bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Red Vetchling (Lathyrus cicera L.), a Promising Crop for the Sustainable Replacement of Soybean Meal and Reducing the Carbon Footprint of European Aquafeeds
Authors: Toledo-Solís Francisco Javier , Mokhles Abadi Farahani Amin , Yagüe Sara , Mateos-Aparicio Inmaculada , Pérez Valentín , Larrán Ana María , Moyano Francisco Javier , Fernández Ignacio
Published: October 2023

In fish diets, soybean meal (SBM) is still positioned as the most widely used alternative to replace fishmeal. Red vetchling (Lathyrus cicera), a crop locally produced in Europe, is here evaluated as a substitute for SBM. Rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) juveniles (10.34 ± 0.04 g) were fed for 90 days. Six experimental diets replacing the SBM content at 0, 8, 16, 33, 66, and 100% (Named Control, T8, T16, T33, T66, and T100) were tested. Growth performance and fish fillet amino acid composition were only significantly reduced in fish fed the T100 diet. Histopathological analysis showed that no major alterations were observed in the intestine, while T100 fish had a higher density of pyknotic nuclei in the hepatocytes than the Control, but similar hepatocyte surface coverage. Finally, postprandial levels of glucose and triglycerides in blood plasma decreased when red vetchling content was increased, but was only not fully restored after 24 h in the case of glucose in T66 and T100 fish. According to these results, red vetchling meal can replace up to 66% of the SBM without a negative effect on fish growth or physiology, representing a good alternative raw material for reducing European aquaculture’s dependency on SBM imports and the carbon footprint of aquafeeds.
Mites Living in the Nests of the White Stork and Black Stork in Microhabitats of the Forest Environment and Agrocenoses
Authors: Graczyk Radomir , Indykiewicz Piotr , Olszewski Adam , Tobółka Marcin
Published: October 2023

The White Stork (Ciconia ciconia) and the Black Stork (Ciconia nigra) are well-known model organisms for the study of bird migration, as well as the selectivity of nesting sites and the choice of living environment. The former breeds mainly in open areas, while the latter inhabits forest areas. The acarofauna, and in particular Oribatida, inhabiting the nests of these species, has not been thoroughly explored so far. Therefore, we analyzed the material collected from 70 White Stork nests and 34 Black Stork nests in Poland, between Poznań and Rawicz, and in Kampinos National Park. Our research has increased the faunal and ecological knowledge of the mite fauna inhabiting the nests of large migratory bird species. Oribatida constituted 5–12% of the total mites identified in the nests of White and Black Storks. Their average number was several times higher in the Black Stork nests (80.2 individuals in 500 cm3). Also, the species diversity of moss mites was greater in the Black Stork nests (47 species). In total, the nests of the two stork species were inhabited by 62 moss mite species, with only 22 recorded in both the White and the Black Storks’ nests. The most numerous species included Ramusella clavipectinata, R. fasciata, Oppiella subpectinata, Acrogalumna longipluma, and Scheloribates laevigatus. In addition, we found that juvenile oribatid mites accounted for 0.6% of all the mites in the White Stork nests, with tritonymphs having the largest share, while juveniles in the Black Stork nests comprised 1.4%, of which larvae and protonymphs had the largest share. Our research shows that the nests of large migratory birds provide living space for many mite species. In addition, we noted the potential importance of White and Black Stork nests for mite dispersion and the evolution of interspecies interactions.
Mechanistic Insight into Poly-Reactivity of Immune Antibodies upon Acid Denaturation or Arginine Mutation in Antigen-Binding Regions
Authors: Arakawa Tsutomu , Akuta Teruo
Published: October 2023

The poly-reactivity of antibodies is defined as their binding to specific antigens as well as to related proteins and also to unrelated targets. Poly-reactivity can occur in individual molecules of natural serum antibodies, likely due to their conformation flexibility, and, for therapeutic antibodies, it plays a critical role in their clinical development. On the one hand, it can enhance their binding to target antigens and cognate receptors, but, on the other hand, it may lead to a loss of antibody function by binding to off-target proteins. Notably, poly-reactivity has been observed in antibodies subjected to treatments with dissociating, destabilizing or denaturing agents, in particular acidic pH, a common step in the therapeutic antibody production process involving the elution of Protein-A bound antibodies and viral clearance using low pH buffers. Additionally, poly-reactivity can emerge during the affinity maturation in the immune system, such as the germinal center. This review delves into the underlying potential causes of poly-reactivity, highlighting the importance of conformational flexibility, which can be further augmented by the acid denaturation of antibodies and the introduction of arginine mutations into the complementary regions of antibody-variable domains. The focus is placed on a particular antibody’s acid conformation, meticulously characterized through circular dichroism, differential scanning calorimetry, and sedimentation velocity analyses. By gaining a deeper understanding of these mechanisms, we aim to shed light on the complexities of antibody poly-reactivity and its implications for therapeutic applications.
Aerosol Inhalation Delivery of Ag Nanoparticles in Mice: Pharmacokinetics and Antibacterial Action
Authors: Valiulin Sergey V. , Onischuk Andrei A. , Pyryaeva Alexandra P. , An’kov Sergey V. , Baklanov Anatoly M. , Shkil Nikolay N. , Nefedova Ekaterina V. , Ershov Kirill S. , Tolstikova Tatyana G. , Dultseva Galina G.
Published: October 2023

The aerosol inhalation delivery of composite particles consisting of Ag nanoparticles enveloped by polyvinylpyrrolidone was investigated in experiments with mice. An ultrasonic nebulizing system was created for the generation of aerosols with a mean diameter and mass concentration of 700 ± 50 nm and 65 ± 5 mg/m3, respectively. The mass fraction of Ag in the composite particles was α = 0.061. The aerosol delivery was performed in a whole-body chamber with an exposition time of 20 min. Pharmacokinetic measurements were taken and the silver concentrations in the blood and lungs of the mice were measured as a function of time after exposition by means of electrothermal (graphite furnace) atomic absorption spectrometry. The inhalation dose and other pharmacokinetic parameters were determined. The antibacterial effect of aerosolized silver was assessed for mice infected with Klebsiella pneumoniae 82 and Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25953. The survival rate of the infected mice after the aerosol exposure demonstrated the high antibacterial efficiency of Ag nanoparticles after inhalation delivery.
Synergistic Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Activities of Kale Juice Fermented with Limosilactobacills reuteri EFEL6901 or Limosilactobacills fermentum EFEL6800
Authors: Kim Ga Yun , Kim Seul-Ah , Kong Sun Young , Seong Hyunbin , Bae Jae-Han , Han Nam Soo
Published: October 2023

This study investigates the synergistic impact of fermenting kale juice with Limosilactobacillus strains on its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Kale’s rich nutrient profile, especially its flavonoids, offers potential health benefits. Probiotic lactic acid bacteria are employed in kale fermentation to enhance nutrient bioavailability and generate bioactive compounds. Kale juices fermented with L. reuteri EFEL6901 or L. fermentum EFEL6800 exhibited superior microbial growth. Free sugars and amino acids were converted to alcohols and organic acids, affecting the organoleptic and health-related properties of the product. In addition, fermentation increased quercetin and kaempferol content, indicating improved availability. Furthermore, the fermented juice exhibited notable antioxidant activity and suppressed nitric oxide (NO) production, revealing anti-inflammatory potential. Gene expression analysis confirmed reduced pro-inflammatory markers such as iNOS, COX-2, IL-6, and IL-1β and elevated anti-inflammatory cytokines, including IL-10. This research highlights the promising potential of fermented kale juice, enriched with Limosilactobacillus strains, as a functional food with combined antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits.
Optogenetics in Alzheimer’s Disease: Focus on Astrocytes
Authors: Mitroshina Elena , Kalinina Elizaveta , Vedunova Maria
Published: October 2023

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia, resulting in disability and mortality. The global incidence of AD is consistently surging. Although numerous therapeutic agents with promising potential have been developed, none have successfully treated AD to date. Consequently, the pursuit of novel methodologies to address neurodegenerative processes in AD remains a paramount endeavor. A particularly promising avenue in this search is optogenetics, enabling the manipulation of neuronal activity. In recent years, research attention has pivoted from neurons to glial cells. This review aims to consider the potential of the optogenetic correction of astrocyte metabolism as a promising strategy for correcting AD-related disorders. The initial segment of the review centers on the role of astrocytes in the genesis of neurodegeneration. Astrocytes have been implicated in several pathological processes associated with AD, encompassing the clearance of β-amyloid, neuroinflammation, excitotoxicity, oxidative stress, and lipid metabolism (along with a critical role in apolipoprotein E function). The effect of astrocyte–neuronal interactions will also be scrutinized. Furthermore, the review delves into a number of studies indicating that changes in cellular calcium (Ca2+) signaling are one of the causes of neurodegeneration. The review’s latter section presents insights into the application of various optogenetic tools to manipulate astrocytic function as a means to counteract neurodegenerative changes.
A Design and Its Application of Multi-Granular Fuzzy Model with Hierarchical Tree Structures
Authors: Yeom Chan-Uk , Kwak Keun-Chang
Published: October 2023

This paper is concerned with the design of a context-based fuzzy C-means (CFCM)-based multi-granular fuzzy model (MGFM) with hierarchical tree structures. For this purpose, we propose three types of hierarchical tree structures (incremental, aggregated, and cascaded types) in the design of MGFM. In general, the conventional fuzzy inference system (FIS) has problems, such as time consumption and an exponential increase in the number of if–then rules when processing large-scale multivariate data. Meanwhile, the existing granular fuzzy model (GFM) reduces the number of rules that increase exponentially. However, the GFM not only has overlapping rules as the cluster centers become closer but also has problems that are difficult to interpret due to many input variables. To solve these problems, the CFCM-based MGFM can be designed as a smaller tree of interconnected GFMs. Here, the inputs of the high-level GFMs are taken from the output to the low-level GFMs. The hierarchical tree structure is more computationally efficient and easier to understand than a single GFM. Furthermore, since the output of the CFCM-based MGFM is a triangular fuzzy number, it is evaluated based on a performance measurement method suitable for the GFM. The prediction performance is analyzed from the automobile fuel consumption and Boston housing database to present the validity of the proposed approach. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed CFCM-based MGFM based on the hierarchical tree structure creates a small number of meaningful rules and solves prediction-related problems by making them explainable.
Assessment of Intramural Segment Compression in Anomalous Coronary Arteries through Patient-Specific Finite Element Modeling
Authors: Rosato Antonio , Lo Rito Mauro , Anglese Serena , Ceserani Valentina , Pascaner Ariel Fernando , Secchi Francesco , Conti Michele
Published: October 2023

Background: Anomalous Aortic Origin of a Coronary Artery (AAOCA) is a congenital condition that can lead to ischemia and sudden cardiac death. Current diagnostic tools are unable to fully quantify the pathological behavior that occurs mainly with physical effort. Methods: Patients’ computed tomography scans and centerline-based geometric quantities were used to develop three-dimensional computer-aided design models of the main anatomical variants of AAOCA. Blood pressure ranging from rest to extreme effort was simulated through structural finite element analyses, and the pressurized geometries were analyzed to evaluate coronary lumen cross-sectional areas and variations at the different loading conditions. Results: We simulated 39 subjects, demonstrating the ability to reproduce accurately the patient-specific anatomy of different AAOCA variants and capture pathological behaviors. AAOCAs with intramural courses showed compression along the proximal segment with a caliber reduction ranging from 0.14% to 18.87% at different pressure levels. The percentage of proximal narrowing relative to the distal segment was greater than any other type of anomalous course and exceeded 50% with simulated exertion. Conclusions: The present study proposes a computational pipeline to investigate conditions not reproducible in clinical practice, providing information to support decision-making in the management of AAOCA patients.
Distributed Navigation in Emergency Scenarios: A Case Study on Post-Avalanche Search and Rescue Using Drones
Authors: Bassolillo Salvatore Rosario , D’Amato Egidio , Mattei Massimiliano , Notaro Immacolata
Published: October 2023

Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are increasingly employed in civil applications due to their ease of use and adaptability. This paper proposes a distributed navigation strategy for a formation of UAVs in post-avalanche search-and-rescue (SAR) operations. Formations offer a more efficient approach than single UAVs in dynamic and complex operational environments. Additionally, they can distribute different sensors, reducing payload and increasing robustness and overall efficiency. The proposed navigation algorithm relies on the Kalman filter (KF) based on consensus to distribute state estimation, and internodal transformation theory to improve system scalability, preserving the dynamic equivalence between the global and local models. The effectiveness of this approach was tested in two realistic scenarios, resulting in the ability to detect victims and maintain situational awareness while avoiding unsearched areas. The proposed approach offers a promising alternative to human-intensive SAR missions.
Computational Model for Tree-like Fractals Used as Internal Structures for Additive Manufacturing Parts
Authors: Stanciu Birlescu Anca , Balc Nicolae
Published: October 2023

It is well established that the introduction of additive manufacturing in various domains has produced significant technological leaps due to the advantages over other manufacturing techniques. Furthermore, additive manufacturing allows the design of parts with complex internal structures (e.g., lattice, honeycomb) to achieve lightweight or other mechanical properties. This paper presents a computational model (integrated into a programable algorithm) designed to generate complex internal structures, using tree-like fractals, for components (mechanical parts) whose designs are achievable by additive manufacturing. The computational model is presented in detail, starting from the mathematical definition and the properties of the proposed tree-like fractals. The fractal data are computed and arranged unequivocally using table representations. Based on the fractal data, the structures are generated inside CAD parts (which are given as inputs in the algorithm). The proposed computational method is applied in different case studies to illustrate their functionality. The generated CAD components (with fractal internal structures) are intended for manufacturing (using selective laser melting) and laboratory (mechanical) testing and for finite element analysis, which in turn can validate the use of tree-like fractals as interior structures for mechanical components.
A Review of Image Inpainting Methods Based on Deep Learning
Authors: Xu Zishan , Zhang Xiaofeng , Chen Wei , Yao Minda , Liu Jueting , Xu Tingting , Wang Zehua
Published: October 2023

Image Inpainting is an age-old image processing problem, with people from different eras attempting to solve it using various methods. Traditional image inpainting algorithms have the ability to repair minor damage such as scratches and wear. However, with the rapid development of deep learning in the field of computer vision in recent years, coupled with abundant computing resources, methods based on deep learning have increasingly highlighted their advantages in semantic feature extraction, image transformation, and image generation. As such, image inpainting algorithms based on deep learning have become the mainstream in this domain.In this article, we first provide a comprehensive review of some classic deep-learning-based methods in the image inpainting field. Then, we categorize these methods based on component optimization, network structure design optimization, and training method optimization, discussing the advantages and disadvantages of each approach. A comparison is also made based on public datasets and evaluation metrics in image inpainting. Furthermore, the article delves into the applications of current image inpainting technologies, categorizing them into three major scenarios: object removal, general image repair, and facial inpainting. Finally, current challenges and prospective developments in the field of image inpainting are discussed.
Effects of Dry Density and Moisture Content on the Kaolin–Brass Interfacial Shear Adhesion
Authors: Almasoudi Rayed , Abuel-Naga Hossam , Daghistani Firas
Published: October 2023

Kaolin clay, with its consistent properties, fine particle size, high surface area, and extensive historical use, stands out as a reliable choice for laboratory research. This study aims to assess the interface shear adhesion behaviour between compacted clay and a metallic surface. For this purpose, a new testing approach was developed. The proposed method is simple, requires neither advanced equipment nor specialised test procedures, and, thus, represents an improvement over existing practices in this field. The experimental program focuses on determining the interface shear adhesion strength between reconstituted kaolin clay and a metallic surface. The kaolin clay testing specimens were dynamically compacted at various energy levels and moisture contents. The results indicate that the optimum moisture content is 30%, which provides the highest density to the sample and divides the compaction curve into dry and wet sides. Furthermore, the results demonstrate that the interface shear adhesion strength increases with the clay’s dry density. Conversely, there is a significant decrease in strength as the moisture content specifically rises on the wet side of the compaction curve. The adhesion behaviour was also attributed to matric suction, where high suction enhanced interfacial adhesion, while low suction weakened bonding and diminished adhesion. Additionally, this study presents a unique three-dimensional contour graph illustrating the combined effects of dry density and moisture content on the interfacial adhesion.
Numerical Simulation Analysis Method for Rockburst Control in Deeply Buried Caverns
Authors: Zhan Shuangqiao , Liu Yuhang , Xiao Ming , Du Xingwu , Chen Yuncai , Xing Tian , Kong Ci
Published: October 2023

Investigating the mechanism and measures of controlling rockburst in deeply buried underground caverns is a prerequisite for ensuring the safety of personnel, reducing the damage to construction equipment caused by the rockburst, and making the project economical and efficient. Efficient analysis methods for evaluating rockburst control in underground caverns are crucial for qualitatively selecting rockburst control methods and quantifying the effectiveness of rockburst measures. Based on the mechanism of energy accumulation in rock mass and the occurrence of rockburst as well as the active methods for controlling rockburst, we propose a mathematical model for simulating borehole stress relief using implicit borehole elements. In this modeling approach, we combine vector superposition in different borehole directions to analyze the effect of borehole stress relief on improving the external environment of the rock mass. Based on the interaction between the anchor support and the surrounding rock as well as the implementation of passive rockburst control measures, we propose a mathematical model that utilizes the implicit anchor column elements to simulate the reinforcement of the surrounding rock with anchors. By combining system anchors into arches and suspending anchors to reinforce the caverns, the overall stiffness of the surrounding rock can be improved and the stress accumulation can be alleviated. The coordinated deformation between the surrounding rock and the anchor provides support to prevent the rockburst. The effects of two rockburst control measures, borehole releasement and anchor reinforcement, are analyzed using both the strength theory and the energy theory. Engineering examples are provided to illustrate that the use of borehole elements to simulate local stress relief can effectively improve the external environment of the rock mass to control the occurrence of rockburst. Additionally, the mechanism of using anchor column elements in combination with the surrounding rock elements to enhance the overall stiffness of the rock mass and prevent rockburst is explored.
Optimal Exposure Parameters for Microsurgery of Embryo Zona Pellucida Using Femtosecond Laser Pulses
Authors: Sitnikov Dmitry S. , Filatov Maxim A. , Ilina Inna V.
Published: October 2023

We applied femtosecond laser pulses for microsurgery of the zona pellucida (ZP) of mouse embryos in terms of assisted reproductive technologies. The embryos were subjected to a series of laser pulses (wavelength of 514 nm, pulse duration of 280 fs, repetition rate of 2.5 kHz). Optical microscopy was used to study the dependence of the ZP cut width on the pulse energy E and velocity v of the laser beam. It is shown that the same value of the cut width can be obtained for different combinations of these parameters. The boundaries of admissible values were found to be E = (19–52) nJ, v = (0.001–0.03) mm/s; recommendations on their proper choice are given. An analytical expression of the cut width of the ZP for a given combination of laser-pulse energy, beam velocity, and pulse repetition rate is proposed. This simple and easy-to-use equation allows for quick prediction of ZP cut width in embryo microsurgery procedures of laser-assisted hatching and embryo laser tagging using femtosecond laser pulses.
Air Quality Research Based on B-Spline Functional Linear Model: A Case Study of Fujian Province, China
Authors: Xu Yihan , You Tiange , Wen Yuanyao , Ning Jing , Xiao Yanglan , Shen Huirou
Published: October 2023

It is generally accepted that air quality is closely related to human health. In this study, to investigate the dynamic characteristics of air quality and explore the driving factors of air pollution, the Air Quality Index (AQI) and concentration data of six air pollutants (CO, NO2, O3, PM2.5, PM10, and SO2) were fitted to functional curves using the B-spline basis function. Compared with discrete data, functional data can better express the dynamic characteristics of data and reduce information loss. Additionally, functional clustering based on the principal component coefficient was established to analyze the spatiotemporal dynamic characteristics of air quality, and a functional linear model was established to analyze the relationship between pollutants and anthropogenic factors. The results showed that air pollutants in Fujian Province were found to have certain temporal and spatial heterogeneity, among which the seasonal characteristics of NO2 and O3 (high in summer, low in winter) were opposite to those of the other pollutants considered. The spatial distribution of air pollution was low (high) pollution in inland (coastal) areas, and the primary air pollutants in Fujian Province were PM10 and PM2.5. The functional linear model indicated that anthropogenic factors (e.g., vehicle numbers and emissions of industrial NOX emissions) were found to have a notable impact on air pollutants. The findings of this study could act as a reference in support of air pollution control.
Staining Susceptibility of Microhybrid and Nanohybrid Composites on Exposure to Different Color Solutions
Authors: Mohamad-Kharib Azheen , Chamorro-Petronacci Cintia , Pérez-Jardón Alba , Castelo-Baz Pablo , Martin-Biedma Benjamín , Ginzo-Villamayor María José , García-García Abel
Published: October 2023

Composite discoloration is considered one of the most significant disadvantages of dental restorations. The purpose of our study was to assess the color susceptibility of two esthetic composite filling materials, microhybrid composite (ValuxTM Plus) and nanohybrid composite (FiltekTM Z250 XT), to different solutions and compare the results among different measuring methods (Intraoral scanner, Easyshade spectrophotometer, and Vita classical shade guide). A total of 100 specimens were fabricated in this experimental study. Each sample was soaked in either Coca-Cola, orange juice, tea, coffee, or distilled water for 30 days. Color measurement was performed using the spectrophotometer, IOS 3Shape Trios, and Vita classical shade guide. L*a*b* values were recorded to determine the color changing (ΔE00). The significance level was p < 0.05. All samples showed clinically visible color changes after immersion in coffee, tea, orange juice, and Coca-Cola. The nanohybrid composite showed high color change when placed in tea (ΔE00 = 12.5) measured by the Intraoral scanner, spectrophotometer (ΔE00 = 23.21), and by Vita classical shade guide (ΔE00 = 25). Less color discoloration was perceptible in the microhybrid composite when immersed in Coca-Cola (ΔE00 = 1.78) measured by spectrophotometer, intraoral scanner (ΔE00 = 2.85), and measured by Vita classical shade (ΔE00 = 3.2). The results showed that measurements with the spectrophotometer and Vita classical shade guide were correlated. The results were analyzed using the chi-square and Wilcoxon signed-rank tests, and there was a significant difference (p < 0.001) in both composite resins for all the solutions, with microhybrid being more color stable. Microhybrid composite had more color stability than nanohybrid composite, especially when immersed in tea and coffee. The spectrophotometer with Vita classical shade guide showed better interrater agreement than with the intraoral scanner.
Full-Arch Implant-Prosthetic Rehabilitation in Patients Affected by Hypertension: A Randomized Clinical Trial at 7 Years Follow-Up
Authors: Capparè Paolo , Nagni Matteo , D’Orto Bianca , Ferri Serena , Speroni Stefano , Gherlone Enrico Felice
Published: October 2023

The aim of this clinical study was to investigate and compare implant survival rates, marginal bone loss, and surgical and prosthetic complications of healthy patients and subjects affected by hypertension receiving full-arch implant-prosthetic rehabilitation. From January 2016 to November 2016, patients affected by total edentulism of one or both arches or severe impairment of residual teeth who needed full-arch implant-prosthetic rehabilitation and who had the absence of any systemic diseases or the presence of hypertension as a single pathology were randomly selected. According to the inclusion criteria, 39 patients were enrolled for this study. The sample was divided into two groups: A total of 18 patients were included in Group A (healthy patients), and 21 patients were included in Group B (patients affected by hypertension). No statistically significant difference in implant survival rates, marginal bone loss, and prosthetic complications were observed between Group A and Group B. Except for variable bleeding, the results of the Pearson’s chi-square test and z-test at a 99% confidence level suggest that there is no statistically significant difference in clinical complications between the groups. Within the limitations of this study, full-arch implant-prosthetic rehabilitation could be a feasible option for treating patients with hypertension, provided that hypertension is compensated and controlled.
An Automated Parametric Surface Patch-Based Construction Method for Smooth Lattice Structures with Irregular Topologies
Authors: Fleig Luisa , Hoschke Klaus
Published: October 2023

Additive manufacturing enables the realization of complex component designs that cannot be achieved with conventional processes, such as the integration of cellular structures, such as lattice structures, for weight reduction. To include lattice structures in component designs, an automated algorithm compatible with conventional CAD that is able to handle various lattice topologies as well as variable local shape parameters such as strut radii is required. Smooth node transitions are desired due to their advantages in terms of reduced stress concentrations and improved fatigue performance. The surface patch-based algorithm developed in this work is able to solidify given lattice frames to smooth lattice structures without manual construction steps. The algorithm requires only a few seconds of sketching time for each node and favours parallelisation. Automated special-case workarounds as well as fallback mechanisms are considered for non-standard inputs. The algorithm is demonstrated on irregular lattice topologies and applied for the construction of a lattice infill of an aircraft component that was additively manufactured.
GolfMate: Enhanced Golf Swing Analysis Tool through Pose Refinement Network and Explainable Golf Swing Embedding for Self-Training
Authors: Ju Chan-Yang , Kim Jong-Hyeon , Lee Dong-Ho
Published: October 2023

Digital fitness has become a widely used tool for remote exercise guidance, leveraging artificial intelligence to analyze exercise videos and support self-training. This paper introduces a method for self-training in golf, a sport where automated posture analysis can significantly reduce the costs associated with professional coaching. Our system utilizes a pose refinement methodology and an explainable golf swing embedding for analyzing the swing motions of learners and professional golfers. By leveraging sequential coordinate information, we detect biased pose joints and refine the 2D and 3D human pose estimation results. Furthermore, we propose a swing embedding method that considers geometric information extracted from the swing pose. This approach enables not only the comparison of the similarity between two golf swing poses but also the visualization of different points, providing learners with specific and intuitive feedback on areas that require correction. Our experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness of our swing guide system in identifying specific body points that need adjustment to align more closely with a professional golfer’s swing. This research contributes to the digital fitness domain by enhancing the accuracy of posture analysis and providing a specialized and interpretable golf swing analysis system. Our proposed system offers a low-cost and time-efficient approach for users who wish to improve their golf swing, paving the way for broader applications of digital fitness technologies in self-training contexts.
An Open-Source Software Tool to Facilitate Data Protection Impact Assessments
Authors: Riemann Layla Tabea , Hähner Felicia P. S. , Schmitz Ann-Kathrin , Ataian Maximilian , Jaster Matthias , Ückert Frank
Published: October 2023

In the realm of medical research, preserving patient privacy while facilitating effective research and collaborations poses a significant challenge. Data protection impact assessments (DPIAs) and associated methodologies have emerged as a response to this dual imperative. DPIAs necessitate expertise across diverse domains, resulting in a complex procedural landscape. To address this, we present “DPIA click&go”, a user-friendly tool designed to streamline the DPIA process in a plug-and-play manner. This tool enables users to semi-automatically select risks from predefined categories, construct evaluation matrices, access risk-mitigating measures, and re-evaluate risks after the application of mitigation strategies. Tailoring risks and measures to each institute’s needs is essential, facilitated by the provided data model, considerably simplifying DPIA creation at an institutional level. The efficacy of the DPIA click&go tool was validated with a real-world project, comparing its performance with a manually created DPIA in terms of risk coverage and mitigation strategies. The promising outcomes of this tool underscore its potential within the national data protection landscape, suggesting its possible foundational role in harmonizing data protection practices at a larger, potentially, European or global, scale.
Developing a Convenience Store Product Recommendation System through Store-Based Collaborative Filtering
Authors: Lee Jaekyung , Kim Jinho
Published: October 2023

Providing personalized product recommendations in offline retail stores, especially small-format offline retail businesses such as convenience stores, poses a great challenge. To address this issue, this study aimed to find a solution by shifting the perspective on recommendation methods and altering the target of recommendations. In this study, recommending products was defined as suggesting products that should be introduced and displayed within the store. This recommendation system proposes products that individual stores have not yet introduced but are anticipated to be purchased by customers. Building upon this, we developed a store-based collaborative filtering recommendation system. Furthermore, various rules and logic pertinent to store operations and business considerations for convenience stores were integrated to implement this recommendation system. The accuracy and effectiveness of the system were demonstrated through its application in actual convenience stores. Results from the pilot implementation of the system showed that 88% of the newly recommended products in individual stores were sold within a week, and the sales revenue was 1.75 times higher than the average sales of those products across the entire stores. Survey results on business owners’ satisfaction yielded a score of 4.2 out of 5, indicating a high level of contentment. This research holds significance in extending the scope of personalized recommendation studies from primarily online platforms to offline retail businesses such as convenience stores. The study also suggests avenues for future research to address some of the identified limitations.
Theory of Movement of the Sugar Beet Tops in Loading Mechanism, Taking into Account the Influence of the Air Flow
Authors: Bulgakov Volodymyr , Holovach Ivan , Ivanovs Semjons , Aboltins Aivars , Trokhaniak Oleksandra , Ihnatiev Yevhen , Ruzhylo Mariia
Published: October 2023

A new design of the haulm harvester with an improved loading mechanism has been developed, which is made in the form of a centrifugal thrower that receives the entire volume of the cut sugar beet tops, as well as an unloading pipe, the end of which is at the level of the vehicle, moving beside the haulm harvester. To substantiate the rational parameters of this loading device, a mathematical model of the movement of a particle along the thrower blade and its exit from the blade was developed in order to simulate further movement along the inner surface of the cylindrical part of the casing and its straight part before entering the vehicle. The resulting differential equation for the movement of a haulm particle along the thrower blade takes into account the influence of the airflow created by the rotation of the thrower, the blades of which capture and accelerate the air in the closed space of the cylindrical casing. The indicated differential equation includes the basic design, kinematic, and power parameters affecting the flow of the studied loading process of the tops. The solution of these differential equations on a PC made it possible to obtain graphic dependencies, with the help of which the rational parameters of the working bodies of the loading mechanism of the haulm harvester were substantiated. As calculations show, an increase in the angular velocity of rotation of the thrower and the length of its blade leads to an increase in the absolute velocity of the haulm particle M from the end of the blade. Thus, by increasing the length of the thrower blade from 0.1 m to 0.35 m and its angular velocity from 10 s−1 to 40 s−1, the absolute velocity increases from 1.2 m s−1 to 16 m s−1. At an angular speed of rotation of the thrower equal to 10 s−1, an increase in the airflow velocity from 5 to 35 m s−1 leads to a smooth linear increase in the relative velocity of particle M, as it moves along the blade of 0.67 to 0.78 m s−1. For a higher angular velocity of rotation of the thrower, equal to 20 s−1, the growth curve of the relative velocity of particle M is more intense at an airflow velocity in the range from 5 to 25 m s−1, approaching the linear law at an airflow velocity of more than 25 m s−1. In this case, the relative velocity varies from 0.9 to 1.4 m s−1.
Modeling Uncertain Travel Times in Distribution Logistics
Authors: Ait Mamoun Khadija , Hammadi Lamia , El Ballouti Abdessamad , Novaes Antonio G. N. , Souza de Cursi Eduardo
Published: October 2023

Uncertainty quantification is a critical aspect of distribution logistics, particularly unpredictable travel times caused by traffic congestion and varying transportation conditions. This paper explores the modeling of uncertainty in dealing with travel times in the context of distribution logistics using the collocation method. First, we employ Monte Carlo simulations to assess the efficacy of the collocation method in modeling the variability and uncertainty associated with travel times. Second, we implement the collocation method in Casablanca, Morocco, a city renowned for its extensive distribution logistics operations and its dynamic traffic. Four distinct scenarios are considered: morning peak, inter-peak, evening peak, and off-peak periods. Our study explores two scenarios: one with recurrent congestion, representing typical daily conditions, and the other with unpredictable uncertainties in travel times, accounting for unexpected events that may occur during a distribution day. Our research findings enhance our understanding of the probabilistic nature of travel times in distribution logistics. This knowledge provides valuable insights applicable to both routine situations with recurrent congestion and non-recurrent congestion. The results’ findings contribute to a better understanding of the probabilistic nature of travel times in distribution logistics, offering valuable insights for optimizing route planning and scheduling.
Special Issue “Reinforced Concrete: Materials, Physical Properties and Applications Volume II”
Authors: Beskopylny Alexey N. , Lavrentyev Anatoly , Shcherban’ Evgenii M. , Stel’makh Sergey A.
Published: October 2023

Concrete and reinforced concrete remain the most popular building materials for use in building structures in modern construction and production [...]
Optimal Control Method of Semi-Active Suspension System and Processor-in-the-Loop Verification
Authors: Ergin Turgay , Yatak Meral Özarslan
Published: October 2023

This study presents an implementation of a proportional–integral–derivative (PID) controller utilizing particle swarm optimization (PSO) to enhance the compromise on road holding and ride comfort of a quarter car semi-active suspension system (SASS) through simulation and experimental study. The proposed controller is verified with a processor-in-the-loop (PIL) approach before real-time suspension tests. Using experimental data, the magnetorheological damper (MR) is modeled by an artificial neural network (ANN). A series of experiments are applied to the system for three distinct bump disturbances. The algorithm performance is evaluated by various key metrics, such as suspension deflection, sprung mass displacement, and sprung mass acceleration for simulation. The phase plane method is used to prove the stability of the system. The experimental results reveal that the proposed controller for the SASS significantly improves road holding and ride comfort simultaneously.
An Efficient Sinogram Domain Fully Convolutional Interpolation Network for Sparse-View Computed Tomography Reconstruction
Authors: Guo Fupei , Yang Bo , Feng Hao , Zheng Wenfeng , Yin Lirong , Yin Zhengtong , Liu Chao
Published: October 2023

Recently, deep learning techniques have been used for low-dose CT (LDCT) reconstruction to reduce the radiation risk for patients. Despite the improvement in performance, the network models used for LDCT reconstruction are becoming increasingly complex and computationally expensive under the mantra of “deeper is better”. However, in clinical settings, lightweight models with a low computational cost and short reconstruction times are more popular. For this reason, this paper proposes a computationally efficient CNN model with a simple structure for sparse-view LDCT reconstruction. Inspired by super-resolution networks for natural images, the proposed model interpolates projection data directly in the sinogram domain with a fully convolutional neural network that consists of only four convolution layers. The proposed model can be used directly for sparse-view CT reconstruction by concatenating the classic filtered back-projection (FBP) module, or it can be incorporated into existing dual-domain reconstruction frameworks as a generic sinogram domain module. The proposed model is validated on both the 2016 NIH-AAPM-Mayo Clinic LDCT Grand Challenge dataset and The Lung Image Database Consortium dataset. It is shown that despite the computational simplicity of the proposed model, its reconstruction performance at lower sparsity levels (1/2 and 1/4 radiation dose) is comparable to that of the sophisticated baseline models and shows some advantages at higher sparsity levels (1/8 and 1/15 radiation dose). Compared to existing sinogram domain baseline models, the proposed model is computationally efficient and easy to train on small training datasets, and is thus well suited for clinical real-time reconstruction tasks.
Design of a Broadband Transition from a Coaxial Cable to a Reduced-Height Rectangular Waveguide
Authors: Dansran Bayarsaikhan , Xu Songyuan , Heo Jiwon , Lee Chan-Soo , Ahn Bierng-Chearl
Published: October 2023

For miniaturization, rectangular waveguides with a reduced height are often required, along with a coaxial transition for signal launching. We present a simulation-based design of a broadband transition from a coaxial cable to a rectangular waveguide with the height(b)-to-width(a) ratio b/a ranging from 0.125 to 0.375. The proposed transition consists of a coaxial probe with a cylindrical head or a disk and two symmetrically placed tuning posts. To extend the operating frequency range, three sections of the rectangular waveguide are employed with properly chosen dimensions. Design examples are presented for the WR75 waveguide transition with a b/a of 0.125, 0.25, and 0.375, having a bandwidth of 83.4%, 92.7%, and 84.4%, respectively. Compared with previous works, our design offers the largest bandwidth in a right-angle coaxial-to-rectangular waveguide transition employing the aforementioned structure.
Pulses-Fortified Ketchup: Insight into Rheological, Textural and LF NMR-Measured Properties
Authors: Le Thanh-Blicharz Joanna , Lewandowicz Jacek , Jankowska Patrycja , Kowalczewski Przemysław Łukasz , Zając Katarzyna , Kačániová Miroslava , Baranowska Hanna Maria
Published: October 2023

Tomato ketchup is one of the most popular foods eaten all over the world. To improve the texture of these sauces, modified starches are used most commonly. This may be negatively assessed by consumers. The solution to this problem could be the use of legume flours, as beyond thickening potential, they are recognized as plant foods of high nutritional value. The aim of the work was to estimate the applicability of pulse flour as a texture-forming agent for ketchup. A comprehensive assessment of the quality of ketchup was made, both in terms of sensory properties and instrumentally analyzed physicochemical features: acidity, color, texture, rheological properties, and dynamics of water molecules using the LF NMR method. It was stated that pulse flours are suitable for use as forming agents for ketchup, although they have slightly weaker thickening properties with a consistency index ranging from 5.06–6.82 Pa·sn, compared to acetylated distarch adipate (19.48 Pa·sn). Texture, which is the most important parameter for consumer acceptance of ketchup, can be successfully analyzed using instrumental methods. Firmness ranged from 0.51 N for lentil and pea-fortified ketchup to 0.55 N for the lupine variant. Ketchup thickened with different pulses and flours reveals slightly different individual sensory characteristics, so it makes it possible to create a new gamut of healthy tomato sauces. The highest overall sensory score was attributed accordingly to lentils (6.9), lupine (6.2), chickpeas (6.1), and peas (5.8).
Chronic Lung Allograft Dysfunction Is Associated with Significant Disability after Lung Transplantation—A Burden of Disease Analysis in 1025 Cases
Authors: Diel Roland , Simon Susanne , Gottlieb Jens
Published: October 2023

Background: Chronic lung allograft dysfunction (CLAD) is the leading cause of death after the first postoperative years of lung transplantation (LTx). Objective: To assess the number of disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) per patient with severe CLAD. Methods: The clinical and demographic data of patients who received their lung transplantation between 2010 and 2020 in the Hanover Medical School (Germany) were evaluated. Results: A total of 1025 lung transplant patients were followed for a median of 51 months (4.25 years); the median age at transplantation was 52.8 (interquartile range (IQR) 19) years. More than a quarter of transplant patients (271/1025 or 26.4%) developed CLAD, mostly (60%) of the bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome (BOS) phenotype. Of the CLAD patients, 99, or 36.5%, suffered from significant disability, which on average occurred after 2 years (IQR 2.55). The survival of CLAD patients with disability after transplantation was significantly lower compared to that of patients without CLAD (median 4.04 versus 5.41 years). Adjusted to the DALY estimation approach, CLAD patients lost 1.29 life years (YLL) and lived for 0.8 years with their disability (YLD), adding up to 2.09 DALYs (range 1.99–2.72) per patient. Conclusions: CLAD after lung transplantation is a major public health problem and is associated with substantial disability and costs. Further work is needed to develop therapeutic interventions that reduce its development.