bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Designing Effective Visual Feedback for Facial Rehabilitation Exercises: Investigating the Role of Shape, Transparency, and Age on User Experience
Authors: Gwak Sojung , Park Kyudong
Published: June 2023

Facial expression recognition technology has been utilized both for entertainment purposes and as a valuable aid in rehabilitation and facial exercise assistance. This technology leverages artificial intelligence models to predict facial landmark points and provide visual feedback, thereby facilitating users’ facial movements. However, feedback designs that disregard user preferences may cause discomfort and diminish the benefits of exercise. This study aimed to develop a feedback design guide for facial rehabilitation exercises by investigating user responses to various feedback design methods. We created a facial recognition mobile application and designed six feedback variations based on shape and transparency. To evaluate user experience, we conducted a usability test involving 48 participants (24 subjects in their 20s and 24 over 60 years of age), assessing factors such as feedback, assistance, disturbance, aesthetics, cognitive ease, and appropriateness. The experimental results revealed significant differences in transparency, age, and the interaction between transparency and age. Consequently, it is essential to consider both transparency and user age when designing facial recognition feedback. The findings of this study could potentially inform the design of more effective and personalized visual feedback for facial motion, ultimately benefiting users in rehabilitation and exercise contexts.
Perceptions of and Practical Experience with the National Surveillance Centre in Managing Medicines Availability Amongst Users within Public Healthcare Facilities in South Africa: Findings and Implications
Authors: Falco Marco F. , Meyer Johanna C. , Putter Susan J. , Underwood Richard S. , Nabayiga Hellen , Opanga Sylvia , Miljković Nenad , Nyathi Ephodia , Godman Brian
Published: June 2023

The introduction of the National Surveillance Centre (NSC) has improved the efficiency and effectiveness of managing medicines availability within the public healthcare system in South Africa. However, at present, there is limited data regarding the perceptions among users of the NSC and challenges that need addressing. A descriptive quantitative study was performed among all registered active NSC users between August and November 2022. Overall, 114/169 users responded to a custom-developed, self-administered questionnaire (67.5% response rate). Most respondents used the Stock Visibility System (SVS) National Department of Health (NDoH) (66.7% for medicines and 51.8% for personal protective equipment (PPE) or SVS COVID-19 (64.9% for COVID-19 vaccines) or RxSolution (57.0% manual report or 42.1% application programming interface (API)) for reporting medicines, PPE, and COVID-19 vaccines to the NSC and were confident in the accuracy of the reported data. Most respondents focused on both medicines availability and reporting compliance when accessing the NSC, with the integrated medicines availability dashboard and the COVID-19 vaccine dashboard being the most popular. The respondents believed the NSC allowed ease of access to data and improved data quality to better monitor medicines availability and use. Identified areas for improvement included improving internet connectivity, retraining some users, standardising the dashboards, adding more data points and reports, and expanding user adoption by increasing licence limits. Overall, this study found that the NSC in South Africa provides an effective solution for monitoring and improving medicines availability.
Modeling of Stress Distribution and Fracture in ABS, PLA, and Alumina-Filled PLA Filaments and FDM-Printed Specimens
Authors: Smirnov Anton , Peretyagin Pavel , Nikitin Nikita
Published: June 2023

In the presented work, a probabilistic approach to fracture analysis of commercially available polyacrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) and polylactide (PLA) filaments and fused deposition modeling (FDM)-printed tensile samples produced from them, as well as PLA filled with alumina (Al2O3) specimens, is discussed. The results of the analysis reveal the presence of symmetry between the stress distribution in the plastic–elastic and fracture stress regions. The value of the transition point from elastoplastic stress distribution to fracture distribution was established. It was shown that the probability density of the destruction of samples in a bound state obeys the Cauchy distribution. The resulting model well describes the stress distributions of tensile specimens, with a minimum deviation of 0.021% and a maximum deviation of 0.048% for the ceramic–polylactide (60Al2O3/40PLA) filament.
Conceptions and Feasibility Study of Fiber Orientation in the Melt as Part of a Completely Circular Recycling Concept for Fiber-Reinforced Thermoplastics
Authors: Moritzer Elmar , Tölle Lisa , Greb Christoph , Haag Markus
Published: June 2023

Fiber-reinforced thermoplastics are an important construction material for lightweight applications. The increasing use of especially glass fiber-reinforced plastics leads to growing amounts of not recyclable composite materials, which is commonly disposed of by landfilling. Hence, there is a need for a recycling concept for glass-fiber-reinforced plastics that enables their complete reuse over many recycling cycles. In this paper, such a recycling concept is presented, which is based on the idea of melting the whole glass-fiber-reinforced component without prior size reduction. The fiber-reinforced melt will be pressed through a nozzle in order to achieve a strand with highly oriented fibers that can then be applied in new components via a tape-like laying process. The feasibility of the recycling concept is proved in this paper. Therefore, investigations on the reorientation of fibers in the melt by pressing through a rectangular nozzle have been carried out with different nozzle diameters, shear rates and melt temperatures. The investigations result in a stable process, which enables an increase in fiber orientation of about 37% up to a mean fiber orientation of 67% in the flow direction. These findings are independent of the initial fiber orientation.
The Addition of Sprint Interval Training to Field Lacrosse Training Increases Rate of Torque Development and Contractile Impulse in Female High School Field Lacrosse Players
Authors: Symons T. Brock , Roberts Alexandra H. , Carter Kathleen A. , Caruso John F.
Published: June 2023

Field lacrosse requires sudden directional changes and rapid acceleration/deceleration. The capacity to perform these skills is dependent on explosive muscle force production. Limited research exists on the potential of sprint interval training (SIT) to impact explosive muscle force production in field lacrosse players. The purpose of this study is to examine SIT, concurrent to field-lacrosse-specific training, on the rate of torque development (RTD), contractile impulse, and muscle function in female high school field lacrosse players (n = 12; 16 ± 1 yrs.). SIT was performed three times per week, concurrent to field-lacrosse-specific training, for 12 weeks. Right lower-limb muscle performance was assessed pre-, mid-, and post-SIT training via isometric and isokinetic concentric knee extensor contractions. Outcomes included RTD (Nm·s−1), contractile impulse (Nm·s), and peak torque (Nm). RTD for the first 50 ms of contraction improved by 42% by midseason and remained elevated at postseason (p = 0.004, effect size (ES) = −577.3 to 66.5). Contractile impulse demonstrated a training effect across 0–50 ms (42%, p = 0.004, ES = −1.4 to 0.4), 0–100 ms (33%, p = 0.018, ES = 3.1 to 0.9), and 0–200 ms (22%, p = 0.031, ES = −7.8 to 1.6). Isometric (0 rad·s−1) and concentric (3.1 rad·s−1) strength increased by 20% (p = 0.002, ES = −60.8 to −20.8) and 9% (p = 0.038, ES = −18.2 to 0.0) from SIT and field-lacrosse-specific training, respectively (p < 0.05). SIT, concurrent to field-lacrosse-specific training, enhanced lower-limb skeletal muscle performance, which may enable greater sport-specific gains.
Measuring Dental Enamel Thickness: Morphological and Functional Relevance of Topographic Mapping
Authors: Gaboutchian Armen V. , Knyaz Vladimir A. , Maschenko Evgeniy N. , Dac Le Xuan , Maksimov Anatoly A. , Emelyanov Anton V. , Korost Dmitry V. , Stepanov Nikita V.
Published: June 2023

The interest in the development of dental enamel thickness measurement techniques is connected to the importance of metric data in taxonomic assessments and evolutionary research as well as in other directions of dental studies. At the same time, advances in non-destructive imaging techniques and the application of scanning methods, such as micro-focus-computed X-ray tomography, has enabled researchers to study the internal morpho-histological layers of teeth with a greater degree of accuracy and detail. These tendencies have contributed to changes in established views in different areas of dental research, ranging from the interpretation of morphology to metric assessments. In fact, a significant amount of data have been obtained using traditional metric techniques, which now should be critically reassessed using current technologies and methodologies. Hence, we propose new approaches for measuring dental enamel thickness using palaeontological material from the territories of northern Vietnam by means of automated and manually operated techniques. We also discuss method improvements, taking into account their relevance for dental morphology and occlusion. As we have shown, our approaches demonstrate the potential to form closer links between the metric data and dental morphology and provide the possibility for objective and replicable studies on dental enamel thickness through the application of automated techniques. These features are likely to be effective in more profound taxonomic research and for the development of metric and analytical systems. Our technique provides scope for its targeted application in clinical methods, which could help to reveal functional changes in the masticatory system. However, this will likely require improvements in clinically applicable imaging techniques.
Sorption and Removal of Petroleum Hydrocarbons from Brackish Water by Hydrophobic Sorbents Immobilized with Fungi
Authors: Paulauskiene Tatjana , Uebe Jochen , Kryzevicius Zilvinas , Katarzyte Marija , Overlingė Donata , Shevchenko Liubov
Published: June 2023

This study investigates the effects of immobilizing fungi on the straw’s performance as an oil sorbent. The buoyancy of the straw with fungi was found to be unaffected by the immobilization process. Even when sorbed with oil, the straw floated on the water’s surface throughout the 14-day test period. The sorption kinetics of the oil appeared similar in the straw with and without immobilized fungi, regardless of beaker shaking. However, the fraction of non-extractable oil was higher in the straw with fungi and shaking compared to the straw without shaking. This observation suggests the potential initiation of oil mining. Based on these results, it is suggested that instead of leaving the straw with fungi and oil in the water, removing it may be beneficial and allow for oil degradation and straw decomposition on land.
The Golden Liposomes: Preparation and Biomedical Applications of Gold-Liposome Nanocomposites
Authors: Idoudi Sourour , Ismail Roua , Rachid Ousama , Elhissi Abdelbary , Alkilany Alaaldin M.
Published: June 2023

Gold nanoparticles (AuNP) have received a growing attention due to their fascinating physiochemical properties and promising range of biomedical applications including sensing, diagnosis and cancer photothermal ablation. AuNP enjoy brilliant optical properties and ability to convert light into local heat and function as a “nanoheaters” to fight cancer. However, AuNP are poor drug delivery systems as they do not have reservoirs or matrices to achieve an acceptable drug loading efficiency. On the other end, liposome-based nanocarriers do not exhibit such optical properties but are excellent platform for drug loading and they have been proven clinically with a true presence in the market since the FDA approved Doxil® in 1995. Combining the brilliant optical and photothermal properties of AuNP with the excellent drug loading capability of liposome should yield nanocomposites that enjoy the features of both modalities and enable the development of novel and smart drug delivery systems. Therefore, this review discusses the up-to date research on the AuNP-liposome nanocomposites and the current available approaches and protocols for their preparation and characterization. Finally, the biomedical applications of AuNP-liposome nanocomposites and proposed future directions in this field are discussed.
On the Exchange Rate Dynamics of the Norwegian Krone
Authors: Risstad Morten , Thodesen Airin , Thune Kristian August , Westgaard Sjur
Published: June 2023

Global energy production is undergoing a transition from fossils to renewables. At the same time, the Norwegian Oil Fund has grown exponentially in size and is now a major global investor. These events in combination are likely to impact the dynamics of the Norwegian krone. Concurrently, the persistent weakening of the Norwegian krone (NOK), hitting record low exchange rates against the major currencies, is sparking national and international interest. Using updated data, we find that oil prices and global asset prices are both important drivers of EURNOK returns. However, we find that the relative importance changed following the 2015 oil price decline, whereafter asset prices became more significant. Furthermore, we observe an impact of investor risk aversion, suggesting that the krone is no longer a safe-haven currency.
A Decision-Making Model for Professional Drivers Selection: A Hybridized Fuzzy–AROMAN–Fuller Approach
Authors: Čubranić-Dobrodolac Marjana , Jovčić Stefan , Bošković Sara , Babić Darko
Published: June 2023

Professional drivers play a crucial role in many businesses and the lives of people. They are responsible for transferring people and goods between distant points, enabling safe and efficient flows. The road traffic death rate is from 8.3 to 27.5 per 100,000 inhabitants in the countries globally. Because professional drivers spend a significant amount of time on the road, their appropriate selection may contribute to general traffic safety. In addition, an adequate selection of candidates significantly impacts the financial costs of the employing company. However, the recruitment procedure is a very complex task where multiple criteria should be considered. By its nature, this is a typical multi-criteria decision-making problem. The purpose of this paper is twofold: to contribute to the methodological, as well as to the professional field. Considering the professional, we propose a decision-making tool in the procedure of professional driver selection. There are several methodological contributions. By reviewing the literature, we identified 14 criteria for candidate selection. In the proposed model, by using expert opinion and implementing DEMATEL and Fuller’s pairwise comparisons, we ranked these criteria and determined the seven most important for further calculation procedure. Here, we introduced an original approach for measuring the reliability of obtained answers. Then, to rank the candidates, the fuzzy AROMAN approach is applied for the first time in the literature. The input data were obtained in the form of a survey, where the experts evaluated the importance of criteria and their interrelation. We used MS Excel and MATLAB for data processing. An additional methodological contribution of this study is an advancement of the AROMAN method by the proposal of an algorithm for the calculation of parameter λ used in the final ranking formula. To illustrate the applicability of the proposed model, a case study is provided. Based on the results, we can conclude that the new methodological approaches can be successfully used in the procedure of professional driver selection, as well as in solving other multi-criteria decision-making problems.
Solve High-Dimensional Reflected Partial Differential Equations by Neural Network Method
Authors: Shi Xiaowen , Zhang Xiangyu , Tang Renwu , Yang Juan
Published: June 2023

Reflected partial differential equations (PDEs) have important applications in financial mathematics, stochastic control, physics, and engineering. This paper aims to present a numerical method for solving high-dimensional reflected PDEs. In fact, overcoming the “dimensional curse” and approximating the reflection term are challenges. Some numerical algorithms based on neural networks developed recently fail in solving high-dimensional reflected PDEs. To solve these problems, firstly, the reflected PDEs are transformed into reflected backward stochastic differential equations (BSDEs) using the reflected Feyman–Kac formula. Secondly, the reflection term of the reflected BSDEs is approximated using the penalization method. Next, the BSDEs are discretized using a strategy that combines Euler and Crank–Nicolson schemes. Finally, a deep neural network model is employed to simulate the solution of the BSDEs. The effectiveness of the proposed method is tested by two numerical experiments, and the model shows high stability and accuracy in solving reflected PDEs of up to 100 dimensions.
With or without a Tourniquet? A Comparative Study on Total Knee Replacement Surgery in Patients without Comorbidities
Authors: Albayrak Mehmet , Ugur Fatih
Published: June 2023

Background and Objectives: This study aimed to determine the effects of tourniquet use and the complications of total knee arthroplasty (TKA) in patients without comorbidities to investigate whether tourniquet application can be employed without adverse effects and to assess its impact on the occurrence of any complications. Materials and Methods: A total of 106 patients who underwent unilateral TKA were divided randomly into two groups according to whether a tourniquet was used during the surgery or not. Patients with comorbidities (except arterial hypertension) were excluded from the study. Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score, joint range of motion, visual analog scale (VAS) score, total blood loss during and after surgery, postoperative analgesic consumption, and side effects were the main factors evaluated in the study. Results: In the tourniquet group, where the VAS scores were higher, the use of analgesics was also significantly higher. While there was no statistically significant difference in total blood loss between the tourniquet and non-tourniquet groups, the postoperative and occult blood losses were higher in the tourniquet group. The differences between the two groups in all other parameters were very small and not statistically significant. Conclusions: The findings of the current study suggest that when the comorbidities of patients are thoroughly documented and clarified prior to surgery, tourniquets should be applied selectively to individuals without any pre-existing health conditions.
Bifidobacterium breve PRL2020: Antibiotic-Resistant Profile and Genomic Detection of Antibiotic Resistance Determinants
Authors: Di Pierro Francesco , Campedelli Ilenia , De Marta Patrick , Fracchetti Fabio , Del Casale Antonio , Cavecchia Ilaria , Matera Mariarosaria , Cazzaniga Massimiliano , Bertuccioli Alexander , Guasti Luigina , Zerbinati Nicola
Published: June 2023

Antibiotics are one of the greatest scientific achievements of modern medicine, but excessive use is creating challenges for the future of medicine. Antibiotic resistance (AR) is thought to cause changes in bowel habits and an increased risk of gastroenteritis, but it may also increase the risk of overweight, obesity, autoimmune and atopic diseases, and a low response to vaccines and cancer, likely mediated by antibiotic-induced gut dysbiosis. Probiotic add-on therapy could partially prevent antibiotic-induced gut dysbiosis, but their antibiotic sensitivity features likely limits this potential. The EFSA (European Food Safety Authority) guidelines consider the use of probiotics whose antibiotic-resistant profile could be transferable an important hazard. Recently, a strain of B. breve (PRL2020) has shown to be resistant to amoxicillin and amoxicillin-clavulanate (AC) by applying the microdilution protocol according EFSA guidelines. After verifying that horizontal gene transfer is unlikely to take place, this feature suggests its concomitant use with these specific antibiotics. The results of our tests demonstrated that the strain PRL2020 is indeed endowed with amoxicillin- and AC-resistant properties and that it is also insensitive to ampicillin. In-depth analysis of the annotated genome sequence of B. breve PRL2020 was employed to query the Comprehensive Antibiotic Resistance Database (CARD) using Resistance Gene Identifier (RGI) software (version 5.2.1). The similarity among the AR determinants found was studied through nucleotide sequence alignment, and it was possible to verify not only the absence of genes explaining these features in the flanking regions but also the presence of genetic sequences (rpoB and erm(X)) putatively responsible for rifampicin and erythromycin resistance. Both features are not phenotypically expressed, and for these antibiotics, the strain is within the EFSA limits. Analysis of the flanking regions of these genes revealed possible mobile elements upstream and downstream only in the case of the erm(X) gene, but the features of the Insertion Sequences (IS) are described as not to cause horizontal transfer. Our findings on strain PRL2020 demonstrate that its AR profile is compatible with antibiotics when taken with the aim of reducing the risk of dysbiosis.
Soil Thermophiles and Their Extracellular Enzymes: A Set of Capabilities Able to Provide Significant Services and Risks
Authors: Gonzalez Juan M. , Santana Margarida M. , Gomez Enrique J. , Delgado José A.
Published: June 2023

During this century, a number of reports have described the potential roles of thermophiles in the upper soil layers during high-temperature periods. This study evaluates the capabilities of these microorganisms and proposes some potential consequences and risks associated with the activity of soil thermophiles. They are active in organic matter mineralization, releasing inorganic nutrients (C, S, N, P) that otherwise remain trapped in the organic complexity of soil. To process complex organic compounds in soils, these thermophiles require extracellular enzymes to break down large polymers into simple compounds, which can be incorporated into the cells and processed. Soil thermophiles are able to adapt their extracellular enzyme activities to environmental conditions. These enzymes can present optimum activity under high temperatures and reduced water content. Consequently, these microorganisms have been shown to actively process and decompose substances (including pollutants) under extreme conditions (i.e., desiccation and heat) in soils. While nutrient cycling is a highly beneficial process to maintain soil service quality, progressive warming can lead to excessive activity of soil thermophiles and their extracellular enzymes. If this activity is too high, it may lead to reduction in soil organic matter, nutrient impoverishment and to an increased risk of aridity. This is a clear example of a potential effect of future predicted climate warming directly caused by soil microorganisms with major consequences for our understanding of ecosystem functioning, soil health and the risk of soil aridity.
Monitoring of an Applied Beneficial Trichoderma Strain in Root-Associated Soil of Field-Grown Maize by MALDI-TOF MS
Authors: dela Cruz Thomas Edison E. , Behr Jan Helge , Geistlinger Joerg , Grosch Rita , Witzel Katja
Published: June 2023

The persistence of beneficial microorganisms in the rhizosphere or surrounding soil following their application is a prerequisite for the effective interaction with the plant or indigenous microbial communities in the respective habitats. The goal of the study was to analyze the establishment and persistence of the applied beneficial Trichoderma harzianum (OMG16) strain in the maize root-associated soil depending on agricultural practice (soil management practice, N-fertilizer intensity) in a field experiment. A rapid identification of the inoculated strain OMG16 is essential for its monitoring. We used a culture-based approach coupled to matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) analysis for the rapid identification of the inoculated Trichoderma strain as part of the beneficial microbe consortium (BMc). We isolated 428 fungal isolates from eight treatments of the field experiment. Forty eight percent of the isolated fungi equivalent to 205 fungal isolates were identified as Trichoderma, of which 87% (=179 isolates) were obtained from the fields inoculated with BMc. Gene sequence analysis showed a high similarity of the MALDI-TOF MS-identified Trichoderma, with that of the inoculated Trichoderma harzianum OMG16 confirming the re-isolation of the added beneficial fungus. This study highlighted the use of MALDI-TOF MS analysis as a quick, cost-effective detection and efficient monitoring tool for microbial-based bioinoculants in the field.
Superferromagnetic Sensors
Authors: Kondratyev Vladimir N. , Osipov Vladimir A.
Published: June 2023

The strong ferromagnetic nanoparticles are analyzed within the band structure-based shell model, accounting for discrete quantum levels of conducting electrons. As is demonstrated, such an approach allows for the description of the observed superparamagnetic features of these nanocrystals. Assemblies of such superparamagnets incorporated into nonmagnetic insulators, semiconductors, or metallic substrates are shown to display ferromagnetic coupling, resulting in a superferromagnetic ordering at sufficiently dense packing. Properties of such metamaterials are investigated by making use of the randomly jumping interacting moments model, accounting for quantum fluctuations induced by the discrete electronic levels and disorder. Employing the mean-field treatment for such superparamagnetic assemblies, we obtain the magnetic state equation, indicating conditions for an unstable behavior. Respectively, magnetic spinodal regions and critical points occur on the magnetic phase diagram of such ensembles. The respective magnetodynamics exhibit jerky behavior expressed as erratic stochastic jumps in magnetic induction curves. At critical points, magnetodynamics displays the features of self-organized criticality. Analyses of magnetic noise correlations are proposed as model-independent analytical tools employed in order to specify, quantify, and analyze the magnetic structure and origin of superferromagnetism. We discuss some results for a sensor-mode application of superferromagnetic reactivity associated with spatially local external fields, e.g., the detection of magnetic particles. The transport of electric charge carriers between superparamagnetic particles is considered tunneling and Landau-level state dynamics. The tunneling magnetoresistance is predicted to grow noticeably with decreasing nanomagnet size. The giant magnetoresistance is determined by the ratio of the respective times of flight and relaxation and can be significant at room temperature. Favorable designs for superferromagnetic systems with sensor implications are revealed.
Evaluation of Systemic Antifungal Use in a Latin American General Care Hospital: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Fallas-Mora Abigail , Díaz-Madriz Jose Pablo , Chaverri-Fernández Jose Miguel , Zavaleta-Monestel Esteban
Published: June 2023

Background: Invasive fungal infections significantly contribute to mortality and morbidity rates. Despite the presence of all four major classes of antifungal medications, it is estimated that these infections result in the death of 1.5 million people each year, and death rates are increasing at an alarming rate. With increasing concerns about the emergence of antifungal resistance, there is a growing consideration in many countries to incorporate antifungal stewardship into existing antimicrobial stewardship programs. This approach aims to address issues hindering the appropriate use of antifungal drugs and to optimize their utilization. Methods: An analytical retrospective study of 48 hospitalized patients was conducted to assess factors related to the use of systemic antifungals and develop and implement an internal protocol to improve its use. Results: All patients with severe comorbidity had SOFA scores linked with a mortality risk of more than 10%. Based on 48 evaluations of antifungal orders, 62.5% were considered appropriate, 14.6% were considered debatable, and 22.9% were considered inappropriate. Infectious disease physicians made most of the prescriptions considered appropriate in this study. Conclusions: Comorbidities and risk factors in patients receiving systemic antifungals can be associated with the development of more serious fungal infections; hence, the implementation of antifungal stewardship as a complement to antimicrobial stewardship programs can help facilitate decision-making when dealing with a suspected case of fungal infection.
The Strange Case of Dr. Moloch and Mr. Snazzo (or the Parmenides’ Riddle Once Again)
Authors: Voltolini Alberto
Published: June 2023

Once one draws a distinction between loyal non-existent items, which do not exist in a non-universal sense of the first-order existence predicate, and non-items, which fail to exist in a universal sense of that predicate, one may allow for the former but not for the latter in the overall ontological domain, so as to adopt a form of soft Parmenideanism. There are both theoretical and empirical reasons for this distinction.
Effect of Wavefront Distortion in Non-Kolmogorov Turbulence on the Performance of Multi-Beam Transmission Coherent Detection
Authors: Ke Chenghu , Xing Tian , Ke Xizheng
Published: June 2023

This study aims to address the multi-beam transmission problem of optical wireless coherent communication systems under the influence of non-Kolmogorov turbulence. This paper establishes the mathematical model for mixing efficiency and BER of non-Kolmogorov turbulence wavefront distortion and multi-beam transmission coherent detection systems. The influence of factors such as spectral power-law index, zenith angle, and transmission distance on the communication performance of the system is analyzed, and an experimental system is built using adaptive optics equipment to test the proposed theory. Numerical analyses show that in a non-Kolmogorov turbulence environment, as the spectral power-law index, zenith angle, transmission distance, Fresnel zone, and pointing error attenuation increase, the mixing efficiency of the coherent detection system decreases and the BER increases; under the same conditions, the mixing efficiency and BER of the system are improved after increasing the number of transmission beams at the transmitting end. Experimental research shows that, for the coherent detection system after wavefront correction using adaptive optics, the wavefront PV and RMS variances are 1.68 μm2 and 0.05 μm2 when a single beam of light is transmitted at the transmitting end, and the wavefront PV and RMS variances are 0.23 μm2 and 0.01 μm2 when two beams are transmitted. It is verified that using multi-beam transmission wavefront superposition to suppress wavefront distortion and wavefront jitter can effectively improve the mixing efficiency and BER of the coherent detection system at the receiving end.
Multiplexing Perfect Optical Vortex for Holographic Data Storage
Authors: Zhu Jialong , Zou Fucheng , Wang Le , Lu Xiaodong , Zhao Shengmei
Published: June 2023

Holographic data storage (HDS) has emerged as a promising technology for high-capacity data storage. In this study, we propose a novel approach to enhance the storage density in HDS through a multiplexing perfect optical vortex (POV) hologram. By utilizing the orthogonality property of POV, different POV-recording holograms can be multiplexed to store multiple data pages within the single hologram. Compared with the conventional optical vortex, the better storage density of POV through proof-of-principle experiments is demonstrated. For the POV-multiplexing hologram of six data pages, each one can be reconstructed successfully. In addition, we investigate the impact of axicon periods and multiplexing numbers on the storage performance. Our results reveal that an appropriate selection of axicon periods and multiplexing numbers is crucial to balance storage density and bit error rate (BER). The proposed multiplexing approach offers a valuable solution for achieving high-density and secure holographic data storage systems.
First Experimental Demonstration of the Wide-Field Amplitude Surface Plasmon Resonance Microscopy in the Terahertz Range
Authors: Gerasimov Vasiliy Valerievich , Kameshkov Oleg Eduardovich , Nikitin Alexey Konstantinovich , Khasanov Ildus Shevketovich , Lemzyakov Alexey Georgievich , Antonova Irina Veniaminovna , Ivanov Artem Ilyich , Lien Nghiem Thi Ha , Nghia Nguyen Trong , Anh Le Tu , Hung Nguyen Quoc , Trang Ta Thu
Published: June 2023

We have demonstrated the wide-field amplitude surface plasmon resonance (SPR) microscopy technique in the terahertz (THz) range. A Zeonex polymer prism was utilized to excite surface plasmon polaritons (SPPs) through attenuated total reflection (ATR) in an Otto configuration. Coherent quasimonochromatic radiation with a wavelength of approximately 197 μm, generated by the Novosibirsk free electron laser, was employed. Our results indicate that the SPR microscopy method is applicable for investigating the planar surfaces of semiconductors at THz frequencies, provided that the SPPs’ cutoff frequency is close to the probing radiation frequency. This condition ensures that the propagation length of the SPPs is comparable to the radiation wavelength. By varying the air gap between the prism and the surface under examination, we acquired images of a polypropylene coating 20 µm thick and a graphene coating 35 nm thick on a flat indium antimonide substrate. The boundary between the coated and uncoated regions can be precisely localized through determination of the kink in the reflection coefficient of the THz radiation beam that illuminates the boundary between the regions if the optimal conditions for the generation of the SPPs in the uncoated region are met.
Comparative Analysis of the Performance Characteristics of Butterfly and Pinch Valves
Authors: Alkhulaifi Khalid , Alharbi Ali , Alardhi Mohsen , Alrajhi Jasem , Almutairi Hamad H.
Published: June 2023

Valves are important components in controlling the amount of fluid going to devices. One of these types is the butterfly valve (BFV) that adjusts the amount of flow by rotating the valve disk by means of its shafts which is usually located in the middle of the flow. Despite its common usage in various applications, the BFV is known to cause a high-pressure drop. Conversely, the pinch valve is another type of flow control device that uses a pinching mechanism to open and close the inner tube by pinching at different degrees. The absence of flow-controlling mechanisms in the flow path, such as the valve disk and its shaft, contribute to the minimal pressure drop in pinch valves. The high-pressure drop in BFVs and the minimal pressure drop in pinch valve flow make it worthwhile to investigate and compare their flow at all opening positions of the two valves. Therefore, this work numerically explores the potential of using the pinch valve as an alternative to the BFV in terms of its ability to attain a lower pressure loss, hence better flow rate. The influence of various BFV parameters such as shaft diameter, valve thickness, and valve disk edge were examined. The performance characteristics of both valves were obtained using CFD models formed on the SolidWorks program. This CFD model solves the differential equations using the finite element method. Moreover, a mathematical model to determine the area of the pinch valve at various pinching degrees was developed and compared with the results obtained from other mathematical models and CFD. It was shown that using a flat 1 mm valve disk thickness with round edges resulted in a 7.5% increase in mass flow rate compared to standard BFVs. On the other hand, using the pinch valve resulted in over a 700% mass flow rate compared to the BFV at a 25% opening position and a 49% increase in flow rate at a 75% opening position. Thus, the pinch valve has the potential to replace the BFV due to its better flow characteristics in any application.
Rhaphiolepis indica Fruit Extracts for Control Fusarium solani and Rhizoctonia solani, the Causal Agents of Bean Root Rot
Authors: Heflish Ahmed A. , Behiry Said I. , Al-Askar Abdulaziz A. , Su Yiming , Abdelkhalek Ahmed , Gaber Mohamed K.
Published: June 2023

Numerous strategies have been suggested to reduce dependence on synthetic products, such as physical, microbial, and natural methods. Among the natural remedies, plant extracts have emerged as a popular option owing to their eco-friendly character, ease of degradation, and harmless nature to humans. In our study, we used the acetone and hexane extracts of Rhaphiolepis indica fruit to combat two fungal pathogens that were isolated from infected bean plants and showed root rot symptoms. The two pathogens were confirmed to be pathogenic by pathogenicity assays conducted in vivo. The morphological and molecular identification by ITS-region sequencing revealed that the two isolates were Rhizoctonia solani and Fusarium solani, and they were assigned accession numbers OQ880457 and OQ820158, respectively. Our data showed that both hexane and acetone extracts caused a significant decrease in the linear growth of F. solani at all concentrations used (1%, 2%, and 3%), compared to the control. However, at a concentration of 3%, the hexane extract caused much greater inhibition than the acetone extract. For R. solani, the hexane extract, shows a significant inhibition percentage at all concentrations, which further increases to 85.24% at 3% concentration. The HPLC of both extracts indicated the presence and absence of phenolic and flavonoid compounds. The obtained results revealed that five acetonic phenolic extract compounds were ferulic, p-coumaric, gallic, p-OH benzoic, and cinnamic, with concentrations of 5.31, 10.36, 7.24, 6.08, and 0.89 mg/mL, respectively. On the other hand, the five hexanoic phenolic compounds were catechol, caffeic, chlorogenic, p-OH benzoic, and cinnamic acids, with concentrations of 3.66, 5.14, 0.69, 6.31, and 13.47 mg/mL, respectively. The identified acetonic flavonoid extract compounds, namely rutin, chrysin, quercetin, kaempferol, chrysoeriol, 7-OH flavone, and naringin, had respective concentrations of 5.36, 10.23, 4.32, 15.33, 1.06, 0.087, and 0.069 mg/mL, respectively. In contrast, it was observed that the seven hexanoic flavonoid extracts comprised of rutin, quercetin, kampferol, luteolin, chrysoeriol, 7-OH flavone, and catechin exhibited concentrations of 5.36, 7.15, 18.20, 6.04, 2.04, 10.24, and 13.43 mg/mL, respectively. The results of the study suggest that plant extracts may be a useful natural remedy for combating fungal pathogens and reducing dependence on synthetic products.
Vascular Complications following Vacuum-Assisted Breast Biopsy (VABB): A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Pansa Ernesto , Guzzardi Giuseppe , Santocono Silvia , Carriero Alessandro
Published: June 2023

Introduction: Vacuum-assisted breast biopsy (VABB) has been evaluated as a minimally invasive, safe, and accurate procedure with low complication risks; the most frequent one is the mild/moderate hematoma, which occurs with a low-frequency rate, and the majority of patients who experienced it can be treated successfully with only manual compression and dressing. Although cases of uncontrollable catastrophic bleeding are exceedingly rare, local breast vessel involvement is a concrete risk, even in patients with no bleeding propensity. Case Presentation: In this article, we aimed to describe a 60 years-old woman who, following VABB, experienced a massive hematoma without external bleeding and was successfully treated with embolization. The woman was called back for a cluster of suspicious microcalcifications identified in the left breast’s upper-outer quadrant; however, following histopathological analysis, the few samples collected were negative. She had a silent past medical history, 100% performance status, and no active pharmacotherapy. Approximately 15–30 min after VABB, the patient complained of weakness, pain, and lipothymia. A physical examination revealed a massive hematoma without external bleeding. Clinical data reported PaO 65/40 mmHg and blood chemistry Hb < 10 g/dL. The emergency team was alerted to stabilize the patient, and after that, the breast hemorrhage was controlled by endovascular embolization. Despite this being a rare occurrence, it is important to draw up and follow an appropriate protocol to ensure proper patient management and early treatment. Discussion: This case illustrates the prompt and accurate management of a rare complication following VABB. Due to the very high number of patients undergoing this particular procedure, we aim to point out the concrete risk of vascular injury; other similar cases are described to support our thesis and provide different clinical manifestations of this rare occurrence.
Beyond Broca’s and Wernicke’s: Functional Mapping of Ancillary Language Centers Prior to Brain Tumor Surgery
Authors: Lawrence Ashley , Carvajal Michael , Ormsby Jacob
Published: June 2023

Functional MRI is a well-established tool used for pre-surgical planning to help the neurosurgeon have a roadmap of critical functional areas that should be avoided, if possible, during surgery to minimize morbidity for patients with brain tumors (though this also has applications for surgical resection of epileptogenic tissue and vascular lesions). This article reviews the locations of secondary language centers within the brain along with imaging findings to help improve our confidence in our knowledge on language lateralization. Brief overviews of these language centers and their contributions to the language networks will be discussed. These language centers include primary language centers of “Broca’s Area” and “Wernicke’s Area”. However, there are multiple secondary language centers such as the dorsal lateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC), frontal eye fields, pre- supplemental motor area (pre-SMA), Basal Temporal Language Area (BTLA), along with other areas of activation. Knowing these foci helps to increase self-assurance when discussing the nature of laterality with the neurosurgeon. By knowing secondary language centers for language lateralization, via fMRI, one can feel confident on providing neurosurgeon colleagues with appropriate information on the laterality of language in preparation for surgery.
Comprehensive Assessment of Pollution Sources and Health Impacts in Suburban Area of Shanghai
Authors: Wei Wan , Wang Meng , Yuan Qi , Zhang Zhuozhi , Li Xinwei , Han Shuwen , Duan Yusen , Fu Qingyan , Lee Shun-Cheng
Published: June 2023

Shanghai, one of China’s largest metropolises, faces significant environmental pollution challenges due to rapid economic development. Suburban areas of Shanghai are affected by both long-distance transport and local sources of pollutants. This study conducted an integrated analysis that links health-risk assessment of heavy metals and source apportionment of atmospheric constituents to distinguish the contributions of emission sources and the major sources of health risks. Source-apportionment analysis revealed that secondary sources had the greatest contribution to the local pollutants, indicating the significant influence of peripheral and long-distance transport. Health-risk assessment of Cr, Ni, As, and Cd revealed that local residents were exposed to respiratory health risks, in which Cr is the major contributor. This health risk was primarily associated with emissions from nearby industry-related sources. Our study highlights the significant effects of both long-distance transport and local source emissions on atmospheric composition and human health in large urban agglomerations. The findings can inform future efforts to develop more precise emission-reduction strategies and policy improvements to mitigate environmental pollution and protect public health.
Short- and Medium-Chain Chlorinated Paraffins in the Sediment of the East China Sea and Yellow Sea: Distribution, Composition, and Ecological Risks
Authors: Li Xiaoying , Guo Haiqiang , Hong Jianyao , Gao Yuan , Ma Xindong , Chen Jiping
Published: June 2023

Chlorinated paraffins (CPs), a class of complex mixtures synthesized from polychlorinated n-alkanes, are widely used as flame retardants, plasticizers, lubricant additives, coolants, metalworking cutting fluids, and sealants. This study investigated the spatial distribution, the potential pollution sources, and ecological risk of 24 short-chain CPs (SCCPs) and 24 medium-chain CPs (MCCPs) from 29 surface marine sediment samples from the East China Sea and Yellow Sea in September 2019. All of the 48 CPs were detected. The concentrations of SCCPs and MCCPs ranged from 0.703 to 13.4 ng/g dw and 0.0936 to 4.19 ng/g dw, respectively. C10 congeners showed the highest abundancy. The median concentrations of the SCCPs and MCCPs declined gradually with carbon atoms and chlorine atoms, except for Cl5 congeners. Spatial variations showed that all CP congeners in the East China Sea were larger than in the Yellow Sea and displayed a point-source-type distribution, which is consistent with the industrial park distribution. Although the potential ecological risk was at a relatively low level, bioaccumulation and trophic magnification could amplify the risk to marine organisms. Our results provide data support and theoretical assistance for SCCP and MCCP pollution control and sewage outlets in the East China Sea and Yellow Sea.
Effects of Thinning on Litterfall Production and Leaf Litter Decomposition Rates of Karacabey Forested Wetlands, Bursa, Turkiye
Authors: SARIYILDIZ Temel , PARLAK Salih , GÖNÜLTAŞ Oktay , SAVACI Gamze
Published: June 2023

The contribution of litterfall (dead leaves, twigs, etc., fallen to the ground) and forest floor (organic residues such as leaves, twigs, etc., in various stages of decomposition, on the top of the mineral soil) is fundamental in both forest ecosystem sustainability and soil greenhouse gases (GHG) exchange system with the atmosphere. A focus on forested wetlands is particularly important, as these systems account for a disproportionate amount of global carbon flux relative to their spatial coverage, and the decomposition of leaf litter is a major contributor. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of two different thinning treatments (low thinning-canopy closure 41-70% and intense thinning-canopy closure 10-40%) on litterfall, forest floor litter and leaf litter decomposition rates of alder (Alnus glutinosa) stands in Karacabey forested wetlands. The litterfall was monthly collected using open litterfall traps for 2 years from 2021 to 2022. The forest floor litter was also sampled 50 x 50 cm2 quadrates of 5 points in research plots of 20×20 m. The differences in leaf litter decomposition rates between the low and intense thinning stands were investigated using the litterbag method in the field for 18 months. The results indicated that the intense thinning significantly reduced the total litterfall production (7.24 ± 0.384 Mg ha-1) and the forest floor litter (2.78 ± 0.41 Mg ha-1) compared to the low thinning stand (10.8 ± 0.527 Mg ha-1 and (4.38 ± 0.82 Mg ha-1 respectively). Lower leaf litter decomposition rates were also seen in the intense thinning stands than in the lower thinning stands. At the end of the 18 months, the leaf litter mass loss was 83.6% in the intense thinning stands compared to the lower thinning stands (88.3%).