bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Kabuki syndrome and rare tumors in a young girl carrying a frameshift kmt2d mutation
Authors: Bonuccelli Alice , Baldaccini Tommaso , Orsini Alessandro , Alberti Elisabetta , Del Pistoia Marta , Boggi Ugo , Toschi Benedetta , Santangelo Andrea , Randazzo Emioli , Peroni Diego , Federico Giovanni
Published: July 2023

Kabuki syndrome (KS) is a genetic disorder characterized by typical facial dimorphisms, various degrees of cognitive disability, and congenital anomalies involving the heart, kidneys, gastrointestinal system, and bones. It is accompanied by hypotonia, failure to thrive, obesity, and immunodeficiency. Association with neoplastic lesions has been recently described. We report a 13-year-old girl with KS, an insulinoma, and a benign phyllodes breast tumor with two hepatic lesions: a neuroendocrine tumor metastasis and a ciliated foregut cyst associated with hepatic fibrosis. She had a pilomatrixoma and a junctional melanocytic nevus with cytological atypia. Genetic analysis revealed a heterozygous frameshift variant in the KMT2D gene. Somatic KMT2D variants are in various types of tumors. The role of KMT2D variants in malignancies in KS appears to be related to defective transcription regulation and altered gene expression; however, the mechanism remains unclear. This aims to clarify the relationship between KMT2D gene variants, KS, and susceptibility to neoplastic lesions. For this purpose, a more extensive case series will be needed to accurately describe the patients' neoplastic phenotypes and precise genetic characterization.
Increased Risk of Venous Thromboembolism in Patients with Postoperative Anemia After Total Joint Arthroplasty
Authors: Liu Kevin C. , Piple Amit S. , Richardson Mary K. , Mayer Lucas W. , Mayfield Cory K. , Christ Alexander B. , Lieberman Jay R. , Heckmann Nathanael D.
Published: July 2023

Background:

The relationship between anemia and the risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) following total knee arthroplasty (TKA) and total hip arthroplasty (THA) remains unclear. Red blood cell (RBC) transfusions, which have been shown to have thrombogenic effects, may explain conflicting data. This study sought to elucidate the relationship between anemia, RBC transfusions, and VTE following total joint arthroplasty (TJA).

Methods:

Using the International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision (ICD-10) and Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes, the Premier Healthcare Database was queried for all adults who underwent primary elective THA or TKA from January 2015 to December 2020. Patients were classified into 3 cohorts: those who did not have a diagnosis of anemia and did not receive an RBC transfusion (the control group), those with acute blood loss anemia who did not receive a transfusion (the anemia without transfusion group), and those with acute blood loss anemia who did receive a transfusion (the anemia with transfusion group). The primary outcomes assessed were the 90-day rate and risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism (PE), and aggregate VTE. Analysis of variance and pairwise comparisons were used to compare groups. Multivariable analyses were performed to account for confounding factors.

Results:

The 1,290,815 patients identified as having undergone TJA included 1,078,507 control patients (83.6%), 198,233 patients who had anemia without transfusion (15.4%), and 14,075 patients who had anemia and transfusion (1.1%). Age, sex, race, length of hospital stay, and hospital costs were significantly different between the 3 groups. After adjusting for confounding factors, there was no difference between the anemia without transfusion group and the control group with regard to DVT (adjusted odds ratio [OR], 0.97 [95% confidence interval (CI), 0.89 to 1.06]; p = 0.500), PE (adjusted OR, 1.04 [95% CI, 0.92 to 1.18]; p = 0.543), and VTE (adjusted OR, 0.99 [95% CI, 0.92 to 1.06]; p = 0.697). However, patients with anemia and transfusion had an increased risk of PE (adjusted OR, 1.83 [95% CI, 1.34 to 2.51]; p < 0.001) and VTE (adjusted OR, 1.39 [95% CI, 1.14 to 1.70]; p = 0.001) compared with patients in the control group.

Conclusions:

Patients with acute blood loss anemia who received a transfusion were at increased risk for developing VTE following TJA, whereas patients with anemia who did not receive a transfusion were not. Orthopaedic surgeons need to be aware of the risks of transfusion and individualize the use of transfusions in their patients.

Level of Evidence:

Prognostic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Right frontal cingulate cortex mediates the effect of prenatal complications on youth internalizing behaviors.
Authors: Brambilla Paolo , Maggioni Eleonora , Pigoni Alessandro , Fontana Elisa , Delvecchio Giuseppe , Bonivento Carolina , Bianchi Valentina , Mauri Maddalena , Bellina Monica , Girometti Rossano , Agarwal Nivedita , Nobile Maria
Published: July 2023

Pre- and peri-natal complications represent well-known risk factors for the future development of psychiatric disorders. Such influence might become manifested during childhood and adolescence, as key periods for brain and behavioral changes. Internalizing and externalizing behaviors in adolescence have been associated with the risk of psychiatric onset later in life. Both brain morphology and behavior seem to be affected by obstetric complications, but a clear link between these three aspects is missing. Here, we aimed at analyzing the association between pre- and peri-natal complications, behavioral issues, and brain volumes in a group of children and adolescents. Eighty-two adolescents with emotional-behavioral problems underwent clinical and 3T brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) assessments. The former included information on behavior, through the Child Behavior Checklist/6–18 (CBCL), and on the occurrence of obstetric complications. The relationships between clinical and gray matter volume (GMV) measures were investigated through multiple generalized linear models and mediation models. We found a mutual link between prenatal complications, GMV alterations in the frontal gyrus, and withdrawn problems. Specifically, complications during pregnancy were associated with higher withdrawn scores and GMV reductions in the right superior frontal lobe and anterior cingulate cortex. Finally, a mediation effect of these GMV measures on the association between prenatal infections and the withdrawn dimension was identified. Our findings suggest a key role of obstetric complications in affecting brain structure and behavior. For the first time, we showed a mediator role of frontal GMV in the relationship between prenatal complications and internalizing symptoms.
Similar Survival after Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection and Esophagectomy in Early Esophageal Cancer and Synchronous or Metachronous Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Ke Ruei-Ti , Hsiao Yu-Hsin , Tai Wei-Chen , Li Shau-Hsuan , Yao Chih-Chien , Chuang Kai-Hao , Lai Hsing-Hua , Chen Yu , Chen Li-Chun , Lu Hung-I , Chen Yen-Hao , Lo Chien Ming
Published: July 2023

Objectives
Early-stage esophageal cancer is treated using endoscopic submucosal dissection and esophagectomy. Field cancerization in patients with early-stage esophageal cancer affects treatment outcomes and causes synchronous or metachronous head and neck cancers. We hypothesized that esophagectomy could provide better overall and recurrence-free survivals in patients with esophageal cancer and synchronous or metachronous head and neck cancer.
Methods
We retrospectively identified patients with early esophageal squamous cell carcinoma and synchronous or metachronous head and neck cancers. We separated the patients into endoscopic submucosal dissection and esophagectomy groups to compare overall and recurrence-free survivals.
Results
The study included 106 patients, 25 of whom underwent endoscopic submucosal dissection and 81 underwent esophagectomy. Overall and recurrence-free survivals did not show significant differences between the two groups for both synchronous and metachronous head and neck cancers.
Conclusions
Endoscopic submucosal dissection could provide similar overall and recurrence-free survivals in patients with esophageal cancer and synchronous or metachronous head and neck cancer.
An incremental contact model for hyperelastic solids with rough surfaces
Authors: Jiang Chunyun , Liang Xuanming
Published: July 2023

Hyperelastic materials like gels and rubbers have numerous applications in daily life and industrial production. However, most traditional contact models for rough solids do not include the hyperelastic deformation mechanism. This paper extends the linear-elastic incremental equivalent contact model to study the contact processes of hyperelastic rough solids. For any specific surface separation, the contact stiffness is determined by the total area and number of the contact patches, as well as the instantaneous tangent modulus. Analogous to buckle theory, we introduce the hyperelasticity of materials through employing the tangent modulus. By integrating the stiffness of contact spots, the normal contact force is then obtained. The load-area relation predicted by the present model exhibits consistency with finite element results even up to a contact area fraction of 90%. For hyperelastic solids with self-affine fractal rough surfaces, we investigate the effect of surface morphologies on contact behaviors. This research will be helpful for further studies about the lubrication, leakage, and wear of contact interfaces.
Breathers, Rogue waves, Chirp-free solitons and M-shape solitons with carbon nanotube as saturable absorbe in the ring-cavity fiber system
Authors: Ahmed Sarfaraz
Published: July 2023

In this work, by applying the logarithmic transformation and symbolic computation with ansatz functions scheme, we examined the new solitons with carbon nanotube (CNT) as saturable absorbe (SA) in the ring-cavity fiber system. The system is renowned as a non-standard Schrodinger model through the coefficients combined real and imaginary numbers. We obtained Chirp-free soliton, Homoclinic breathers, M-shaped rational solitons, Multiwaves and their dynamics are revealed in plots by choosing the proper values of parameters. Additionally, four categories of interaction of M-shaped rational soliton with rogue wave, periodic wave and kink wave are studied. we accomplished the new structures and very fascinating interactional phenomena of M shaped soliton with kink waves. Furthermore, through a mixture of quadratic, cosine and hyperbolic transformations we obtained periodic cross rational (PCR) solutions and via three wave transformation we generated multiwave solutions.
Dynamic growth models and estimation distinction of carbon stock for coniferous trees under different afforestation modes
Authors: Zheng Xueting , Cao Xingwen , Xu Wenqiang , Yi Lvbei , Wang Zhengyu , Xiong Shimei , Tao Zefu , Li Qiangfeng
Published: July 2023

Many qualitative studies have found that mixed conifer–broadleaf forests provide higher ecological benefits than monoculture forests, and the demand for mixed forests is increasing. However, the carbon sequestration benefits of artificial mixed forests remain unclear. In particular, considering specific growth characteristics of plantation trees and capturing the dynamic changes in carbon sequestration over time are necessary. Using 456 tree disks for dendrochronological analyses, we established a dynamic growth model for the carbon stock of Pinus tabuliformis under three afforestation modes in the eastern Tibetan Plateau. Based on the fundamental growth model, nonlinear fixed-effect (NLFE) models with specific parameter combination constraints were established to improve model stability. Compared with other models, the NLFE model based on the Weibull equation, which uses the model parameters n and z as classification parameters, was the optimal model. This model was used to evaluate the potential contribution of afforestation modes to the growth of carbon stock in individual P. tabuliformis trees over 100 years and to predict the carbon sequestration benefits of mixed and pure forests. Conifer–broadleaf forests can bring lower initial returns but higher long-term returns than the other two afforestation modes, and such forests can store more carbon. In addition, this study provides a feasible method for establishing a carbon stock growth model with minimal sample damage as well as evaluation methods and basis for large-scale pure forest transformation and management strategies.
New experimental investigation of 3D cracks propagation in mortar under tension loading
Authors: Guesmi Mohamed , Guesmi Kamel
Published: July 2023

Among the construction materials, the mortar is the weakest component,especially against tensile loading and cracking.We propose in this paper an experimentalstudy of the propagation of 3D internal cracks in the mortar for differentdosages and their effects on the tensile strength of the mortar. We start by determiningthe tensile strength of a non-cracked specimen for five different dosages.After that, as our first contribution, we calculate the tensile strength and thecritical Stress Intensity Factor SIF for the different dosages. Then, as our secondcontribution, we investigate the effect of the crack shape on the stability limit.Finally, we consolidate, through a comparative study, the obtained experimentalresults with the numerical ones.
Отношение студентов медицинского вуза к формированию здорового образа жизни и вредным привычкам
Authors: Симонян Р.З. , Сопромадзе Н.Ш.
Published: July 2023

В последнее время работникам органов здравоохранения предъявляются высокие требования к состоянию их здоровья. Целью данной статьи является изучение отношения студентов-медиков к формированию здорового образа жизни. По результатам социологического исследования обозначены наиболее часто встречающиеся проблемы студентов в их стремлении вести здоровый образ жизни. Представлены возможные способы преодоления этих проблем.
Profiling of Polyphenolic Compounds, Antioxidant, Antidyslipidemic and
Cardiac Risk Preventive Effect of Keteki Joha and Kola Joha Rice
Cultivars Grown in Assam, India: A Comparative Study
Authors: Sen Saikat , Kalita Pratap , Chakraborty Raja
Published: July 2023

Background:

Food grains' ability to promote health is widely recognized as a result of
their rich nutritional profile and presence of antioxidants.

Aim:

The present study aimed to investigate the antioxidant, antidyslipidemic, and cardiac risk preventive
effects of unpolished whole rice extracts of Keteki and Kola Joha of Assam, India, and to
profile the polyphenolic compounds present.

Methods:

Whole unpolished rice samples were extracted with ethanol and the efficacy of the extract
of both rice cultivars was evaluated against high-fat and high-sugar induced hyperlipidemia in
rats. The effects of extracts on lipid profile, hepatic enzyme, endogenous antioxidants, lipid peroxidation,
creatine kinase-NAC, lactate dehydrogenase, C-reactive protein and lipoprotein(s) were
evaluated. Atherogenic indices were calculated to find the effect of the extract on cardiac risk.
HPLC analysis of whole unpolished rice samples was also carried out to profile the polyphenolics
present.

Results:

HPLC analysis revealed the presence of gallic acid, vanillic acid, caffeic acid, sinapic
acid, o-coumaric acid, t-coumaric acid, rosamarinic acid, chlorogenic acid, phytic acid in both rice
samples. Protocatechuic acid, syringic acid, and p-coumaric acid were detected in keteki joha, and
ferulic acid was detected in kola joha only. Ethanol extracts (200 and 400 mg/kg) of both rice varieties
for 30 days significantly averted dyslipidemia, preserved the level of endogenous antioxidants,
and prevented lipid peroxidation. Levels of creatine kinase-NAC, lactate dehydrogenase, Creactive
protein, and lipoprotein (a) were significantly (P < 0.01) less in the extract-treated group
compared to the disease-control group. Extract treatment enhanced ApoA1 level while the reduced
level of ApoB. ApoB/ApoA1 ratio was found more in the disease control group, which was significantly
reduced in the extract-treated group. The atherogenic index, atherogenic coefficient, and cardiac
risk ratio were reduced, while the cardioprotective index was enhanced in treatment groups.

Conclusion:

This paper profiled polyphenolic compounds for the first time. Keteki joha exhibited
better results than Kola joha. Observations offer novel insights into the hypothesis for the first time
that unpolished Keteki and Kola Joha rice can be beneficial in averting hyperlipidemia and its associated
coronary events.
Smart-Meds, a medication management app for patients after an acute coronary syndrome: A pilot pre-post study of adherence and health literacy (Preprint)
Authors: Ehrler Frederic , Gschwind Tran Liliane , Hagberg Hamdi , Meyer Philippe , Blondon Katherine
Published: July 2023

BACKGROUND

Medication non-adherence remains a significant challenge in the management of chronic conditions, often leading to suboptimal treatment outcomes and increased healthcare costs. Innovative interventions that address the underlying factors contributing to non-adherence are needed. Gamified mobile applications have shown promise in promoting behavior change and engagement

OBJECTIVE

This pilot study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and usability of a gamified mobile application that employed a narrative storytelling approach to enhance medication adherence among patients following Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS). The study aimed to assess changes in participants' beliefs about medication and self-reported adherence before and after the intervention. Additionally, user feedback regarding the narrative component of the app was gathered.

METHODS

Eighteen patients who recently experienced ACS were recruited for a one-month intervention using the gamified app. Participants' beliefs about medication and self-reported adherence were assessed using standardized scales pre- and post-intervention. The app's usability was also evaluated through a post-intervention questionnaire. Statistical analyses were performed to determine the significance of changes in belief and adherence scores.

RESULTS

The results did not indicate a significant improvement in participants' beliefs about medication following the intervention. However, self-reported adherence significantly improved (p < 0.05) after the intervention, with participants demonstrating a greater self-efficacy to their prescribed medication regimen. The usability evaluation revealed positive feedback, indicating a good usability rating for the gamified app. However, the narrative storytelling component of the app was not favored by the participants, as indicated by their feedback.

CONCLUSIONS

This pilot study suggests that a gamified mobile application employing narration may effectively enhance medication self-efficacy and positively influence patients' beliefs about medication following ACS. However, the narrative component of the app did not receive favorable feedback from participants. Future research should focus on exploring alternative methods to engage participants in the app's narrative elements while maintaining the positive impact on adherence and beliefs about medication observed in this study.
An approach to link climate model tropical cyclogenesis bias to large-scale wind circulation modes
Authors: Feng Xiangbo , Toumi Ralf , Roberts Malcolm , Hodges Kevin I , Vidale Pier Luigi
Published: July 2023

Attributing sources of tropical cyclogenesis (TCG) bias to large-scale
circulation in global circulation models is challenging. Here, we
propose the use of empirical orthogonal functions as an approach to
understand model bias of TCG. Two leading modes of large-scale wind
circulations in the West Pacific can explain the TCG frequency and
location in both climate reanalysis and the MetUM model. In the
reanalysis, the two modes distinguish the summer monsoon trough position
and the strength of the north Pacific subtropical high. However, in the
model, the wind circulations are biased towards the positive phase of
simulated modes thus overestimating TCG in the entire Main Development
Region. This bias is further related to the north-eastward shifted
monsoon trough and a weakened subtropical high, and overly strong
tropics-subtropics connections. This approach could be deployed more
widely to other basins and models to diagnose the causes of TCG bias.
Peripheral Neuropathy in Diabetes: What Can MRI Do?
Authors: Zhang Xianchen , Zhang Fulong
Published: July 2023

Diabetes peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is commonly asymptomatic in the early stage. However, once symptoms and obvious defects appear, recovery is not possible. Diagnosis of neuropathy is based on physical examinations, questionnaires, nerve conduction studies, skin biopsies, and so on. However, the diagnosis of DPN is still challenging, and early diagnosis and immediate intervention are very important for prevention of the development and progression of diabetic neuropathy. The advantages of MRI in the diagnosis of DPN are obvious: the peripheral nerve imaging is clear, the lesions can be found intuitively, and the quantitative evaluation of the lesions is the basis for the diagnosis, classification, and follow-up of DPN. With the development of magnetic resonance technology, more and more studies have been conducted on detection of DPN. This article reviews the research field of MRI in DPN.
Is 14-3-3 the Combination to Unlock New Pathways to Improve Metabolic Homeostasis and β-Cell Function?
Authors: Rial Sabri A. , Shishani Rahaf , Cummings Bethany P. , Lim Gareth E.
Published: July 2023

Since their discovery nearly five decades ago, molecular scaffolds belonging to the 14-3-3 protein family have been recognized as pleiotropic regulators of diverse cellular and physiological functions. With their ability to bind to proteins harboring specific serine and threonine phosphorylation motifs, 14-3-3 proteins can interact with and influence the function of docking proteins, enzymes, transcription factors, and transporters that have essential roles in metabolism and glucose homeostasis. Here, we will discuss the regulatory functions of 14-3-3 proteins that will be of great interest to the fields of metabolism, pancreatic β-cell biology, and diabetes. We first describe how 14-3-3 proteins play a central role in glucose and lipid homeostasis by modulating key pathways of glucose uptake, glycolysis, oxidative phosphorylation, and adipogenesis. This is followed by a discussion of the contributions of 14-3-3 proteins to calcium-dependent exocytosis and how this relates to insulin secretion from β-cells. As 14-3-3 proteins are major modulators of apoptosis and cell cycle progression, we will explore if 14-3-3 proteins represent a viable target for promoting β-cell regeneration and discuss the feasibility of targeting 14-3-3 proteins to treat metabolic diseases such as diabetes.

Article Highlights

14-3-3 proteins are ubiquitously expressed scaffolds with multiple roles in glucose homeostasis and metabolism. 14-3-3ζ regulates adipogenesis via distinct mechanisms and is required for postnatal adiposity and adipocyte function. 14-3-3ζ controls glucose-stimulated insulin secretion from pancreatic β-cells by regulating mitochondrial function and ATP synthesis as well as facilitating cross talk between β-cells and α-cells.
Real-Time Reflection Reduction from Glasses in Videoconferences
Authors:   TU Braunschweig, Mühlenpfordtstr. 23, 38106 Braunschweig, Germany, Tucholke Marc-André , Christoph Marie ,   TU Braunschweig, Mühlenpfordtstr. 23, 38106 Braunschweig, Germany, Anders Lasse ,   TU Braunschweig, Mühlenpfordtstr. 23, 38106 Braunschweig, Germany, Ochlich Raven ,   TU Braunschweig, Mühlenpfordtstr. 23, 38106 Braunschweig, Germany, Grogorick Steve ,   TU Braunschweig, Mühlenpfordtstr. 23, 38106 Braunschweig, Germany, Eisemann Martin ,   TU Braunschweig, Mühlenpfordtstr. 23, 38106 Braunschweig, Germany
Published: July 2023

Surrounding lighting conditions cannot always be sufficiently controlled during videoconferences, yielding situations in which disturbing reflections might appear on the participants glasses. In this article, we present a retrained neural network to convincingly reduce such reflections. For real time performance we propose an asynchronous processing pipeline accompanied by a head pose-based caching strategy to reuse intermediate processing results. The implementation as virtual webcam allows the system to be used with arbitrary videoconferencing systems.
The Method of Mixed States for Interactive Editing of Big Point Clouds
Authors:   Airborne HydroMapping GmbH, A-6020 Innsbruck, Austria, Benger Werner ,   Center for Computation & Technology, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA-70803, Voicu Anca ,   C-tin Brancoveanu-64, Timisoara, Romania, Baran Ramona ,   Airborne HydroMapping GmbH, A-6020 Innsbruck, Austria, Gonciulea Loredana ,   C-tin Brancoveanu-64, Timisoara, Romania, Barna Cosmin ,   C-tin Brancoveanu-64, Timisoara, Romania, Steinbacher Frank ,   Airborne HydroMapping GmbH, A-6020 Innsbruck, Austria
Published: July 2023

We present a novel methodological approach for the interactive editing of big point clouds. Based on the mathematics of fiber bundles, the proposed approach to model a data structure that is efficient for visualization, modification and I/O including an unlimited multi-level set of editing states useful for expressing and maintaining multiple undo histories. Backed by HDF5 as high performance file format, this data structure naturally allows persistent storage for the history of modification actions, an unique new feature of our approach. The challenges of visually based manual editing of big point clouds are discussed and a proper rendering solution is presented. The implemented solution and its features as consequences of the underlying methodology is compared with two major mainstream applications providing point-cloud editing tools as well.
Blocky Volume Package: a Web-friendly Volume Storage and Compression Solution
Authors:   University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Computer and Information Science, Věcna pot 113, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia, Lesar Žiga , Bohak Ciril ,   King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Visual Computing Center, 23955 Thuwal, Saudi Arabia, Marolt Matija ,   University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Computer and Information Science, Věcna pot 113, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
Published: July 2023

The Blocky Volume Package (BVP) format is a distributed, platform-independent and API-independent format for storing static and temporal volumetric data. It is designed for efficient transfer over a network by supporting sparse volumes, multiple resolutions, random access, and streaming, as well as providing a strict framework for supporting a wide palette of encoding formats. The BVP format achieves this by dividing a volume or a volume sequence into blocks that can be compressed and reused. The metadata for the blocks are stored in separate files so that a client has all the information required for loading and decoding the blocks before the actual transmission, decoding and rendering take place. This design allows for random access and parallel loading and has been specifically designed for efficient use on the web platform by adhering to the current living standards. In the paper, we compare the BVP format with some of the most often implemented volume storage formats, and show that the BVP format supports most major features of these formats while at the same time being easily implementable and extensible.
Generating Realistic River Patterns with Space Colonization
Authors:   University of Auckland, School of Computer Science, Auckland, New Zealand, Feng Haoran , Wünsche Burkhard C. ,   University of Auckland, School of Computer Science, Auckland, New Zealand, Shaw Alex ,   University of Auckland, School of Computer Science, Auckland, New Zealand
Published: July 2023

River generation is an integral part of realistic terrain generation, since rivers shape terrains and changes in terrain, e.g., due to tectonic movements can change the path of rivers. Fast existing terrain generation methods often result in non-realistic river patterns, whereas physically-realistic techniques, e.g., building on erosion models, are usually slow. In this paper we investigate whether the Space Colonization Algorithm can be modified to generate realistic river patterns. We present several extensions of the Space Colonization Algorithm and show with a user study with $n=55$ participants that some variants of the algorithm are capable of generating river patterns that are indistinguishable from real river patterns. Although our technique can not generate all types of natural river patterns, our results suggest that it can prove useful for developing plausible 2D maps and potentially can form the basis for new terrain generation techniques.
Optimised Light Rendering through Old Glass
Authors:   Université du Littoral, Côte d’Opale, LISIC, BP 719, France, 62228, Calais cedex, Huan Quentin , Rousselle Francois ,   Université du Littoral, Côte d’Opale, LISIC, BP 719, France, 62228, Calais cedex, Renaud Christophe ,   Université du Littoral, Côte d’Opale, LISIC, BP 719, France, 62228, Calais cedex
Published: July 2023

We propose a rendering method for efficiently computing the transmitted caustics produced by a glass panel with arbitrary surface deformations, characteristic of old glass used in 3D reconstructions in virtual heritage. Using Fermat"s principle of least time, we generalize the concept of Next Event Estimation to allow light sampling through two displaced refractive interfaces, which amount to numerically finding all stationary points of an objective function. Our work allows for an efficient estimation of the caustic while staying inside a standard Monte Carlo pathtracing framework. Our specific geometrical context allows our solver to converge significantly faster than the more general method Specular Manifold Sampling, while scaling well with the number of panels present in the scene.
Massively Parallel CPU-based Virtual View Synthesis with Atomic Z-test
Authors:   Institute of Multimedia Telecommunications, Poznań University of Technology, Polanka 3, 61-131 Poznań, Poland, Stankowski Jakub , Dziembowski Adrian ,   Institute of Multimedia Telecommunications, Poznań University of Technology, Polanka 3, 61-131 Poznań, Poland
Published: July 2023

In this paper we deal with the problem of real-time virtual view synthesis, which is crucial in practical immersive video systems. The majority of existing real-time view synthesizers described in literature require using dedicated hardware. In the proposed approach, the view synthesis algorithm is implemented on a CPU increasing its usability for users equipped with consumer devices such as personal computers or laptops. The novelty of the proposed algorithm is based on the atomic z-test function, which allows for parallelization of the depth reprojection step, what was not possible in previous works. The proposal was evaluated on a test set containing miscellaneous perspective and omnidirectional sequences, both in terms of quality and computational time. The results were compared to the state-of-the-art view synthesis algorithm – RVS.
The Usage of the BP-Layers Stereo Matching Algorithm with the EBCA Camera Set
Authors:   Gdansk University of Technology, Faculty of Electronics, Telecommunications and Informatics, ul. G. Narutowicza 11/12, 80-233 Gdansk, Poland, Kaczmarek Adam L.
Published: July 2023

This paper is concerned with applying a stereo matching algorithm called BP-Layers to a set of many cameras. BP Layers is designed for obtaining disparity maps from stereo cameras. The algorithm takes advantage of convolutional natural networks. This paper presents using this algorithm with a set called Equal Baseline Camera Array. This set consists of up to five cameras with one central camera and other ones aground it. Such a set has similar advantages as a stereo camera. In particular this equipment is suitable for providing 3D vision for autonomous robots operating outdoors. The research presented in this paper shows the extent to which results of using BP Layers are improving because of using the EBCA set instead of a stereo camera.
Paleogene–Neogene tectonic evolution of the lignite-rich Szamotuły Graben
Authors: Widera Marek , Stawikowski Wojciech , Uścinowicz Grzegorz
Published: July 2023

The Szamotuły Graben covers the southernmost part of the Permo-Mesozoic Poznań–Szamotuły Fault Zone. Along this regional discontinuity there are several salt structures, including the Szamotuły diapir, over which an extensional graben formed in the Paleogene and Neogene. The graben is located north of Poznań in central- western Poland, and is NW–SE-trending, ~20 km long, 3–5.5 km wide, and up to 160 m deep. It is filled with Lower Oligocene and Neogene sediments, including relatively thick lignite seams. Data from boreholes allow the assignment of the graben-fill sediments to appropriate lithostratigraphic units. Furthermore, analysis of changes in the thickness of these units provides evidence for periods of accelerated graben subsidence or uplift relative to its flanks. As a result, two distinct stages of tectonic subsidence and one inversion in the Paleogene–Neogene evolution of the Szamotuły Graben have been distinguished. Thus, relatively significant subsidence occurred in the Early Oligocene and the middle Early–earliest Mid-Miocene, while slight inversion took place in the middle part of the Mid-Miocene.
Evidence that the fossil insect trackway Bifurculapes laqueatus Hitchcock, 1858 was made underwater
Authors: Getty Patrick R.
Published: July 2023

Three trackways attributable to the ichnospecies Bifurculapes laqueatus Hitchcock, 1858 found in Lower Jurassic rocks of the Newark Supergroup in northeastern North America are preserved in association with current lineations. Each trackway takes turns so that parts of the trackway parallel the current lineations. This parallelism is interpreted as evidence that the trackmakers were entrained in flowing water and had to change course due to the current. If this interpretation is correct, then morphological differences between B. laqueatus and terrestrial insect trackways could be explained by the trackmaker moving subaqueously. Further, B. laqueatus would constitute only the second insect trackway from this region to be recognized as being made subaqueously. From an ecological standpoint, the aquatic insects that made B. laqueatus were probably near the base of the local food chain, the apex predators of which were piscivorous theropod dinosaurs.
The impact of a Neogene basaltoid intrusion on the distribution of rare earth elements and yttrium in Carboniferous rocks from the Sumina area, Poland (SW part of Upper Silesian Coal Basin)
Authors: Adamczyk Zdzisław , Komorek Joanna , Nowak Jacek , Lewandowska Małgorzata
Published: July 2023

The Neogene basaltoid intrusions found in the S-7 borehole in the Sumina area (USCB) caused transformations of the adjacent Carboniferous rocks. The mineral and chemical compositions of the basaltoides are similar to those of the Lower Silesian basaltoides. The transformations that took place in the vicinity of the intrusion were manifested in the formation of natural coke, the secondary mineralization of these rocks (calcite, chlorite, zeolites and barite) and in the specific distribution of rare earths (REY). Among REY, the light elements (LREY) had the highest share, while the heavy elements (HREY) had the lowest share. Regardless of the lithological type of the analyzed rock, with increasing distance from the intrusion, the percentage of MREY and HREY elements increases at the expense of the light elements LREY. All analyzed distribution patterns of the REYs are characterized by the occurrence of anomalies, which often show a significant correlation with the distance of sampling points from the basaltoid intrusion. The specific distribution of REYs in the vicinity of the intrusion of igneous rocks is an indication of the impact of hydrothermal solutions associated with the presence of basaltoides on the rocks closest to them located at a temperature of over 200°C.
The maximum ice sheet extent and its retreat in the western part of the Holy Cross Mountains, Poland, during the Sanian 2 Glaciation/MIS 12 based on geological data and analysis of karst phenomena
Authors: Dzierżek Jan , Lindner Leszek , Cabalski Krzysztof , Urban Jan , Cyglicki Michał
Published: July 2023

The paper is focused on the palaeographic development of the western part of the Holy Cross Mountains, Poland, during the maximum extent of the Sanian 2 (MIS 12) ice sheet and its retreat. The studies were based on archival cartographic data, coupled with new lithological and petrographic analyses of limni- and fluvioglacial sands, i.e., grain-size composition, quartz grain morphology and heavy mineral analysis, as well as analysis of the erratic material of tills. The results confirm the regional variability of the erratic material in the Sanian 2 tills and point to the long-term development of fluvioglacial sands cover documenting cold climate conditions. They also evidence that the western part of the Holy Cross Mountains was the area where two oppositely directed ice sheet lobes (Radoszyce and Sandomierz) advanced during the Sanian 2 Glaciation and that deglaciation of the area took place in two stages. Huge quantities of meltwater released at that time contributed to the intensification of earlier initiated karst phenomena, as well as filling of the existing caves by fluvioglacial sands.
Taxonomic revision of the Paradoxididae Hawle and Corda, 1847 from the Miaolingian (Cambrian) of the Holy Cross Mountains, Poland: a morphometric approach to simply deformed trilobites
Authors: Nowicki Jakub , Żylińska Anna
Published: July 2023

The taxonomy of simply deformed paradoxidids from the Miaolingian (Cambrian) of Słowiec Hill, Holy Cross Mountains, Poland, is revised based on morphometric analysis. The material represents two species: Acadoparadoxides slowiecensis (Czarnocki in Orłowski, 1965) and Hydrocephalus? polonicus (Czarnocki in Orłowski, 1965). A new assemblage zone based on the combined although not precisely known ranges of these two taxa is suggested replacing the previous Paradoxides polonicus Zone of Orłowski (1975, 1988, 1992a). The Acadoparadoxides slowiecensis–Hydrocephalus? polonicus Assemblage Zone corresponds to the middle and upper part of the Wuliuan Stage (lower Miaolingian).
Tectonic-climatic interactions during changes of depositional environments in the Carpathian foreland: An example from the Neogene of central Poland
Authors: Widera Marek , Zieliński Tomasz , Chomiak Lilianna , Maciaszek Piotr , Wachocki Robert , Bechtel Achim , Słodkowska Barbara , Worobiec Elżbieta , Worobiec Grzegorz
Published: July 2023

Many geological problems have not been convincingly explained so far and are debatable, for instance the origin and changes of the Neogene depositional environments in central Poland. Therefore, these changes have been reconstructed in terms of global to local tectonic and climatic fluctuations. The examined Neogene deposits are divided into a sub-lignite unit (Koźmin Formation), a lignite-bearing unit (Grey Clays Member), and a supra-lignite unit (Wielkopolska Member). The two lithostratigraphic members constitute the Poznań Formation. The results of facies analysis show that the Koźmin Formation was deposited by relatively high-gradient and well-drained braided rivers. Most likely, they encompassed widespread alluvial plains. In the case of the Grey Clays Member, the type of river in close proximity to which the mid-Miocene low-lying mires existed and then were transformed into the first Mid-Miocene Lignite Seam (MPLS-1), has not been resolved. The obtained results confirm the formation of the Wielkopolska Member by low-gradient, but mostly well-drained anastomosing or anastomosing-to-meandering rivers. The depositional evolution of the examined successions depended on tectonic and climatic changes that may be closely related to the mid-Miocene great tectonic remodelling of the Alpine-Carpathian orogen. This resulted in palaeogeographic changes in its foreland in the form of limiting the flow of wet air and water masses from the south and vertical tectonic movements.
Asteroidea from the lower Kimmeridgian of Wapienno/Bielawy, Kuyavia region, north-central Poland
Authors: Loba Michał , Radwańska Urszula
Published: July 2023

A relatively rich assemblage of starfish is recognised from the talus facies of an Upper Jurassic (lower Kimmeridgian) biohermal, sponge-cyanobacterial build-up from the Wapienno/Bielawy succession exposed in a salt-dome anticline in Kuyavia region, north-central Poland. The paper presents 8 taxa belonging to 4 genera (one new to science): Boxaster gen. nov., Noviaster Valette, 1929, Tylasteria Valette, 1929, Valettaster Lambert, 1914, and 4 families: Astropectinidae Gray, 1840, Goniasteridae Forbes, 1841, Sphaerasteridae Schöndorf, 1906 and Stauranderasteridae Spencer, 1913. Only a very few representatives of some of these taxa have formerly been reported from the Jurassic of Poland. Two species are new: Valettaster planus sp. nov. and Boxaster wapienensis gen. et sp. nov. The Jurassic starfish assemblage recognised from the Wapienno/Bielawy succession is interpreted as an offshore starfish fauna with the admixture of allochtonous shallow-water taxa. The lithology of the source deposits indicates their transport by storm agitation and/or mass movements. This fact strongly influenced the preservation state, all collected plates being disarticulated and most of them abraded.
Stratigraphy and palaeoenvironments in the upper Turonian to lower Coniacian of the Saxonian Cretaceous Basin (Germany)– insights from calcareous and agglutinated foraminifers
Authors: Besen Richard M. , Achilles Mareike , Alivernini Mauro , Voigt Thomas , Frenzel Peter , Struck Ulrich
Published: July 2023

Upper Turonian to lower Coniacian marls of the Strehlen Formation of the Graupa 60/1 core were investigated for their foraminiferal content to add stratigraphical and palaeoenvironmental information about the transitional facies zone of the Saxonian Cretaceous Basin. Further comparison with foraminiferal faunas of the Brausnitzbach Marl (Schrammstein Formation) were carried out to clarify its relationship to the marls of the Graupa 60/1 core. Tethyan agglutinated marker species for the late Turonian to early Coniacian confirm the proposed age of the marls of the Graupa 60/1 core and the Brausnitzbach Marl. The palaeoenvironment of the marls reflects middle to outer shelf conditions. The maximum flooding zones of genetic sequences TUR6, TUR7 and CON1 could be linked to acmes of foraminiferal species and foraminiferal morphogroups. In general, a rise of the relative sea-level can be recognised from the base to the top of the marls of the Graupa 60/1 core. While agglutinated foraminiferal assemblages suggest a generally high organic matter influx and variable but high productivity in the Graupa 60/1 core, the Brausnitzbach Marl deposition was characterized by moderate productivity and a generally shallower water depth.
Upper upper Albian ( Mortoniceras rostratum Zone) cephalopods from Clansayes (Drôme, south-eastern France)
Authors: Jattiot Romain , Lehmann Jens , Latutrie Benjamin , Tajika Amane , Vennin Emmanuelle , Vuarin Pauline , Brayard Arnaud , Fara Emmanuel , Trincal Vincent
Published: July 2023

We document an upper upper Albian ( Mortoniceras rostratum Zone) cephalopod assemblage from Clansayes (Drôme, south-eastern France). Although fossils are rare in local exposures and in the single sampled level, a decade of intensive fossil collecting yielded 290 ammonite and 5 nautilid specimens. In total, we describe 1 species of nautilid and 24 species (within 17 genera) of ammonites, including 13 heteromorphs. Only two of these ammonite taxa were previously recorded from the upper upper Albian at Clansayes, which demonstrates the value of this fauna with regard to taxonomy, palaeobiology and palaeobiogeography. Based on morphological and biometric analyses performed on an extensive material (104 specimens), we discriminate two species for the heteromorphic ammonite genus Mariella Nowak, 1916 within the Mortoniceras rostratum Zone. In addition, we investigate shell chirality patterns in Mariella from the late Albian of southern France. Upon comparison of the Clansayes material with older material from the immediately underlying upper Albian Mortoniceras fallax Zone at the neighbouring Salazac locality, we identify an increase in the proportion of sinistral specimens. This observed increase in the frequency of sinistral Mariella specimens may hypothetically be part of a global evolutionary pattern, considering that nearly all documented younger Cenomanian Mariella (and more generally Cenomanian turrilitids) are sinistral.
Zirconium silicates in a peralkaline granite: a record of the interplay of magmatic and hydrothermal processes (Ilímaussaq complex, Greenland)
Authors: Cegiełka Małgorzata , Bagiński Bogusław , Macdonald Ray , Belkin Harvey E. , Kotowski Jakub , Upton Brian G.J.
Published: July 2023

Compositional and textural data are presented for zircon, secondary Zr-silicates, catapleiite and elpidite in a peralkaline granite from the Ilímaussaq complex, south Greenland. The zircon is essentially stoichiometric, with (Zr + Hf + Si) = 1.96–1.98 a.p.f.u. The secondary Zr-silicates show a wide range of Zr/Si atomic ratios (0.13–0.79). The catapleiite varies from close to stoichiometric to a Na-depleted type showing cation deficiency (5.2–5.8 a.p.f.u.). Elpidite shows similar variations (7.2–9.0 a.p.f.u.). Textural relationships between the Zr phases are interpreted to show that magmatic zircon interacted with hydrous fluids exsolved from the magma to form the secondary Zr-silicates. Formation of catapleiite was late‑magmatic, in equilibrium with a Na-Sibearing fluid. This was followed by the crystallization of elpidite, the fluid having a different Na/Si ratio. Both catapleiite and elpidite experienced Na-loss during late-stage hydrothermal alteration.
Silver compounds as minerals in the eastern Karkonosze granitoid pluton, Sudetes, Poland
Authors: Kozłowski Andrzej , Matyszczak Witold
Published: July 2023

Twenty silver minerals of the sulphide, arsenide, selenide, telluride, sulphosalt and chloride groups were found in 13 locations in the Variscan Karkonosze granitoid pluton. Previously only one of these minerals was known from this area. The findings include species characterized in publications as rare or exceptionally rare, e.g., muthmannite and tsnigriite. They occur in pegmatites and quartz veins; their parageneses are described. The studies include determination of chemical compositions, formulae calculations and recording of XRD patterns. Inclusion studies in paragenetic quartz indicate that they crystallized from epithermal fluids with a common but low component of CO 2. The results suggest that the minerals formed from trace elements (Ag included) in the Karkonosze granitoid due to very local degrees of recrystallization of the host granitoid.