bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhancing Energy Harvesting Efficiency of Flapping Wings with Leading-Edge Magnus Effect Cylinder
Authors: Zhang Huaqiang , Zhu Bing , Chen Weidong
Published: May 2024

According to the Magnus principle, a rotating cylinder experiences a lateral force perpendicular to the incoming flow direction. This phenomenon can be harnessed to boost the lift of an airfoil by positioning a rotating cylinder at the leading edge. In this study, we simulate flapping-wing motion using the sliding mesh technique in a heaving coordinate system to investigate the energy harvesting capabilities of Magnus effect flapping wings (MEFWs) featuring a leading-edge rotating cylinder. Through analysis of the flow field vortex structure and pressure distribution, we explore how control parameters such as gap width, rotational speed ratio, and phase difference of the leading-edge rotating cylinder impact the energy harvesting characteristics of the flapping wing. The results demonstrate that MEFWs effectively mitigate the formation of leading-edge vortices during wing motion. Consequently, this enhances both lift generation and energy harvesting capability. MEFWs with smaller gap widths are less prone to induce the detachment of leading-edge vortices during motion, ensuring a higher peak lift force and an increase in the energy harvesting efficiency. Moreover, higher rotational speed ratios and phase differences, synchronized with wing motion, can prevent leading-edge vortex generation during wing motion. All three control parameters contribute to enhancing the energy harvesting capability of MEFWs within a certain range. At the examined Reynolds number, the optimal parameter values are determined to be a∗ = 0.0005, R = 3, and ϕ0 = 0°.
Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy for Ion Sensors with Interdigitated Electrodes: Capacitance Calculations, Equivalent Circuit Models and Design Optimizations
Authors: Korek Eva-Maria , Teotia Reva , Herbig David , Brederlow Ralf
Published: May 2024

Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) is becoming more and more relevant for the characterization of biosensors employing interdigitated electrodes. We compare four different sensor topologies for an exemplary use case of ion sensing to extract recommendations for the design optimizations of impedimetric biosensors. Therefore, we first extract how sensor design parameters affect the sensor capacitance using analytical calculations and finite element (FEM) simulations. Moreover, we develop equivalent circuit models for our sensor topologies and validate them using FEM simulations. As a result, the impedimetric sensor response is better understood, and sensitive and selective frequency ranges can be determined for a given sensor topology. From this, we extract design optimizations for different sensing principles.
Assessing the Impact of Ground Motion Duration on Losses in Typical Modern Steel Moment Frames
Authors: Safiey Amir , Majdalaweyh Sereen , Pang Weichiang
Published: May 2024

This research was undertaken to study the duration effects on the seismic economic risk of steel moment frame (SMF) buildings, a prominent class of buildings in commercial stock. Firstly, a modified version of FEMA P-695 ground motion scaling, tailored for seismic loss estimation purposes and incorporating two sets of spectrally matched bi-directional short- and long-duration ground motions, is proposed to study code-compliant plan-symmetrical SMFs with different heights (i.e., two to 20 stories). It is shown that long-duration ground motions increase the collapse risk of SMFs, on average, by 28.0% at the MCE level. Next, a component-based loss estimation methodology was adopted for evaluating the seismic losses under each set of ground motions. These losses are studied separately for building components (i.e., structural and nonstructural) and contents. Moreover, we propose an approach for calculating average annualized loss (AAL) as a prominent risk meter that segregates contributions of short- and long-duration ground motions to attain hazard consistency. Loss analyses showed the minimal impact of building height on the contribution of these two types of earthquakes. The seismic risk analysis of buildings also revealed that collapse risk is influenced mainly by duration effects followed by building and content losses.
Applying Machine Learning to Earthquake Engineering: A Scientometric Analysis of World Research
Authors: Hu Yi , Wang Wentao , Li Lei , Wang Fangjun
Published: May 2024

Machine Learning (ML) has developed rapidly in recent years, achieving exciting advancements in applications such as data mining, computer vision, natural language processing, data feature extraction, and prediction. ML methods are increasingly being utilized in various aspects of seismic engineering, such as predicting the performance of various construction materials, monitoring the health of building structures or components, forecasting their seismic resistance, predicting potential earthquakes or aftershocks, and evaluating the residual performance of post-earthquake damaged buildings. This study conducts a scientometric-based review on the application of machine learning in seismic engineering. The Scopus database was selected for the data search and retrieval. During the data analysis, the sources of publications relevant to machine learning applications in seismic engineering, relevant keywords, influential authors based on publication count, and significant articles based on citation count were identified. The sources, keywords, and publications in the literature were analyzed and scientifically visualized using the VOSviewer software tool. The analysis results will help researchers understand the trending and latest research topics in the related field, facilitate collaboration among researchers, and promote the exchange of innovative ideas and methods.
The Effect of Soundscape on Sense of Place for Residential Historical and Cultural Areas: A Case Study of Taiyuan, China
Authors: Chen Zichu , Jin Meijun , Zuo Yuanyuan , Ding Peng , Shi Xiaofeng
Published: May 2024

A soundscape carries the culture and memories of historical and cultural areas, capable of evoking people’s emotions towards a place. This paper aims to explore the influence of the soundscape on the sense of place in historical and cultural areas using a mixed-method approach. Conducting on-site measurements, questionnaires, and semi-structured interviews in four areas in Taiyuan, China, this research utilized structural equation modeling and grounded theory for analysis. Research findings: Firstly, the soundwalk method identified 11 categories of soundscapes and the main sources of noise in residential areas were traffic sounds and commercial sounds. Secondly, residents showed the highest preference for natural sounds and traditional activity sounds. Preferences for activities’ sounds and traditional sounds, along with the perceived frequency of daily life sounds, entertainment activities’ sounds, and natural sounds were positively associated with the sense of place, while the perceived frequency of commercial sounds, traffic sounds, and pet sounds was negatively associated. Lastly, from the grounded theory, this research showed that traditional sounds effectively enhanced residents’ sense of place by triggering memories, embodying culture, and connecting emotions. Daily life sounds linked residents’ lives and prompted visions, while local dialects evoked emotion and culture. Activities’ sounds served as lubricants for the place, primarily triggering residents’ sense of place from a lifestyle and emotional connection.
Performance Investigation and Optimization of Composite Materials in Household Dehumidifiers
Authors: Liu Zhongbao , Kong Fanzhao , Zhao Zhi , Wang Zepeng , Liu Yimo , Qie Zhipeng
Published: May 2024

The efficiency of household dehumidifiers is affected by air temperature and the temperature used for regeneration. A regeneration temperature that is too high can lead to increased energy use, heat build-up in the desiccant wheel, and lower dehumidification efficiency. In this study, we developed a LiCl@Al-Fum composite material and evaluated it through physical characterization and module testing. The results show that the LiCl@Al-Fum composite with a 20% mass fraction is particularly effective as a desiccant material. Additionally, a 15% volume concentration of neutral silica sol was identified as the optimal binder concentration. A comparative analysis of the effects of glass-fiber desiccant wheels (GF DWs), aluminum desiccant wheels (Al DWs), and commercial desiccant wheels (CM DWs) on household dehumidifier performance revealed that the Al DWs outperformed the CM DWs, showing a 13% improvement in the dehumidification rate and a 12.56% increase in the DCPP. An increase in the dehumidifier structure led to increases in the dehumidification rate by 11.8%, 11.9%, and 10% and in the DCPP by 11.6%, 12.1%, and 10%, respectively. Moreover, the modifications resulted in a 3.85 °C, 3.34 °C, and 3.8 °C decrease in the temperature.
Up to the Herculean Task of Tackling Cancer Therapy Resistance
Authors: Papavassiliou Kostas A. , Papavassiliou Athanasios G.
Published: May 2024

Cancer therapy resistance still poses the biggest hurdle to cancer treatment [...]
Speeding Up and Improving Image Quality in Glioblastoma MRI Protocol by Deep Learning Image Reconstruction
Authors: Gohla Georg , Hauser Till-Karsten , Bombach Paula , Feucht Daniel , Estler Arne , Bornemann Antje , Zerweck Leonie , Weinbrenner Eliane , Ernemann Ulrike , Ruff Christer
Published: May 2024

A fully diagnostic MRI glioma protocol is key to monitoring therapy assessment but is time-consuming and especially challenging in critically ill and uncooperative patients. Artificial intelligence demonstrated promise in reducing scan time and improving image quality simultaneously. The purpose of this study was to investigate the diagnostic performance, the impact on acquisition acceleration, and the image quality of a deep learning optimized glioma protocol of the brain. Thirty-three patients with histologically confirmed glioblastoma underwent standardized brain tumor imaging according to the glioma consensus recommendations on a 3-Tesla MRI scanner. Conventional and deep learning-reconstructed (DLR) fluid-attenuated inversion recovery, and T2- and T1-weighted contrast-enhanced Turbo spin echo images with an improved in-plane resolution, i.e., super-resolution, were acquired. Two experienced neuroradiologists independently evaluated the image datasets for subjective image quality, diagnostic confidence, tumor conspicuity, noise levels, artifacts, and sharpness. In addition, the tumor volume was measured in the image datasets according to Response Assessment in Neuro-Oncology (RANO) 2.0, as well as compared between both imaging techniques, and various clinical–pathological parameters were determined. The average time saving of DLR sequences was 30% per MRI sequence. Simultaneously, DLR sequences showed superior overall image quality (all p < 0.001), improved tumor conspicuity and image sharpness (all p < 0.001, respectively), and less image noise (all p < 0.001), while maintaining diagnostic confidence (all p > 0.05), compared to conventional images. Regarding RANO 2.0, the volume of non-enhancing non-target lesions (p = 0.963), enhancing target lesions (p = 0.993), and enhancing non-target lesions (p = 0.951) did not differ between reconstruction types. The feasibility of the deep learning-optimized glioma protocol was demonstrated with a 30% reduction in acquisition time on average and an increased in-plane resolution. The evaluated DLR sequences improved subjective image quality and maintained diagnostic accuracy in tumor detection and tumor classification according to RANO 2.0.
Abemaciclib for the Treatment of HR+HER2− Metastatic Breast Cancer: An Institutional Experience
Authors: Matos Erika , Cankar Kaja , Režun Neža , Dejanović Katja , Ovčariček Tanja
Published: May 2024

(1) Background: Abemaciclib combined with endocrine therapy is a standard first- or later-line of treatment for HR+/HER2− metastatic breast cancer (MBC). The aim of this retrospective cohort study was to describe the outcomes of patients treated in a real-world setting, with particular focus on elderly patients. (2) Patients and methods: Patients treated with abemaciclib between November 2019 and February 2022 were included in the study. Data were collected from electronic medical records. The primary objective was to determine real-world progression-free survival (rwPFS), and secondary objectives included median overall survival (mOS) and safety. (3) Results: Analysis included 134 patients, with a median follow-up of 42 months. Median age was 62 years, with 29.9% aged 70+ years. A total of 51.5% of patients received abemaciclib in first-line, predominantly with aromatase inhibitor (68.1%). Median rwPFS was 21 in first-line and 20 months in the second-line, with no significant difference between treatment lines (HR 0.96; p = 0.88). Patients treated in the third- or later-line had a significantly shorter rwPFS, at 7 months (HR 1.48, p = 0.003). mOS was not reached in the first-line setting. For second- and third- or later-lines, mOS was 29 and 19 months, respectively. There was no significant difference in mOS between first- or second-line (HR 1.37, p = 0.36). In the 70+ group, median rwPFS was 15 months and mOS was 25 months with no significant difference compared to younger patients (rwPFS HR 1.1; p = 0.65; OS HR 1.4; p = 0.21). Most common adverse events (AEs) were diarrhoea (68.7%), anaemia (64.9%), and increased serum creatinine (63.4%). Grade 3/4 AEs were reported in 21.6% of patients. Dose reductions occurred in 30.6% of patients and were more frequent in patients 70+ (40%) compared to younger patients (28%); the difference was not significant (p = 0.22). At study cut-off, 64.9% of patients discontinued abemaciclib, primarily due to disease progression (73.5%). (4) Conclusions: Our study provides valuable insights into the effectiveness and safety of abemaciclib for the treatment of MBC. We observed comparable outcomes in terms of rwPFS and OS between the first two lines, suggesting consistent effectiveness across treatment lines. In addition, our findings suggest that older age (70+) does not significantly impact the effectiveness and tolerability of abemaciclib, although the careful monitoring and management of AEs are warranted.
Incidence of Pediatric Cancers in French Guiana: How Does It Compare to Global Estimates?
Authors: Nacher Mathieu , Wang Qiannan , Osei Lindsay , Faivre Benjamin , Elenga Narcisse , Adenis Antoine , Deschamps Nathalie , Drak Alsibai Kinan
Published: May 2024

French Guiana is a French territory in South America. The exposome of persons living there is quite different from that in mainland France and the ethnic make-up of the population is also quite different. Poverty is also widespread with difficulties in accessing care magnified by the low medical-professional density. In this singular context, we aimed to measure the incidence of pediatric cancers and to compare it with other continents. We used French Guiana’s certified cancer registry to study this between 2003 and 2017. Incidences were standardized using the world population with three strata: 0–4 years, 5–9 years, and 10–14 years. There were 164 solid tumors or hematologic malignancies diagnosed in children under the age of 15 (92 in boys and 72 in girls). Over the study period, the standardized incidence rate was 14.1 per 100,000 among children aged under 15 years. There was no significant trend during the study period. The three most common causes of cancer were leukemias—mostly lymphoblastic—CNS tumors, and sarcoma. The standardized incidence of pediatric cancers in French Guiana was similar to those in Western Europe and North America. As others have discovered, we found that males tended to be more likely to develop cancer, notably leukemia, CNS tumors, sarcoma, and retinoblastoma. As elsewhere, the predominant cancer types changed with age. Our initial assumption was that given the singular context of French Guiana, there may have been differences in pediatric cancer incidences. Here we showed that overall, contrary to our assumption and to trends in tropical countries, the incidence of pediatric cancers was in a range between Western Europe and North America with some apparent but non-significant differences in the main types of cancers observed in global statistics. Quality cancer registry data in this tropical region confirm the suspicion that lower incidences in tropical low- and middle-income countries are likely to result from incomplete diagnosis and data collection.
A Population-Based Long-Term Follow-Up of Soft Tissue Angiosarcomas: Characteristics, Treatment Outcomes, and Prognostic Factors
Authors: Holm Christina Enciso , Ørholt Mathias , Talman Maj-Lis , Abebe Kiya , Thorn Andrea , Baad-Hansen Thomas , Petersen Michael Mørk
Published: May 2024

Angiosarcoma is a rare aggressive and understudied soft tissue sarcoma with pending evidence-based treatment guidelines due to varying study cohorts and inconsistent outcome measures. Surgery with wide resection is currently considered to be the cornerstone in management. In a population-based cohort identified from Danish National Health Registers between 2000 and 2017, this study aimed to define prognostic factors in patients with newly diagnosed soft tissue angiosarcoma. Kaplan–Meier survival analysis demonstrated 5-year overall survival of 28%. Competing risk analysis demonstrated cumulative incidence of local recurrence of 30% and metastasis of 43%. Multivariable Cox models among 154 included patients demonstrated age above 60 years and metastasis to be independently associated with worse overall survival. Cutaneous tumors, surgery, and negative resection margin were independently associated with improved overall survival. Adjuvant oncological treatment did not improve overall survival, risk of metastasis, or recurrence. Negative margin was not associated with lower risk of recurrence and metastasis. We conclude that, despite demonstrated improved survival after surgery with wide resection, overall survival remains poor.
Hepatocellular Carcinoma and the Multifaceted Relationship with Its Microenvironment: Attacking the Hepatocellular Carcinoma Defensive Fortress
Authors: Galasso Linda , Cerrito Lucia , Maccauro Valeria , Termite Fabrizio , Ainora Maria Elena , Gasbarrini Antonio , Zocco Maria Assunta
Published: May 2024

Hepatocellular carcinoma is a malignant tumor that originates from hepatocytes in an inflammatory substrate due to different degrees of liver fibrosis up to cirrhosis. In recent years, there has been growing interest in the role played by the complex interrelationship between hepatocellular carcinoma and its microenvironment, capable of influencing tumourigenesis, neoplastic growth, and its progression or even inhibition. The microenvironment is made up of an intricate network of mesenchymal cells, immune system cells, extracellular matrix, and growth factors, as well as proinflammatory cytokines and translocated bacterial products coming from the intestinal microenvironment via the enterohepatic circulation. The aim of this paper is to review the role of the HCC microenvironment and describe the possible implications in the choice of the most appropriate therapeutic scheme in the prediction of tumor response or resistance to currently applied treatments and in the possible development of future therapeutic perspectives, in order to circumvent resistance and break down the tumor’s defensive fort.
Range of Resection in Endometrial Cancer—Clinical Issues of Made-to-Measure Surgery
Authors: Horala Agnieszka , Szubert Sebastian , Nowak-Markwitz Ewa
Published: May 2024

Endometrial cancer (EC) poses a significant health issue among women, and its incidence has been rising for a couple of decades. Surgery remains its principal treatment method and may have a curative, staging, or palliative aim. The type and extent of surgery depends on many factors, and the risks and benefits should be carefully weighed. While simple hysterectomy might be sufficient in early stage EC, modified-radical hysterectomy is sometimes indicated. In advanced disease, the evidence suggests that, similarly to ovarian cancer, optimal cytoreduction improves survival rate. The role of lymphadenectomy in EC patients has long been a controversial issue. The rationale for systematic lymphadenectomy and the procedure of the sentinel lymph node biopsy are thoroughly discussed. Finally, the impact of the molecular classification and new International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) staging system on EC treatment is outlined. Due to the increasing knowledge on the pathology and molecular features of EC, as well as the new advances in the adjuvant therapies, the surgical management of EC has become more complex. In the modern approach, it is essential to adjust the extent of the surgery to a specific patient, ensuring an optimal, made-to-measure personalized surgery. This narrative review focuses on the intricacies of surgical management of EC and aims at summarizing the available literature on the subject, providing an up-to-date clinical guide.
Surgical Resection in Colorectal Liver Metastasis: An Umbrella Review
Authors: Milazzo Martina , Todeschini Letizia , Caimano Miriam , Mattia Amelia , Cristin Luca , Martinino Alessandro , Bianco Giuseppe , Spoletini Gabriele , Giovinazzo Francesco
Published: May 2024

Surgical resection is the gold standard for treating synchronous colorectal liver metastases (CRLM). The resection of the primary tumor and metastatic lesions can follow different sequences: “simultaneous”, “bowel-first”, and “liver-first”. Conservative approaches, such as parenchymal-sparing surgery and segmentectomy, may serve as alternatives to major hepatectomy. A comprehensive search of Medline, Epistemonikos, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library was conducted. Studies evaluating patients who underwent surgery for CRLM and reported survival results were included. Other secondary outcomes were analyzed, including disease-free survival, perioperative complications and mortality, and recurrence rates. Quality assessment was performed using the AMSTAR-2 method. No significant differences in overall survival, disease-free survival, and secondary outcomes were observed when comparing simultaneous to “bowel-first” resections, despite a higher rate of perioperative mortality in the former group. The 5-year OS was significantly higher for simultaneous resection compared to “liver-first” resection. No significant differences in OS and DFS were noted when comparing “liver-first” to “bowel-first” resection, or anatomic to non-anatomic resection. Our umbrella review validates simultaneous surgery as an effective oncological approach for treating SCRLM, though the increased risk of perioperative morbidity highlights the importance of selecting suitable patients. Non-anatomic resections might be favored to preserve liver function and enable future surgical interventions.
Immunotherapy as a Complement to Surgical Management of Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Kim Susan J. , Cummins Kaelyn C. , Tsung Allan
Published: May 2024

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary liver tumor in adults, and the fourth leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. While surgical and ablative therapies remain the standard of care in early localized disease, late presentation with advanced stages of disease, impaired hepatic function, or local recurrence following surgical resection preclude operative management as the sole treatment modality in a subgroup of patients. As such, systemic therapies, namely immunotherapy, have become an integral part of the HCC treatment algorithm over the past decade. While agents, such as atezolizumab/bevacizumab, have well-established roles as first-line systemic therapy in intermediate- and advanced-stage HCC, the role of immunotherapy in disease amenable to surgical management continues to evolve. In this review, we will discuss the current evidence and aggregate impact of immunotherapy in the context of HCC amenable to surgical management, including its application in the neoadjuvant and adjuvant settings.
The Role of T-Cadherin (CDH13) in Treatment Options with Garcinol in Melanoma
Authors: Staebler Sebastian , Hoechst Sebastian , Thongmao Aranya , Schneider Nadja , Bosserhoff Anja-Katrin , Kuphal Silke
Published: May 2024

Targeted therapies with chemotherapeutic agents and immunotherapy with checkpoint inhibitors are among the systemic therapies recommended in the guidelines for clinicians to treat melanoma. Although there have been constant improvements in the treatment of melanoma, resistance to the established therapies continues to occur. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to explore the function of garcinol with regards to specific cancer properties such as proliferation and apoptosis. Garcinol, a natural compound isolated from the plant also known as mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana), is a newly discovered option for cancer treatment. Numerous pharmaceutical substances are derived from plants. For example, the derivates of camptothecin, extracted from the bark of the Chinese tree of happiness (Camptotheca acuminate), or paclitaxel, extracted from the bark of the Western yew tree (Taxus brevifolia), are used as anti-cancer drugs. Here, we show that garcinol reduced proliferation and induced apoptosis in melanoma cell lines. In addition, we found that those cells that are positive for the expression of the cell–cell adhesion molecule T-cadherin (CDH13) respond more sensitively to treatment with garcinol. After knock-down experiments with an siRNA pool against T-cadherin, the sensitivity to garcinol decreased and proliferation and anti-apoptotic behavior of the cells was restored. We conclude that patients who are T-cadherin-positive could especially benefit from a therapy with garcinol.
Molecular Characterization and Therapeutic Opportunities in KRAS Wildtype Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Desai Aakash , Xiao Alexander H. , Choi Daheui , Toruner Merih D. , Walden Daniel , Halfdanarson Thorvardur R. , Alberts Steven , McWilliams Robert R. , Mahipal Amit , Ahn Daniel , Babiker Hani , Stybayeva Gulnaz , Revzin Alexander , Kizilbash Sani , Adjei Alex , Bekaii-Saab Tanios , Mansfield Aaron S. , Carr Ryan M. , Ma Wen Wee
Published: May 2024

Purpose: To investigate the molecular characteristics of and potential for precision medicine in KRAS wildtype pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Patients and Methods: We investigated 27 patients with KRASWT PDAC at our institution. Clinical data were obtained via chart review. Tumor specimens for each subject were interrogated for somatic single nucleotide variants, insertion and deletions, and copy number variants by DNA sequencing. Gene fusions were detected from RNA-seq. A patient-derived organoid (PDO) was developed from a patient with a MET translocation and expanded ex vivo to predict therapeutic sensitivity prior to enrollment in a phase 2 clinical trial. Results: Transcriptomic analysis showed our cohort may be stratified by the relative gene expression of the KRAS signaling cascade. The PDO derived from our patient harboring a TFG-MET rearrangement was found to have in vitro sensitivity to the multi-tyrosine kinase inhibitor crizotinib. The patient was enrolled in the phase 2 SPARTA clinical trial and received monotherapy with vebrelitinib, a c-MET inhibitor, and achieved a partial and durable response. Conclusions: KRASWT PDAC is molecularly distinct from KRASMUT and enriched with potentially actionable genetic variants. In our study, transcriptomic profiling revealed that the KRAS signaling cascade may play a key role in KRASWT PDAC. Our report of a KRASWT PDAC patient with TFG-MET rearrangement who responded to a cMET inhibitor further supports the pursuit of precision oncology in this sub-population. Identification of targetable mutations, perhaps through approaches like RNA-seq, can help enable precision-driven approaches to select optimal treatment based on tumor characteristics.
A New Species and a New Record of Byssoid Arthoniaceae (Lichenized Ascomycota) from Southern China
Authors: Zhang Lulu , Xue Junxia , Liu Linlin
Published: May 2024

This paper illustrates two species in the lichen-forming family Arthoniaceae from southern China, including a new species of Herpothallon, H. fibrosum L.L. Liu & Lu L. Zhang and a new record of Cryptothecia, C. striata G. Thor for China. Herpothallon fibrosum has fluffy, cylindrical pseudoisidia, like a bundle of fiber, and psoromic acid and confluentic acid are present. Furthermore, the new record of Cryptothecia striata has been identified by morphological, anatomical, chemical, and molecular studies. The systematic position of the two species was clarified by the molecular sequence data from the small subunit of the mitochondrial ribosomal DNA (mtSSU). Detailed taxonomic descriptions, chemical characters, comparisons, and discussion of the characteristics of similar species are provided for the two species; the relationship between Cryptothecia and Herpothallon is also discussed here.
Genome-Based Classification of Pedobacter albus sp. nov. and Pedobacter flavus sp. nov. Isolated from Soil
Authors: Tuyet Nhan Le Thi , Kim Jaisoo
Published: May 2024

Two rod-shaped, non-spore-forming, Gram-negative bacteria, strain KR3-3T isolated from fresh soil in Korea and strain VNH31T obtained from soil samples from motorbike repair workshop floors in Vietnam, were identified. Phylogenetic analysis utilizing 16S rRNA gene sequences revealed their affiliation with the family Sphingobacteriaceae and their relation to the genus Pedobacter, exhibiting 16S rRNA gene sequence similarities lower than 98.00% with all known species within the genus Pedobacter. Growth of VNH31T and KR3-3T was impeded by NaCl concentrations exceeding >0.5% and 1.5%, respectively, while they both thrived optimally at temperatures ranging between 25 and 30 °C. Notably, neither strain reduced nitrate to nitrite nor produced indole. Negative results were observed for the acidification of D-glucose and hydrolysis of urea, gelatin, casein, and starch. VNH31T exhibited growth on β-galactosidase, sodium acetate, L-serine, and L-proline, whereas KR 3-3T demonstrated growth on D-glucose, D-mannose, D-maltose, N-acetyl-glucosamine, sucrose, sodium acetate, L-serine, 4-Hydroxybenzoic acid, and L-proline. Core genome-based phylogenetic analysis revealed that the two isolates formed distinct clusters within the genus Pedobacter. The DNA G+C contents of KR3-3T and VNH31T were determined to be 44.12 mol% and 32.96 mol%, respectively. The average nucleotide identity and in silico DNA-DNA hybridization relatedness values (67.19–74.19% and 17.6–23.6%, respectively) between the Pedobacter isolates and the closely related type strains fell below the threshold values utilized for species delineation. Following comprehensive genomic, chemotaxonomic, phenotypic, and phylogenetic analyses, the isolated strains are proposed as two novel species within the genus Pedobacter, named Pedobacter albus sp. nov. (type strain KR3-3T = KACC 23486T = NBRC 116682T) and Pedobacter flavus sp. nov. (type strain VNH31T = KACC 23297T = CCTCC AB 2023109T).
Stony Corals and Their Associated Fauna Residing in Marine Lakes under Extreme Environmental Conditions
Authors: Becking Leontine E. , Martinez Stephanie J. , Aji Ludi Parwadani , Ahmad Awaludinnoer , Alzate Adriana , Folkers Mainah , Lestari Dea Fauzia , Subhan Beginer , Hoeksema Bert W.
Published: May 2024

Tropical marine lakes are small land-locked marine waterbodies occurring in karstic coastal areas. During biodiversity surveys in 12 marine lakes in Raja Ampat, Southwest Papua province, Indonesia, we recorded at least 37 species belonging to 29 genera of hard corals. Their observed associated symbiont fauna consisted of bivalve molluscs and polychaete worms. Marine lake temperature ranged from 30.0 to 32.5 °C, acidity from pH 7.6 to 8.1, and salinity from 26.4 to 33.2 ppt. This study provides the first inventory of the marginal coral communities in the extreme habitat of marine lakes, under chronic extreme environmental conditions of higher temperatures, land-based nutrient loads, and sedimentation.
John Cunningham Virus and Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy: A Falsely Played Diagnosis
Authors: Mouliou Dimitra S.
Published: May 2024

Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy (PML) is a possibly fatal demyelinating disease and John Cunningham Polyomavirus (JCPyV) is believed to cause this condition. The so-called JCPyV was initially reported in lymphoma and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) cases, whereas nowadays, its incidence is increasing in Multiple Sclerosis (MS) cases treated with natalizumab (Tysabri). However, there are conflicting literature data on its pathology and diagnosis, whereas some misdiagnosed reports exist, giving rise to further questions towards the topic. In reality, the so-called PML and the supposed JCPyV are not what they seem to be. In addition, novel and more frequent PML-like conditions may be reported, especially after the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.
Channel Knowledge Map Construction Based on a UAV-Assisted Channel Measurement System
Authors: Qiu Yanheng , Chen Xiaomin , Mao Kai , Ye Xuchao , Li Hanpeng , Ali Farman , Huang Yang , Zhu Qiuming
Published: May 2024

With the fast development of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), reliable UAV communication is becoming increasingly vital. The channel knowledge map (CKM) is a crucial bridge connecting the environment and the propagation channel that may visually depict channel characteristics. This paper presents a comprehensive scheme based on a UAV-assisted channel measurement system for constructing the CKM in real-world scenarios. Firstly, a three-dimensional (3D) CKM construction scheme for real-world scenarios is provided, which involves channel knowledge extraction, mapping, and completion. Secondly, an algorithm of channel knowledge extraction and completion is proposed. The sparse channel knowledge is extracted based on the sliding correlation and constant false alarm rate (CFAR) approaches. The 3D Kriging interpolation is used to complete the sparse channel knowledge. Finally, a UAV-assisted channel measurement system is developed and CKM measurement campaigns are conducted in campus and farmland scenarios. The path loss (PL) and root mean square delay spread (RMS-DS) are measured at different heights to determine CKMs. The measured and analyzed results show that the proposed construction scheme can effectively and accurately construct the CKMs in real-world scenarios.
A Novel UAV Air-to-Air Channel Model Incorporating the Effect of UAV Vibrations and Diffuse Scattering
Authors: Qi Wenzhe , Bian Ji , Wang Zili , Liu Wenzhao
Published: May 2024

In this paper, we propose a geometric channel model for air-to-air (A2A) unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) communication scenarios. The model is established by incorporating line-of-sight, specular reflection, and diffuse scattering components, and it can capture the impacts of UAV vibrations induced by the propeller’s rotation. Based on UAV heights and ground scatterer density, a closed-form expression is derived to jointly capture the zenith and azimuth angular distributions of diffuse rays. The power of diffuse rays is modeled according to the grazing angle of the rays and the electrical properties and roughness of the ground materials. Key statistics, including the temporal autocorrelation function, spatial cross-correlation function, Doppler power spectrum density, and coherence time are derived, providing an in-depth understanding of the time-variant characteristics of the channel. The results indicate that the presented model is capable of capturing certain A2A channel characteristics, which align with the corresponding theoretical analysis. The findings suggest that the scattering effect of the A2A channel is significantly influenced by the altitude of the UAV. Additionally, it is shown that UAV vibrations can introduce extra Doppler frequencies, notably decreasing the temporal correlation and coherence time of the channel. This effect is more prominent when the system operates at high-frequency bands. The effectiveness of the presented model is confirmed through a comparison of its statistics with those of an existing model and with available measurement data.
Generation of Virtual Ground Control Points Using a Binocular Camera
Authors: Vazquez-Dominguez Ariel , Magadán-Salazar Andrea , Pinto-Elías Raúl , Fuentes-Pacheco Jorge , López-Sánchez Máximo , Abaunza-González Hernán
Published: May 2024

This paper presents a methodology for generating virtual ground control points (VGCPs) using a binocular camera mounted on a drone. We compare the measurements of the binocular and monocular cameras between the classical method and the proposed one. This work aims to decrease human processing times while maintaining a reduced root mean square error (RMSE) for 3D reconstruction. Additionally, we propose utilizing COLMAP to enhance reconstruction accuracy by solely utilizing a sparse point cloud. The results demonstrate that implementing COLMAP for pre-processing reduces the RMSE by up to 16.9% in most cases. We prove that VGCPs further reduce the RMSE by up to 61.08%.
A Review of Real-Time Implementable Cooperative Aerial Manipulation Systems
Authors: Barakou Stamatina C. , Tzafestas Costas S. , Valavanis Kimon P.
Published: May 2024

This review paper focuses on quadrotor- and multirotor-based cooperative aerial manipulation. Emphasis is first given to comparing and evaluating prototype systems that have been implemented and tested in real-time in diverse application environments. The underlying modeling and control approaches are also discussed and compared. The outcome of this review allows for understanding the motivation and rationale to develop such systems, their applicability and implementability in diverse applications and also challenges that need to be addressed and overcome. Moreover, this paper provides a guide to develop the next generation of prototype systems based on preferred characteristics, functionality, operability, and application domain.
Robust Radar Inertial Odometry in Dynamic 3D Environments
Authors: Lyu Yang , Hua Lin , Wu Jiaming , Liang Xinkai , Zhao Chunhui
Published: May 2024

Millimeter-Wave Radar is one promising sensor to achieve robust perception against challenging observing conditions. In this paper, we propose a Radar Inertial Odometry (RIO) pipeline utilizing a long-range 4D millimeter-wave radar for autonomous vehicle navigation. Initially, we develop a perception frontend based on radar point cloud filtering and registration to estimate the relative transformations between frames reliably. Then an optimization-based backbone is formulated, which fuses IMU data, relative poses, and point cloud velocities from radar Doppler measurements. The proposed method is extensively tested in challenging on-road environments and in-the-air environments. The results indicate that the proposed RIO can provide a reliable localization function for mobile platforms, such as automotive vehicles and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), in various operation conditions.
The Impact of the Great Recession on Well-Being across Europe Ten Years On: A Cluster Analysis
Authors: Croci Angelini Elisabetta , Farina Francesco , Sorana Silvia
Published: May 2024

To evaluate variations in the well-being dimensions of European citizens, we rely upon Principal Component Analysis methodology, whereby a large set of interrelated indicators are reduced to a small number of aggregate synthetic variables. We find that the 2008 crisis impinged differently on the various dimensions of well-being. The evolution of the indicators has affected different clusters of countries in various ways. Most importantly, we observe that there has been a shift of the principal component from the poor in terms of material deprivation to the risk of poverty for the worsening conditions in the labor market.
Transfer-Learning-Enhanced Regression Generative Adversarial Networks for Optimal eVTOL Takeoff Trajectory Prediction
Authors: Yeh Shuan-Tai , Du Xiaosong
Published: May 2024

Electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft represent a crucial aviation technology to transform future transportation systems. The unique characteristics of eVTOL aircraft include reduced noise, low pollutant emission, efficient operating cost, and flexible maneuverability, which in the meantime pose critical challenges to advanced power retention techniques. Thus, optimal takeoff trajectory design is essential due to immense power demands during eVTOL takeoffs. Conventional design optimizations, however, adopt high-fidelity simulation models in an iterative manner resulting in a computationally intensive mechanism. In this work, we implement a surrogate-enabled inverse mapping optimization architecture, i.e., directly predicting optimal designs from design requirements (including flight conditions and design constraints). A trained inverse mapping surrogate performs real-time optimal eVTOL takeoff trajectory predictions with no need for running optimizations; however, one training sample requires one design optimization in this inverse mapping setup. The excessive training cost of inverse mapping and the characteristics of optimal eVTOL takeoff trajectories necessitate the development of the regression generative adversarial network (regGAN) surrogate. We propose to further enhance regGAN predictive performance through the transfer learning (TL) technique, creating a scheme termed regGAN-TL. In particular, the proposed regGAN-TL scheme leverages the generative adversarial network (GAN) architecture consisting of a generator network and a discriminator network, with a combined loss of the mean squared error (MSE) and binary cross-entropy (BC) losses, for regression tasks. In this work, the generator employs design requirements as input and produces optimal takeoff trajectory profiles, while the discriminator differentiates the generated profiles and real optimal profiles in the training set. The combined loss facilitates the generator training in the dual aspects: the MSE loss targets minimum differences between generated profiles and training counterparts, while the BC loss drives the generated profiles to share analogous patterns with the training set. We demonstrated the utility of regGAN-TL on optimal takeoff trajectory designs for the Airbus A3 Vahana and compared its performance against representative surrogates, including the multi-output Gaussian process, the conditional GAN, and the vanilla regGAN. Results showed that regGAN-TL reached the 99.5% generalization accuracy threshold with only 200 training samples while the best reference surrogate required 400 samples. The 50% reduction in training expense and reduced standard deviations of generalization accuracy achieved by regGAN-TL confirmed its outstanding predictive performance and broad engineering application potential.
A Hybrid Semi-Automated Workflow for Systematic and Literature Review Processes with Large Language Model Analysis
Authors: Ye Anjia , Maiti Ananda , Schmidt Matthew , Pedersen Scott J.
Published: May 2024

Systematic reviews (SRs) are a rigorous method for synthesizing empirical evidence to answer specific research questions. However, they are labor-intensive because of their collaborative nature, strict protocols, and typically large number of documents. Large language models (LLMs) and their applications such as gpt-4/ChatGPT have the potential to reduce the human workload of the SR process while maintaining accuracy. We propose a new hybrid methodology that combines the strengths of LLMs and humans using the ability of LLMs to summarize large bodies of text autonomously and extract key information. This is then used by a researcher to make inclusion/exclusion decisions quickly. This process replaces the typical manually performed title/abstract screening, full-text screening, and data extraction steps in an SR while keeping a human in the loop for quality control. We developed a semi-automated LLM-assisted (Gemini-Pro) workflow with a novel innovative prompt development strategy. This involves extracting three categories of information including identifier, verifier, and data field (IVD) from the formatted documents. We present a case study where our hybrid approach reduced errors compared with a human-only SR. The hybrid workflow improved the accuracy of the case study by identifying 6/390 (1.53%) articles that were misclassified by the human-only process. It also matched the human-only decisions completely regarding the rest of the 384 articles. Given the rapid advances in LLM technology, these results will undoubtedly improve over time.
Effect of an Ipomoea aquatica Floating Raft on the Water Quality, Antioxidant System, Non-Specific Immune Responses, and Microbial Diversity of Penaeus vannamei in an Aquaculture System
Authors: Ruan Zhuohao , Xie Ruilin , Li Yifu , Luo Yuanyuan , Weng Zufeng , Liu Wensheng
Published: May 2024

Pacific white shrimp (Penaeus vannamei) is one of the main shrimp species cultivated around the world. Despite its high yields and easy handling, water pollution from intensive shrimp cultivation remains a serious problem in China. In this study, a compound aquaculture model of P. vannamei and water spinach (Ipomoea aquatica) was used to investigate the effect of a water spinach floating raft on water quality, antioxidants, non-specific immune response, growth performance, and microbial diversity. The experimental design of this study consisted of two groups with three replicates for each, i.e., control group: aquatic monoculture (AM) system with only P. vannamei; treatment group: P. vannamei-I. aquatica raft aquaponics (AP) system with a 50% cover ratio with a water spinach floating raft. The experiment lasted for seven weeks. The results show that the concentrations of total phosphorus (TP), total nitrogen (TN), nitrate nitrogen (NO3−-N), ammonia nitrogen (NH4+-N), nitrite nitrogen (NO2−-N), and active phosphorus (AP) in the AM group were higher than those in the AP group at different sampling times. The water quality index of the AP group was better than that of the AM group, indicating that water spinach can remove the nutrients from aquaculture water bodies. The average daily gain and survival rate of shrimp in the AP group were higher than those in the AM group. The total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA), and acid phosphatase (ACP) in the AP group were better than those in the AM group. The Shannon–Wiener and Simpson indices of the gut, water, and sediment of the AP system were significantly higher than those in the AM system, which implied a higher abundance of microorganisms in the AP system. These results demonstrate that the application of a water spinach floating raft in aquaponics can not only improve the water quality, but also improve the growth performance, antioxidant system, and non-specific immune responses of Pacific white shrimp, while increasing the abundance of microorganisms in the aquaculture system and improving the ecological benefits in terms of the expenditure.
Effect of Dietary Supplementation on the Growth and Immunity of Fish and Shellfish
Authors: Qi Changle , Xu Qiyou , Ming Jianhua , Song Fei , Zhou Chuanpeng
Published: May 2024

With the rapid development of aquaculture, the shortage of high-quality dietary ingredients has become a critical problem limiting the sustainable development of aquaculture [...]