bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Research on Bidirectional Reservation Method for Anti-Permeation Geomembrane Slack
Authors: Wang Wansheng , Xue Xia , Li Wanglin , Han Ruichen , Li Zheng
Published: November 2023

Geomembrane relaxation can effectively prevent the geomembrane from being damaged by tensile stresses caused by temperature changes and uneven settlement of the foundation. Existing and commonly used reservation methods, such as wave-shaped, groove-shaped, and Z-shaped techniques, are unidirectional and cannot resist multidirectional tensile stresses in geomembranes. Therefore, we propose three methods for reserving bidirectional geomembranes, including the cross-groove-shaped, cross-Z-shaped, and combined Z- and groove-shaped techniques. Additionally, we investigate the key issues of these methods and their practicality through field tests and theoretical analyses. The results of the study show that the cross-groove-shaped technique is prone to geomembrane folding at the corners of the cross-intersection, and it is necessary to set a wiping angle of approximately 35° to solve the problem. The cross-Z-shaped technique does not require grooving and reduces the amount of civil construction performed. However, the neoprene rods cannot be folded 180° or restored after being separated once. The combined Z- and groove-shaped technique has no folding phenomenon and does not require 180° of folding. With a lack of folding, including 180° folding, the number of grooves can be reduced by half, but the cross-Z-shaped specimen cannot be restored after separation. In practical applications, it is recommended to use the cross-groove-shaped method or to choose a suitable bidirectional reservation method according to the actual requirements.
Advancing Image Object Detection: Enhanced Feature Pyramid Network and Gradient Density Loss for Improved Performance
Authors: Wang Ying , Wang Qinghui , Zou Ruirui , Wen Falin , Liu Fenglin , Zhang Yihang , Du Shaoyi , Zeng Wei
Published: November 2023

In the era of artificial intelligence, the significance of images and videos as intuitive conveyors of information cannot be overstated. Computer vision techniques rooted in deep learning have revolutionized our ability to autonomously and accurately identify objects within visual media, making them a focal point of contemporary research. This study addresses the pivotal role of image object detection, particularly in the contexts of autonomous driving and security surveillance, by presenting an in-depth exploration of this field with a focus on enhancing the feature pyramid network. One of the key challenges in existing object detection methodologies lies in mitigating information loss caused by multi-scale feature fusion. To tackle this issue, we propose the enhanced feature pyramid, which adeptly amalgamates features extracted across different scales. This strategic enhancement effectively curbs information attrition across various layers, thereby strengthening the feature extraction capabilities of the foundational network. Furthermore, we confront the issue of excessive classification loss in image object detection tasks by introducing the gradient density loss function, designed to mitigate classification discrepancies. Empirical results unequivocally demonstrate the efficacy of our approach in enhancing the detection of multi-scale objects within images. When evaluated across benchmark datasets, including MS COCO 2017, MS COCO 2014, Pascal VOC 2007, and Pascal VOC 2012, our method achieves impressive average precision scores of 39.4%, 42.0%, 51.5%, and 49.9%, respectively. This performance clearly outperforms alternative state-of-the-art methods in the field. This research not only contributes to the evolving landscape of computer vision and object detection but also has practical implications for a wide range of applications, aligning with the transformative trends in the automotive industry and security technologies.
A Visual-Based Approach for Driver’s Environment Perception and Quantification in Different Weather Conditions
Authors: Luo Longxi , Liu Minghao , Mei Jiahao , Chen Yu , Bi Luzheng
Published: November 2023

The decision-making behavior of drivers during the driving process is influenced by various factors, including road conditions, traffic situations, weather conditions, and so on. However, our understanding and quantification of the driving environment are still very limited, which not only increases the risk of driving but also hinders the deployment of autonomous vehicles. To address this issue, this study attempts to transform drivers’ visual perception into machine vision perception. Specifically, the study provides a detailed decomposition of the elements constituting weather and proposes three environmental quantification indicators: visibility brightness, visibility clarity, and visibility obstruction rate. These indicators help us to describe and quantify the driving environment more accurately. Based on these indicators, a visual-based environmental quantification method is further proposed to better understand and interpret the driving environment. Additionally, based on drivers’ visual perception, this study extensively analyzes the impact of environmental factors on driver behavior. A cognitive assessment model is established to evaluate drivers’ cognitive abilities in different environments. The effectiveness and accuracy of the model are validated through driver simulation experiments, thereby establishing a communication bridge between the driving environment and driver behavior. This research achievement enables us to better understand the decision-making behavior of drivers in specific environments and provides some references for the development of intelligent driving technology.
A Novel CA-RegNet Model for Macau Wetlands Auto Segmentation Based on GF-2 Remote Sensing Images
Authors: Li Cheng , Cui Hanwen , Tian Xiaolin
Published: November 2023

Wetlands, situated at the vital intersection of terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, are pivotal in preserving global biodiversity and maintaining environmental equilibrium. The escalating trend of global urbanization necessitates the utilization of high-resolution satellite imagery for accurate wetland delineation, which is essential for establishing efficacious conservation strategies. This study focuses on the wetlands of Macau, characterized by distinctive coastal and urban features. A noteworthy enhancement in this study is the integration of the Coordinate Attention mechanism with the RegNet model, forming the CA-RegNet. This combined model demonstrates superior performance, outdoing previous Macau wetlands segmentation studies that used ResNet, evidenced by an approximate rise of 2.7% in overall accuracy (OA), 4.0% in the Kappa coefficient, 1.9% in the mAcc, and 0.5% in the mIoU. Visual evaluations of the segmentation results reinforce the competence of the CA-RegNet model in precisely demarcating coastal wetlands and Saiwan Lake, thereby overcoming the former constraints of ResNet and underscoring the robustness and innovation of this study.
Vulnerability Exploitation Risk Assessment Based on Offensive Security Approach
Authors: Yoon Seong-Su , Kim Do-Yeon , Kim Ka-Kyung , Euom Ieck-Chae
Published: November 2023

Security incidents targeting control systems and the industrial internet of things (IIoT) are on the rise as attackers gain a better understanding of the nature of these systems and their increasing connectivity to information technology (IT). Every year, the number of vulnerabilities associated with these incidents increases, making it impractical to apply timely patches for all of them. The current vulnerability assessments, which are the basis for vulnerability patching, have limitations in that they do not adequately reflect the risk of exploitation in the real world after discovery and do not consider operational technology (OT) and industrial control system (ICS) environments other than IT environments. This study proposes to evaluate exploit risk in real-world environments by considering OT/ICS environments and calculating three metrics, including exploit chain risk, exploit code availability, and exploit use probability based on cyber threat information, including IIoT vulnerability data, used in OT/ICS environments. In addition, we construct exploitation scenarios in a control system environment to prioritize vulnerabilities with a high risk of exploitation based on the three metrics. We show that by assessing the risk of attackers’ intentions and exploited technologies for attacks against IIoT devices in a control system environment, we can provide defenders with comprehensive attack risk information for proactive defense.
Optimal Siting of EV Fleet Charging Station Considering EV Mobility and Microgrid Formation for Enhanced Grid Resilience
Authors: Ravi Abhijith , Bai Linquan , Wang Hong
Published: November 2023

Coordinating infrastructure planning for transportation and the power grid is essential for enhanced reliability and resilience during operation and disaster management. This paper presents a two-stage stochastic model to optimize the location of electric vehicle fleet charging stations (FEVCSs) to enhance the resilience of a distribution network. The first stage of this model deals with the decision to place an FEVCS at the most favorable and optimized location, whereas the second stage aims to minimize the weighted sum of the value of lost load in multiple potential scenarios with different faults. Indeed, the second stage is a joint grid restoration scheme with network reconfiguration and microgrid formation using available distributed generators and fleet electric vehicles. The proposed model is tested on a modified IEEE-33 node distribution network and a four-node transportation network. Case studies demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed model.
Study on Elevator Recognition Techniques for Upper-Limb-Disabled Wheelchair Users
Authors: Kim Daewe , Eom Su-Hong , Lee Eung-Hyuk
Published: November 2023

This study proposes a LiDAR-sensor-based elevator recognition technique to prevent collisions caused by poor operation and the cognitive decline of wheelchair users with upper limb disabilities. Existing elevator recognition studies show high performance for elevator door recognition, but this can only be recognized at a position where the elevator can be viewed directly due to the angle of view range of the sensor. This is not appropriate for wheelchair users who are inexperienced in operation because alignment must be performed directly based on the elevator. Therefore, this study presents a LiDAR-sensor-based elevator recognition technique that can detect elevators from the side to the position and at an angle to the front in order to solve this problem. In addition, this study proposes a technique for recognizing elevator gates finished with low- and high-reflective materials in order to enable recognition in various elevator environments. In order to quantitatively verify the elevator recognition technique proposed in this study, experiments were conducted in an elevator environment consisting of low and high reflections. The results of the experiments confirmed that there was no problem in applying the wheelchair active driving technique.
Hollywood Genre, Cultural Hybridity, and Musical Films in 1950s Hong Kong
Authors: Lu Xiao
Published: November 2023

Following the trauma of the Second World War, Hong Kong, under British governance, enjoyed considerable economic and political freedom to establish a local entertainment industry. Musical films became a major genre of Hong Kong’s film releases in the 1950s. Local melodramas, Hollywood musicals, celebrities, and ideals of female beauty were all present in the growth of Hong Kong musical films, which culminated in a glorious display of cinematic art. This article aims to provide insight into the popularity of Chinese-speaking musical films by examining the social, economic, and political complexity of 1950s Hong Kong, including post-war migration and colonial censorship. An in-depth analysis of Li Han-Hsiang’s The Kingdom and the Beauty demonstrates how Hong Kong studios adapted the Hollywood musical to tell Chinese stories and how Hong Kong musical films incorporated Chinese literature and music to represent cultural memory, local identity, and modern aesthetics. This case study sheds light on the localization of a Hollywood genre and the hybridization of Chinese and Western entertainment forms to appeal to a Chinese audience, thereby broadening the definition of cultural hybridity and informing the practice of Hong Kong’s musical filmmaking.
Traumatic Female Gaze: Julia Pirotte Looking at the Kielce Pogrom
Authors: Bojarska Katarzyna
Published: November 2023

In this article, I analyze Julia Pirotte’s photographs of the immediate aftermath of the Kielce pogrom as a resource for conceptualizing the relationship between trauma and photography, gendered ways of seeing, memory and trauma, body and archive, vision and death, death and the archive, images and history, survival, and destruction. These specific atrocity pictures make a difference to contemporary conceptions of trauma photography and the female gaze in relation to racist, political violence. I work with theories that go beyond thinking about trauma and photography based on the Lacanian concept of tuché on the one hand, and Barthes’ punctum on the other. I investigate to what extent Pirotte’s documentation of the Jewish victims and survivors of the pogrom can be read as a belated encounter with the trauma of the Holocaust, and what it reveals about survival at the site of violence. The article is a work of a feminist academic oriented at reclaiming a space within the narrative on visual violence; the reflection on the female traumatic gaze is an element of a broader gesture aimed at reorienting the theory of atrocity pictures and documentations of political violence, as well as photography of trauma.
Incidence and Survival of Testicular Cancers in a Province in Northern Italy and Their Association with Second Tumors
Authors: Mangone Lucia , Marinelli Francesco , Bisceglia Isabella , Masini Cristina , Palicelli Andrea , Morabito Fortunato , Di Girolamo Stefania , Neri Antonino , Pinto Carmine
Published: November 2023

This study investigated the incidence, mortality, and 5-year survival rates of testicular cancers diagnosed in a northern Italian province, which were eventually associated with previous or subsequent extratesticular neoplasms. Cases from 1996 to 2020 were examined by age and histotype (seminoma vs. non-seminoma). The standardized incidence rate was calculated using the European population, and the annual percent change (APC) was reported. The five-year relative survival was estimated using the Pohar Perme method. The association with the second neoplasm was also evaluated. In our study, 385 patients with testicular cancer were included, most of whom were aged between 30 and 40 years. The non-seminoma and seminoma groups accounted for 44% and 18% of younger adults, respectively. The incidence rate increased during the study period (APC 1.6*); however, it increased in seminomas (APC 2.3*) but not in non-seminomas (APC −0.1). Conversely, the mortality rate remained constantly low either overall or in each of the two groups. The overall 5-year survival rate of testicular cancer patients was 95% (99% and 88% for seminomas and non-seminomas, respectively). Primary extratesticular tumors were documented in 37 cases, 18 after and 19 before the testicular cancer diagnosis. Our study confirms that the increased incidence and excellent survival rate are the prerogative of seminomas.
Morphological Signal Processing for Phenotype Recognition of Human Pluripotent Stem Cells Using Machine Learning Methods
Authors: Vedeneeva Ekaterina , Gursky Vitaly , Samsonova Maria , Neganova Irina
Published: November 2023

Human pluripotent stem cells have the potential for unlimited proliferation and controlled differentiation into various somatic cells, making them a unique tool for regenerative and personalized medicine. Determining the best clone selection is a challenging problem in this field and requires new sensing instruments and methods able to automatically assess the state of a growing colony (‘phenotype’) and make decisions about its destiny. One possible solution for such label-free, non-invasive assessment is to make phase-contrast images and/or videos of growing stem cell colonies, process the morphological parameters (‘morphological portrait’, or signal), link this information to the colony phenotype, and initiate an automated protocol for the colony selection. As a step in implementing this strategy, we used machine learning methods to find an effective model for classifying the human pluripotent stem cell colonies of three lines according to their morphological phenotype (‘good’ or ‘bad’), using morphological parameters from the previously published data as predictors. We found that the model using cellular morphological parameters as predictors and artificial neural networks as the classification method produced the best average accuracy of phenotype prediction (67%). When morphological parameters of colonies were used as predictors, logistic regression was the most effective classification method (75% average accuracy). Combining the morphological parameters of cells and colonies resulted in the most effective model, with a 99% average accuracy of phenotype prediction. Random forest was the most efficient classification method for the combined data. We applied feature selection methods and showed that different morphological parameters were important for phenotype recognition via either cellular or colonial parameters. Our results indicate a necessity for retaining both cellular and colonial morphological information for predicting the phenotype and provide an optimal choice for the machine learning method. The classification models reported in this study could be used as a basis for developing and/or improving automated solutions to control the quality of human pluripotent stem cells for medical purposes.
The Role of Perivascular Adipose Tissue in the Pathogenesis of Endothelial Dysfunction in Cardiovascular Diseases and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Valentini Alessia , Cardillo Carmine , Della Morte David , Tesauro Manfredi
Published: November 2023

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are two of the four major chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs) representing the leading cause of death worldwide. Several studies demonstrate that endothelial dysfunction (ED) plays a central role in the pathogenesis of these chronic diseases. Although it is well known that systemic chronic inflammation and oxidative stress are primarily involved in the development of ED, recent studies have shown that perivascular adipose tissue (PVAT) is implicated in its pathogenesis, also contributing to the progression of atherosclerosis and to insulin resistance (IR). In this review, we describe the relationship between PVAT and ED, and we also analyse the role of PVAT in the pathogenesis of CVDs and T2DM, further assessing its potential therapeutic target with the aim of restoring normal ED and reducing global cardiovascular risk.
A Hand-Held Platform for Boar Sperm Viability Diagnosis Based on Smartphone
Authors: Zheng Yunhong , Yin Hang , Zhou Chengxian , Zhou Wei , Huan Zhijie , Ma Weicheng
Published: November 2023

The swine fever virus seriously affects pork production, and to improve pork production, pig breeding efficiency needs to be improved, and the detection of boar sperm activity is an important part of the pig breeding process. Traditional laboratory testing methods rely on bulky testing equipment, such as phase-contrast microscopes, high-speed cameras, and computers, which limit the testing scenarios. To solve the above problems, in this paper, a microfluidic chip was designed to simulate sperm in the oviduct with a channel thickness of 20 um, which can only accommodate sperm for two-dimensional movement. A miniature microscope system which can be used in combination with a smartphone is designed that is only the size of the palm of the hand and has a magnification of about 38 times. An intelligent diagnostic app was developed using Java language, which can automatically identify and track boar sperm with a recognition rate of 96.08% and an average tracking rate of 86%. The results show that the proposed smartphone-based hand-held platform can effectively replace the traditional microscope compound computer to diagnose sperm activity. In contrast, the platform is smaller, easier to use and is not limited by the usage scenarios.
Convolutional Neural Networks and Regression Algorithms Supporting Buildings Facility Management
Authors: Matos Raquel , Rodrigues Hugo , Costa Aníbal , Rodrigues Fernanda
Published: November 2023

Facility Management is a multi-disciplinary task in which coordination is key to attaining success during the building life cycle and for which technology assumes an increasing role. This sector is demanding more available and accurate tools to optimize the management process, decrease the probability of failure, and reduce the time spent on anomaly analysis. So, the present paper presents work developed to improve access to building anomaly recognition and to predict the building degradation state in an automatized way. The methodology applied to achieve this goal started with a survey and digital data acquisition from a case study, followed by the automatized detection of building anomalies using supervised classification in Deep Learning; then, the early diagnosis of threatening conditions for building degradation took place using degradation curves based on data records and regression algorithms. The results drive this study a step forward toward obtaining advanced tools for Facility Management based in Artificial Intelligence, able to provide the most appropriate moment at which to intervene according to the cost-benefit. The present work provided better results on the harmonic mean of precision and recall when compared with previous studies of image classification for the construction sector. Moreover, the mathematical functions for the prediction of future degradation based on the data field for each construction system were presented and can be applied to the typologies of other buildings. In the end, future developments and limitations are highlighted.
Construction of Spinel/Perovskite Heterojunction for Boosting Photocatalytic Performance for Polyacrylamide
Authors: Zhu Qinghan , Luo Yuxue , Yang Ke , Che Guangbo , Wang Haiwang , Qi Jian
Published: November 2023

The use of photocatalytic technology to degrade polyacrylamide in crude oil extraction wastewater is a promising approach, but there have been few reports so far. In this study, ZnFe2O4/Ba0.7Sr0.3TiO3 heterogeneous composite materials of a spinel/perovskite type with different proportions were synthesized. The composite materials with 31% ZnFe2O4 content exhibited a maximum polyacrylamide degradation efficiency of 46.54%, which demonstrated the unique role of the spinel/perovskite heterogeneous structure. When Ag nanoparticles were grown in situ on the surface of ZnFe2O4/Ba0.7Sr0.3TiO3, the photocatalytic degradation efficiency reached 81.28%. The main reason was that the introduction of Ag nanoparticles not only increased the active sites and enhanced light absorption capacity but also accelerated the separation of photo-generated charges. This work provides new ideas for the construction of spinel/perovskite heterogeneous composite materials and has reference significance for the application of photocatalytic degradation in the treatment of wastewater-containing polymers.
The Multifunctional Nature of the MicroRNA/AKT3 Regulatory Axis in Human Cancers
Authors: Yang Chun , Hardy Pierre
Published: November 2023

Serine/threonine kinase (AKT) signaling regulates diverse cellular processes and is one of the most important aberrant cell survival mechanisms associated with tumorigenesis, metastasis, and chemoresistance. Targeting AKT has become an effective therapeutic strategy for the treatment of many cancers. AKT3 (PKBγ), the least studied isoform of the AKT family, has emerged as a major contributor to malignancy. AKT3 is frequently overexpressed in human cancers, and many regulatory oncogenic or tumor suppressor small non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), including microRNAs (miRNAs), have recently been identified to be involved in regulating AKT3 expression. Therefore, a better understanding of regulatory miRNA/AKT3 networks may reveal novel biomarkers for the diagnosis of patients with cancer and may provide invaluable information for developing more effective therapeutic strategies. The aim of this review was to summarize current research progress in the isoform-specific functions of AKT3 in human cancers and the roles of dysregulated miRNA/AKT3 in specific types of human cancers.
Deposition and Characterisation of a Diamond/Ti/Diamond Multilayer Structure
Authors: Mallik Awadesh Kumar , Lloret Fernando , Gutierrez Marina , Rouzbahani Rozita , Pobedinskas Paulius , Shih Wen-Ching , Haenen Ken
Published: November 2023

In this work, a diamond/Ti/diamond multilayer structure has been fabricated by successively following thin-film CVD and PVD routes. It has been found that a combined pre-treatment of the silicon base substrate, via argon plasma etching for creating surface roughness and, thereafter, detonation nanodiamond (DND) seeding, helps in the nucleation and growth of well-adherent CVD diamond films with a well-defined Raman signal at 1332 cm−1, showing the crystalline nature of the film. Ti sputtering on such a CVD-grown diamond surface leads to an imprinted bead-like microstructure of the titanium film, generated from the underlying diamond layer. The cross-sectional thickness of the titanium layer can be found to vary by as much as 0.5 µm across the length of the surface, which was caused by a subsequent hydrogen plasma etching process step of the composite film conducted after Ti sputtering. The hydrogen plasma etching of the Ti–diamond composite film was found to be essential for smoothening the uneven as-grown texture of the films, which was developed due to the unequal growth of the microcrystalline diamond columns. Such hydrogen plasma surface treatment helped further the nucleation and growth of a nanocrystalline diamond film as the top layer, which was deposited following a similar CVD route to that used in depositing the bottom diamond layer, albeit with different process parameters. For the latter, a hydrogen gas diluted with PH3 precursor recipe produced smaller nanocrystalline diamond crystals for the top layer. The titanium layer in between the two diamond layers possesses a very-fine-grained microstructure. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) results show evidence of intermixing between the titanium and diamond layers at their respective interfaces. The thin films in the composite multilayer follow the contour of the plasma-etched silicon substrate and are thus useful in producing continuous protective coatings on 3D objects—a requirement for many engineering applications.
Research and Application Progress of High-Entropy Alloys
Authors: Wang Zhaofeng , Zhang Shuai
Published: November 2023

With the continuous improvement of global technological levels and the increasing demand for high-performance alloy materials in national economic construction, the traditional single principal component alloy is increasingly unable to meet people’s increasing service needs. High-entropy alloys play an important role in aerospace, mechanical manufacturing, biomedicine, energy development and other engineering fields because of their unique physical, chemical and mechanical properties. Based on the concept of high-entropy alloys, the high-entropy effect, lattice distortion effect, sluggish diffusion effect and cocktail effect of high-entropy alloys are represented in this paper. The common preparation methods of high-entropy alloys are summarized according to the classification of melting-casting method, mechanical alloying method and coating method. The strength and toughness, wear resistance, corrosion resistance, high temperature resistance, fatigue resistance, radiation resistance and magnetic properties of the high-entropy alloys are discussed. The application prospect of high-entropy alloys is summarized, and the future research and development direction of high-entropy alloys are prospected on this basis.
Subserosal Layer and/or Pancreatic Invasion Based on Anatomical Features as a Novel Prognostic Indicator in Patients with Distal Cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Yoshii Hisamichi , Izumi Hideki , Fujino Rika , Kurata Makiko , Inomoto Chie , Sugiyama Tomoko , Nakagohri Toshio , Nomura Eiji , Mukai Masaya , Tajiri Takuma
Published: November 2023

The American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) 8th edition T-staging system for distal cholangiocarcinoma (DCC) proposes classification according to the depth of invasion (DOI); nevertheless, DOI measurement is complex and irreproducible. This study focused on the fibromuscular layer and evaluated whether the presence or absence of penetrating fibromuscular invasion of DCC contributes to recurrence and prognosis. In total, 55 patients pathologically diagnosed with DCC who underwent surgical resection from 2002 to 2022 were clinicopathologically examined. Subserosal layer and/or pancreatic (SS/Panc) invasion, defined as penetration of the fibromuscular layer and invasion of the subserosal layer or pancreas by the cancer, was assessed with other clinicopathological prognostic factors to investigate recurrence and prognostic factors. According to the AJCC 8th edition, there were 11 T1, 28 T2, and 16 T3 cases, with 44 (80%) cases of SS/Panc invasion. The DOI was not significantly different for both recurrence and prognostic factors. In the multivariate analysis, only SS/Panc was identified as an independent factor for prognosis (hazard ratio: 16.1; 95% confidence interval: 2.1–118.8, p = 0.006). In conclusion, while the determination of DOI in DCC does not accurately reflect recurrence and prognosis, the presence of SS/Panc invasion may contribute to the T-staging system.
Pulmonary Amyloidoma: A Case Report and Brief Review of the Literature
Authors: Radu Șerban Matache , Florentin Savu Cornel , Alina Constantin Ancuta
Published: November 2023

We report the case of a 59-year-old female patient, a former smoker, who was diagnosed with bilateral pulmonary nodules. Extensive medical investigations were conducted, including a surgical lung biopsy, which led to the diagnosis of pulmonary amyloidoma. The diagnostic process was guided by the presence of a persistent, polymorphic, and nonspecific clinical picture, strengthened by imaging findings characterized by mixed nodular lesions and the addition of interstitial involvement, along with partial deterioration of the pulmonary parenchyma architecture. Although it is recognized as a benign tumor, pulmonary amyloidoma requires special care in order to rule out systemic involvement, association with lymphomas, or systemic amyloidosis. This case highlights the comprehensive investigations required in the presence of multiple pulmonary nodules and the wide range of possible diagnoses. It underscores the pivotal role of surgical lung biopsy and histopathological examination. The case is instructive, addressing a rare pathology, on the border between specialties, while also emphasizing potential evolving challenges and providing further insights into the clinical course of this disease.
Improved Visualization and Quantification of Net Water Uptake in Recent Small Subcortical Infarcts in the Thalamus Using Computed Tomography
Authors: Schön Felix , Wahl Hannes , Grey Arne , Krukowski Pawel , Müller Angela , Puetz Volker , Linn Jennifer , Kaiser Daniel P. O.
Published: November 2023

Diagnosing recent small subcortical infarcts (RSSIs) via early computed tomography (CT) remains challenging. This study aimed to assess CT attenuation values (Hounsfield Units (HU)) and net water uptake (NWU) in RSSI and explore a postprocessing algorithm’s potential to enhance thalamic RSSI detection. We examined non-contrast CT (NCCT) data from patients with confirmed thalamic RSSI on diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (DW-MRI) between January 2010 and October 2017. Co-registered DW-MRI and NCCT images enabled HU and NWU quantification in the infarct area compared to unaffected contralateral tissue. Results were categorized based on symptom onset to NCCT timing. Postprocessing using window optimization and frequency-selective non-linear blending (FSNLB) was applied, with interpretations by three blinded Neuroradiologists. The study included 34 patients (median age 70 years [IQR 63–76], 14 women). RSSI exhibited significantly reduced mean CT attenuation compared to unaffected thalamus (29.6 HU (±3.1) vs. 33.3 HU (±2.6); p < 0.01). Mean NWU in the infarct area increased from 6.4% (±7.2) at 0–6 h to 16.6% (±8.7) at 24–36 h post-symptom onset. Postprocessed NCCT using these HU values improved sensitivity for RSSI detection from 32% in unprocessed CT to 41% in FSNLB-optimized CT, with specificities ranging from 86% to 95%. In conclusion, CT attenuation values and NWU are discernible in thalamic RSSI up to 36 h post-symptom onset. Postprocessing techniques, particularly window optimization and FSNLB, moderately enhance RSSI detection.
Optimization of Y-90 Radioembolization Imaging for Post-Treatment Dosimetry on a Long Axial Field-of-View PET/CT Scanner
Authors: Linder Pia M. , Lan Wenhong , Trautwein Nils F. , Brosch-Lenz Julia , von Beschwitz Sebastian , Kupferschläger Jürgen , Reischl Gerald , Grözinger Gerd , Dittmann Helmut , la Fougère Christian , Schmidt Fabian P.
Published: November 2023

Background: PET imaging after yttrium-90 (Y-90) radioembolization is challenging because of the low positron fraction of Y-90 (32 × 10−6). The resulting low number of events can be compensated by the high sensitivity of long axial field-of-view (LAFOV) PET/CT scanners. Nevertheless, the reduced event statistics require optimization of the imaging protocol to achieve high image quality (IQ) and quantification accuracy sufficient for post-treatment dosimetry. Methods: Two phantoms (NEMA IEC and AbdoMan phantoms, mimicking human liver) filled with Y-90 and a 4:1 sphere (tumor)-to-background ratio were scanned for 24 h with the Biograph Vision Quadra (Siemens Healthineers). Eight patients were scanned after Y-90 radioembolization (1.3–4.7 GBq) using the optimized protocol (obtained by phantom studies). The IQ, contrast recovery coefficients (CRCs) and noise were evaluated for their limited and full acceptance angles, different rebinned scan durations, numbers of iterations and post-reconstruction filters. The s-value-based absorbed doses were calculated to assess their suitability for dosimetry. Results: The phantom studies demonstrate that two iterations, five subsets and a 4 mm Gaussian filter provide a reasonable compromise between a high CRC and low noise. For a 20 min scan duration, an adequate CRC of 56% (vs. 24 h: 62%, 20 mm sphere) was obtained, and the noise was reduced by a factor of 1.4, from 40% to 29%, using the full acceptance angle. The patient scan results were consistent with those from the phantom studies, and the impacts on the absorbed doses were negligible for all of the studied parameter sets, as the maximum percentage difference was −3.89%. Conclusions: With 2i5s, a 4 mm filter and a scan duration of 20 min, IQ and quantification accuracy that are suitable for post-treatment dosimetry of Y-90 radioembolization can be achieved.
Towards Flawless Designs: Recent Progresses in Non-Orthogonal Multiple Access Technology
Authors: Dai Gaoyuan , Huang Ronglan , Yuan Jing , Hu Zeng , Chen Longru , Lu Jianxian , Fan Tianrui , Wan Dehuan , Wen Miaowen , Hou Tianwei , Ji Fei
Published: November 2023

High effectiveness and high reliability are two fundamental concerns in data transmission. Non-orthogonal multiple-access (NOMA) technology presents a promising solution for high-speed data transmission, which has long been pursued by academia and industry. However, there is still a significant road ahead for it to effectively support a wide range of applications. This paper provides a comprehensive study, comparison, and classification of the current advanced NOMA schemes from the perspectives of single-carrier (SC) systems, multicarrier (MC) systems, reconfigurable-intelligent-surface (RIS)-assisted systems, and deep-learning (DL)-assisted systems. Specifically, system implementation issues such as the transition from SC-NOMA to MC-NOMA, the relaxation of distinct channel gains, the consideration of imperfect channel knowledge, and the mitigation of error propagation/intra-group interference are involved. To begin with, we present an overview of the state-of-the-art developments related to the advanced design of SC-NOMA. Subsequently, a generalized MC-NOMA framework that provides the diversity–multiplexing gain by enhancing users’ signal-to-interference-plus-noise ratio (SINR) is proposed for better system performance. Moreover, we delve into discussions on RIS-assisted NOMA systems, where the receiver’s SINR can be enhanced by intelligently reconfiguring the reflected signal propagations. Finally, we analyze designs that combine NOMA/RIS-NOMA with DL to achieve highly efficient data transmission. We also identify key trends and future directions in deep-learning-based NOMA frameworks, providing valuable insights for researchers in this field.
Sweet-Tasting Natural Proteins Brazzein and Monellin: Safe Sugar Substitutes for the Food Industry
Authors: Novik Tamara S. , Koveshnikova Elena I. , Kotlobay Anatoly A. , Sycheva Lyudmila P. , Kurochkina Karine G. , Averina Olga A. , Belopolskaya Maria V. , Sergiev Petr V. , Dontsova Olga A. , Lazarev Vassili N. , Maev Igor V. , Kostyaeva Margarita G. , Eremeev Artem V. , Chukina Svetlana I. , Lagarkova Maria A.
Published: November 2023

This article presents the results of a comprehensive toxicity assessment of brazzein and monellin, yeast-produced recombinant sweet-tasting proteins. Excessive sugar consumption is one of the leading dietary and nutritional problems in the world, resulting in health complications such as obesity, high blood pressure, and cardiovascular disease. Although artificial small-molecule sweeteners widely replace sugar in food, their safety and long-term health effects remain debatable. Many sweet-tasting proteins, including thaumatin, miraculin, pentadin, curculin, mabinlin, brazzein, and monellin have been found in tropical plants. These proteins, such as brazzein and monellin, are thousands-fold sweeter than sucrose. Multiple reports have presented preparations of recombinant sweet-tasting proteins. A thorough and comprehensive assessment of their toxicity and safety is necessary to introduce and apply sweet-tasting proteins in the food industry. We experimentally assessed acute, subchronic, and chronic toxicity effects, as well as allergenic and mutagenic properties of recombinant brazzein and monellin. Our study was performed on three mammalian species (mice, rats, and guinea pigs). Assessment of animals’ physiological, biochemical, hematological, morphological, and behavioral indices allows us to assert that monellin and brazzein are safe and nontoxic for the mammalian organism, which opens vast opportunities for their application in the food industry as sugar alternatives.
The Application of Hybridization Chain Reaction in the Detection of Foodborne Pathogens
Authors: Zhao Jinbin , Guo Yulan , Ma Xueer , Liu Shitong , Sun Chunmeng , Cai Ming , Chi Yuyang , Xu Kun
Published: November 2023

Today, with the globalization of the food trade progressing, food safety continues to warrant widespread attention. Foodborne diseases caused by contaminated food, including foodborne pathogens, seriously threaten public health and the economy. This has led to the development of more sensitive and accurate methods for detecting pathogenic bacteria. Many signal amplification techniques have been used to improve the sensitivity of foodborne pathogen detection. Among them, hybridization chain reaction (HCR), an isothermal nucleic acid hybridization signal amplification technique, has received increasing attention due to its enzyme-free and isothermal characteristics, and pathogenic bacteria detection methods using HCR for signal amplification have experienced rapid development in the last five years. In this review, we first describe the development of detection technologies for food contaminants represented by pathogens and introduce the fundamental principles, classifications, and characteristics of HCR. Furthermore, we highlight the application of various biosensors based on HCR nucleic acid amplification technology in detecting foodborne pathogens. Lastly, we summarize and offer insights into the prospects of HCR technology and its application in pathogen detection.
A Combined Gas and Liquid Chromatographic Approach for Quality Evaluation of Saffron-Based Food Supplements
Authors: Mena-García Adal , Sanz María L. , Díez-Municio Marina , Ruiz-Matute Ana I.
Published: November 2023

Considering the interest in the bioactive properties of saffron (Crocus sativus L.), as well as its limited production and high price, saffron-based food supplements (SFS) are highly susceptible to adulteration. However, their complex composition and the wide variety of potential fraudulent practices make the comprehensive assessment of SFS quality a challenging task that has been scarcely addressed. To that aim, a new multianalytical strategy based on gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and liquid chromatography with diode array detection coupled to mass spectrometry (HPLC-DAD-MS) was developed and validated in order to detect different frauds affecting SFS. Dried saffron stigmas and a commercial standardized saffron extract (affron®) were selected as reference samples (RS) to obtain an authenticity profile, which was further used to evaluate the quality of 17 SFS. Up to 17 crocins and crocetins, 5 kaempferol glycosides, picrocrocin (determined for the first time by GC-MS), safranal, furanone and isophorone-related compounds were determined in RS. Safranal and crocins were identified in all SFS except for one sample. However, discrepancies with the content declared were detected in 65% of the cases. Moreover, this multianalytical methodology also allowed identifying undeclared additives and the non-declared addition of vegetable sources other than saffron.
Characterization of Sodium Alginate-Based Films Blended with Olive Leaf and Laurel Leaf Extracts Obtained by Ultrasound-Assisted Technology
Authors: Moura-Alves Márcio , Souza Victor Gomes Lauriano , Silva Jose A. , Esteves Alexandra , Pastrana Lorenzo M. , Saraiva Cristina , Cerqueira Miguel A.
Published: November 2023

Due to environmental concerns, there is an increasing need to reduce the use of synthetic and non-renewable packaging materials to reduce waste and increase sustainability. This study aimed to characterise sodium alginate edible-based films (SA) incorporated with laurel leaf extract (LLE) and olive leaf extract (OLE) obtained by ultrasound-assisted extraction. Determination of total phenolic content, antioxidant, and antimicrobial activity was performed for the extracts and films. Also, thickness, tensile strength, elongation at break, modulus of elasticity, opacity and colour, moisture content, water vapour permeability (WVP), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) spectra, and surface morphology by scanning electron microscope (SEM) analyses were performed for the films. LLE yielded better results in terms of phenolic content (195 mg GAE/g), antioxidant (2.1 TE/g extract) and antimicrobial activity (MIC at 1% for Listeria monocytogenes and Staphylococcus aureus, and 1.8% for Enterococcus faecalis). For the films, the simultaneous incorporation of LLE 1% (w/v) and OLE 1% (w/v) resulted in a significant reduction of approximately 2 log CFU/g against S. aureus. The addition of LLE and OLE extracts also proved to improve barrier properties (lower WVP for SA films with LLE 1% + OLE 1%, 3.49 × 10−11 g m−1 s−1 Pa−1) and promoted changes in resistance and flexibility. The results demonstrated that active alginate-based films can be valuable for enhancing food preservation.
Body Dissatisfaction, Cognitive Distraction, and Sexual Satisfaction in a Sample of LGB+ People: A Mediation Study Framed by Cognitive Psychology Models of Sexual Response
Authors: Manão Andreia A. , Pascoal Patrícia M.
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Body dissatisfaction is a well-established risk factor for emotional problems and low levels of well-being indicators, such as sexual health. Cognitive models propose that dissatisfaction with one’s body can cause cognitive distraction related to physical appearance during sexual activity. This may compromise sexual response, namely, sexual satisfaction in heterosexual cis women. However, this relationship has only been studied within heterosexual samples. The present study aims to test a mediation model using cognitive distraction related to body appearance during sexual activity as a mediator between body dissatisfaction and sexual satisfaction in LGB+ cis people (lesbian, gay, bisexual, and other minority sexual orientations). Methods: This cross-sectional online study comprised 165 cisgender LGB+ participants (n = 67 cis women, 40.6%; n = 98 cis men, 59.4%). Self-report questionnaires were used: the Global Body Dissatisfaction Scale, the Body Appearance Distraction Scale, and a Single-Item Measure of Sexual Satisfaction. Results: Cis women and cis men experience similar levels of body dissatisfaction, cognitive distraction with body appearance during sexual activity, and sexual satisfaction. Body appearance cognitive distraction during sexual activity mediated the relationship between body dissatisfaction and sexual satisfaction only in the men’s sample. Discussion: Overall, in terms of gender and body dissatisfaction, our results reveal a reversed pattern than those found in heterosexual samples. This may be because LGB+ cis women may conform less to societal pressure, leading to less meaning given to body dissatisfaction in relation to sexuality, which may lead to more positive sexual outcomes. Likewise, LGB+ cis men present higher body dissatisfaction and experience lower sexual satisfaction, possibly due to the emphasis on physical appearance in the gay subculture. The results confirm the validity of cognitive models of sexual response.
Temporal Evolution and Associated Factors of Adherence to Mammography Screening among Women in Spain: Results from Two National Health Surveys (2017–2020)
Authors: Portero de la Cruz Silvia , Béjar Luis M. , Cebrino Jesús
Published: November 2023

Ensuring equity in cancer screening is recommended by the European Commission. Despite the fact that breast cancer screening is a free population-based program in Spain, there remains considerable variation in the adherence to screening rate among population groups. This study was designed to describe the adherence of breast cancer screening in women in Spain, to evaluate the evolution in the period from 2017 to 2020, and to determine the variables that influence choosing to undergo breast cancer screening. A nationwide cross-sectional study with 7220 females aged 50–69 years from the 2017 Spanish National Health Survey and the 2020 European Health Survey for Spain was performed. We investigated mammography uptake rates, with socio-demographic factors, lifestyle habits, and health-related characteristics as independent variables. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify the associated factors of mammography adherence. Of the women, 78% had undergone mammography in the previous two years, and there was a significant decrease in the uptake rate for breast cancer screening from 2017 (81.23%) to 2020 (74.68%) (p < 0.001). Educational level, marital status, residential location, nationality, smoking status, alcohol consumption, and leisure-time physical activity were all associated factors of mammography uptake.