bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simulation Studies of 3-Stage Clos Switching Network with Prioritization Mechanism Used in Flexible Wavelength-Division Multiplexing Network Nodes
Authors: Nowak Błażej , Sobieraj Maciej , Leitgeb Erich , Zwierzykowski Piotr
Published: April 2024

Given the escalating need for greater bandwidth, there is a growing interest in implementing mechanisms that ensure reliable and optimal service levels for specific traffic classes, especially during periods of heavy network traffic. One such mechanism is the prioritization mechanism, where certain portions of resources are exclusively allocated to predefined services. In the context of contemporary flexible WDM networks that employ advanced data transmission techniques, efforts have been made to create a simulation program capable of assessing the traffic characteristics of nodes within flexible WDM networks. This article presents a simulator of flexible WDM nodes with an implemented mechanism for prioritizing call classes. The simulator allows us to determine the loss probability for individual traffic classes in a switching network with point-to-point selection. In the simulator, the Clos structure was adopted as the structure of the flexible WDM network node due to its popularity in many studies and applications.
Usability Analysis of a Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy Serious Game for Blood Phobia Treatment: Phobos
Authors: Petersen João , Carvalho Vítor , Oliveira João Tiago , Oliveira Eva
Published: April 2024

Phobias are characterized as the excessive or irrational fear of an object or situation, and specific phobias affect about 10% of the world population. Blood-injection-injury phobia is a specific phobia that has a unique physical response to phobic stimuli, that is, a vasovagal syncope that causes the person to faint. Phobos is a serious game intended for blood phobia treatment that was created to be played in virtual reality with an HTC Vive that has photorealistic graphics to provide a greater immersion. We also developed a console application in C# for electrocardiography sensor connectivity and data acquisition, which gathers a 1 min baseline reading and then has continuous data acquisition during gameplay. Usability tests were conducted with self-reported questionnaires and with a case study population of 10 testers, which gave insight into the previous game experience of the tester for both digital games and virtual reality games, evaluating the discomfort for hardware on both the sensor and the virtual reality headset, as well as the game regarding usability, user experience, level of immersion, and the existence of motion sickness and its source. The results corroborate that the immersion of the game is good, which suggests that it will help with triggering the phobia.
A Compact Model of Carbon Nanotube Field-Effect Transistors for Various Sizes with Bipolar Characteristics
Authors: Huang Wentao , Chen Lan
Published: April 2024

Carbon nanotubes have excellent electrical properties and can be used as a new generation of semiconductor materials. This paper presents a compact model for carbon nanotube field-effect transistors (CNTFETs). The model uses a semi-empirical approach to model the current–voltage properties of CNTFETs with gate lengths exceeding 100 nm. This study introduces an innovative approach by proposing physical parametric reference lengths (Lref), which facilitate the integration of devices of varying sizes into a unified modeling framework. Furthermore, this paper develops models for the bipolar properties of carbon nanotube devices, employing two distinct sets of model parameters for enhanced accuracy. The model offers a comprehensive analysis of the different capacitances occurring between the electrodes within the device. The simulation of the model shows good agreement with the experimental measurements, confirming the model’s validity. The model is implemented in the Verilog-A hardware description language, with the circuit being subsequently constructed and subjected to simulations via the HSPICE tool. The CNTFET-based inverter exhibits a gain of 7.022 and a delay time of 16.23 ps when operated at a voltage of 1.2 V.
A Dual-Branch Structure Network of Custom Computing for Multivariate Time Series
Authors: Yu Jingfeng , Feng Yingqi , Huang Zunkai
Published: April 2024

Time series are a common form of data, which are of great importance in multiple fields. Multivariate time series whose relationship of dimension is indeterminacy are particularly common within these. For multivariate time series, we proposed a dual-branch structure model, composed of an attention branch and a convolution branch, respectively. The algorithm proposed in our work is implemented for custom computing optimization and deployed on the Xilinx Ultra 96V2 device. Comparative results with other state-of-the-art time series algorithms on public datasets indicate that the proposed method achieves optimal performance. The power consumption of the system is 6.38 W, which is 47.02 times lower than that of a GPU.
TNFR1 Absence Is Not Crucial for Different Types of Cell Reaction to TNF: A Study of the TNFR1-Knockout Cell Model
Authors: Alshevskaya Alina A. , Lopatnikova Julia A. , Zhukova Julia V. , Perik-Zavodskaia Olga Y. , Alrhmoun Saleh , Obleukhova Irina A. , Matveeva Anna K. , Savenkova Darya A. , Imatdinov Ilnaz R. , Yudkin Dmitry V. , Sennikov Sergey V.
Published: April 2024

Background: One of the mechanisms regulating the biological activity of tumor necrosis factor (TNF) in cells is the co-expression of TNFR1/TNFR2 receptors. A model with a differential level of receptor expression is required to evaluate the contribution of these mechanisms. Aim: The development of a cellular model to compare the effects of TNF on cells depending on the presence of both receptors and TNFR2 alone. Methods: TNFR1 absence modifications of ZR-75/1 and K-562 cell lines were obtained by TNFR1 knockout. The presence of deletions was confirmed by Sanger sequencing, and the absence of cell membrane receptor expression was confirmed by flow cytometry. The dose-dependent effect of TNF on intact and knockout cells was comparatively evaluated by the effect on the cell cycle, the type of cell death, and the profile of expressed genes. Results: Knockout of TNFR1 resulted in a redistribution of TNFR2 receptors with an increased proportion of TNFR2+ cells in both lines and a multidirectional change in the density of expression in the lines (increased in K562 and decreased in ZR75/1). The presence of a large number of cells with high TNFR2 density in the absence of TNFR1 in the K562 cells was associated with greater sensitivity to TNF-stimulating doses and increased proliferation but did not result in a significant change in cell death parameters. A twofold increase in TNFR2+ cell distribution in this cell line at a reduced expression density in ZR75/1 cells was associated with a change in sensitivity to low cytokine concentrations in terms of proliferation; an overall increase in cell death, most pronounced at standard stimulating concentrations; and increased expression of the lymphocyte-activation gene groups, host–pathogen interaction, and innate immunity. Conclusions: The absence of TNFR1 leads to different variants of compensatory redistribution of TNFR2 in cellular models, which affects the type of cell response and the threshold level of sensitivity. The directionality of cytokine action modulation and sensitivity to TNF levels depends not only on the fraction of cells expressing TNFR2 but also on the density of expression.
Profile Development and Soil Properties of Three Forest Reclamations of Different Ages in Sokolov Mining Basin, Czech Republic
Authors: Spasić Marko , Vacek Oldřich , Vejvodová Kateřina , Borůvka Luboš , Tejnecký Václav , Drábek Ondřej
Published: April 2024

Forestry reclamation practices have been very popular in the second half of the last century, and many spoil heaps have been converted into forests since. In our experiment, three forest reclamations of different ages (~90, ~50, and ~30 years) and three soil vegetation covers (I—maple and cherry, II—maple, and III—alder) from Sokolov, Czech Republic, were investigated. In each of the three stands, two soil profiles have been dug, and both disturbed and undisturbed soil samples were taken from all recognized horizons. Samples were tested for bulk and particle density, porosity, water retention capacity, pH (H2O, KCl), cation exchange capacity, oxidizable carbon content, organic matter quality, plant available nutrients, and risk elements. A comparison of these properties throughout the profile, as well as between the stands, was presented. A significant role of stand age in soil profile development and soil quality was observed, as well as the tendency of the anthropogenic mine Technosol to evolve into a forest Cambisol in this climate region and parent material. Influence of forest vegetation cover was observed to ameliorate soil properties by accumulating organic matter, thus reducing compaction and increasing CEC and nutrient availability.
Water and Temperature Ecophysiological Challenges of Forests Plantations under Climate Change
Authors: Rubilar Rafael A. , Valverde Juan Carlos , Barrientos Guillermo , Campoe Otávio Camargo
Published: April 2024

Climate change has impacted the environmental conditions in which forest plantations grow worldwide. Droughts and extreme temperatures have compromised the survival and productivity of plantations, and the effects on carbon and water balance have increased risks to sustained productivity and sustainability. Interestingly, opportunities for improvement rely on a better understanding of the ecophysiological response of species or genotypes, their tolerance or resistance to thermal and water stress, and genetic–environmental interactions. Our manuscript summarizes tree and stand-level major reported ecophysiological responses that could challenge the establishment and development of forest plantations under future climate change scenarios. The manuscript discusses potential climate change effects on plantation forest productivity, carbon balance, water use, and water use efficiency, and suggests some potential silvicultural strategies to avoid or reduce risks under uncertain climate scenarios. An integrated approach to understanding the linkages between water resource availability and plant-stand carbon balance is proposed to provide sustainable management that may alleviate the social and environmental concerns associated with challenges relating to climate change for managed forests and the forest industry.
Measuring Urban Green Space Exposure Based on Street View Images and Machine Learning
Authors: Zhang Tianlin , Wang Lei , Hu Yike , Zhang Wenzheng , Liu Yuyang
Published: April 2024

Exposure to green spaces (GSs) has been perceived as a natural and sustainable solution to urban challenges, playing a vital role in rapid urbanization. Previous studies, due to their lack of direct spatial alignment and attention to a human-scale perspective, struggled to comprehensively measure urban GS exposure. To address this gap, our study introduces a novel GS exposure assessment framework, employing machine learning and street view images. We conducted a large-scale, fine-grained empirical study focused on downtown Shanghai. Our findings indicate a pronounced hierarchical structure in the distribution of GS exposure, which initially increases and subsequently decreases as one moves outward from the city center. Further, from both the micro and macro perspectives, we employed structural equation modeling and Geodetector to investigate the impact of the urban built environment on GS exposure. Our results highlight that maintaining an appropriate level of architectural density, enhancing the combination of sidewalks with GSs, emphasizing the diversity of regional characteristics, and avoiding excessive concentration of functions are effective approaches for increasing urban GS exposure and promoting human wellbeing. Our study offers scientific insights for urban planners and administrators, holding significant implications for achieving sustainable urban development.
Temporal–Spatial Characteristics and Influencing Factors of Forest Fires in the Tropic of Cancer (Yunnan Section)
Authors: Xu Haichao , Han Rongqing , Wang Jinliang , Lan Yongcui
Published: April 2024

Forest fires often cause many casualties and property losses, and it is important to explore the time and space laws of forest fires and the influencing factors. The present study used the cities (prefectures) crossed by the Tropic of Cancer (Yunnan section) as the study area. Based on burned land data, a combination of natural factors, such as climate, topography, vegetation, and human activities, such as distance from settlements and population density, a binary logistic regression model, and a boosted regression tree model, were used to analyze the temporal–spatial characteristics and influencing factors of forest fires in 2000 to 2020. The following results were obtained: (1) During 2000–2020, the overall forest fire area in the study area showed a trend of fluctuating decline. The high incidence period of forest fires occurred in 2010. After 2010, the forest fire area in the study area was greatly reduced. (2) The forest fire area in the study area was greater in the east and less in the west. The forest fire areas in Wenshan Prefecture and Honghe Prefecture in the east were larger, accounting for 68%, and the forest fire areas in Pu’er City, Lincang City, and Yuxi City in the west were smaller, accounting for only 32%. (3) The contribution rate of the average precipitation and average temperature factors ranked in the top two in the two driving force analysis models, which indicated that precipitation and temperature had a significant effect on the incidence of forest fires in the study area.
Changes in the Soil Microbial Community Structure and Driving Factors during Post-Fire Recovery of the Larix gmelinii Rupr. Forest in Northern China
Authors: Li Hang , Shu Yang , Wei Jiangsheng , Zhao Pengwu , Zhou Mei , Jia Wenjie
Published: April 2024

Fire is crucial for shaping northern forest ecosystems and can affect soil microbial community structure. However, there are few studies on the long-term effects of forest fire disturbance on soil microbial community diversity. In this study, we employed high-throughput sequencing of 16S rRNA and ITS1 to assess variations in the abundance of bacterial and fungal communities in dominant populations at 1, 6, and 11 years post-fire. Furthermore, a comprehensive analysis was conducted to examine the relationship between soil microenvironmental changes and soil microbial communities after fire disturbances, considering soil physicochemical properties, including bulk density, moisture content, pH, organic carbon, total nitrogen, ammonium nitrogen, nitrate nitrogen, available potassium, and available phosphorus. We found that fire significantly increased soil pH, NO3−-N, AP, and AK contents, in which the content of NO3−-N basically recovered to the pre-fire level at 11 years after fire. The soil SOC and TN contents decreased significantly 1 year after the fire. However, compared to the unfired site, the SOC content essentially recovered 11 years after the fire, while TN content was still significantly higher 11 years after fire. Furthermore, fire changed the diversity and richness of soil microbial communities to some extent. PCoA and NMDS analyses suggested that the bacterial community structures in soil samples from different burned areas with different recovery periods exhibited similarity. However, notable differences were observed in the fungal community structures between the 1-year and 6-year post-fire study sites when compared to the unburned control site. Bacterial communities predominantly comprised Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, and Acidobacteria, while fungal communities were mainly dominated by Ascomycota and Basidiomycota. RDA confirmed the significant roles of SOC, TN, and NO3−-N in affecting the diversity of soil microbial communities. Therefore, our study not only enhances our understanding of the long-term effects of forest fire disturbances on soil properties and soil microbial community structure, but also provides insights for further utilizing and controlling carbon and nitrogen content to regulate soil microbial activity and accelerate the recovery process of burned areas.
Correction: Blair et al. Molecular Phylogenetic Relationships and Unveiling Novel Genetic Diversity among Slow and Pygmy Lorises, including Resurrection of Xanthonycticebus intermedius. Genes 2023, 14, 643
Authors: Blair Mary , Cao Giang , López-Nandam Elora , Veronese-Paniagua Daniel , Birchette Mark , Kenyon Marina , Md-Zain Badrul , Munds Rachel , Nekaris K. , Nijman Vincent , Roos Christian , Thach Hoàng , Sterling Eleanor , Le Minh
Published: April 2024

In the original publication [...]
A New RTI Portable Instrument for Surface Morphological Characterization
Authors: Lemesle Julie , Bigerelle Maxence
Published: April 2024

A new instrument using reflectance transformation imaging (RTI), named MorphoLight, has been developed for surface characterization. This instrument is designed to be adjustable to surfaces, ergonomic, and uses a combination of high-resolution imaging functions, i.e., focus stacking (FS) and high dynamic range (HDR), to improve the image quality. A topographical analysis method is proposed with the instrument. This method is an improvement of the surface gradient characterization by light reflectance (SGCLR) method. This aims to analyze slope/curvature maps, traditionally studied in RTI, but also to find the most relevant lighting position and 3D surface parameter which highlight morphological signatures on surfaces and/or discriminate surfaces. RTI measurements and analyses are performed on two zones, sky and sea, of a naval painting which have the same color palette but different painting strokes. From the statistical analysis using bootstrapping and analysis of variance (ANOVA), it is highlighted that the high-resolution images (stacked and tonemapped from HDR images) improve the image quality and make it possible to better see a difference between both painting zones. This difference is highlighted by the fractal dimension for a lighting position (θ, φ) = (30°, 225°); the fractal dimension of the sea part is higher because of the presence of larger brushstrokes and painting heaps.
Cultural Contacts among Pre-Roman Peoples in Iron Age Italy: The Case of Venetic Inscriptions
Authors: Vicari Stefano , Perono Cacciafoco Francesco
Published: April 2024

The spread of the alphabet in Italy occurred between the 7th and the 6th centuries BC, resulting in the appearance of texts written in so many different languages and in such limited territorial space that one can hardly observe another similar event (Venetic, Raetic, Etruscan, Picenian, Faliscan, Latin, Umbrian, Oscan, Greek, etc.). In this paper, we analyzed inscriptions produced by the Veneti, the ancient inhabitants of a region located between the Adriatic Sea and the Alps, which has provided mainly short sepulchral and votive texts. After a careful analysis, some so far poorly understood texts revealed the development of symbols to represent numbers and the measurement of time. These features are connected with the experience of the Etruscans and show characteristics shared with neighboring Celtic populations. The inscriptions also highlight a focus on the supernatural and the underworld. Cultural influences from the east, especially from Egypt, which represent a prominent moment in the evolution of Greece in the 7th century BC, have left traces in figurative culture and, quite unexpectedly, even in language. Rigorous transliterations and original interpretations of the analyzed inscriptions support the proposed results.
Macro-Scale Population Patterns in the Kofun Period of the Japanese Archipelago: Quantitative Analysis of a Larger Sample of Three-Dimensional Data from Ancient Human Crania
Authors: Nakao Hisashi , Kaneda Akihiro , Tamura Kohei , Noshita Koji , Nakagawa Tomomi
Published: April 2024

The present study collected a larger set of three-dimensional data on human crania from the Kofun period (as well as from previous periods, i.e., the Jomon and Yayoi periods) in the Japanese archipelago (AD 250 to around 700) than previous studies. Three-dimensional geometric morphometrics were employed to investigate human migration patterns in finer-grained phases. These results are consistent with those of previous studies, although some new patterns were discovered. These patterns were interpreted in terms of demic diffusion, archaeological findings, and historical evidence. In particular, the present results suggest the presence of a gradual geological cline throughout the Kofun period, although the middle period did not display such a cline. This discrepancy might reflect social changes in the middle Kofun period, such as the construction of keyhole-shaped mounds in the peripheral regions. The present study implies that a broader investigation with a larger sample of human crania is essential to elucidating macro-level cultural evolutionary processes.
Children and Adolescents with Early Treated Phenylketonuria: Cognitive Development and Fluctuations of Blood Phenylalanine Levels
Authors: Feldmann Reinhold , Och Ulrike , Beckmann Lisa Sophie , Weglage Josef , Rutsch Frank
Published: April 2024

Background: We assessed the relationship between the cognitive development of children and adolescents with phenylketonuria (PKU) and fluctuations in peripheral phenylalanine (Phe) levels. Methods: We examined the neurocognitive performance of 33 children and adolescents with early treated PKU, of whom 18 were treated with sapropterin dihydrochloride, and 15 were on a classic diet. For 26 weeks, patients were assessed weekly for their blood phenylalanine (Phe) levels. Phe levels were analyzed for fluctuations indicated by the individual standard deviation. Fluctuations were compared to the standard deviation of 26 Phe level measurements before the study interval. We also assessed the concurrent IQ of the patients. This was repeated at one-, two-, and seven-year intervals. Results: Full-scale IQ in patients treated with a classic diet did not change within the follow-up. In patients treated with Sapropterin dihydrochloride, however, there was a considerable gain in full-scale IQ. This was particularly true if blood Phe fluctuations increased in patients of this treatment group. Conclusions: Sapropterin dihydrochloride enhances Phe tolerance in patients with PKU. Increasing blood Phe fluctuations following enhanced Phe tolerance may indicate that the treatment not only allows patients to relax their Phe-restricted diet but also may support cognitive development in patients.
Predictors of Condom Use among College Students
Authors: Santos Maria José de Oliveira , Ferreira Elisabete Maria Soares , Ferreira Manuela Conceição
Published: April 2024

Consistent condom use is recognized as one of the most effective strategies to prevent unwanted pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections. Despite their effectiveness, condoms remain fairly well used among younger people. The conception of appropriate measures to change behaviors needs a deep understanding of the factors underlying poor adherence to condom use. This study aims to identify the predictors of condom use among college students. A cross-sectional, correlational, and predictive study was conducted involving a convenience sample of 1946 university students, with an average age of 21 years (20.74 ± 2.32). Pender’s Health Promotion Model (HPM) was used as a conceptual and methodological framework to understand the relationship between the predictors of condom use. An explanatory theoretical model of condom use behavior was established using path analysis. Condom use among young people is infrequent, with only 39.4% of respondents reporting consistent use. Perceived benefits, positive feelings, and interpersonal influences emerged as variables with the most explicitly positive influence on the commitment to condom use, a trend confirmed for both sexes. Commitment was the strongest predictor of condom use behavior (β = 0.580; p < 0.001). Pender’s HPM is effective in explaining the relationships between the predictors of condom use.
The Impact of Climate Change on Health Services in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: A Systematised Review and Thematic Analysis
Authors: Naser Kamar , Haq Zaeem , Naughton Bernard D.
Published: April 2024

Aim: The aim of this study was to assess the impact of climate change on health services as categorized by the WHO’s Building Blocks for creating Climate-Resilient Health Systems. Objective: The objective was to conduct a systematized review of the published literature concerning the impact of climate change, using a thematic analysis approach to address our aim and identify areas for further research. Design: A search was conducted on 8 February 2022 using the Embase and PubMed research databases. Peer-reviewed scientific studies that were published in English from 2012 to 2022, which described at least one report concerning the impact of climate change on health services in LMICs, were included. Studies were organized based on their key characteristics, which included the date of publication, objective, method, limitations, participants, and geographical focus. The Mixed-Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT) was used to assess the risk of bias in the included studies. Results: Twenty-three studies were included in this review. Five areas of health services which align with the WHO building blocks framework were impacted by climate change. These health service areas included: (1) Service Delivery, (2) Human Resources, (3) Health Finance, (4) Healthcare Products and Technology, and (5) Leadership and Governance. However, research concerning the impact of climate change on health information systems, which is part of the WHO building blocks framework, did not feature in our study. The climatic effects were divided into three themes: meteorological effects, extreme weather events, and general. The research in this study found that climate change had a detrimental impact on a variety of health services, with service delivery being the most frequently reported. The risk of bias varied greatly between studies. Conclusions: Climate change has negatively impacted health services in a variety of different ways, and without further actions, this problem is likely to worsen. The WHO building blocks have provided a useful lens through which to review health services. We built an aligned framework to describe our findings and to support future climate change impact assessments in this area. We propose that further research concerning the impact of climate change on health information systems would be valuable, as well as further education and responsible policy changes to help build resilience in health services affected by climate change.
New Jersey Leaves No Bite Behind: A Climate Change and Food Waste Curriculum Intervention for Adolescents in the United States
Authors: Elnakib Sara , Subhit Sabrina , Shukaitis Jennifer , Rowe Amy , Cava Jeanine , Quick Virginia
Published: April 2024

Food waste is a major contributor to climate change. Schools offer a unique opportunity to educate on this issue while also reducing food waste generation; however, few climate-change education curricula that include a food waste component have been developed and tested with fidelity. Thus, the purpose of this cluster randomized controlled study was to assess the effectiveness of a climate change and food waste education program called NJ Leaves No Bite Behind (NJLNBB) among fifth-grade students. Lessons on food waste and sustainable food behaviors were developed that aligned with NJ Student Learning Standards for Climate Change and Next-Generation Science Standards. Participants (n = 162) completed pre- and post-test surveys that assessed knowledge, attitudes, self-efficacy, and behaviors. Post-test, the experimental group (n = 102) had significantly (p < 0.05) higher mean scores in knowledge, social norms, behavioral intentions, and perceived behavioral control compared to the control group (n = 60), with medium effect sizes, as determined by partial eta-squared. There were no significant between-group differences in mean score attitudes, self-efficacy, motivation to comply, or climate-friendly behaviors post-test. Almost three-quarters of participants who received the program agreed or strongly agreed the lessons were fun (75.5%), liked the card games (72.5), and learned a lot (78.4%). These findings are promising in terms of teaching adolescents the impacts of food waste on the climate.
Office Design’s Impact on Psychosocial Work Environment and Emotional Health
Authors: Bodin Danielsson Christina , Theorell Töres
Published: April 2024

This study explores the association between office design and (a) the psychosocial work environment and (b) the emotional health among 4352 employees in seven different office designs. A multivariate linear regression analysis was performed with adjustments for age and educational level for men and women separately. Results show that psychosocial factors and emotional exhaustion differ between both office designs and between genders, with best outcomes in cell offices, except for psychological demands that are rated the most favourable in shared-room offices. Cell offices and small open-plan offices show a strong beneficial association with emotional exhaustion in women. Among men, hot-desking is most problematic regarding psychosocial work environment and emotional exhaustion. Women rate the psychosocial environment low in combi-office and report emotional exhaustion in small open offices.
Low-Cost Data, High-Quality Models: A Semi-Automated Approach to LOD3 Creation
Authors: Harshit  , Chaurasia Pallavi , Zlatanova Sisi , Jain Kamal
Published: April 2024

In the dynamic realm of digital twin modeling, where advancements are swiftly unfolding, users now possess the unprecedented ability to capture and generate geospatial data in real time. This article delves into a critical exploration of this landscape by presenting a meticulously devised workflow tailored for the creation of Level of Detail 3 (LOD3) models. Our research methodology capitalizes on the integration of Apple LiDAR technology alongside photogrammetric point clouds acquired from Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). The proposed process unfolds with the transformation of point cloud data into Industry Foundation Classes (IFC) models, which are subsequently refined into LOD3 Geographic Information System (GIS) models leveraging the Feature Manipulation Engine (FME) workbench 2022.1.2. This orchestrated synergy among Apple LiDAR, UAV-derived photogrammetric point clouds, and the transformative capabilities of the FME culminates in the development of precise LOD3 GIS models. Our proposed workflow revolutionizes this landscape by integrating multi-source point clouds, imbuing them with accurate semantics derived from IFC models, and culminating in the creation of valid CityGML LOD3 buildings through sophisticated 3D geometric operations. The implications of this technical innovation are profound. Firstly, it elevates the capacity to produce intricate infrastructure models, unlocking new vistas for modeling digital twins. Secondly, it extends the horizons of GIS applications by seamlessly integrating enriched Building Information Modeling (BIM) components, thereby enhancing decision-making processes and facilitating more comprehensive spatial analyses.
Anti-Inflammatory Efficacy of Resveratrol-Enriched Rice Callus Extract on Lipopolysaccharide-Stimulated RAW264.7 Macrophages
Authors: Monmai Chaiwat , Kim Jin-Suk , Baek So-Hyeon
Published: April 2024

Resveratrol and its derivative piceid exhibit a wide spectrum of health-promoting bioactivities. A resveratrol-enriched variety of Dongjin rice (DJ526) has been developed by transfection of a resveratrol biosynthesis gene, and increased resveratrol content has been confirmed in seeds following germination. In the current study, these resveratrol-enriched seeds were induced to produce callus, and callus extracts were evaluated for in vitro anti-inflammatory activity. Callus cultures contained greater amounts of resveratrol and piceid than DJ526 seeds, and treatment with DJ526 callus extract significantly reduced the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced production of proinflammatory mediators nitric oxide and prostaglandin E2 by RAW264.7 macrophages. The inflammation-related nuclear factor kappa B and mitogen-activated protein kinase pathways were also inhibited in DJ526 callus extract-treated RAW264.7 cells, resulting in downregulation of proinflammatory factor genes COX-2, iNOS, IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α. Expression of the LPS-binding toll-like receptor-4 was also markedly reduced in DJ526 callus extract-treated cells compared to DJ callus extract-treated cells. These findings demonstrate increased resveratrol and piceid content by callus culture of DJ526 rice seeds and the potent anti-inflammatory activity of resveratrol-enriched callus extract.
A Techno-Economic Analysis of New Market Models for 5G+ Spectrum Management
Authors: Fletscher Luis A. , Zuleta Alejandra , Galvis Alexander , Quintero David , Botero Juan Felipe , Gaviria Natalia
Published: April 2024

While 5G has become a reality in several places around the world, some countries are still in the process of assigning frequency bands and deploying networks. In this context, there is a significant opportunity to explore new market models for the management and utilization of the radio spectrum. Access to the radio spectrum results in diverse competition schemes, where market behavior varies based on the regulator-defined access scheme and the competitive strategies of different actors. To thoroughly analyze potential competition scenarios, this work introduces a model that enhances the comprehension of market variables, emphasizing behaviors influenced by relationships. The model’s development leverages the potential of artificial intelligence and historical data from Colombia’s mobile telecommunications market. Intelligent spectrum sensing, based on Software Defined Radio, augments the model’s construction, utilizing lightweight AI algorithms to acquire real data on spectrum occupancy. In this way, the model provides novel insights into market dynamics, enabling the formulation of informed decision-making policies for regulatory bodies. Additionally, the application of causal machine learning (CausalML) helps understand the underlying causes of market behaviors, facilitating the design of guiding policies to maximize spectrum usage and foster competition. This approach demonstrates how AI-driven approaches and a deeper understanding of market dynamics can lead to effective 5G spectrum management, fostering a more competitive and efficient wireless communication landscape.
Development of a Multi-Radio Device for Dry Container Monitoring and Tracking
Authors: Falcitelli Mariano , Misal  , Noto Sandro , Pagano Paolo
Published: April 2024

Maritime shipping companies have identified continuous tracking of intermodal containers as a key tool for increasing shipment reliability and generating important economies of scale. Equipping all dry containers with an Internet-connected tracking device is a need in the global shipping market that is still waiting to be met. This paper presents the methods and tools to build and test a prototype of a Container Tracking Device (CTD) that integrates NB-IoT, BLE Mesh telecommunication and low-power consumption technologies for the massive deployment of the IoT. The work was carried out as part of a project to build the so-called “5G Global Tracking System”, enabling several different logistic applications relying on massive IoT, M2M standard platforms, as well as satellite networks to collect data from dry containers when the vessel is in open sea. Starting from a preliminary phase, in which state-of-the-art technologies, research approaches, industrial initiatives and developing standards were investigated, a prototype version of the CTD has been designed, verified and developed as the first fundamental step for subsequent industrial engineering. The results of specific tests are shown: after verifying that the firmware is capable of handling the various functions of the device, a special focus is devoted to the power consumption measurements of the CTD to size the battery pack.
Obesity Is Associated with Asymptomatic Vertebral Fractures: A Yakumo Study
Authors: Miyairi Yuichi , Nakashima Hiroaki , Ito Sadayuki , Segi Naoki , Ouchida Jun , Oishi Ryotaro , Yamauchi Ippei , Machino Masaaki , Seki Taisuke , Ishizuka Shinya , Takegami Yasuhiko , Hasegawa Yukiharu , Imagama Shiro
Published: April 2024

(1) Background: Patients with primary vertebral fracture (VF) are at high risk of re-fracture and mortality. However, approximately two-thirds of patients with VFs receive minimal clinical attention. (2) Methods: The current study aimed to investigate the factors associated with asymptomatic VFs in middle-aged and elderly individuals who underwent resident health examinations. (3) Results: The current study included 217 participants aged > 50 years. VFs were diagnosed based on lateral radiographic images using Genant’s semiquantitative (SQ) method. The participants were divided into non-VF (N; SQ grade 0) and asymptomatic VF (F; SQ grades 1–3) groups. Data on body composition, blood tests, quality of life measures, and radiographic parameters were assessed. A total of 195 participants were included in the N group (mean age, 64.8 ± 7.8 years), and 22 were in the F group (mean age, 66.1 ± 7.9 years). The F group had a significantly higher body mass index (BMI), body fat percentage (BF%), and proportion of patients with knee osteoarthritis (KOA) than the N group. The F group had a significantly higher knee joint pain visual analog scale (VAS) score and painDETECT score than the N group. Logistic regression analysis showed that BF% was associated with asymptomatic VFs. (4) Conclusions: Middle-aged and elderly individuals with asymptomatic VF presented with high BMIs, BF%, and incidence of KOA.
Preventing Atrophic Long-Bone Nonunion: Retrospective Analysis at a Level I Trauma Center
Authors: Ehrnthaller Christian , Hoxhaj Klevin , Manz Kirsi , Zhang Yunjie , Fürmetz Julian , Böcker Wolfgang , Linhart Christoph
Published: April 2024

Background: Among the risk factors for nonunion are unchangeable patient factors such as the type of injury and comorbidities, and factors that can be influenced by the surgeon such as fracture treatment and the postoperative course. While there are numerous studies analyzing unchangeable factors, there is poor evidence for factors that can be affected by the physician. This raises the need to fill the existing knowledge gaps and lay the foundations for future prevention and in-depth treatment strategies. Therefore, the goal of this study was to illuminate knowledge about nonunion in general and uncover the possible reasons for their development; Methods: This was a retrospective analysis of 327 patients from 2015 to 2020 from a level I trauma center in Germany. Information about patient characteristics, comorbidities, alcohol and nicotine abuse, fracture classification, type of osteosynthesis, etc., was collected. Matched pair analysis was performed, and statistical testing performed specifically for atrophic long-bone nonunion; Results: The type of osteosynthesis significantly affected the development of nonunion, with plate osteosynthesis being a predictor for nonunion. The use of wire cerclage did not affect the development of nonunion, nor did the use of NSAIDs, smoking, alcohol, osteoporosis and BMI; Conclusion: Knowledge about predictors for nonunion and strategies to avoid them can benefit the medical care of patients, possibly preventing the development of nonunion.
Utility of NICaS Non-Invasive Hemodynamic Monitoring in Critically Ill Patients with COVID-19
Authors: Zabeeda Wisam , Cohen Jonah Benjamin , Reiner Benaim Anat , Zarour Shiri , Lichter Yael , Matot Idit , Goren Or
Published: April 2024

(1) Background: COVID-19 presented many challenges to effective treatments, such as managing cardiovascular insufficiency while mitigating risks to healthcare providers. This study utilized NICaS, a non-invasive hemodynamic monitor that provides advanced data via whole-body impedance analysis. We investigated the associated trends in hemodynamic parameters obtained by the NICaS device and their correlation with in-hospital all-cause mortality during COVID-19 hospitalization in the intensive care unit. (2) Methods: Data from 29 patients with COVID-19 admitted to the intensive care unit and monitored with NICaS between April 2020 and February 2021 were analyzed retrospectively. (3) Results: Decreasing cardiac output and cardiac power were significantly associated with death. Total peripheral resistance was significantly increasing in non-survivors as was total body water percentage. Those admitted with a heart rate above 90 beats per minute had a significantly reduced survival. (4) Conclusions: Non-invasive hemodynamic monitoring via the NICaS device is simple and effective in evaluating critically ill patients with COVID-19 and may help guide clinical management via remote monitoring. Controlling tachycardia may help ensure adequate oxygen supply-demand ratio. A hint toward a beneficiary effect of a restrictive fluid balance may be observed.
Retinal Imaging Findings in Inherited Retinal Diseases
Authors: Corradetti Giulia , Verma Aditya , Tojjar Jasaman , Almidani Louay , Oncel Deniz , Emamverdi Mehdi , Bradley Alec , Lindenberg Sophiana , Nittala Muneeswar Gupta , Sadda SriniVas R.
Published: April 2024

Inherited retinal diseases (IRDs) represent one of the major causes of progressive and irreversible vision loss in the working-age population. Over the last few decades, advances in retinal imaging have allowed for an improvement in the phenotypic characterization of this group of diseases and have facilitated phenotype-to-genotype correlation studies. As a result, the number of clinical trials targeting IRDs has steadily increased, and commensurate to this, the need for novel reproducible outcome measures and endpoints has grown. This review aims to summarize and describe the clinical presentation, characteristic imaging findings, and imaging endpoint measures that are being used in clinical research on IRDs. For the purpose of this review, IRDs have been divided into four categories: (1) panretinal pigmentary retinopathies affecting rods or cones; (2) macular dystrophies; (3) stationary conditions; (4) hereditary vitreoretinopathies.
A System for Mixed-Reality Holographic Overlays of Real-Time Rendered 3D-Reconstructed Imaging Using a Video Pass-through Head-Mounted Display—A Pathway to Future Navigation in Chest Wall Surgery
Authors: Arensmeyer Jan , Bedetti Benedetta , Schnorr Philipp , Buermann Jens , Zalepugas Donatas , Schmidt Joachim , Feodorovici Philipp
Published: April 2024

Background: Three-dimensional reconstructions of state-of-the-art high-resolution imaging are progressively being used more for preprocedural assessment in thoracic surgery. It is a promising tool that aims to improve patient-specific treatment planning, for example, for minimally invasive or robotic-assisted lung resections. Increasingly available mixed-reality hardware based on video pass-through technology enables the projection of image data as a hologram onto the patient. We describe the novel method of real-time 3D surgical planning in a mixed-reality setting by presenting three representative cases utilizing volume rendering. Materials: A mixed-reality system was set up using a high-performance workstation running a video pass-through-based head-mounted display. Image data from computer tomography were imported and volume-rendered in real-time to be customized through live editing. The image-based hologram was projected onto the patient, highlighting the regions of interest. Results: Three oncological cases were selected to explore the potentials of the mixed-reality system. Two of them presented large tumor masses in the thoracic cavity, while a third case presented an unclear lesion of the chest wall. We aligned real-time rendered 3D holographic image data onto the patient allowing us to investigate the relationship between anatomical structures and their respective body position. Conclusions: The exploration of holographic overlay has proven to be promising in improving preprocedural surgical planning, particularly for complex oncological tasks in the thoracic surgical field. Further studies on outcome-related surgical planning and navigation should therefore be conducted. Ongoing technological progress of extended reality hardware and intelligent software features will most likely enhance applicability and the range of use in surgical fields within the near future.
Tackling Kinesiophobia in Chronic Shoulder Pain: A Case Report on the Combined Effect of Pain Education and Whole-Body Cryostimulation
Authors: Alito Angelo , Cifalinò Mariachiara Elisabetta , Fontana Jacopo Maria , Verme Federica , Piterà Paolo , Capodaglio Paolo
Published: April 2024

Background: Chronic shoulder pain may cause significant functional disability and reduced psychosocial well-being. Detailed Case Description: In this case, we propose the use of pain neuroscience education and whole-body cryostimulation (WBC) to treat a 64-year-old woman with severe functional limitations and chronic right shoulder pain. The aim was to overcome kinesiophobia and improve her motor function, autonomy, and quality of life. Functional and clinical assessments were conducted at admission, discharge, and at a one-month follow-up via phone call. The patient’s global health, shoulder function, and quality of life showed improvement during hospitalisation and were maintained after one month. Discussion: Pain education is crucial in managing chronic shoulder pain, especially in addressing kinesiophobia and promoting positive patient outcomes. In this context, WBC was used as a supplementary treatment to traditional pain relief and exercise tolerance therapies. This can help individuals to participate more actively in their rehabilitation process, ultimately promoting functional recovery and an improved quality of life. Conclusion: The combination of cryostimulation, tailored physical exercises, pain education, manual therapy, and psychological support created a synergistic effect that addressed both the physical and psychological aspects of pain and kinesiophobia.