bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of Calculous Pyonephrosis by CT-Based Radiomics and Deep Learning
Authors: Yuan Guanjie , Cai Lingli , Qu Weinuo , Zhou Ziling , Liang Ping , Chen Jun , Xu Chuou , Zhang Jiaqiao , Wang Shaogang , Chu Qian , Li Zhen
Published: July 2024

Urgent detection of calculous pyonephrosis is crucial for surgical planning and preventing severe outcomes. This study aims to evaluate the performance of computed tomography (CT)-based radiomics and a three-dimensional convolutional neural network (3D-CNN) model, integrated with independent clinical factors, to identify patients with calculous pyonephrosis. We recruited 182 patients receiving either percutaneous nephrostomy tube placement or percutaneous nephrolithotomy for calculous hydronephrosis or pyonephrosis. The regions of interest were manually delineated on plain CT images and the CT attenuation value (HU) was measured. Radiomics analysis was performed using least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO). A 3D-CNN model was also developed. The better-performing machine-learning model was combined with independent clinical factors to build a comprehensive clinical machine-learning model. The performance of these models was assessed using receiver operating characteristic analysis and decision curve analysis. Fever, blood neutrophils, and urine leukocytes were independent risk factors for pyonephrosis. The radiomics model showed higher area under the curve (AUC) than the 3D-CNN model and HU (0.876 vs. 0.599, 0.578; p = 0.003, 0.002) in the testing cohort. The clinical machine-learning model surpassed the clinical model in both the training (0.975 vs. 0.904, p = 0.019) and testing (0.967 vs. 0.889, p = 0.045) cohorts.
Alveolar Ridge Preservation Using a Novel Species-Specific Collagen-Enriched Deproteinized Bovine Bone Mineral: Histological Evaluation of a Prospective Case Series
Authors: van Orten Andreas , Goetz Werner , Bilhan Hakan
Published: July 2024

In recent years, the significance of maintaining the alveolar ridge following tooth extractions has markedly increased. Alveolar ridge preservation (ARP) is a commonly utilized technique and a variety of bone substitute materials and biologics are applied in different combinations. For this purpose, a histological evaluation and the clinical necessity of subsequent guided bone regeneration (GBR) in delayed implantations were investigated in a prospective case series after ARP with a novel deproteinized bovine bone material (95%) in combination with a species-specific collagen (5%) (C-DBBM). Notably, block-form bone substitutes without porcine collagen are limited, and moreover, the availability of histological data on this material remains limited. Ten patients, each scheduled for tooth extraction and desiring future implantation, were included in this study. Following tooth extraction, ARP was performed using a block form of C-DBBM in conjunction with a double-folded bovine cross-linked collagen membrane (xCM). This membrane was openly exposed to the oral cavity and secured using a crisscross suture. After a healing period ranging from 130 to 319 days, guided trephine drilling was performed for implant insertion utilizing static computer-aided implant surgery (s-CAIS). Cores harvested from the area previously treated with ARP were histologically processed and examined. Guided bone regeneration (GBR) was not necessary for any of the implantations. Histological examination revealed the development of a lattice of cancellous bone trabeculae through appositional membranous osteogenesis at various stages surrounding C-DBBM granules as well as larger spongy or compact ossicles with minimal remnants. The clinical follow-up period ranged from 2.5 to 4.5 years, during which no biological or technical complications occurred. Within the limitations of this prospective case series, it can be concluded that ARP using this novel C-DBBM in combination with a bovine xCM could be a treatment option to avoid the need for subsequent GBR in delayed implantations with the opportunity of a bovine species-specific biomaterial chain.
Deep Attention Fusion Hashing (DAFH) Model for Medical Image Retrieval
Authors: Wu Gangao , Jin Enhui , Sun Yanling , Tang Bixia , Zhao Wenming
Published: July 2024

In medical image retrieval, accurately retrieving relevant images significantly impacts clinical decision making and diagnostics. Traditional image-retrieval systems primarily rely on single-dimensional image data, while current deep-hashing methods are capable of learning complex feature representations. However, retrieval accuracy and efficiency are hindered by diverse modalities and limited sample sizes. Objective: To address this, we propose a novel deep learning-based hashing model, the Deep Attention Fusion Hashing (DAFH) model, which integrates advanced attention mechanisms with medical imaging data. Methods: The DAFH model enhances retrieval performance by integrating multi-modality medical imaging data and employing attention mechanisms to optimize the feature extraction process. Utilizing multimodal medical image data from the Cancer Imaging Archive (TCIA), this study constructed and trained a deep hashing network that achieves high-precision classification of various cancer types. Results: At hash code lengths of 16, 32, and 48 bits, the model respectively attained Mean Average Precision (MAP@10) values of 0.711, 0.754, and 0.762, highlighting the potential and advantage of the DAFH model in medical image retrieval. Conclusions: The DAFH model demonstrates significant improvements in the efficiency and accuracy of medical image retrieval, proving to be a valuable tool in clinical settings.
Auxiliary Diagnosis of Dental Calculus Based on Deep Learning and Image Enhancement by Bitewing Radiographs
Authors: Lin Tai-Jung , Lin Yen-Ting , Lin Yuan-Jin , Tseng Ai-Yun , Lin Chien-Yu , Lo Li-Ting , Chen Tsung-Yi , Chen Shih-Lun , Chen Chiung-An , Li Kuo-Chen , Abu Patricia Angela R.
Published: July 2024

In the field of dentistry, the presence of dental calculus is a commonly encountered issue. If not addressed promptly, it has the potential to lead to gum inflammation and eventual tooth loss. Bitewing (BW) images play a crucial role by providing a comprehensive visual representation of the tooth structure, allowing dentists to examine hard-to-reach areas with precision during clinical assessments. This visual aid significantly aids in the early detection of calculus, facilitating timely interventions and improving overall outcomes for patients. This study introduces a system designed for the detection of dental calculus in BW images, leveraging the power of YOLOv8 to identify individual teeth accurately. This system boasts an impressive precision rate of 97.48%, a recall (sensitivity) of 96.81%, and a specificity rate of 98.25%. Furthermore, this study introduces a novel approach to enhancing interdental edges through an advanced image-enhancement algorithm. This algorithm combines the use of a median filter and bilateral filter to refine the accuracy of convolutional neural networks in classifying dental calculus. Before image enhancement, the accuracy achieved using GoogLeNet stands at 75.00%, which significantly improves to 96.11% post-enhancement. These results hold the potential for streamlining dental consultations, enhancing the overall efficiency of dental services.
Third-Generation Tetracyclines: Current Knowledge and Therapeutic Potential
Authors: Kounatidis Dimitris , Dalamaga Maria , Grivakou Eugenia , Karampela Irene , Koufopoulos Petros , Dalopoulos Vasileios , Adamidis Nikolaos , Mylona Eleni , Kaziani Aikaterini , Vallianou Natalia G.
Published: July 2024

Tetracyclines constitute a unique class of antibiotic agents, widely prescribed for both community and hospital infections due to their broad spectrum of activity. Acting by disrupting protein synthesis through tight binding to the 30S ribosomal subunit, their interference is typically reversible, rendering them bacteriostatic in action. Resistance to tetracyclines has primarily been associated with changes in pump efflux or ribosomal protection mechanisms. To address this challenge, tetracycline molecules have been chemically modified, resulting in the development of third-generation tetracyclines. These novel tetracyclines offer significant advantages in treating infections, whether used alone or in combination therapies, especially in hospital settings. Beyond their conventional antimicrobial properties, research has highlighted their potential non-antibiotic properties, including their impact on immunomodulation and malignancy. This review will focus on third-generation tetracyclines, namely tigecycline, eravacycline, and omadacycline. We will delve into their mechanisms of action and resistance, while also evaluating their pros and cons over time. Additionally, we will explore their therapeutic potential, analyzing their primary indications of prescription, potential future uses, and non-antibiotic features. This review aims to provide valuable insights into the clinical applications of third-generation tetracyclines, thereby enhancing understanding and guiding optimal clinical use.
Perceptive Recommendation Robot: Enhancing Receptivity of Product Suggestions Based on Customers’ Nonverbal Cues
Authors: Iwasaki Masaya , Yamazaki Akiko , Yamazaki Keiichi , Miyazaki Yuji , Kawamura Tatsuyuki , Nakanishi Hideyuki
Published: July 2024

Service robots that coexist with humans in everyday life have become more common, and they have provided customer service in physical shops around the world in recent years. However, their potential in effective sales strategies has not been fully realized due to their low social presence. This study aims to clarify what kind of robot behavior enhances the social presence of service robots and how it affects human–robot interaction and purchasing behavior. We conducted two experiments with a sales robot, Pepper, at a retail shop in Kyoto. In Experiment 1, we showed that the robot’s social presence increased and that customers looked at the robot longer when the robot understood human gaze information and was capable of shared attention. In Experiment 2, we showed that the probability of customers picking up products increased when the robot suggested products based on the humans’ degree of attention from gaze and posture information. These results indicate that the robot’s ability to understand and make utterances about a customer’s orientation and attention effectively enhances human–robot communication and purchasing motivation.
Comment on Devoogdt et al. The Effectiveness of Fluoroscopy-Guided Manual Lymph Drainage as Part of Decongestive Lymphatic Therapy on the Superficial Lymphatic Architecture in Patients with Breast Cancer-Related Lymphoedema: A Randomised Controlled Trial. Cancers 2023, 15, 1545
Authors: Bourgeois Pierre
Published: July 2024

This study is a comment on the non-effectiveness of fluoroscopy-guided manual lymph drainage using ICG as part of decongestive lymphatic therapy on the superficial lymphatic architecture in patients with breast cancer-related lymphoedema in a randomized controlled trial, and the demonstration of one toxicity of indocyanine green on the lymphatic system [...]
Effect of Corrosion and Post-Weld Treatment on the Fatigue Behavior of Multipass Robot GMAW Welds of S700MC Steel
Authors: Spyropoulou Stefania , Christofilis Emmanouil , Zervaki Anna D.
Published: July 2024

High-strength steel is a candidate material for offshore structures, which are currently being constructed with regular-strength steel. These structures are constantly exposed to harsh environmental conditions and experience cyclic loadings, which can lead to premature failure due to the synergistic effects of corrosion and fatigue. In this regard, the current study aims to investigate the effects of corrosion and High-Frequency Mechanical Impact (HFMI) treatment on the fatigue behavior of welded joints made of S700MC steel. Multipass butt-welded joints were fabricated via the Robot GMAW method at an optimally selected heat input of 0.7405 kJ/mm. The microstructure of the weldments was studied using light optical microscopy. Tensile and Vickers microhardness tests were performed to evaluate the mechanical properties of the welded joints. To simulate marine environment corrosion in the laboratory, the as-welded samples were exposed to salt fog spray for 720 h. Subsequently, specimens were subjected to cyclic loading to evaluate their fatigue strength, while SEM and stereomicroscopy were used to analyze the fractured surfaces, providing a comprehensive understanding of the fracture mode. The findings suggest that although corrosion led to increased surface roughness and the formation of corrosion pits, its influence on the fatigue behavior of the weldments might be less significant compared to other geometrical factors, at least for the exposure time employed in the study.
Attitudes, Knowledge and Clinical Practice of Health Professionals towards Psychological Disorders in Cancer Patients: An Observational Study
Authors: Carriero Maria Chiara , Leo Antonio , Lezzi Alessia , Lupo Roberto , Conte Luana , Fanizzi Annarita , Massafra Raffaella , Vitale Elsa , Carriero Antonio
Published: July 2024

Background: The suffering associated with a cancer diagnosis can find different channels to express itself: sleep disorders, psychiatric disorders, sexuality. These are not always analyzed by health professionals, but they have an impact on the patient’s quality of life and on the outcome of the disease. Methods: An observational study was conducted in order to investigate attitudes, knowledge and clinical practice towards psychological symptoms in cancer patients. Results: A total of 132 clinicians from all Italian regions responded. In total, 99.2% (n = 131) considered the figure of the psychologist useful in the oncology field and recommended him/her in clinical practice (n = 115; 87.7%), especially in the terminal phase of the illness (58.6%; n = 99). Despite the importance given to the figure of the psychologist, psychiatric disorders are not diagnosed. Only 20.0% (n = 26) identified depressive disorder as accurate and only 33.9% (n = 43) identified demoralization syndrome as accurate. Conclusions: Results prove the need for training on psychological disorders in oncology and the emotional repercussions of cancer illness.
A New Fractional-Order Grey Prediction Model without a Parameter Estimation Process
Authors: Wang Yadong , Liu Chong
Published: July 2024

The fractional-order grey prediction model is widely recognized for its performance in time series prediction tasks with small sample characteristics. However, its parameter-estimation method, namely the least squares method, limits the predictive performance of the model and requires time to address the ill-conditioning of the system. To address these issues, this paper proposes a novel parameter-acquisition method treating structural parameters as hyperparameters, obtained through the marine predators optimization algorithm. The experimental analysis on three datasets validate the effectiveness of the method proposed in this paper.
Genome-Wide Association Study and Transcriptome Analysis Provide Candidate Genes for Agronomic Traits of Agaricus bisporus
Authors: Lu Yuanping , Guo Zhongjie , Ke Binrong , Zheng Huiqing , Zeng Zhiheng , Cai Zhixin , Zeng Hui , Liao Jianhua , Chen Meiyuan
Published: July 2024

Agaricus bisporus, belonging to the genus Agaricus and the family Agaricaceae, is a popular commercially cultivated mushroom with rich nutritional and medical values. Cultivation of A. bisporus requires superior cultivars. Understanding the differences between wild and cultivated accession at the genetic level is crucial for mining loci and genes associated with cultivation-related traits, informing future breeding directions. Additionally, the identification of loci and genes associated with important agronomic traits (e.g., yield and quality) facilitates mushroom molecular breeding. In this study, we conducted sequencing of 200 strains of A. bisporus and analyzed genomic variations. Population structure and genetic relationships were investigated for 200 strains. Selection signs and genes were also obtained after selection sweep analysis. Thirteen candidate genes in the selective elimination regions had significantly different expression patterns at the fruit body stage. Moreover, six genes were identified for the esterase isozyme type through a combination of GWAS and RNA data. This study provides insight into environmental adaptation at the genetic base, providing valuable genetic resources for button mushroom molecular breeding to improve environmental adaptation, quality, or yield.
Transcriptomic Analysis Reveals Dynamic Changes in Glutathione and Ascorbic Acid Content in Mango Pulp across Growth and Development Stages
Authors: Tahir Hassam , Sajjad Muhammad , Qian Minjie , Zeeshan Ul Haq Muhammad , Tahir Ashar , Chen Tiantian , Shaopu Shi , Farooq Muhammad Aamir , Ling Wei , Zhou Kaibing
Published: July 2024

Mango (Mangifera indica) is a highly valuable horticultural crop known for its quality and productivity. This study investigates the dynamic changes in physicochemical properties and glutathione and ascorbic acid metabolic pathways in mango pulp across various growth and development stages over two consecutive years (2021–2022 and 2022–2023) by transcriptomic analysis. Overall, the results demonstrate that during different ripening periods, the pulp shows increased levels of total soluble solids, relative conductivity, glutathione, and enzymes, while titratable acidity, malondialdehyde, reactive oxygen species, and ascorbic acid contents decreased. Moreover, transcriptomic analysis identified key differentially expressed genes from the glutathione and ascorbic acid metabolic pathways and validated them with qRT-PCR. In different comparisons, a total of 1776, 2513, and 828 DEGs were identified in 30 vs. 60, 30 vs. 90, and 60 vs. 90 days after flowering, respectively. Among them, seven DEGs were primarily enriched in relevant pathways, which included ascorbate peroxidase, ascorbate oxidase, glutathione peroxidase, gamma-glutamyl transferase, glutathione transferases, and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase. The upregulation of these genes indicates that glutathione and AsA respond well to scavenging reactive oxygen species and maintain normal functioning in plants. This research sheds light on the molecular mechanisms of glutathione and ascorbic acid dynamic changes in mango pulp, providing valuable insights into the regulation of antioxidant and metabolic pathways during fruit growth and development.
Impacts of Epihomobrassinolide and Thiamethoxam·Flutolanil·Azoxystrobin on the Continuous Cropping Stress of Pinellia ternata
Authors: Tian Bing , Tang Chenglin , Liu Jiaqi , Wang Qiuping , Feng Wenhao , Su Yue , Zhang Cheng , Lei Yang
Published: July 2024

Continuous cropping (CC) stress severely limits the growth and industrial development of Pinellia ternata. Epihomobrassinolide (EBR) is a natural product that widely participates in many the physiological activities of many plants. Thiamethoxam·flutolanil·azoxystrobin (TFA) has been registered as a seed coating agent in crop production. In this work, the effects of seeds soaked with EBR, seeds coated with TFA, and their co-application on the plant growth, electrophysiological information (as physiological activities related to plant electrical signals), leaf photosynthesis, plant resistance, bulb quality, and yield of CC P. ternata were evaluated. The aim of this work is to excogitate a practicable agronomic measure for ameliorating the growth of CC P. ternata. The results show that soaking the seeds with EBR or coating the seeds with TFA could effectively enhance the plant height, leaf area, and stem diameter of CC P. ternata, promote its emergence seedling ratio, and decrease its inverted seedling ratio, and their associated application was found to be more efficient. Additionally, their associated application effectively enhanced the intrinsic capacitance (IC), intracellular water metabolism, nutrient transport, and metabolic activity and decreased the intrinsic resistance (IR), impedance (IZ), capacitive reactance (IXc), and inductive reactance (IXL). Meanwhile, their associated application could reliably enhance the photosynthetic capacity and stress resistance, and effectively improve the bulb quality and yield. This study emphasizes that the associated application of seeds soaked with a 0.004% aqueous EBR solution diluted 1000 times and seeds coated with a 24% TFA flowable concentrate at 1.6 mL kg−1 seed can be used as a novel and practicable technology for alleviating the CC stress of P. ternata and ameliorating its growth, electrophysiological information, resistance, quality, and yield.
Experimental Investigation of the Sensitivity of Forced Response to Cold Streaks in an Axial Turbine
Authors: Stania Lennart , Ludeneit Felix , Seume Joerg R.
Published: July 2024

In turbomachinery, geometric variances of the blades, due to manufacturing tolerances, deterioration over a lifetime, or blade repair, can influence overall aerodynamic performance as well as aeroelastic behaviour. In cooled turbine blades, such deviations may lead to streaks of high or low temperature. It has already been shown that hot streaks from the combustors lead to inhomogeneity in the flow path, resulting in increased blade dynamic stress. However, not only hot streaks but also cold streaks occur in modern aircraft engines due to deterioration-induced widening of cooling holes. This work investigates this effect in an experimental setup of a five-stage axial turbine. Cooling air is injected through the vane row of the fourth stage at midspan, and the vibration amplitudes of the blades in rotor stage five are measured with a tip-timing system. The highest injected mass flow rate is 2% of the total mass flow rate for a low-load operating point. The global turbine parameters change between the reference case without cooling air and the cold streak case. This change in operating conditions is compensated such that the corrected operating point is held constant throughout the measurements. It is shown that the cold streak is deflected in the direction of the hub and detected at 40% channel height behind the stator vane of the fifth stage. The averaged vibration amplitude over all blades increases by 20% for the cold streak case compared to the reference during low-load operating of the axial turbine. For operating points with higher loads, however, no increase in averaged vibration amplitude exceeding the measurement uncertainties is observed because the relative cooling mass flow rate is too low. It is shown that the cold streak only influences the pressure side and leads to a widening of the wake deficit. This is identified as the reason for the increased forcing on the blade. The conclusion is that an accurate prediction of the blade’s lifetime requires consideration of the cooling air within the design process and estimation of changes in cooling air mass flow rate throughout the blade’s lifetime.
Hybrid Ensemble Deep Learning Model for Advancing Ischemic Brain Stroke Detection and Classification in Clinical Application
Authors: Qasrawi Radwan , Qdaih Ibrahem , Daraghmeh Omar , Thwib Suliman , Vicuna Polo Stephanny , Atari Siham , Abu Al-Halawa Diala
Published: July 2024

Ischemic brain strokes are severe medical conditions that occur due to blockages in the brain’s blood flow, often caused by blood clots or artery blockages. Early detection is crucial for effective treatment. This study aims to improve the detection and classification of ischemic brain strokes in clinical settings by introducing a new approach that integrates the stroke precision enhancement, ensemble deep learning, and intelligent lesion detection and segmentation models. The proposed hybrid model was trained and tested using a dataset of 10,000 computed tomography scans. A 25-fold cross-validation technique was employed, while the model’s performance was evaluated using accuracy, precision, recall, and F1 score. The findings indicate significant improvements in accuracy for different stages of stroke images when enhanced using the SPEM model with contrast-limited adaptive histogram equalization set to 4. Specifically, accuracy showed significant improvement (from 0.876 to 0.933) for hyper-acute stroke images; from 0.881 to 0.948 for acute stroke images, from 0.927 to 0.974 for sub-acute stroke images, and from 0.928 to 0.982 for chronic stroke images. Thus, the study shows significant promise for the detection and classification of ischemic brain strokes. Further research is needed to validate its performance on larger datasets and enhance its integration into clinical settings.
How Blind Individuals Recall Mathematical Expressions in Auditory, Tactile, and Auditory–Tactile Modalities
Authors: Riga Paraskevi , Kouroupetroglou Georgios
Published: July 2024

In contrast to sighted students who acquire mathematical expressions (MEs) from their visual sources, blind students must keep MEs in their memory using the Tactile or Auditory Modality. In this work, we rigorously investigate the ability to temporarily retain MEs by blind individuals when they use different input modalities: Auditory, Tactile, and Auditory–Tactile. In the experiments with 16 blind participants, we meticulously measured the users’ capacity for memory retention utilizing ME recall. Based on a robust methodology, our results indicate that the distribution of the recall errors regarding their types (Deletions, Substitutions, Insertions) and math element categories (Structural, Numerical, Identifiers, Operators) are the same across the tested modalities. Deletions are the favored recall error, while operator elements are the hardest to forget. Our findings show a threshold to the cognitive overload of the short-term memory in terms of type and number of elements in an ME, where the recall rapidly decreases. The increase in the number of errors is affected by the increase in complexity; however, it is significantly higher in the Auditory modality than in the other two. Therefore, segmenting a math expression into smaller parts will benefit the ability of the blind reader to retain it in memory while studying.
Single Trench Fiber-Enabled High-Power Fiber Laser
Authors: An Yi , Li Fengchang , Yang Huan , Chen Xiao , Huang Liangjin , Yan Zhiping , Jiang Min , Yang Baolai , Wang Peng , Pan Zhiyong , Jiang Zongfu , Zhou Pu
Published: July 2024

As a novel design of large-mode-area fiber, the single trench fiber (STF) providing high higher-order-mode suppression with a large mode area for the fundamental mode shows potential for high-power and high-brightness applications. However, the output power of STFs has remained relatively low over the past decade. In this paper, we first conducted a design process for STFs and determined the optimal ratio of the fiber structural parameters. Following this ratio, we fabricated an ytterbium-doped STF and demonstrated an all-fiberized fiber amplifier. The system achieved an output power of 2.5 kW with an M2 factor of 1.396. To the best of our knowledge, the power of the STF in this study is approximately three times higher than the previous single-mode power record.
Simplified 1.5 μm Distributed Feedback Semiconductor Laser (DFB-LD) Frequency Stabilization System Based on Gas Absorption Chamber
Authors: Wang Ju , Gao Ye , Yu Jinlong , Cai Ziheng , Luo Hao , Ma Chuang
Published: July 2024

The classical 1.5 μm band frequency-stabilized laser using acetylene gas saturated absorption can achieve high frequency stability and reproducibility, but its system design is complex and bulky. For some practical applications, a simple, compact system containing anti-interference abilities is preferred. In this study, a low-cost and simple-structured 1.5 μm frequency-stabilized laser is constructed using digital control methods, wavelength modulation technology, and acetylene gas absorption. The fiber input and output optical devices of the system significantly simplify the optical path and reduce the volume of the system. The error signal is obtained by the first-order differential method, and a combination of the high-speed comparator circuit and the microcontroller unit (MCU) is used to detect the error signal. Through the feedback control method of coarse temperature adjustment and fine current adjustment, the second-level frequency stability of the laser is stabilized within 100 kHz, that is, the frequency stability reaches 10​−10. The designed system achieved continuous and stable operation for more than 6 h, and the long-term frequency stability reached 10​−9.
Demonstration of a Low-SWaP Terminal for Ground-to-Air Single-Mode Fiber Coupled Laser Links
Authors: McCann Ayden , Frost Alex , Karpathakis Skevos , Dix-Matthews Benjamin , Gozzard David , Walsh Shane , Schediwy Sascha
Published: July 2024

Free space optical technology promises to revolutionize point-to-point communications systems. By taking advantage of their vastly higher frequencies, coherent optical systems outperform their radio counterparts by orders of magnitude in achievable data throughput, while simultaneously lowering the required size, weight, and power (SWaP), making them ideal for mobile applications. However, the widespread implementation of this technology has been largely hindered by the effects of atmospheric turbulence, often necessitating complex higher-order adaptive optics systems that are largely unsuitable for deployment on mobile platforms. By employing tip/tilt beam-stabilization, we present the results of a bespoke low-SWaP optical terminal that demonstrated single-mode fiber (SMF) coupling. This was achieved by autonomously acquiring and tracking the targets using a combination of aircraft transponder and machine vision feedback to a root-mean-square (RMS) tracking error of 29.4 µrad and at angular rates of up to 0.83 deg/s. To the authors’ knowledge, these works constitute the first published SMF coupled optical link to a full-sized helicopter, and we describe derived quantities relevant to the future refinement of such links. The ability to achieve SMF coupling without the constraints of complex adaptive optics systems positions this technology as a versatile quantum-capable communications solution for land-, air-, and sea-based platforms ranging across commercial, scientific, and military operators.
A Hybrid Improved SAC-IA with a KD-ICP Algorithm for Local Point Cloud Alignment Optimization
Authors: Cheng Yinbao , Chu Haiman , Li Yaru , Tang Yingqi , Luo Zai , Li Shaohui
Published: July 2024

To overcome incomplete point cloud data obtained from laser scanners scanning complex surfaces, multi-viewpoint cloud data needs to be aligned for use. A hybrid improved SAC-IA with a KD-ICP algorithm is proposed for local point cloud alignment optimization. The scanned point cloud data is preprocessed with statistical filtering, as well as uniform down-sampling. The sampling consistency initial alignment (SAC-IA) algorithm is improved by introducing a dissimilarity vector for point cloud initial alignment. In addition, the iterative closest point (ICP) algorithm is improved by incorporating bidirectional KD-tree to form the KD-ICP algorithm for fine point cloud alignment. Finally, the algorithms are compared in terms of runtime and alignment accuracy. The implementation of the algorithms is based on the Visual Studio 2013 software configurating point cloud library environment for testing experiments and practical experiments. The overall alignment method can be 40%~50% faster in terms of running speed. The improved SAC-IA algorithm provides better transformed poses, combined with the KD-ICP algorithm to select the corresponding nearest neighbor pairs, which improves the accuracy, as well as the applicability of the alignment.
Efeitos eletrofisiológicos da imagética cinestésica motora no desempenho de tarefas visomotoras
Authors: Martins Lilian , Russo Marcos T , Nicoliche Eduardo , Vasconcelos Alexandre , Ribeiro Pedro Ribeiro
Published: July 2024

Introdução. O estudo do funcionamento cerebral durante a tarefa visomotora pode contribuir para o esclarecimento dos processos de aprendizagem que envolvem o funcionamento cognitivo, a atenção e o comportamento motor. Nesse contexto, a imagética é parte fundamental do treinamento de tiro de alto rendimento. As mudanças eletrofisiológicas na potência absoluta de alfa durante o tiro com pistola antes e após uma intervenção de imagética motora foram examinadas comparando especialistas com atiradores iniciantes. Método. Trata-se de um estudo quase-experimental com 19 sujeitos (25-37 anos). A atividade eletrofisiológica cerebral foi estimada como potência alfa absoluta durante uma tarefa de tiro com pistola de ar autocadenciada antes e após a intervenção de treinamento de imagética motora cinestésica (IMK). As análises foram realizadas por ANOVA two-way seguida do teste t de Student. Resultados. Houve interações e efeitos principais em todas as áreas para ambos os grupos. Os resultados indicaram que a intervenção de treinamento do IMK induziu mudanças nas atividades corticais relacionadas à melhora das funções executivas, tais como: planejamento de ações, flexibilidade cognitiva, mudança de planos e decisões e diferentes formas de armazenamento de informações que contribuem para o aumento do desempenho no tiro.
Yield and economic feasibility of Eucalyptus dunnii stands under different management regimes
Authors: Fillus Luis Gustavo , Homczinski Isabel , Nogueira Dias Andrea , Miranda Rodrigo Otávio Veiga de , Miranda Gabriel de Magalhães , Roque Rafael Henrique , Mayrinck Rafaella Carvalho , Oliveira Ximena Mendes de
Published: July 2024

The aim of this study was to analyze volume yield, number of logs per assortment and economic feasibility of Eucalyptus dunnii stands under different management regimes. The stands are located in Fernandes Pinheiro, Paraná State, Brazil and cover a total area of 2.26 hectares, fragmented into three strata (treatments): A (8 years after coppicing regime), B (9-year old stand after two thinnings), and C (7-year old stand after one thinning). Diameters at breast height (d) of all trees and heights of 110 trees were obtained. The total height of the other trees was estimated by a hypsometric relationship. Tree volume was obtained through a taper function. For the economic analysis comparing the three strata, the periodic equivalent value (PEV) and the internal return rate (IRR) were evaluated considering an interest rate of 8%. The commercial volumetric estimates ranged from 156.61 to 375.53 m³ ha⁻¹. The stratum A yielded more logs, mostly for energy; stratum B yielded larger logs, and stratum C yielded similar number and volume of logs from all assortment classes. For economic analysis, PEV ranged from R$ 196.16 to R$ 1,255.79 ha year⁻¹, and IRR ranged from 12.73% per year (stratum A) to 21.35% per year (stratum C), based on a interest rate of 8%. It was concluded that the management condition of stratum C resulted in higher economic returns, with its product primarily destined for Sawmill 1.
Turist Rehberlerinin Kültürlerarası İletişim Kaygısı: Kavramsal Bir Değerlendirme
Authors: Ünal Mert
Published: June 2024

Amaç ve Önem: Turist rehberleri turistlere hizmet sunarken, kültürlerarası iletişim yeteneklerini kullanmaktadır. Dolayısıyla farklı kültürlerden gelen turistlerle etkileşim halinde olan turist rehberlerinin iletişim kurması için farklılıkları anlaması ve kaygısının düşük olması gerekmektedir. Ancak mevcut literatürde turist rehberleri ile turistlerin iletişim sorunlarına değinen araştırmalar olmasına rağmen, kültürlerarası iletişim kaygısını açıklayan çalışmaya rastlanmamıştır. Buradan hareketle turist rehberlerindeki kültürlerarası iletişim kaygısını kavramsal olarak değerlendirmek hedeflenmektedir.

Yöntem: Araştırmada ikincil verilerden yaranılmış olup, nitel araştırma yöntemlerinden doküman inceleme tekniği kullanılmıştır. Veri doygunluğu olmaması sebebiyle meta analiz veya bibliyometrik analiz tekniklerine başvurulmamış, araştırmalardan derleme yapılmıştır.

Bulgular: Mevcut literatür incelemesine göre turist rehberlerinin karşılaştığı sorunlar olarak turist etkileşimi ile kültürlerarası iletişim kaygısını etkileyen unsurlar bulunmaktadır. Buna göre kişisel özelliklerden ve sosyal sorunlardan ortaya çıkan kültürlerarası iletişim kaygısı, çalışma koşullarından da etkilenmektedir.

Özgünlük/Bilimsel Katkı: Araştırma, farklı kültürlerle etkileşim halinde olan turist rehberlerinin yaşayabilecekleri kaygının nedenlerinin ortaya konması ve kavramsal olarak değerlendirilmesini içermektedir.
Optimized Epigallocatechin Gallate Delivery and Adipogenesis Inhibition through Fluorescent Mesoporous Nanocarriers
Authors: Kim Taelin , Cho A. Yeon , Lee Sang-Wha , Lee Hyun Jong
Published: July 2024

Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), a naturally occurring compound known for its multiple health benefits including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, cancer preventive, and weight management effects, faces challenges due to its inherent instability and limited bioavailability. To address these limitations, our study pioneers an investigation into the unique behavior of EGCG, revealing its degradation into epicatechin (EGC) and gallic acid (GA) during the drug delivery process. In this research, we use fluorescent mesoporous silica nanoparticles (FMSNs) as a sophisticated delivery system for EGCG. This innovative approach aims to not only enhance the stability of EGCG but also regulate its sustained release dynamics to enable prolonged cellular activity. To comprehensively evaluate our novel delivery strategy, we performed assays to assess both the antioxidant potential and its impact on lipid inhibition using Oil Red O. The results not only underscore the potential of FMSN-based nanocarriers for efficient EGCG delivery but also reveal groundbreaking insights into its enzymatic degradation, a previously unexplored facet. This research substantially advances our understanding of EGCG’s behavior during delivery and offers a promising avenue for improving its therapeutic efficacy and expanding its applications in health management.
High Power Factor of p- and n-Type Single-walled Carbon Nanotubes by Solution Processing
Authors: Wu Xin , Liu Peiyao , Huo Bingchen , Li Yiyang , Liu Shuang , Lv Yifan , Guo Cun-Yue
Published: July 2024

Organic thermoelectric materials are not only used in low-grade waste heat recovery but also have frontier applications in sensors, wearable self-powered devices, biomaterials, and smart materials with the development of flexible electronics. However, investigation on the thermoelectric performance of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) comparable to that of conducting polymers and their composites with SWCNTs has been rarely attempted, and there were few reports on SWCNTs alone as organic thermoelectric materials. Certainly, SWCNTs possess high Young’s modulus, high thermal stability, flexibility, lightweight, easily controllable doping level, and facile p–n transition, while the mechanism of molecular doping of SWCNTs remains to be well understood. Here, facile solution processing achieved the enhancement of p-type and n-type thermoelectric performance of SWCNTs. Small-molecular-weight polyethylene glycol treatment improved electrical conductivity and the Seebeck coefficient of SWCNTs (p-SWCNTs) simultaneously, with the power factor of 303.17 ± 46.25 μW·m
−1
·K
−2
. Small amount of polyethylenimine doping made the Seebeck coefficient of SWCNTs (n-SWCNTs) turn negative and rendered great air stability of n-SWCNTs. The electrical conductivity and power factor of n-SWCNTs reached 1,702.56 ± 164.13 S·cm
−1
and 418.49 ± 46.30 μW·m
−1
·K
−2
at 298 K, respectively. The power factor of n-SWCNTs got even higher at 319.5 K in vacuo, reaching a high value of 643.35 μW·m
−1
·K
−2
. Finally, mechanism study in this work provided inspiration and guidance for the application of these types of dopants in the performance improvement of SWCNTs.
Remote Sensing of Tropospheric Ozone from Space: Progress and Challenges
Authors: Xu Jian , Zhang Zhuo , Rao Lanlan , Wang Yapeng , Letu Husi , Shi Chong , Tana Gegen , Wang Wenyu , Zhu Songyan , Liu Shuanghui , Shi Entao , Wang Yongmei , Chen Liangfu , Dong Xiaolong , Shi Jiancheng
Published: July 2024

Ozone stands out as a crucial trace gas within the Earth’s atmosphere, exerting a substantial influence on climate change and air pollution. Tropospheric ozone plays an important role in the formation of photochemical smog, and its variations are associated with human activities. The utilization of satellite remote sensing technology for tropospheric ozone monitoring enables a quantitative analysis of its global and regional spatiotemporal characteristics. It also facilitates the investigation of the mechanisms involved in ozone formation within the troposphere. The significant progress in product accuracy and spatiotemporal resolution of ozone remote sensing products, including total ozone and vertical profiles, can be attributed to the extensive development of satellite remote sensing techniques. Nevertheless, the precision of tropospheric ozone products remains inadequate for contemporary scientific purposes, primarily because of faint signals in the lower atmosphere, the intricate nature of the underlying surface, and the existence of clouds and aerosols. This study places emphasis on the satellite remote sensing of tropospheric ozone, encompassing a comprehensive review of the advancements in satellite sensors and the characteristics and suitability of various retrieval algorithms. Moreover, this research delves into the possible utilization of satellite remote sensing for the provision of reliable tropospheric ozone observation data on a global and regional level.
Single Molecular Semi-Sliding Ferroelectricity/Multiferroicity
Authors: Zhong Tingting , Zhang Hong , Wu Menghao
Published: July 2024

In recent years, the unique mechanism of sliding ferroelectricity with ultralow switching barriers has been experimentally verified in a series of 2-dimensional (2D) materials. However, its practical applications are hindered by the low polarizations, the challenges in synthesis of ferroelectric phases limited in specific stacking configurations, and the low density for data storage since the switching process involves large-area simultaneous sliding of a whole layer. Herein, through first-principles calculations, we propose a type of semi-sliding ferroelectricity in the single metal porphyrin molecule intercalated in 2D bilayers. An enhanced vertical polarization can be formed independent on stacking configurations and switched via sliding of the molecule accompanied by the vertical displacements of its metal ion anchored from the upper layer to the lower layer. Such semi-sliding ferroelectricity enables each molecule to store 1 bit data independently, and the density for data storage can be greatly enhanced. When the bilayer exhibits intralayer ferromagnetism and interlayer antiferromagnetic coupling, a considerable difference in Curie temperature between 2 layers and a switchable net magnetization can be formed due to the vertical polarization. At a certain range of temperature, the exchange of paramagnetic–ferromagnetic phases between 2 layers is accompanied by ferroelectric switching, leading to a hitherto unreported type of multiferroic coupling that is long-sought for efficient “magnetic reading + electric writing”.
Reddit's linguistic diversity evolution: A multivariate study
Authors: Ali Sadia
Published: July 2024

The linguistic diversity of Reddit posts is investigated in this study during three different periods: 2009, 2016, and 2023. Reddit posts in the News, Sports, and Stories categories were chosen to provide a comprehensive overview of communications on Reddit. 4500 posts were analysed using the Multidimensional Analysis Tagger for linguistic analysis. Statistical analyses, including analysis of variance and post-hoc Tukey tests, reveal significant trends and variations, showing a shift towards more informational discourse while maintaining core narrative features.
Enhancing Relapse Prevention: Examining the Impact of Experiential Avoidance, Integrative Self-Knowledge, and Basic Psychological Needs in Substance Use Treatment
Authors: Ayaz Leila , Nazari Fatemeh
Published: June 2024

Background: The harmful effects of drug relapse have always been one of the major challenges in addiction treatment. The present study aimed to predict drug relapse in addicted men under treatment based on experiential avoidance, integrative self-knowledge, and basic psychological needs. Methods: The present study was a correlational one. The statistical population included all addicted men in Choubindar prison in Qazvin in 2021, among whom 200 individuals were selected randomly. Then, the participants filled out the Relapse Prediction Scale (RPS), Multidimensional Experiential Avoidance Questionnaire (MEAQ), Integrative Self-Knowledge Scale (ISK), and Basic Psychological Needs Scale (BPNS). Data were analyzed using stepwise regression via SPSS software (version 25). Findings: The results of the study demonstrated that some of the components of experiential avoidance including distraction, distress endurance, behavioral avoidance, and distress aversion could account for 14.0% of the variance of the relapse in the addicts (P<0.05). Moreover, the obtained results considering the reflective self-knowledge component and the overall score of integrative self-knowledge could explain 15.0% of the variance in relapse in the addicts. Among the basic psychological needs, communication could predict 3.8% of the variance in relapse. Conclusion: Based on the results of the present study, it is suggested that through addiction treatment and prevention of relapse programs, psychologists reduce drug relapse in addicts by decreasing distractions and behavioral avoidance, increasing distress endurance, enhancing self-knowledge, and improving efficient relationships.
The Process of Validating a Persian Version of Addiction Potential Scale for Children in the Iranian Population: A Systematic Review
Authors: Hassanzadeh Jafar , Jafarnezhad Aboubakr
Published: June 2024

Background: Hitherto, no instrumental research has been designed to measure the addiction potential for children in Iran. Therefore, the questionnaires designed to investigate addiction were examined in this systematic review article. Methods: In the present systematic review, all Iranian and foreign research on addiction potential for children were examined until March 2022. Using separate keywords and their Latin synonyms according to Mesh terms, an extensive search was conducted in databases: PubMed, Magiran, Iranmedex, Medline, Google Scholar, SID, and Irandoc. In total, 173 Farsi and English papers were included in the initial list, and after evaluation according to the Meta-analysis of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (MOOSE) checklist and acceptance criteria, 43 final papers were selected for systematic review. Findings: Through searching in Persian and English databases and using related keywords, 173 papers were found in the initial search and after removing duplicates and unrelated studies, 43 papers were selected for systematic review. In this research, papers related to the addiction potential between 1998 and 2019 were considered, and among these, 22 papers particularly dealt with addiction. In the conducted studies, the awareness, attitude, talent, and factors affecting addiction were mostly measured and in some papers, addiction potential was measured. Conclusion: Designing psychometrically appropriate tools is necessary to measure the addiction potential of children in Iran. Due to the unavailability of appropriate tools and the fact that the previous versions are not up to date and are not checked regularly, for better and more complete decision-making in the health policy-making process more investigation in this field is necessary.