bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Three-Dimensional Structure Measurement for Potted Plant Based on Millimeter-Wave Radar
Authors: Zhang Zhihong , Huang Chaowei , Xu Xing , Ma Lizhe , Yang Zhou , Duan Jieli
Published: November 2023

Potted plant canopy extraction requires a fast, accurate, stable, and affordable detection system for precise pesticide application. In this study, we propose a new method for extracting three-dimensional canopy information of potted plants using millimeter-wave radar and evaluate the system on plants in static, rotating, and rotating-while-spraying states. The position and rotation speed of the rotating platform are used to compute the rotation–translation matrix between point clouds, enabling the multi-view point clouds to be overlaid on the world coordinate system. Point cloud extraction is performed by applying the Density-Based Spatial Clustering of Applications with Noise algorithm (DBSCAN), while an Alpha-shape algorithm is used for three-dimensional reconstruction of the canopy. Our measurement results for the 3D reconstruction of plants at different growth stages showed that the reconstruction model has higher accuracy under the rotation condition than that under the static condition, with average relative errors of 41.61% and 10.21%, respectively. The significant correlation between the sampling data with and without spray reached 0.03, indicating that the effect of the droplets on radar detection during the spray process can be neglected. This study provides guidance for plant canopy detection using millimeter-wave radar for advanced agricultural informatization and automation.
Training-Free Acoustic-Based Hand Gesture Tracking on Smart Speakers
Authors: Xu Xiao , Zhang Xuehan , Bao Zhongxu , Yu Xiaojie , Yin Yuqing , Yang Xu , Niu Qiang
Published: November 2023

Hand gesture recognition is an essential Human–Computer Interaction (HCI) mechanism for users to control smart devices. While traditional device-based methods support acceptable recognition performance, the recent advance in wireless sensing could enable device-free hand gesture recognition. However, two severe limitations are serious environmental interference and high-cost hardware, which hamper wide deployment. This paper proposes the novel system TaGesture, which employs an inaudible acoustic signal to realize device-free and training-free hand gesture recognition with a commercial speaker and microphone array. We address unique technical challenges, such as proposing a novel acoustic hand-tracking-smoothing algorithm with an Interaction Multiple Model (IMM) Kalman Filter to address the issue of localization angle ambiguity, and designing a classification algorithm to realize acoustic-based hand gesture recognition without training. Comprehensive experiments are conducted to evaluate TaGesture. Results show that it can achieve a total accuracy of 97.5% for acoustic-based hand gesture recognition, and support the furthest sensing range of up to 3 m.
A Practical Group Symbol and Group Name Approach (PSNA) according to EN ISO 14688-2:2018
Authors: Yesiloglu-Gultekin Nurgul
Published: November 2023

Classification systems are crucial to the description and classification of soils, helping to facilitate soil identification, as well as the understanding, and interpretation of soil materials worldwide. In this study, EN ISO 14688-2:2018 and ASTM D2487-17e1 were employed to develop a practical soil identification approach called Practical Group Symbol and Group Name Approach (PSNA). The method presented herein is not a classification system or a standard but is rather an approach that makes EN ISO 14688-2:2018 usable in practice and enables soil particle identification in detail. The use of this practical method can eliminate any ambiguity in communicating soil characteristics. Practical flow charts were prepared for defining group names and symbols of soil particles. The method enables the classification of gravel, sand, silt, clay, and organic material. A user-friendly macro was also developed in Microsoft Excel, utilizing the integrated programming language Visual Basic for Applications (VBA) to facilitate the implementation of this approach. In the present study, an Excel-based triangular diagram was developed. In addition to the triangular diagram, two charts were considered. From these contributions, the group symbol and group name of soil mixtures can be easily and practically defined.
The Data-Driven Homogenization of Mohr–Coulomb Parameters Based on a Bayesian Optimized Back Propagation Artificial Neural Network (BP-ANN)
Authors: Gao Yunfei , Huang Guogui , Li Yinxi , Zhang Junyuan , Yang Zeng , Wang Meng
Published: November 2023

Homogenization methods can characterize the mechanical properties of these materials based on appropriate constitutive models and data. They are also applied to the characterization of mechanical parameters under complex geotechnical conditions in geotechnical engineering because of the complexity and heterogeneous nature of geotechnical materials. Unfortunately, existing homogenization methods for geotechnical mechanical parameters often incur immense computational costs. Hence, a framework that utilizes finite element analysis for generating a dataset which is then trained using a Bayesian Optimized Back Propagation Artificial Neural Network (BP-ANN) to obtain the homogenized Mohr–Coulomb parameters of the soils is proposed. This is the first time that Bayesian optimization and a BP-ANN have been used in conjunction to predict the homogenized mechanical parameters of soils. The dataset used for training the data is generated using the commercial FEM software ABAQUS (6.10). The maximum difference between the top and bottom part of the tunnel of the heterogeneous model and homogeneous model of our test cases only varies by 5.3%, thereby verifying the excellence of the Bayesian Optimized BP-ANN.
Effect of Temperature Distribution on Interfacial Bonding Process between CFRTP Composite and Aluminum Alloy during Laser Direct Joining
Authors: Wang Qi , Fu Rao , Wang Fuji , Luo Chaoyang , Li Jiankang , Jia Zhenyuan
Published: November 2023

Laser direct joining enables non-destructive and lightweight joining of carbon fiber reinforced thermoplastic (CFRTP) composites and aluminum alloys. The interfacial bonding process determines the joint performance and is influenced by the time-varying temperature distribution. However, the interfacial bonding process occurs inside the joint, making it difficult to study the effect of temperature distribution. To resolve this issue, a novel online observation device for the interfacial bonding process between CFRTP composites and aluminum alloys is design, and the polymer melting, flowing, and bonding with metal during laser direct joining are observed. Further, temperature field simulation models for laser direct joining are established, and temperature distribution and gradient are calculated. The results show that the temperature distribution determines the melting of CFRTP composites, and bubbles generated by the thermal decomposition of the polymer hinder the melting. The temperature gradient is related to the movement of the molten matrix and fibers, and the movement towards the aluminum alloy induces cracking and delamination. Once the interface is filled with polymer, the motion changes to along the laser scanning direction and the joining defects are reduced. The study can provide a foundation for promoting interfacial bonding and reducing the defects of laser direct joining.
Using an Artificial Physarum polycephalum Colony for Threshold Image Segmentation
Authors: Cai Zhengying , Li Gengze , Zhang Jinming , Xiong Shasha
Published: November 2023

Traditional artificial intelligence algorithms are prone to falling into local optima when solving threshold segmentation problems. Here, a novel artificial Physarum polycephalum colony algorithm is proposed to help us solve the difficult problem. First, the algorithm methodology of an artificial Physarum polycephalum colony algorithm is described to search for the optimal solutions by expansion and contraction of a lot of artificial hyphae. Different artificial Physarum polycephalum can learn from each other and produce more hyphae in expansion. In contraction, the artificial Physarum polycephalum colony can select the best hyphae with high fitness through a quick sort algorithm, but the other hyphae with low fitness will be absorbed and disappear. Second, a fitness function is modeled based on Kapur’s entropy for the proposed artificial Physarum polycephalum colony algorithm to search for optimal threshold segmentation solutions. Third, a series of benchmark experiments are implemented to test the proposed artificial Physarum polycephalum colony algorithm, and some state-of-the-art approaches are employed for comparison. The experimental results verified that the proposed algorithm can obtain better accuracy and convergence speed, and is not easier to fall into the local optimal solution too early.
Black Ice Classification with Hyperspectral Imaging and Deep Learning
Authors: Bhattacharyya Chaitali , Kim Sungho
Published: November 2023

With the development of new technologies inside car mechanisms with various sensors connected to the IoT, a new generation of automation is attracting attention. However, there are still some factors that are difficult to detect. Among them, one of the highest risk factors is black ice. A road covered with black ice, which is hard to see from a distance, is not only the cause of damage to vehicles passing over the spot, but it also puts lives at risk. Hence, the detection of black ice is essential. A lot of research has been done on this topic with various sensors and methods. However, hyperspectral imaging has not been used for this particular purpose. Therefore, in this paper, black ice classification has been performed with the help of hyperspectral imaging in collaboration with a deep learning model for the first time. With abundant spectral and spatial information, hyperspectral imaging is a good way to analyze any material. In this paper, a 2D–3D Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) has been used to classify hyperspectral images of black ice. The spectral data were preprocessed, and the dimension of the image cube was reduced with the help of Principal Component Analysis (PCA). The proposed method was then compared with the existing method for better evaluation.
Research on Luggage Package Extraction of X-ray Images Based on Edge Sensitive Multi-Channel Background Difference Algorithm
Authors: Song Xueping , Zhang Shuyu , Yang Jianming , Zhang Jicun
Published: November 2023

Many security detectors do not have the ability to output individual luggage package images and are not compatible with deep learning algorithms. In this paper, a luggage package extraction of X-ray images based on the ES-MBD (Edge Sensitive Multi-channel Background Difference Algorithm) method is proposed, which is aiming at the problem that background difference binarization is insensitive to texture features and edge detection binarization is insensitive to smooth areas. In this method, X-ray luggage package images from complex original video images are used as a key target, the RGB three-channel background difference is calculated from the original X-ray image, the edge detection of the grayscale map is performed using the Sobel operator optimized by local gradient enhancement, and the morphological expansion process is performed on the combined results to obtain the complete wrapping target. The Suzuki algorithm is used to detect the outline of the binarized package image, match the package frame area and determine the key target. The ES-MBD method solves the problem of information loss in the traditional binarization method, and retains the information of insensitive regions while reducing noise. Through experimental comparison, the accuracy of ES-MBD binarization method reaches 97.3%, the recall rate reaches 96.5%, and ES-MBD method has obvious advantages in key target extraction of X-ray images.
Remote, Touchless Interaction with Medical Images and Telementoring in the Operating Room Using a Kinect-Based Application—A Usability Study
Authors: Glinkowski Wojciech Michał , Miścior Tomasz , Sitnik Robert
Published: November 2023

Innovative technologies can improve user usability and satisfaction in computer-based activities in the work environment, including surgeons working in the operating room (OR). A scrubbed surgeon must ask unscrubbed staff to retrieve medical images from a surgical PACS system on a monitor in a hybrid operating room. The study aimed to check users’ usability and satisfaction with the designed and developed Ortho_Kinect_OR application, which enables contactless control of access to medical images during surgery. The application also facilitates access to telemedicine applications such as intraoperative telementoring during orthopedic procedures or tele-education. The application’s usability was tested by assigning standardized tasks to surgeons for PACS and teleconferencing in the operating room. Hand gestures were recognized and translated to function like mouse buttons. Field tests conducted among orthopedic surgeons showed high usability and user satisfaction. PACS access in the operating room did not distract the orthopedic surgeon during orthopedic surgery procedures. All surgeons completed the tests and tasks without any problems. OR field test results showed high agreement among users and were very satisfactory. Junior surgeons and residents pointed out that people with average computer knowledge could use the application. It has been shown that the contactless system designed and built based on the Kinect sensor available on the shelves meets the requirements of the operating room environment and is easy to use. Touchless controller technology provides the opportunity to increase the use of intraoperative imaging previews and improve the safety of surgical patients by improving sterility and reducing unnecessary staff in the operating room. Using the Ortho_Kinect_OR application and the Kinect sensor, it is possible to provide contactless access to videoconference telementoring and PACS in the operating room without an orthopedic surgeon’s unnecessary distraction in the operating room environment.
On Mond–Weir-Type Robust Duality for a Class of Uncertain Fractional Optimization Problems
Authors: Guo Xiaole
Published: November 2023

This article is focused on the investigation of Mond–Weir-type robust duality for a class of semi-infinite multi-objective fractional optimization with uncertainty in the constraint functions. We first establish a Mond–Weir-type robust dual problem for this fractional optimization problem. Then, by combining a new robust-type subdifferential constraint qualification condition and a generalized convex-inclusion assumption, we present robust ε-quasi-weak and strong duality properties between this uncertain fractional optimization and its uncertain Mond–Weir-type robust dual problem. Moreover, we also investigate robust ε-quasi converse-like duality properties between them.
The Skin and Inflamm-Aging
Authors: Agrawal Rashi , Hu Anne , Bollag Wendy B.
Published: November 2023

With its unique anatomical location facing both the external and internal environment, the skin has crucial functions, including shielding the body from damage caused by ultraviolet radiation and chemicals, preventing water loss, acting as a primary barrier against pathogens, participating in metabolic processes like vitamin D production and temperature control and relaying information to the body through sensory and proprioceptor nerves. Like all organ systems, skin is known to undergo multiple changes with aging. A better understanding of the mechanisms that mediate aging-related skin dysfunction may allow the creation of targeted therapeutics that have beneficial effects not only on aged skin but also on other organs and tissues that experience a loss of or decline in function with aging. The skin is the largest organ of the body and can contribute to serum inflammatory mediator levels. One alteration known to occur with age is an impairment of skin barrier function; since disruption of the barrier is known to induce inflammation, skin may be a major contributor to the sustained, sub-clinical systemic inflammation associated with aging. Such “inflamm-aging” may underlie many of the deleterious changes observed in aged individuals. This review explores the role of age-related skin changes, skin inflammation and inflamm-aging.
Sweet Orange Juice Processing By-Product Extracts: A Caries Management Alternative to Chlorhexidine
Authors: Saha Suvro , Boesch Christine , Maycock Joanne , Wood Simon , Do Thuy
Published: November 2023

Dental caries is one of the most prevalent chronic diseases globally in both children and adults. This study investigated the potential of industrial sweet orange waste extracts (ISOWE) as a substitute for chlorhexidine (CHX) in managing dental caries. First, the cytotoxicity of ISOWE (40, 80, 120 mg/mL) and CHX (0.1 and 0.2%) on buccal epithelial cells was determined. ISOWE exhibited no overall toxicity, whereas CHX strongly affected cell viability. The combination of ISOWE and CHX significantly enhanced cell proliferation compared to CHX alone. Next, the antimicrobial efficacy of ISOWE, CHX, and their combination was assessed against a 7-day complex biofilm model inoculated with oral samples from human volunteers. CHX exhibited indiscriminate antimicrobial action, affecting both pathogenic and health-associated oral microorganisms. ISOWE demonstrated lower antimicrobial efficacy than CHX but showed enhanced efficacy against pathogenic species while preserving the oral microbiome’s balance. When applied to a cariogenic biofilm, the combined treatment of ISOWE with 0.1% CHX showed similar efficacy to 0.2% CHX treatment alone. Overall, the findings suggest that ISOWE is a promising natural anti-cariogenic agent with lower toxicity and enhanced selectivity for pathogenic species compared to CHX.
Platelet and HIV Interactions and Their Contribution to Non-AIDS Comorbidities
Authors: Awamura Thomas , Nakasone Elizabeth S. , Gangcuangco Louie Mar , Subia Natalie T. , Bali Aeron-Justin , Chow Dominic C. , Shikuma Cecilia M. , Park Juwon
Published: November 2023

Platelets are anucleate cytoplasmic cell fragments that circulate in the blood, where they are involved in regulating hemostasis. Beyond their normal physiologic role, platelets have emerged as versatile effectors of immune response. During an infection, cell surface receptors enable platelets to recognize viruses, resulting in their activation. Activated platelets release biologically active molecules that further trigger host immune responses to protect the body against infection. Their impact on the immune response is also associated with the recruitment of circulating leukocytes to the site of infection. They can also aggregate with leukocytes, including lymphocytes, monocytes, and neutrophils, to immobilize pathogens and prevent viral dissemination. Despite their host protective role, platelets have also been shown to be associated with various pathophysiological processes. In this review, we will summarize platelet and HIV interactions during infection. We will also highlight and discuss platelet and platelet-derived mediators, how they interact with immune cells, and the multifaceted responsibilities of platelets in HIV infection. Furthermore, we will give an overview of non-AIDS comorbidities linked to platelet dysfunction and the impact of antiretroviral therapy on platelet function.
Data-Driven Prediction Model for High-Strength Bolts in Composite Beams
Authors: Li Haolin , Yin Xinsheng , Sha Lirong , Yang Dongdong , Hu Tianyu
Published: November 2023

In recent years, the application of artificial intelligence-based methods to engineering problems has received consistent praise for their high predictive accuracy. This paper utilizes a BP neural network to predict the strength of steel–concrete composite beam shear connectors with high-strength friction-grip bolts (HSFGBs). These connectors are widely used in bridge and building construction due to their superior strength and stiffness compared to traditional beams. A validated finite element model was used to predict the strength of HSFGB shear connectors. A reliable database was created by analyzing 208 models with different characteristics for machine learning modeling. Previous studies have identified issues with result variation and overestimation or underestimation of shear connection strength. Among the machine learning methods evaluated, the backpropagation neural network model performed the best. It achieved a goodness of fit of over 93% in both the training and testing sets, with a low coefficient of variation of 6.50%. Concrete strength, bolt diameter, and bolt tensile strength were found to be important variables influencing the strength of shear connectors. Other variables showed a proportional or inverse relationship with compressive strength, except for concrete strength and bolt pretension. This study presents an accurate machine learning approach for predicting the strength of HSFGB shear connectors in steel–concrete composite beams. The study offers valuable insights into the effects of various variables on the performance of shear connection strength, providing support for structural design and analysis.
Tuning the Latency by Anionic Ligand Exchange in Ruthenium Benzylidene Phosphite Complexes
Authors: Alassad Nebal , Phatake Ravindra S. , Baranov Mark , Reany Ofer , Lemcoff N. Gabriel
Published: November 2023

Recently discovered cis-dichloro benzylidene phosphite complexes are latent catalysts at room temperature and exhibit exceptional thermal and photochemical activation behavior in olefin metathesis reactions. Most importantly, the study of these catalysts has allowed their introduction in efficient 3-D printing applications of ring-opening metathesis derived polymers and the control of chromatically orthogonal chemical processes. Moreover, their combination with plasmonic Au-nanoparticles has given rise to novel smart materials that are responsive to light. Given the importance of the ligand shell in the initiation and reactivity behavior of this family of complexes, we set out to investigate the effect of anionic ligand exchange. Thus, we report herein two new ruthenium benzylidene benzylphosphite complexes where the chloride anionic ligands have been replaced by bromide and iodide anions (cis-Ru-Phos-Br2 & cis-Ru-Phos-I2). The thermal and photochemical activations of these dormant catalysts in a variety of ring-closing and ring-opening metathesis polymerization (RCM and ROMP) reactions were thoroughly studied and compared with the previously known chloride precatalyst. Photochemical RCM studies provided similar results, especially in non-hindered reactions, with the UV-A wavelength being the best in all cases. On the other hand, the thermal activation profile exposed that the anionic ligand significantly affects reactivity. Notably, cis-Ru-Phos-I2 disclosed particularly impressive initiation efficiency compared to the other members of the family.
Microclimate and Vegetation Structure Significantly Affect Butterfly Assemblages in a Tropical Dry Forest
Authors: Mahata Anirban , Panda Rajendra Mohan , Dash Padmanava , Naik Ayusmita , Naik Alok Kumar , Palita Sharat Kumar
Published: November 2023

Understanding the factors that influence the diversity and distribution of butterfly species is crucial for prioritizing conservation. The Eastern Ghats of India is an ideal site for such a study, where butterfly diversity studies have yet to receive much attention. This study emphasized the butterfly assemblages of three prominent habitats in the region: open forests, riparian forests, and dense forests. We hypothesized that riparian forests would be the most preferred habitat for the butterflies, as they provide suitable microclimatic conditions for butterflies. The study collected samples for 35 grids of 2 × 2 km2 for each habitat during the dry months (December–June). We considered the relative humidity, temperature, light intensity, elevation, and canopy cover to assess their influences on butterfly richness and abundance. We also considered the impact of disturbances on their distribution. We used structural equation modeling and canonical correspondence analysis to quantify the correlation and causation between the butterflies and their environment. The study recorded 1614 individual butterflies of 79 species from 57 genera and 6 families. During the study, we found that temperature was the most significant factor influencing butterfly richness. Relative humidity was also important and had a positive impact on butterfly richness. Riparian forests, where daytime temperatures are relatively low, were the most preferred microhabitat for butterflies. Open forests had greater species diversity, indicating the critical significance of an open canopy for butterflies. Though riparian forests need greater attention concerning butterfly distribution, maintaining open and dense forests are crucial for preserving butterfly diversity.
Fault Recovery Methods for a Converged System Comprised of Power Grids, Transportation Networks and Information Networks
Authors: Zhang Geng , Liu Chenxu , Jiang Hao , Wang Jiye
Published: November 2023

Recently, triple-network convergence systems (TNCS) have emerged from the deep integration of the power grid, transportation networks, and information networks. Fault recovery research in the TNCS is important since this system’s complexity and interactivity can expand the fault’s scale and increase the fault’s impact. Currently, fault recovery focuses primarily on single power grids and cyber–physical systems, but there are certain shortcomings, such as ignoring uncertainties, including generator start-up failures and the occurrence of new faults during recovery, energy supply–demand imbalances leading to system security issues, and communication delays caused by network attacks. In this study, we propose a recovery method based on the improved twin-delayed deep deterministic algorithm (TD3), factoring in the shortcomings of the existing research. Specifically, we establish a TNCS model to analyze interaction mechanisms and design a state matrix to represent the uncertainty changes in the TNCS, a negative reward to reflect the impact of unit start-up failures, a special reward to reflect the impact of communication delay, and an improved actor network update mechanism. Experimental results show that our method obtains the optimal recovery decisions, maximizes restoration benefits in power grid failure scenarios, and demonstrates a strong resilience against communication delays caused by DoS attacks.
Bi-Level Optimization Model for DERs Dispatch Based on an Improved Harmony Searching Algorithm in a Smart Grid
Authors: Su Hongsheng , Wang Xingsheng , Ding Zonghao
Published: November 2023

To satisfy the large-scale grid-connected demands of distributed energy resources (DERs), a bi-level optimization model is proposed for private DER dispatch managed by a virtual power plant (VPP) in a smart grid environment in this paper. The optimization models of the upper and lower layers serve as the planning layer and the operational layer, respectively, wherein the upper optimization model is mainly aimed at the optimization allocation of DERs under an unchanged network topology, and the lower-level optimization model is mainly responsible for the optimization of the distributed network topology from the optimization results of the upper layer. An improved harmony searching algorithm (HSA) is then applied to resolve the model through continuous iterations and communications between the upper and lower levels until an expected aim is achieved, which can satisfy the aim demand of the upper and the lower levels at the same time. Finally, six optimization scenarios are planned and selected in order to evaluate the performance of the bi-level optimization strategy in the IEEE33 bus distribution system and the 69-bus distribution system, and the optimized results show that the proposed method can effectively improve the grid-connected capacity of DERs and their system performance, and are more flexible in facing a growing ambient smart environment.
A Novel Method for Diagnosing Power Electronics Devices Using Elastic Wave Emission
Authors: Kozak Maciej , Gordon Radosław
Published: November 2023

This work is an introduction of acoustic emission (AE) signals used in order to detect the malfunction of selected semiconductor elements. The authors proposed the use of internally generated signals (elastic waves) of acoustic emission leading to the detection of the pre-fail state of switching IGBT transistors. The analysis of the AE signals allows the creation of a reference pattern of properly working transistors and at the same time the identification of abnormal signals, which are generated by a defective element. Unlike many papers, this article shows experimental results demonstrating a comparison of undamaged, properly working and defective IGBT transistors which can be used, for example, as a reference for diagnostic tools. Analysis of the signal in the frequency domain obtained from the faulty transistor (overheated or with damaged casing) shows the presence of additional frequencies which can indicate the imminent occurrence of critical damage.
Tracking the Route Walked by Missing Persons and Fugitives: A Geoforensics Casework (Italy)
Authors: Somma Roberta
Published: November 2023

Criminal investigations aiming to track the route walked by missing persons and fugitives (MPFs) usually involve intelligence analysts, military planners, experts in mobile forensics, traditional investigative methods, and sniffer dog handlers. Nonetheless, when MPFs are devoid of any technological device and move in uninhabited rural areas devoid of tele cameras and densely covered by vegetation, tracking the route walked by MPFs may be a much more arduous task. In the XVIII century, the expert Georg Popp was able to link a homicide suspect to a sequence of different sites of criminal interest, located in the countryside, by studying the stains of soils found on the footwear and trousers of the suspect. In such complex cases, a very efficient approach for tracking the route walked by MPFs may consist of comparing the geological traces found on the MPFs and their belongings with soils exposed in the event scenes. In particular, the search for peculiar or rare particles and aggregates may strengthen the weight of the geological forensic evidence comparisons. A match of mineralogical, textural, and organic matter data may demonstrate the provenance of the traces from the soil of a specific site, thereby linking the MPFs to the scene of events. Based on the above, the present paper reports geological determinations accomplished for a “mediatic” casework. The results allowed a general high degree of compatibility among traces collected on the MPFs and on the soil from the scene of events to be ascertained. The most significant positive matches, based on the finding of ten peculiar and rare particles and assemblages, allowed the reconstruction of a route about 1.1 km long, as the crow flies, on the event site. Although this procedure was extremely time consuming and available only in a backwards reconstruction linked to the MPFs’ findings, it was of uttermost importance in strengthening the inferences proposed, and for which other methods could not provide any information.
FunctionaL Assessment Scale of Hemianopia (FLASH): A New Multidisciplinary Tool to Assess Hemianopia in Patients with Severe Acquired Brain Injury
Authors: Lucatello Susanna , De Angelis Sara , Di Lorenzo Concetta , Iosa Marco , Magnotti Luisa , Di Paolo Marta , De Luca Maria , Buzzi Maria Gabriella , Tramontano Marco
Published: November 2023

Background: Severe acquired brain injury (sABI) encompasses a range of neurological impairments. Visual dysfunction, particularly homonymous visual field defects (HVFDs) and homonymous hemianopia (HH), commonly afflicts sABI survivors, affecting their cognitive and motor rehabilitation. This study presents the FunctionaL Assessment Scale of Hemianopia (FLASH), developed to analyze the most common postural behaviors exhibited by sABI patients with hemianopia during activities of daily living. A comparison to traditional static automated perimetry for diagnosing visual field deficits (VFDs) to determine the sensitivity and specificity of the FLASH was used. Additionally, this study also aimed to assess its reliability. Methods: Fifty-six patients (25 F, 31 M, mean age 60.59 ± 14.53) with strokes in the sub-acute phase (<6 months from the onset) were assessed with both FLASH and a Humphrey Field Analyzer. Results: After removing two items found to be less reliable than others, FLASH showed high sensitivity (81%) and specificity (77%) when compared to static automated perimetry. Inter-rater reliability was also high, with an intra-class correlation coefficient of 0.954, as well as the internal consistency computed by Cronbach’s alpha, equal to 0.874. Conclusion: FLASH could offer a valuable and cost-effective screening tool for VFD in sABI patients during neurorehabilitation, with potential implications for healthcare cost reduction.
The Power of Licorice (Radix glycyrrhizae) to Improve Oral Health: A Comprehensive Review of Its Pharmacological Properties and Clinical Implications
Authors: AlDehlawi Hebah , Jazzar Ahoud
Published: November 2023

Licorice (Radix glycyrrhizae) is a plant root extract widely used in various applications, including cosmetics, food supplements, and traditional medicine. It has a long history of medicinal use in different cultures due to its diverse pharmacological properties. Licorice has traditionally been used for treating gastrointestinal problems, respiratory infections, cough, bronchitis, arthritis, and skin conditions. In recent years, the potential therapeutic benefits of licorice for oral health have gained significant interest. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive review of the effects of licorice extracts and their bioactive components on common oral diseases such as dental caries, periodontitis, halitosis, candidiasis, and recurrent aphthous ulcers. The chemical composition of licorice has shown the presence of several bioactive compounds such as glycyrrhizin, glabridin, isoliquiritigenin (ISL), and licochalcone exhibiting various pharmacological activities, including anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidative, and immunomodulatory effects. Interestingly, in certain patients, licorice has shown a promising potential to inhibit the spread of viruses, prevent biofilm formation, reduce inflammation, boost immune responses, alleviate pain, and exert antioxidative effects. In this review, we provide a brief overview of the current understanding of licorice’s therapeutic benefits in the treatment of oral ailments, emphasising its potential as an alternative treatment option for oral diseases. Further research is warranted to explore its efficacy, safety, and clinical applications using placebo-controlled clinical trials.
Practical Considerations for Cardiac Electronic Devices Reimplantation Following Transvenous Lead Extraction Due to Related Endocarditis
Authors: Ali Hussam , Foresti Sara , De Ambroggi Guido , Cappato Riccardo , Lupo Pierpaolo
Published: November 2023

Despite progress in implantation technology and prophylactic measures, infection complications related to cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIED) are still a major concern with negative impacts on patient outcomes and the health system’s resources. Infective endocarditis (IE) represents one of the most threatening CIED-related infections associated with high mortality rates and requires prompt diagnosis and management. Transvenous lead extraction (TLE), combined with prolonged antibiotic therapy, has been validated as an effective approach to treat patients with CIED-related IE. Though early complete removal is undoubtedly recommended for CIED-related IE or systemic infection, device reimplantation still represents a clinical challenge in these patients at high risk of reinfection, with many gaps in the current knowledge and international guidelines. Based on the available literature data and authors’ experience, this review aims to address the practical and clinical considerations regarding CIED reimplantation following lead extraction for related IE, focusing on the reassessment of CIED indication, procedure timing, and the reimplanted CIED type and site. A tailored, multidisciplinary approach involving clinical cardiologists, electrophysiologists, cardiac imaging experts, cardiac surgeons, and infectious disease specialists is crucial to optimize these patients’ management and clinical outcomes.
Exploring the Spatial Heterogeneity of Rural Development in Laos Based on Rural Building Spatial Database
Authors: Li Shangqian , Liang Yutian , Deng Xin , Xu Weipan , Li Xun
Published: November 2023

The countryside is the principal area of population agglomeration with a high incidence of global poverty problems. As a shelter for the daily life of rural inhabitants, the rural buildings constitute the element of rural settlements. Moreover, they can directly characterize the level of rural development. Therefore, in the new stage of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), this study selected Laos as the main study area and investigated the effect of different factors on the spatial heterogeneity of rural development based on the rural building spatial database. With the geodetector, the results are summarized as follows: (1) The spatial pattern of rural buildings in different regions of Laos varies significantly, with hot spots areas of rural buildings mainly located in the central and southern regions, while cold spots areas are mainly concentrated in the northern region. (2) Slope, transport infrastructure, and public service are the dominant elements influencing the spatial differentiation of rural buildings in Laos, but spatial heterogeneity existed in different regions of factors. (3) The interaction detector shows that slope ∩ road is the dominant interaction factor influencing the spatial distribution pattern of rural buildings nationwide, and there are marked divergences in the interaction factors. Finally, this study combines the findings to propose corresponding countermeasures for promoting the development and construction of rural areas in Laos.
Analyses of the Spatial Morphology of Traditional Yunnan Villages Utilizing Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Remote Sensing
Authors: Zhang Chunming , Xiong Wanru , Shao Tiandong , Zhang Yiyang , Zhang Zhide , Zhao Fei
Published: November 2023

Traditional villages are encountering contemporary problems in terms of preservation and comprehension as a result of their complex spatial morphologies, which are distinguished by their extensive cultural and architectural legacy, including distinctive architectural styles and historical significance. This study provides evidence that reinforces the unique characteristics of these settlements, supported by particular data and findings. The primary objective of this study is to employ a quantitative approach in order to assess and conserve the spatial morphology of the aforementioned villages. This will be achieved through the utilization of a novel methodology. The utilization of oblique photography technology, which involves taking photos from an angled perspective, along with the incorporation of many quantitative indices, enables the classification and evaluation of traditional villages. The indices encompass measurements such as length/width and perimeter/area ratios, shape index measurements for assessing form complexity, and fractal dimensions for quantifying pattern complexity. This methodology is employed to examine five discrete villages located in Yunnan Province, thereby uncovering distinctive village layouts and boundary characteristics and providing valuable insights into spatial cohesion. This approach offers a full analysis of traditional village morphologies, thus providing useful insights for the preservation of history and the protection of villages.
Identification of Cellular Compositions in Different Microenvironments and Their Potential Impacts on Hematopoietic Stem Cells HSCs Using Single-Cell RNA Sequencing with Systematical Confirmation
Authors: Chi Yanan , Yang Guanheng , Guo Chuanliang , Zhang Shaoqing , Hong Lei , Tang Huixiang , Sang Xiao , Wang Jie , Ma Ji , Xue Yan , Zeng Fanyi
Published: November 2023

Hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) are stem cells that can differentiate into various blood cells and have long-term self-renewal capacity. At present, HSC transplantation is an effective therapeutic means for many malignant hematological diseases, such as aplastic hematological diseases and autoimmune diseases. The hematopoietic microenvironment affects the proliferation, differentiation, and homeostasis of HSCs. The regulatory effect of the hematopoietic microenvironment on HSCs is complex and has not been thoroughly studied yet. In this study, we focused on mononuclear cells (MNCs), which provided an important microenvironment for HSCs and established a methodological system for identifying cellular composition by means of multiple technologies and methods. First, single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) technology was used to investigate the cellular composition of cells originating from different microenvironments during different stages of hematopoiesis, including mouse fetal liver mononuclear cells (FL-MNCs), bone marrow mononuclear cells (BM-MNCs), and in vitro-cultured fetal liver stromal cells. Second, bioinformatics analysis showed a higher proportion and stronger proliferation of the HSCs in FL-MNCs than those in BM-MNCs. On the other hand, macrophages in in vitro-cultured fetal liver stromal cells were enriched to about 76%. Differential gene expression analysis and Gene Ontology (GO) functional enrichment analysis demonstrated that fetal liver macrophages have strong cell migration and actin skeleton formation capabilities, allowing them to participate in the hematopoietic homeostasis through endocytosis and exocytosis. Last, various validation experiments such as quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR), ELISA, and confocal image assays were performed on randomly selected target genes or proteins secreted by fetal liver macrophages to further demonstrate the potential relationship between HSCs and the cells inhabiting their microenvironment. This system, which integrates multiple methods, could be used to better understand the fate of these specific cells by determining regulation mechanism of both HSCs and macrophages and could also be extended to studies in other cellular models.
Fatigue Life Prediction of High Strength Steel with Pitting Corrosion under Three-Point Bending Load
Authors: Liu Xueshu , Yan Bingrong , Sun Hongtu
Published: November 2023

Offshore structures often suffer from pitting corrosion, which leads to local stress concentrations, a decrease in the cross-sectional area, the subsequent initiation and gradual propagation of cracks, and a shorter service life as a result. This study aims to investigate the impact of pitting corrosion on the fatigue life endurance of high-strength steel used for offshore structures. To this end, a three-point bending fatigue test was first performed on the specimens to obtain the fatigue test data. Then, a fatigue life prediction model consisting of two terms is proposed based on fracture mechanics, and the fatigue test data are used to verify the reliability of the model. Finally, the experimental results are discussed, and conclusions are drawn. The first term was designed for crack initiation. Combining with the energy theory and slip band dislocation theory, a novel equivalent surface defect model was proposed and used to predict the fatigue life of pitted corroded specimens before crack initiation. The second term is designed for crack propagation. The generalized Paris model is adopted for fatigue life prediction during the crack propagation process after the crack angle is taken as a variable. The mathematical model for predicting three-point bending fatigue life was finally obtained, and the average relative error of the data validation results did not exceed 16%, which proved the reliability of the prediction model.
Antibody–Drug Conjugates (ADC) in HER2/neu-Positive Gynecologic Tumors
Authors: McNamara Blair , Greenman Michelle , Pebley Nicole , Mutlu Levent , Santin Alessandro D.
Published: November 2023

Antibody–drug conjugates (ADCs) are a new class of targeted anti-cancer therapies that combine a monoclonal tumor-surface-receptor-targeting antibody with a highly cytotoxic molecule payload bonded through specifically designed cleavable or non-cleavable chemical linkers. One such tumor surface receptor is human epidermal growth factor 2 (HER2), which is of interest for the treatment of many gynecologic tumors. ADCs enable the targeted delivery of a variety of cytotoxic therapies to tumor cells while minimizing delivery to healthy tissues. This review summarizes the existing literature about HER2-targeting ADC therapies approved for use in gynecologic malignancies, relevant preclinical studies, strategies to address ADC resistance, and ongoing clinical trials.
Coronavirus OC43 and Influenza H3N2 Concomitant Unilateral Parotitis: The Importance of Laboratory Tests in Mumps-Like Parotitis
Authors: Spampinato Serena , Pavone Piero , Cacciaguerra Giovanni , Cocuzza Salvatore , Venanzi Rullo Emmanuele , Marino Silvia , Marino Andrea , Nunnari Giuseppe
Published: November 2023

Mumps is an acute generalized infection caused by a Paramyxovirus. Infection occurs mainly in school-aged children and adolescents and the most prominent clinical manifestation is nonsuppurative swelling and tenderness of the salivary glands, unilaterally or bilaterally. Negative serology for mumps requires a differential diagnosis with other infectious agents, but it is not routine. An 11-year-old girl presented with fever and right-sided parotitis and a negative serology for Mumps. A respiratory panel revealed the presence of Coronavirus OC43 and influenza virus H3N2. Parotitis may be caused by the parainfluenza virus, Epstein–Barr virus, influenza virus, rhinovirus, adenovirus, or other viruses in addition to noninfectious causes such as drugs, immunologic diseases, or obstruction of the salivary tract as predisposing factors. In this case, Coronavirus OC43 and influenza virus H3N2 were detected. The H3N2 has been already reported in the literature, whereas Coronavirus OC43 has never been associated with parotitis before; although, in the present case, the association of the two viruses does not let us conclude which of the two was responsible for the disease.