologies. For telemedicine, age ≥85 years (odds ratio [OR] 0.74, 95% CI 0.56-0.96), financial constraints (OR 0.68, 95% CI 0.49-0.95), and less than 2 hours of physical activity per week (OR 0.75, 95% CI 0.58-0.98) were associated with nonreadiness, while Italian-speaking participants (OR 1.54, 95% CI 1.16-2.05) and those regularly using computers (OR 1.74, 95% CI 1.16-2.60), smartphones (OR 1.69, 95% CI 1.22-2.35), and the internet (OR 2.26, 95% CI 1.47-3.49) reported readiness for adoption. Community-dwelling older adults display varied readiness toward the adoption of digital health technologies, influenced by age, mother tongue, living situation, financial resources, physical activity, and current use of technology. The findings underscore the need for tailored interventions and educational programs to boost digital health technology adoption among community-dwelling older adults.

Unpacking Technostress: A Systematic Review on its Effects and Mitigation

The exponential growth of technology in everyday life has given rise to technostress, a condition marked by negative psychological and physiological effects. This systematic review synthesizes current research on technostress, examining its global definition, regional variations, impacts, opportunities and mitigation strategies. Drawing on established theories such as the Technostress Model, Job Demands-Resources Model, and Person-Environment Fit Model, the review explores the complex interplay between technology use and stress. The technostress model posits that technostress arises from negative reactions to technology use, fueled by information overload, task demands, and lack of control. The job demands-resource model views technology as either a stressor or a resource, impacting well-being based on organizational context and individual traits, while the person-environment fit model links technostress to capability-demand mismatches. Studies link technostress to anxiety, depression, and physical health problems. The review underscores the importance of tailored interventions, emphasizing organizational support, user-centered design, and individual coping mechanisms in managing technostress, especially in regions with high prevalence rates. In addition to these interventions, the review emphasizes the need for ongoing education and awareness campaigns to promote digital literacy and healthy technology habits. By equipping individuals with the knowledge and skills to navigate the complexities of the digital landscape, these initiatives can empower them to make informed decisions and effectively manage technostress in their daily lives. Highlighting the significance of culturally-tailored interventions, future research aims to refine mitigation strategies and investigate the potential benefits of technology use, ultimately fostering a balanced relationship with technology to minimize drawbacks and maximize advantages.

Establishment of health food safety evaluation method-In vivo genotoxicity evaluation by micronucleus assay

In recent years, various factors such as shifts in health consciousness, changes in lifestyle habits, increased focus on dietary intake, the promotion of alternative medical concepts, and advancements in life sciences and technology have propelled the robust growth of the health food industry. An increasing number of reports suggest that "functional foods," containing beneficial functional components, may enhance short-term well-being and are increasingly regarded as healthful. Building upon these findings, this study aims to enhance the production capacity of high-value agricultural products. However, for quality assurance, toxicity assessment of functional foods is imperative. There is a growing necessity to employ in vivo genotoxicity assays to evaluate the carcinogenic potential of these products. In this study, we tried to establish another in vivo genotoxicity evaluation platform via acridine orange induction. According to all results in this study, during the experiment, there were no statistically significant differences in BW between the negative control group and the normal control group (p &gt; 0.05). Moreover, the clinical observations of the experimental mice showed that all mice survived until the end of the experiment, and no abnormal clinical symptoms were observed. The mouse’s food consumption in each group were monitored during the experiments. The food consumption of mice was recorded daily after the experiment. During the experiments, there were no significant difference between two groups on the food consumption. The percentage of RETs/1,000 RBCs in the negative control group was significantly decrease than the normal control group (p &lt; 0.001). RETs/1,000 RBCs (‰) in ICR mice (n = 5/group) in the negative control group and the normal control group at 48th and 72th hours-experiment were respectively 18 ± 4.6 / 45.6 ± 4.0 (48th hours-experiment) and 19 ± 4.8 / 47.6 ± 4.8 (72th hours-experiment). The percentage of Mn-RETs/1,000 RETs in the negative control group was significantly increase than the normal control group (p &lt; 0.001). Mn-RETs/1,000 RETs (‰) in ICR mice (n = 5/group) in the negative control group and the normal control group were 10.6 ± 2.1 / 0.4 ± 0.5 and 8.2 ± 1.8 / 0.4 ± 0.5, respectively. Taken all results of RET/RBCs (‰) and MN-RET/RETs (‰) together, the genotoxicity in the negative control group has been successfully induced. In light of these requirements, we propose utilizing the mammalian erythrocyte micronucleus assay to detect damage induced by test substances to erythroblast chromosomes. This study endeavors to establish a sensitive and stable method for quantifying micronuclei formation in erythrocytes in vivo. The resulting data will facilitate the evaluation of potential toxicity associated with agricultural functional products in the future.

Appropriate Technology Machine Innovation Training for High School-Vocational School Students as an Important Role in Increasing the Productivity of MSMEs in Benowo District

Empowering appropriate technology is very important to support the sustainability of small businesses in the region. This activity is essential to introduce appropriate technology to high school/vocational school students as young technology drivers. This community service program aims to teach students how to use relevant technology in everyday life. Guiding in completing appropriate technology according to the needs the small business desires properly and correctly. The method for implementing community service activities is carried out by directing the Implementation and completion of the tools used at the regional level. The first stage is developing and applying TTG machines in natural resource management. The second stage is implementing the TTG machine for community empowerment (strategic opportunities and challenges). The third stage is implementing TTG machines to manage abundant natural resource potential. The fourth stage is the promotion of TTG machines for community empowerment in the Implementation of Law No. 6 of 2014. The fifth stage is the design and method of making the TTG machine.

Remaining life prediction of aircraft engines based on IGOA-LSTM-FNN

Predicting the remaining life of aircraft engines is paramount in aviation maintenance management. It helps formulate maintenance schedules, reduce maintenance expenses, and enhance flight safety. Traditional methods for predicting the remaining life of an engine suffer from significant errors and limited generalization capabilities. This paper introduces a predictive model based on Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) networks and Feedforward Neural Networks (FNN) to improve prediction accuracy. Furthermore, the model’s hyperparameters undergo optimization using the Gannet Optimization Algorithm (GOA). Leveraging the N-CMAPSS dataset for prediction and transfer learning experiments, the results highlight the significant advantages of the proposed model in forecasting the remaining life of aircraft engines. When subjected to training and testing on the DS02 equipment dataset, the root mean square error (RMSE) registers at 5.04. At that time, the score function reached a value of 1.39, surpassing the performance of current state-of-the-art prediction methods. Additionally, in terms of its transfer learning capabilities, the model demonstrates minimal fluctuations in RMSE when applied directly to datasets of various other engine models. It consistently maintains a high level of predictive accuracy.

Sustainable assessment of low viscous biofuel for compression ignition engine using wear debris analysis – Tribological investigation

Lemon Peel oil is one of the ecologically friendly biofuels has many significant benefits for power generation applications. Lemon peel oil is extracted from left over rinds of lemon peel by applying steam distillation process. In the present work, long term durability study of compression ignition engines has been conducted using 10 % and 20 % low viscous biofuels with diesel. For 256 h long term durability investigation, wear debris, ferrography evaluation of lubricating oil samples and cylinder liner surface roughness analysis are conducted for these fuels operations. The results have revealed that higher metal wear concentrations are observed in the samples of lubricant oil with LPO20 compared with LPO10 and diesel. It is due to more oxidation of fuel and lubricant oil dilution while running the engine. Similarly, wear of the engine cylinder liner surface is also more when the engine is fuelled with LPO20 as compared to LPO10 and diesel. In addition, Ferrography results have shown a higher wear concentration of lubricant samples collected from the LPO20-operated engine compared with other used fuels. Finally, it is concluded that has poor engine life due to its low viscous nature and it could be improved by suitable reformulation for long term application.

The Role of Technology in Higher Education : Exploring Current Trends and Challenges in Life Sciences Teaching and Learning

One of the key elements of India's 2030 strategy for sustainable development is high-quality education. It seeks to guarantee all students receive a high-quality, inclusive education. Digital technology has become a vital instrument in accomplishing this objective. Digital technologies aim to increase productivity and efficiency while reducing or eliminating waste and pollution. Both students' and teachers' lives have been made easier by technological advancements in education. Students today employ a variety of software and tools to develop presentations and projects with the aid of the internet, as opposed to writing by hand. This survey studywas conducted during September 2023 to December 2023 that looks into how life sciences are now taught and learned in higher education, with an emphasis on how technology is being used in the classroom. In order to obtain understanding of the application of technologically improved teaching techniques, difficulties encountered, and new trends in life sciences education, the study looks at the views of both faculty members and students also this survey research explores the contemporary patterns influencing the use of technology in life sciences education.

Energy Storage Systems: Technologies and High-Power Applications

Energy storage systems are essential in modern energy infrastructure, addressing efficiency, power quality, and reliability challenges in DC/AC power systems. Recognized for their indispensable role in ensuring grid stability and seamless integration with renewable energy sources. These storage systems prove crucial for aircraft, shipboard systems, and electric vehicles, addressing peak load demands economically while enhancing overall system reliability and efficiency. Recent advancements and research have focused on high-power storage technologies, including supercapacitors, superconducting magnetic energy storage, and flywheels, characterized by high-power density and rapid response, ideally suited for applications requiring rapid charging and discharging. Hybrid energy storage systems and multiple energy storage devices represent enhanced flexibility and resilience, making them increasingly attractive for diverse applications, including critical loads. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of recent technological advancements in high-power storage devices, including lithium-ion batteries, recognized for their high energy density. In addition, a summary of hybrid energy storage system applications in microgrids and scenarios involving critical and pulse loads is provided. The research further discusses power, energy, cost, life, and performance technologies.

Study of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma transcriptome after proton therapy

Aim. To evaluate changes in the transcriptome of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) tissue cells in patients after proton therapy.Materials and methods. Biopsy material obtained from 3 HNSCC patients before and after proton therapy at a total dose of 10 isoGy was homogenized, purified, and concentrated. Then total RNA was isolated with further purification and concentration with the RNA Clean &amp; Concentrator kit (Zymo Research). Library quantitation was assessed using the Qubit 2.0 instrument (Invitrogen, Life Technologies). After isolation of 1 μg total RNA for sequencing, libraries were prepared on the Illumina platform using the TruSeq RNA Sample Prep Kit v2 with a 10-cycle enrichment step according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. The quality of RNA and the resulting libraries was checked using the Agilent 2100 Bioanalyzer system (Agilent Tec. Inc., USA). The RIN parameter for RNA was at least 7. The library concentration was assessed by real-time PCR on the CFX96 Touch Real-Time PCR Detection System (Bio-Rad, USA). Final libraries were pooled in equimolar ratios before sequencing on the Illumina HiSeq 2500 platform using 50 base-pair paired-end reads. The Q20 parameter for all samples was &gt; 97%, and the number of reads averaged 60.2 million per sample. Raw reads were processed using the RTA 1.17.21.3 and Casava 1.8.2 (Illumina). The enrichment analysis was performed using the PANTHER 17.0 software.Results. The transcriptome analysis of HNSCC after proton radiation therapy (5 x 2 isoGy) at a total dose of 10 isoGy revealed 1,414 significantly differentially expressed genes. The 10 most and least expressed genes and their associated signaling pathways were identified. A number of signaling pathways associated with the underexpressed genes were detected in HNSCC after proton therapy, such as: STAT5; PD-1 signaling pathway; marked MET-mediated activation of PTK2 signaling pathway, PDGF signaling; CD22-mediated regulation of BCR; and FCERI-mediated MAPK activation. In addition to the above signaling pathways, activation of collagen degradation, FCGR3A-mediated phagocytosis, and FCGR3A-mediated interleukin (IL)-10 synthesis are of interest. In the enrichment analysis among highly expressed genes, keratinization and biological oxidation processes were activated in HNSCC tissues after proton therapy.Conclusion. Proton therapy in HNSCC leads to overexpression of genes involved in the regulation of keratinization and biological oxidation processes as well as to underexpression of genes associated with suppression of signaling pathways: STAT5, PD-1, MET-mediated activation of PTK2 signaling pathway, PDGF signaling; CD22-mediated regulation of BCR; FCERI-mediated MAPK activation, collagen degradation, FCGR3A-mediated phagocytosis activation, and FCGR3A-mediated IL-10 synthesis. All signaling pathways of underexpressed genes function in HNSCC cells if there is no negative influence on the tumor from outside (irradiation or delivery of antitumor drugs). The predominance of suppressed signaling pathways over activated ones most likely indicates a decrease in the functional potential of cells after proton therapy. The dose-dependence of PT effects necessitates further study of changes in cellular and molecular-genetic signatures of HNSCC after proton irradiation with different doses. 

A review on the interactions between engineering and marine life: key information for engineering professionals

AbstractMarine life both affects and is affected by coastal, marine and offshore engineering. As engineering projects have become larger, more frequent and more complex, hence has the number and type of interactions with marine life. Engineers are looking for more information about these interactions so they can better mitigate against any harmful effects to marine life and enhance any positive impacts. This review aims to fill this purpose, giving professional engineers a broad understanding of the impacts that marine engineering projects can cause to marine life and to suggesting some “best practice” mitigation strategies. The review considers the interactions between engineering projects and marine life from three perspectives with a specific example given in each case. First, potential mitigation measures are discussed in the context of offshore windfarms. Secondly, the issue of engineering noise affecting marine species in different ways. Lastly, the engineering solutions employed in the “Great Barrier Reef (GBR) Restoration Project” is exampled. Environmental Impact Assessments used by managers must reference up-to-date and detailed data from biological surveys so that local species that are vulnerable to the specific engineering activities can be identified. The mitigation activities must include acoustic mitigation, be scalable and affordable. This review highlights the need for engineers to liaise closely with marine scientists and biologists to ensure that solutions are appropriate and do not have unexpected or indirect consequences to marine life.

Genetic Profile of &lt;I&gt;Brucella melitensis&lt;/I&gt; Strains Isolated on the Territory of the Russian Federation, Based on Analysis of Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms Following Whole Genome Sequencing

The aim of the work was to conduct a comparative phylogenetic analysis based on wgSNP of complete genomes of Brucella melitensis strains circulating in the territory of the Russian Federation.Materials and methods. wgSNP typing of 412 B. melitensis strains of the main genetic lineages of brucella from different regions of the world, including 64 strains isolated in the regions of the European and Asian parts of the Russian Federation, was performed. DNA sequencing was conducted on the “Ion GeneStudio S5 Plus” platform (“Life Technologies”, USA) using the “Ion Plus Fragment Library Kit library preparation” (“Life Technologies”, USA), according to the “Ion 520™ &amp; Ion 530™ Kit – Chef” protocol (Revision D.0).Results and discussion. It has been established that the strains circulating in Russia belong mainly to genotype II, which has a wide geographical distribution across the territory of Eurasia. At the same time, subgenotype IIh prevails in the regions of Siberia, and Iii – in the European territory of the country. For the first time, sets of specific SNPs have been identified that allow for intraspecific differentiation of B. melitensis strains. The obtained results made it possible to determine the probable routes of introduction of the causative agent of brucellosis into the territory of the Russian Federation from China and the countries of the Middle East. The prospect of using an optimized wgSNP typing scheme to solve urgent problems in the field of molecular epidemiology of brucellosis is demonstrated. It includes determining the genotype and subgenotype of the pathogen associated with the probable geographical region of origin of infection, and identifying the genetic relations between strains with high accuracy.

Women and Software Engineering

My goal with this text is to provide some concepts and questions that can help the reader to reflect on and elevate the discussion about Women and Software Engineering by providing historical data and some reflection points for the future. Feminism constitutes both a theoretical perspective and a social movement aiming to diminish and ultimately eliminate gender-based inequality and oppression. Data feminism merges data science with feminist principles to examine and address biases and power dynamics in data and technology. Studies at the intersection between gender and software engineering cover gender representation, barriers, and experiences. The main questions I propose for future reflections in the community are: What are the benefits that women bring to software engineering? How does the career and the life of female software engineers unfold? How should software engineering research change so that feminist principles are incorporated? How can feminist knowledge and processes help to examine power structure in software engineering?

Проблемы диагностики современных тепловозных двигателей

Objective: to consider the issue of diagnostics of modern diesel engines, in particular vibration diagnostics. Consider modern strategies and methods based on vibroacoustic signals that allow you to track and diagnose diesel engine malfunctions, as well as an assessment of the working process in the engine. To determine which means of measuring vibration parameters and methods of processing vibration signals can be considered the most reliable and informative. Propose to make adjustments to the currently used methods of processing vibration signals. Methods: comparison of the effectiveness of vibration measurement tools and mathematical methods of vibration signal processing. Results: the necessity of choosing mathematical methods of vibration signal processing is indicated, both for individual components of a diesel locomotive engine and for evaluating the workflow. Modern mathematical methods, applied to vibration diagnostics, require updating, due to an increase in computing power, as well as due to the development of powerful signal processing methods. To increase the reliability of the comparison results, it is necessary to take into account the large variability of the components and processes of the diesel engine. The need for additional study of modern mathematical methods of vibration signal processing is revealed. Practical importance: the necessity of introducing more modern methods of vibration signal processing is shown, which will optimize the durability of the components’ design using long operating cycles, reduce maintenance costs, track the service life of the internal combustion engine during the operation of the locomotive, improve the monitoring and diagnostics systems of the locomotive engine. The presented methods of assessing the use of certain methods of vibration diagnostics for diesel locomotives can be recommended for practical use.

ZeroExpander® effectiveness assessment in PEEK or PA12 in a group of paediatric patients with transverse maxillary deficiency.

The aim of this article is to compare the performance of ZeroExpander® realised using PEEK or PA12 for the expansion of the maxilla in paediatric patients, exploring a new concept for approaching maxillary expansion with a metal-free fixed automatic appliance, based on pre-programmed set-up and anchored on deciduous teeth. It is a retrospective comparative study with a sample of 40 children in early or mixed deciduous dentition and transversal maxillary deficit, 20 treated with ZeroExpander® in PEEK and 20 treated with ZeroExpander® in PA12 with a mean age of 7.3 years old. The intraoral scans at T0 and at the end of the expansion were all performed by the same operator to obtain digital models on which were performed measurements by two other different operators. A descriptive analysis was conducted using frequencies and percentages for nominal variables and means and standard deviations for continuous variables. In cases of allergy or hypersensitivity to metals or to specific chronic or acute pathological conditions, which may require periodic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), it may not be possible to use traditional and metal fixed expansion devices. Moreover the concept of autonomous driving in paediatric orthodontics is not only possible, but it is and will be more real and very useful in the future. The "ortho-paediatric dentistry concept" will increase the range of benefits for children and their families which, in addition to care and thanks to technology, demand well-being, safety, comfort and quality of life beyond clinics.

High strength rubberized porous concrete for sustainable pavements: Engineering properties and life cycle assessment

This study investigates the performance of Pervious Concrete (PC) with varying quantities of Natural Coarse Aggregate (NCA) replaced by Waste Tire Rubber (WTR) (5%, 10% and 15% by weight) whereas Silica Fume (SF) (5%, 10% and 15%) and Fly Ash (FA) (10% constant) were employed as substitute for cement. This research aims at optimizing the mix of High Strength Rubberized Pervious Concrete (HSRPC) using Supplementary Cementitious Materials (SCMs), comparing experimental stress-strain graphs with the developed constitutive models and conducting a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA). Physical and mechanical performance of PC were examined using permeability and strength indices. X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) observed microstructural variations and Interfacial Transition Zone (ITZ) development. The use of WTR increased the permeability and decreased the strength indices. The permeability of mixes with 5, 10 and 15% WTR was found to be 4.00, 4.21 and 4.49 mm/s, which were more than control mix permeability. The compressive strength of PC with 5%, 10%, and 15% WTR was determined to be 32.48, 29.29, and 26.94 MPa, respectively, which were lower than control PC compressive strength which was 35.41 MPa. However, the addition of SF and FA enhanced the mechanical properties while causing a decrease in the permeability. Increasing SF content from 0% to 15% enhanced the compressive strength of PC containing 5% WTR, from 32.48 to 40.71 MPa. Developed constitutive models compared the stress-strain response of PC. Life cycle assessment showed that WTR, SF, and FA-based PC reduced the global warming.