bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Construction Method for a Three-Dimensional Tunnel General Monomer Model Based on Parallel Pathfinding
Authors: Ye Jiaming , Che Defu , Ma Baodong , Liu Quan , Qiu Kehan , Shang Xiangxiang
Published: July 2023

Existing approaches for the 3D modeling of tunnels suffer from several problems, such as highly difficult data acquisition, redundancy of model data, large computational burden, and the inability of the resulting models to be monolithic. Therefore, solutions to the tunnel network modeling problem for complex structures need to be proposed and elaborated in detail. In this paper, a construction method for a three-dimensional tunnel general monomer model based on parallel pathfinding is proposed. Widely used tunnel CAD drawings are analyzed and read, a disordered arc ensemble intersection trend decision method is developed, and an automatic path extraction solution algorithm for unidirectional modeling of tunnel centerlines is constructed. By constructing and splicing the surface elements of the 3D model, a monomeric 3D tunnel model representing the complex network structure is finally obtained. Moreover, the modeling of shafts is realized based on the monomer model, allowing for the three-dimensional topological relationships between different sub-levels of the tunnel and the ground to be established. The automatic modeling method proposed in this paper is applied to the digital twin platform of a filling project in a mining area in Gansu province, China. The experimental results demonstrate that the 3D tunnel models constructed in this way have a smaller data volume, higher modeling accuracy, and more stable growth of modeling speed.
Spatiotemporal Conflict Analysis and Prediction of Long Time Series Land Cover Changes in the Black Soil Region of Northeast China Using Remote Sensing and GIS
Authors: Ma Ding , Jiang Sijia , Tan Xin , Yang Mingyu , Jiao Qingbin , Xu Liang
Published: July 2023

Using remote sensing and GIS techniques to monitor long time series land cover changes is of great significance to understanding the impact of human activities on spatiotemporal conflicts and changes in cropland and forest ecosystems in the black soil region of Northeast China. Spatial analysis and dynamic degree were used to analyze the evolutionary process and spatiotemporal association of land cover from 1990 to 2020; the transfer matrix was used to analyze and reveal dynamic conversions of land cover from 1990 to 2000, 2000 to 2010, and 2010 to 2020; and the GM (1,1) model was used to forecast the changes in land cover by 2025 based on historical data. The results indicated that the dominance of forest and cropland did not change from 1990 to 2020, and the average area of forest and cropland was 512,713 km2 and 486,322 km2, respectively. The mutual conversion between cropland, forest, grassland, and bare areas was the most frequent. The area of cropland converted into forest and grassland was 14,167 km2 and 25,217 km2, respectively, and the area of forest and grassland converted into cropland was 27,682 km2 and 23,764 km2, respectively, from 1990 to 2000. A similar law of land cover change was also presented from 2000 to 2020. In addition, the predicted values of cropland, forest, grassland, shrubland, wetland, water bodies, impervious surfaces, and bare areas were 466,942 km2, 499,950 km2, 231,524 km2, 1329 km2, 11,775 km2, 18,453 km2, 30,549 km2, and 189,973 km2, respectively, by 2025. The maximum and minimum residuals between the predicted and actual values were 6241 km2 and −156 km2 from 1990 to 2020. The evaluation results of the GM (1,1) model showed that all of the evaluation indices were within an acceptable range, and that the posteriori error ratio and class ratio dispersion were both less than 0.25. Through comparison with other studies, this study is not only able to provide some experience for further analyzing the spatial and temporal changes in land cover and its future prediction but also provide a basis for comprehensive management in Northeast China.
Unveiling Key Themes and Establishing a Hierarchical Taxonomy of Disaster-Related Tweets: A Text Mining Approach for Enhanced Emergency Management Planning
Authors: Durham James , Chowdhury Sudipta , Alzarrad Ammar
Published: July 2023

Effectively harnessing the power of social media data for disaster management requires sophisticated analysis methods and frameworks. This research focuses on understanding the contextual information present in social media posts during disasters and developing a taxonomy to effectively categorize and classify the diverse range of topics discussed. First, the existing literature on social media analysis in disaster management is explored, highlighting the limitations and gaps in current methodologies. Second, a dataset comprising real-time social media posts related to various disasters is collected and preprocessed to ensure data quality and reliability. Third, three well-established topic modeling techniques, namely Latent Dirichlet Allocation (LDA), Latent Semantic Analysis (LSA), and Non-Negative Matrix Factorization (NMF), are employed to extract and analyze the latent topics and themes present in the social media data. The contributions of this research lie in the development of a taxonomy that effectively categorizes and classifies disaster-related social media data, the identification of key latent topics and themes, and the extraction of valuable insights to support and enhance emergency management efforts. Overall, the findings of this research have the potential to transform the way emergency management and response are conducted by harnessing the power of social media data. By incorporating these insights into decision-making processes, emergency managers can make more informed and strategic choices, resulting in more efficient and effective emergency response strategies. This, in turn, leads to improved outcomes, better utilization of resources, and ultimately, the ability to save lives and mitigate the impacts of disasters.
Behavioral, Electrophysiological, and Toxicological Responses of Plutella xylostella to Extracts from Angelica pubescens
Authors: Zheng Ruirui , Zhao Jinyu , Ma Li , Qie Xingtao , Yan Xizhong , Hao Chi
Published: July 2023

Plutella xylostella L. is a destructive pest affecting cruciferous vegetables, causing massive economic losses worldwide. Plant−based insecticides are considered promising insect control agents. The Angelica pubescens extract inhibited female oviposition, with an oviposition deterrence index (ODI) of 61.65% at 12.5 mg/mL. We aimed to identify the bioactive compounds in A. pubescens extract. The compounds from A. pubescens extract were analyzed using LC−MS techniques. The toxicity and behavioral responses of larvae and adults of P. xylostella to ten compounds were investigated. We found that the caryophyllene oxide and 3,4-dimethoxycinnamic acid inhibited female oviposition; the ODIs were 98.31% and 97.59% at 1.25 mg/mL, respectively. The A. pubescens extract, caryophyllene oxide, and 3,4-dimethoxycinnamic acid caused larval mortality, with LC50 values of 21.31, 4.56, and 5.52 mg/mL, respectively. The EAG response of females was higher than that of males under A. pubescens extract conditions, while the EAG response of males was higher than that of females in caryophyllene oxide and 3,4-dimethoxycinnamic acid conditions. The A. pubescens extract and caryophyllene oxide showed repellent activity against both female and male adults, while the 3,4-dimethoxycinnamic acid did not elicit any notable behavioral responses from P. xylostella adults. A. pubescens extract and caryophyllene oxide are potential insecticides, oviposition deterrents, and behavioral regulators against P. xylostella, and they could be potential candidates for the development of biological insecticides to control P. xylostella.
An IoT- and Cloud-Based E-Waste Management System for Resource Reclamation with a Data-Driven Decision-Making Process
Authors: Farjana Mithila , Fahad Abu Bakar , Alam Syed Eftasum , Islam Md. Motaharul
Published: July 2023

IoT-based smart e-waste management is an emerging field that combines technology and environmental sustainability. E-waste is a growing problem worldwide, as discarded electronics can have negative impacts on the environment and public health. In this paper, we have proposed a smart e-waste management system. This system uses IoT devices and sensors to monitor and manage the collection, sorting, and disposal of e-waste. The IoT devices in this system are typically embedded with sensors that can detect and monitor the amount of e-waste in a given area. These sensors can provide real-time data on e-waste, which can then be used to optimize collection and disposal processes. E-waste is like an asset to us in most cases; as it is recyclable, using it in an efficient manner would be a perk. By employing machine learning to distinguish e-waste, we can contribute to separating metallic and plastic components, the utilization of pyrolysis to transform plastic waste into bio-fuel, coupled with the generation of bio-char as a by-product, and the repurposing of metallic portions for the development of solar batteries. We can optimize its use and also minimize its environmental impact; it presents a promising avenue for sustainable waste management and resource recovery. Our proposed system also uses cloud-based platforms to help analyze patterns and trends in the data. The Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average, a statistical method used in the cloud, can provide insights into future garbage levels, which can be useful for optimizing waste collection schedules and improving the overall process.
Balloon Dilatation in the Management of Congenital Obstructive Lesions of the Heart: Review of Author’s Experiences and Observations—Part II
Authors: Rao P. Syamasundar
Published: July 2023

While investigating the outcomes of balloon dilatation procedures in patients with congenital obstructive lesions of the heart, several parallel observations were made. The purpose of this review is to present these observations/phenomena/innovations related to balloon dilatation of pulmonary stenosis (PS), aortic stenosis (AS), and aortic coarctation (AC). In subjects who had balloon pulmonary valvuloplasty (BPV), development of infundibular obstruction, electrocardiographic (ECG) changes, changes in right ventricular filling, role of balloon/annulus ratios on the results of BPV, and double balloon vs. single balloon BPV will be reviewed. In patients who had balloon aortic valvuloplasty (BAV), causes of aortic insufficiency and trans-umbilical venous approach for BAV are tackled. In children who had balloon angioplasty (BA) of AC, aortic remodeling and biophysical response after BA of AC are discussed.
Initial Tumor Necrosis Factor-Alpha and Endothelial Activation Are Associated with Hemorrhagic Complications during Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation
Authors: Jang Jin Ho , Shin Kyung-Hwa , Lee Hye Rin , Son Eunjeong , Lee Seung Eun , Seol Hee Yun , Yoon Seong Hoon , Kim Taehwa , Cho Woo Hyun , Jeon Doosoo , Kim Yun Seong , Yeo Hye Ju
Published: July 2023

Studies on inflammatory markers, endothelial activation, and bleeding during extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) are lacking. Blood samples were prospectively collected after ECMO initiation from 150 adult patients who underwent ECMO for respiratory failure between 2018 and 2021. After excluding patients who died early (within 48 h), 132 patients were finally included. Their tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), tissue factor (TF), soluble thrombomodulin (sTM), and E-selectin levels were measured. A Cox proportional hazards regression model was used to estimate the hazard ratio for hemorrhagic complications during ECMO. The 132 patients were divided into hemorrhagic (n = 23, H group) and non-complication (n = 109, N group) groups. The sequential organ failure assessment score, hemoglobin level, and ECMO type were included as covariates in all Cox models to exclude the effects of clinical factors. After adjusting for these factors, initial TNF-α, TF, sTM, E-selectin, and activated protein C levels were significantly associated with hemorrhagic complications (all p < 0.001). TNF-α, TF, and E-selectin better predicted hemorrhagic complications than the model that included only the aforementioned clinical factors (clinical factors only (area under the curve [AUC]: 0.804), reference; TNF-α (AUC: 0.914); TF (AUC: 0.915); E-selectin (AUC: 0.869)). Conclusions: TNF-α levels were significantly predictive of hemorrhagic complications during ECMO.
A Systematic Review of the Retrograde Drilling Approach for Osteochondral Lesion of the Talus: Questioning Surgical Approaches, Outcome Evaluation and Gender-Related Differences
Authors: Veronesi Francesca , Maglio Melania , Brogini Silvia , Mazzotti Antonio , Artioli Elena , Giavaresi Gianluca
Published: July 2023

Background: Retrograde drilling (RD) is a minimally invasive surgical procedure mainly used for non-displaced osteochondral lesions (OCL) of the talus, dealing with subchondral necrotic sclerotic lesions or subchondral cysts without inducing iatrogenic articular cartilage injury, allowing the revascularization of the subchondral bone and new bone formation. Methods: This systematic review collected and analyzed the clinical studies of the last 10 years of literature, focusing not only on the clinical results but also on patients’ related factors (gender, BMI, age and complications). Results: Sixteen clinical studies were retrieved, and differences in the type of study, follow-up, number and age of patients, lesion type, dimensions, grades and comparison groups were observed, making it difficult to draw conclusions. Nevertheless, lesions on which RD showed the best results were those of I–III grades and not exceeding 150 mm2 in size, showing overall positive results, a good rate of patient satisfaction, improvements in clinical scores, pain reduction and return to daily activities and sports. Conclusions: There are still few studies dealing with the issue of post-surgical complications and gender-related responses. Further clinical or preclinical studies are thus mandatory to underline the success of this technique, also in light of gender differences.
Endoscopic Transmural Therapy of Pancreatic Fistulas in an Interdisciplinary Setting—A Retrospective Data Analysis
Authors: Meierhofer Clara , Fuegger Reinhold , Spaun Georg O. , Wundsam Helwig Valentin , Kirchweger Patrick , Biebl Matthias , Schoefl Rainer
Published: July 2023

Pancreatic fistulas belong to the most feared complications after surgery on or near the pancreas, abdominal trauma, or severe pancreatitis. The majority occur in the setting of operative interventions and are called postoperative pancreatic fistulas (POPF). They can lead to various complications, including abscesses, delayed gastric emptying or hemorrhages with a significant impact on morbidity and mortality. Several risk factors have been identified, including smoking, high BMI, male gender, and age. Prophylactic measures and treatment options have been explored but with limited success. This study aimed to analyze the incidence and management of pancreatic fistulas treated in a tertiary referral center, particularly focusing on an endoscopic approach. The data of 60 patients with clinically relevant pancreatic fistulas were analyzed between 2018 and 2021. Different treatment approaches, including conservative management, percutaneous drainage, transpapillary stenting, and endoscopic transmural drainage, were evaluated. An endoscopic transmural approach using lumen-apposing metal stents (LAMS) was used in almost half of this cohort showing promising results, with a high rate of fistula closure in refractory cases and a mean time until closure of 2.7 months. The findings suggest that an endoscopic approach, particularly using LAMS, can be effective in the management of pancreatic fistulas.
The Role of Transoral Robotic Surgery in the Era of Hypoglossal Nerve Stimulation
Authors: Stringa Luigi Marco , Vicini Claudio , Cammaroto Giovanni
Published: July 2023

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a sleep-related breathing disorder characterized by repeated collapses of the upper airway walls, leading to a complete or partial reduction of airflow [...]
Advances in PET/CT Imaging for Breast Cancer
Authors: de Jong Dorine , Desperito Elise , Al Feghali Karine , Dercle Laurent , Seban Romain-David , Das Jeeban , Ma Hong , Sajan Abin , Braumuller Brian , Prendergast Conor , Liou Connie , Deng Aileen , Roa Tina , Yeh Randy , Girard Antoine , Salvatore Mary , Capaccione Kathleen
Published: July 2023

One out of eight women will be affected by breast cancer during her lifetime. Imaging plays a key role in breast cancer detection and management, providing physicians with information about tumor location, heterogeneity, and dissemination. In this review, we describe the latest advances in PET/CT imaging of breast cancer, including novel applications of 18F-FDG PET/CT and the development and testing of new agents for primary and metastatic breast tumor imaging and therapy. Ultimately, these radiopharmaceuticals may guide personalized approaches to optimize treatment based on the patient’s specific tumor profile, and may become a new standard of care. In addition, they may enhance the assessment of treatment efficacy and lead to improved outcomes for patients with a breast cancer diagnosis.
A Case Study of Hypnosis Enhanced Cognitive Therapy for Pain in a Ventilator Dependent Patient during Inpatient Rehabilitation for Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Starosta Amy J. , Wright Katherine S. , Bombardier Charles H. , Kahlia Faran , Barber Jason , Accardi-Ravid Michelle C. , Wiechman Shelley A. , Crane Deborah A. , Jensen Mark P.
Published: July 2023

Early, acute pain following spinal cord injury (SCI) is common, can negatively impact SCI rehabilitation, and is frequently not responsive to biomedical treatment. Nonpharmacological interventions show promise in reducing pain for individuals with SCI. However, most psychological interventions rely heavily on verbal interaction between the individual being treated and the clinician, making them inaccessible for individuals with impaired verbal output due to mechanical ventilation. This case study aims to describe the adaptation and implementation of hypnotic cognitive therapy (HYP-CT) intervention for early SCI pain in the context of mechanical ventilation dependence and weaning. The participant was a 54-year-old male with C2 AIS A SCI requiring mechanical ventilation. Four sessions of HYP-CT were provided during inpatient rehabilitation with assessment prior to intervention, after the intervention sessions, and prior to discharge. The participant reported immediate reductions in pain intensity following each intervention session. Overall, he reported increases in self-efficacy and pain acceptance. He did not report any negative treatment effects and thought the intervention provided support during mechanical ventilation weaning. During treatment, he discontinued opioid pain medications and reported actively using intervention strategies. Our results support the potential for early, hypnotic cognitive therapy for individuals with SCI experiencing pain or distress while dependent on mechanical ventilation.
Lymphatic Complications Following Sentinel Node Biopsy or Pelvic Lymphadenectomy for Endometrial Cancer
Authors: Terada Shinichi , Tanaka Tomohito , Murakami Hikaru , Tsuchihashi Hiromitsu , Toji Akihiko , Daimon Atsushi , Miyamoto Shunsuke , Nishie Ruri , Ueda Shoko , Hashida Sousuke , Morita Natsuko , Maruoka Hiroshi , Konishi Hiromi , Kogata Yuhei , Taniguchi Kohei , Komura Kazumasa , Ohmichi Masahide
Published: July 2023

Sentinel node biopsy (SNB) is performed worldwide in patients with endometrial cancer (EC). The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the occurrence rate of lymphatic complications between SNB and pelvic lymphadenectomy (LND) for EC. The medical records of women who underwent SNB or pelvic LND for EC between September 2012 and April 2022 were assessed. A total of 388 patients were enrolled in the current study. Among them, 201 patients underwent SNB and 187 patients underwent pelvic LND. The occurrence rates of lower-extremity lymphedema (LEL) and pelvic lymphocele (PL) were compared between the patients who underwent SNB and those who underwent pelvic LND. The SNB group had a significantly lower occurrence rate of lower-extremity LEL than the pelvic LND group (2.0% vs. 21.3%, p < 0.01). There were no patients who had PL in the SNB group; however, 4 (2.1%) patients in the pelvic LND group had PL. The occurrence rates of lower-extremity LEL and PL were significantly lower in patients who underwent SNB than those who underwent pelvic LND. SNB for EC has a lower risk of lymphatic complications compared to systemic LND.
Synthesis of Copper Nanoparticles Supported over Graphene-like Material Composite as a Catalyst for Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Quach Qui , Biehler Erik , Abdel-Fattah Tarek M.
Published: July 2023

The need for an alternative energy source that is both clean and abundant has led to research into a hydrogen economy. Hydrogen gas can be produced slowly via the hydrolysis of sodium borohydride (NaBH4). A catalyst can be used to speed up the rate at which hydrogen is produced, however many catalysts involve relatively expensive materials like precious metals. This study explores a novel copper nanoparticle supported on a graphene-like material composite as a catalyst for the hydrolysis of NaBH4. The material was characterized via powdered X-ray diffraction (P-XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), transmission electron microscope (TEM), and Energy Dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). The P-XRD confirmed the crystallinity structures of graphene-like material (GLM) and copper nanoparticles supported over graphene-like material (CuGLM). The P-XRD spectra indicated the (110), (111), and (200) lattice planes of copper nanoparticles. In FTIR analysis, the shifted and sharpening functional group peaks were observed when copper nanoparticles were supported by the GLM template. The TEM result indicated that the copper nanoparticle had a size of approximately 10 nm. The catalyst (CuGLM) was tested under different doses of NaBH4, solution pH, and reaction temperatures. Temperature data were used to determine the activation energy of the reaction to be 46.8 kJ mol−1, which is competitive when compared to similar catalysts. The catalyzed reaction generated the highest volume of hydrogen at pH 8 (51 mL), 303 K (32 mL), and 1225 μmol of NaBH4 (37 mL). The catalyst was found to be able to be used multiple times in succession without any significant loss in hydrogen generated. This catalyst is an exciting option for the sustainable generation of hydrogen gas as a fuel source.
Osseointegration of Tantalum Trabecular Metal in Titanium Dental Implants: Histological and Micro-CT Study
Authors: Al Deeb Modhi , Aldosari Abdullah AlFarraj , Anil Sukumaran
Published: July 2023

This study aimed to investigate the impact of the Tantalum Trabecular Metal dental implant design on implant stability and the process of osseointegration following its placement in the rabbit femoral condyle. The subjects for the experiment consisted of 10 New Zealand white rabbits. Twenty implants, comprising 10 Trabecular Metal (TM) and 10 Traditional Screw Vent (TSV) implants, were placed into the femoral condyles of these rabbits. The implant type was alternated based on a random sequence. Following a healing period of 8 weeks, the implants were retrieved for further analysis using micro-computed tomography (micro-CT), histological studies, and histomorphometry evaluations. The Bone-to-Implant Contact (BIC) ratio and the Bone Volume (BV) percentage in the region of interest were subsequently assessed. The BIC and BV values between TM and TSV implants were compared using the Student t-test. The TM implants exhibited significantly greater BIC and BV scores. In particular, the BIC percentage was recorded as 57.9 ± 6.5 for the TM implants, as opposed to 47.6 ± 8 for the TSV implants. Correspondingly, the BV percentage was 57 ± 7.3 for the TM implants and 46.4 ± 7.4 for the TSV implants. The bone volume percentage measured using micro-CT evaluation was 89.1 ± 8.7 for the TM implants and 79.1 ± 8.6 for the TSV implants. Given the observed results, it is plausible to suggest that the bone growth surrounding the tantalum mesh could have improved the integration of the bone and facilitated its ingrowth into the TM implant.
VeerNet: Using Deep Neural Networks for Curve Classification and Digitization of Raster Well-Log Images
Authors: Nasim M. Quamer , Patwardhan Narendra , Maiti Tannistha , Marrone Stefano , Singh Tarry
Published: July 2023

Raster logs are scanned representations of the analog data recorded in subsurface drilling. Geologists rely on these images to interpret well-log curves and deduce the physical properties of geological formations. Scanned images contain various artifacts, including hand-written texts, brightness variability, scan defects, etc. The manual effort involved in reading the data is substantial. To mitigate this, unsupervised computer vision techniques are employed to extract and interpret the curves digitally. Existing algorithms predominantly require manual intervention, resulting in slow processing times, and are erroneous. This research aims to address these challenges by proposing VeerNet, a deep neural network architecture designed to semantically segment the raster images from the background grid to classify and digitize (i.e., extracting the analytic formulation of the written curve) the well-log data. The proposed approach is based on a modified UNet-inspired architecture leveraging an attention-augmented read–process–write strategy to balance retaining key signals while dealing with the different input–output sizes. The reported results show that the proposed architecture efficiently classifies and digitizes the curves with an overall F1 score of 35% and Intersection over Union of 30%, achieving 97% recall and 0.11 Mean Absolute Error when compared with real data on binary segmentation of multiple curves. Finally, we analyzed VeerNet’s ability in predicting Gamma-ray values, achieving a Pearson coefficient score of 0.62 when compared to measured data.
The Purposes of Intellectual Assessment in Early Childhood Education: An Analysis of Chilean Regulations
Authors: Ancapichún Alejandro , López-Jiménez Tatiana
Published: July 2023

The main purpose of intellectual assessment in early childhood education is the early detection of intellectual disabilities. In Chile, the recent school integration policy has incorporated assessment purposes oriented toward educational improvement, but it is not known how these purposes interact with each other. This study aimed to analyze the purposes of intellectual assessment present in the current Chilean educational policy in early childhood education. A systematic review of ministerial documents and a subsequent qualitative content analysis of official documents published between 1998 and 2022 were carried out. The results revealed that the purposes of intellectual assessment for educational policy are multiple, highlighting the provision eligibility, diagnosis, student monitoring and support, in addition to formative and curricular adjustment purposes. It is discussed how this multiplicity of purposes is congruent with the current regulations governing intellectual assessment procedures in early childhood education. It is concluded that there is a need to update the legislation that regulates intellectual assessment to be consistent with the new assessment proposals in the country.
Morphological and Functional Aspects and Quality of Life in Patients with Achromatopsia
Authors: Chan Caroline , Seitz Berthold , Käsmann-Kellner Barbara
Published: July 2023

(1) Background: Achromatopsia is a rare disease of which the natural course and impact on life are still unknown to this date. We aimed to assess the morphological, functional characteristics, and quality of life in a large sample size of patients with achromatopsia. (2) A total of 94 achromats were included in this retrospective cohort study. Sixty-four were patients of the Department of Ophthalmology, Saarland University Medical Centre in Homburg/Saar, Germany, between 2008 and 2021. Thirty further participants with achromatopsia from the national support group were included using an online questionnaire, which is available under ‘Supplementary data’. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS Version 25; (3) The 94 patients (37 males (39.4%) and 57 females (60.6%)) showed a mean age of 24.23 ± 18.53 years. Visual acuity was stable (SD ± 0.22 logMAR at 1.0 logMAR) over a time of observation from 2008 to 2021. Edge filter glasses were the most used optical aids, while enlarged reading glasses were the most used low vision aids. (4) Conclusions: Our findings give an insight into describing the natural process and the quality of life of achromatopsia. The results demonstrate that achromatopsia is a predominantly stationary disease. The individual prescription of edge filters and low-vision aids is essential following a personalised fitting.
A Literature Review on the Financial Determinants of Hotel Default
Authors: Metaxas Theodore , Romanopoulos Athanasios
Published: July 2023

Empirical corporate failure studies focusing on specific economic activities are increasing in number, as this path can be a more precise investigation of default, although still there is a gap in the literature reviews at the sector level. The purpose of this study is to focus on the hotel sector and isolate the financial determinants linked to hotel default, as the approach of accounting-based models is the most frequent practice. To arrange the variety of outputs, a thorough design is applied based on specific inclusion and exclusion criteria, leading to 29 studies, which are further narrated, focusing mainly on the financial dimension. In addition, information on the study design is recorded in an aggregated table. The most frequent stylized results show that debt and liability measures increase the default risk, while measures of profitability and size in terms of total assets reduce the risk. This review addresses the calls for a sectoral focus and provides an up-to-date financial overview of hotel default assessments. It further aims to benefit academia, as it can act as a base for further development, as well as stakeholders involved in the financial sustainability of the hotel sector.
Re-Examining Bitcoin’s Price–Volume Relationship: A Time-Varying Spectral Analysis
Authors: Moyo Clement , Phiri Andrew
Published: July 2023

This study employs continuous wavelet transforms to model the relationship between Bitcoin volume and prices across time and frequency space using daily data for the period between 17 September 2014 and 10 April 2023. The results show that Bitcoin price and volume have a long-term relationship at low frequency cycles mostly during the period after 2019. A statistically insignificant relationship between the price and volume of Bitcoin is observed prior to 2019 which coincides with a time of limited regulatory oversight of Bitcoin markets globally. Positive correlation is observed in the aftermath of this period, with stronger correlation recorded during and post the period of the Covid-19 pandemic. Furthermore, the findings reveal that fluc-tuations in the Bitcoin volume tends to affect the price at higher frequency synchronizations (short-term); whereas, at lower frequencies (long-term), a feedback loop is observed, whereby the price changes lead to alterations in the volume.
Spatiotemporal Variation of Rural Vulnerability and Its Clustering Model in Guizhou Province
Authors: Zhou Min , Yang Liu , Ye Dan
Published: July 2023

The vulnerability of China’s rural system is becoming increasingly obvious due to the multiple pressures of geological conditions and human interference. This study selected Guizhou Province to measure the degree of vulnerability and determine a rural system’s temporal and spatial characteristics. We select the county as the unit, build the vulnerability assessment of a rural system based on the three dimensions of exposure, sensitivity, and adaptability, and employ the combination weighting method. The final development indicator of the rural vulnerability measurement model was obtained using the Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to the Ideal Solution method. Further, SatScan v10.1 software was used for spatiotemporal scanning statistical analysis, and its clustering pattern was analyzed. Finally, visual analysis was conducted using ArcGIS 10.7 software. The results showed that exposure and sensitivity have an increasing fluctuation trend, while adaptability has a decreasing trend. The combined effect resulted in an increasing trend of vulnerability. The mean values of exposure, sensitivity, adaptation, and rural vulnerability in Yunyan are 0.906, 0.894, 0.772, and 1.028 higher than those in Nanming, i.e., 0.417, 0.426, 0.687, and 0.262, respectively. The vulnerability of the rural system shows a spatial pattern of “low in the middle and high on both sides,” with spatial clustering, and Guiyang and Zunyi are the cluster centers.
Innovative Methods for Mapping the Suitability of Nature-Based Solutions for Landslide Risk Reduction
Authors: Devanand Vishal , Mubeen Adam , Vojinovic Zoran , Sanchez Torres Arlex , Paliaga Guido , Abdullah Ahmad , Leitão João , Manojlovic Natasa , Fröhle Peter
Published: July 2023

The impacts of climate change are becoming more widespread across the world, with hydro-meteorological extreme events on the rise, causing severe threats to nature and communities. Increasing trends in the frequency and intensity of floods and landslides have been projected by climate models. This necessitates the development of more effective measures such as nature-based solutions (NBS) which can complement grey infrastructures. Recent studies have identified knowledge gaps and limitations in existing research and tools that aid in spatial planning for the implementation of large-scale NBS and proposed new methodologies for the spatial allocation of large-scale NBS for flood risk reduction. This work presents a novel method for mapping the suitability of NBS addressing geo-hydrological hazards such as shallow landslides, debris flow, and rockfall, which are typically caused due to slope instability. This methodology incorporates landslide susceptibility mapping, and was used to create a toolbox ESRI ArcGIS environment to aid decision-makers in the planning and implementation of large-scale NBS. The spatial allocation toolbox was applied to the case study Portofino promontory, Liguria region, Italy, and 70% of the area was found to be highly susceptible to landslides. The produced suitability maps show that 41%, 33%, and 65% of the study area is suitable for the restoration of terraces, bio-engineering, and vegetative measures such as NBS for landslide risk reduction.
Antimicrobially Active Zn(II) Complexes of Reduced Schiff Bases Derived from Cyclohexane-1,2-diamine and Fluorinated Benzaldehydes—Synthesis, Crystal Structure and Bioactivity
Authors: Oboňová Bianka , Habala Ladislav , Litecká Miroslava , Herich Peter , Bilková Andrea , Bilka František , Horváth Branislav
Published: July 2023

A series of Schiff base ligands obtained by the condensation of trans-cyclohexane-1,2-diamine and fluorinated benzaldehydes were prepared, followed by their reduction with NaBH4. The reduced ligands were employed in the synthesis of zinc complexes of the general formula [ZnCl2(L)]. The structures of both the original and the reduced Schiff bases, as well as of the zinc complexes, were characterized by single-crystal X-ray analysis, along with NMR and IR spectroscopy. The antimicrobial activities of the reduced Schiff bases and their zinc complexes were evaluated in vitro against E. coli, S. aureus, and C. albicans. The compounds containing the 4-(trifluoromethylphenyl) moiety showed marked antibacterial activity. Interestingly, the antimicrobial effect of the zinc complex with this moiety was significantly higher than that of the corresponding free reduced ligand, comparable with ciprofloxacin used as standard. Thus, a synergic effect upon the complexation with zinc can be inferred.
AL Amyloidosis and Multiple Myeloma: A Complex Scenario in Which Cardiac Involvement Remains the Key Prognostic Factor
Authors: Ríos-Tamayo Rafael , Krsnik Isabel , Gómez-Bueno Manuel , Garcia-Pavia Pablo , Segovia-Cubero Javier , Huerta Ana , Salas Clara , Silvestre Ramona Ángeles , Sánchez Amelia , Manso Marta , Delgado Laura , Lahuerta Juan José , Martínez-López Joaquín , Duarte Rafael F.
Published: July 2023

Monoclonal gammopathies (MGs) are a wide range of diseases that may evolve or progress over time. Comorbidity plays a critical role in this setting. The co-occurrence of two MGs is not a rare event. The evidence on the association of systemic light chain (AL) amyloidosis and multiple myeloma (MM) is scarce and controversial. Herein we aim to address this topic in a large series of patients of a referral center. All consecutive AL amyloidosis patients treated at our center from January 2005 to April 2023 were prospectively enrolled in a clinical and epidemiological registry. 141 patients diagnosed with AL amyloidosis were included, of which 7 (5%) had localized whereas 134 presented with systemic disease. The heart was the most frequently affected organ (90.3%). 25 patients (18.7%) fulfilled the IMWG diagnostic criteria of MM (AL/MM). Time-dependent association between AL and MM showed that the synchronous pattern is more frequent than the appearance of a second primary malignancy. The diagnostic delay was six months (m). Patients with AL/MM had a poorer median overall survival (OS) than AL-only patients (35.5 m, CI 95% 0–88.9, vs. 52.6 m, CI 95% 16.7–88.5), but this difference was not statistically significant. The prognosis in AL is dominated by the heart involvement, which is massive in this series. In our Cox regression model, only three prognostic variables remain as independent prognostic factors: age, N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (≥8500 ng/L), and undergoing an autologous stem cell transplant, whereas left ventricular ejection fraction shows a marginal effect. More and large studies focusing on the AL/MM association are needed to uncover the characteristics and prognostic impact of this association.
Novel Linear Trinuclear CuII Compound with Trapped Chiral Hemiaminal Ligand: Magnetostructural Study
Authors: Cruz Carlos , Audebrand Nathalie , Páez-Hernández Dayán , Paredes-García Verónica
Published: July 2023

A new trinuclear CuII compound {[Cu3(HL′)2(H2O)2](ClO4)4}·(H2O)4 (1) was obtained and presented a trapped chiral hemiaminal (HL2′ = [(5-amino-4H-1,2,4-triazol-3-yl)amino](1H-imidazol-4-yl)methanol)). Compound 1 shows an almost flat cationic structure [Cu3(HL′)2(H2O)2]4+ with a Cu3 linear core reached by the double Cu-OR/NN-Cu triazole/alkoxo bridge of the hemiaminal molecule. The CuII spin carriers are antiferromagnetically coupled, presenting a spin doublet ground state (S = 1/2) with a magnetic coupling constant of −179 cm−1. Moreover, DTF calculations show that the planarity of the compound permits a sigma-type overlapping between the unpaired electrons of the spin carriers and the p-type orbitals of the coordinated N and O atoms producing an electronic delocalization through the bridging ligand responsible for the strong antiferromagnetic interactions observed experimentally.
Multi-Agent Evolutionary Game Analysis of Group Panic Buying in China during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Wang Xunqing , Zhang Nan , Zhou Hang , Huang Xinpeng , Luo Rundong
Published: July 2023

With the global outbreak of COVID-19, the panic-buying incidents triggered by the variants of the Omicron strain have severely affected the normal social order. This paper considers the complex interest game and interactive relationship among multiple subjects in the mass-panic buying event caused by rumors and constructs a three-party evolution game model of local government, rumor-monger, and public. The strategy-selection process of each subject based on evolutionary game theory is studied, and the strategy selection of three game subjects in different situations and related influencing factors are analyzed. Taking the example of the montmorillonite powder panic buying caused by the XBB virus strain rumor in China, the evolutionary game model constructed in this study is simulated and analyzed. The study shows that the evolutionary process of the mass panic-buying event is characterized by six stages: the initial stage; the outbreak stage; the spread stage; the climax stage; the relief stage; and the recovery stage. There are four stable points in the evolutionary game of the three game subjects, namely (no intervention, no rumor, no panic buying), (no intervention, rumor, no panic buying), (intervention, no rumor, no panic buying), and (intervention, rumor, no panic buying). The strategy of government intervention will be adjusted according to the strategy selection of the public and the rumor-monger. Under the mechanism of reward and punishment of the higher-level government, increasing the punishment and reward intensity of the higher-level government will promote the local government to intervene in the rumor-mongering event faster, but increasing the reward intensity has a more significant impact on the intervention behavior of the local government than punishment, and increasing punishment intensity has a more significant impact on the non-rumor-mongering behavior of the rumor-monger than reward. The parameters of social risk-bearing cost, risk transmission coefficient, rumor-mongering income and cost, and public drug purchase cost have different degrees of influence on the evolutionary behavior of game subjects. Therefore, this study provides new ideas for effectively responding to mass panic buying events in the context of public emergencies.
Enhancing IoT Connectivity in Massive MIMO Networks through Systematic Scheduling and Power Control Strategies
Authors: Lee Byung Moo
Published: July 2023

Massive MIMO systems can support a large number of Internet of Things (IoT) devices, even if the number of IoT devices exceeds the number of service antennas in a single base station (BS) located at the data center. In order to improve the performance of Massive MIMO with massive IoT connectivity in a BS, simple scheduling and power control schemes can be of great help, but typically, they require high power consumption in the situation of serious shadow fading. In this paper, we try to improve the performance of Massive MIMO with massive IoT connectivity by using the dropping technique that drops the IoT devices that require high power consumption. Several scheduling and power control schemes have been proposed to increase the spectral efficiency (SE) and the energy efficiency (EE) of Massive MIMO systems. By the combination of these schemes with the dropping technique, we show that the performance can be even further increased under some circumstances. There is a dropping coefficient factor (DCF) to determine the IoT devices that should be dropped. This technique gives more benefits to the power control schemes that require higher power consumption. Simulation results and relevant analyses are provided to verify the effectiveness of the proposed technique.
Failed Back Surgery Syndrome: No Longer a Surgeon’s Defeat—A Narrative Review
Authors: Miękisiak Grzegorz
Published: July 2023

The introduction of the term Persistent Spinal Pain Syndrome (PSPS-T1/2), replacing the older term Failed Back Surgery Syndrome (FBSS), has significantly influenced our approach to diagnosing and treating post-surgical spinal pain. This comprehensive review discusses this change and its effects on patient care. Various diagnostic methods are employed to elucidate the underlying causes of back pain, and this information is critical in guiding treatment decisions. The management of PSPS-T1/2 involves both causative treatments, which directly address the root cause of pain, and symptomatic treatments, which focus on managing the symptoms of pain and improving overall function. The importance of a multidisciplinary and holistic approach is emphasized in the treatment of PSPS-T1/2. This approach is patient-centered and treatment plans are customized to individual patient needs and circumstances. The review concludes with a reflection on the impact of the new PSPS nomenclature on the perception and management of post-surgical spinal pain.
Longitudinal Changes in Motor Estimation Error and Motor Function in Patients with Parkinson’s Disease: A Case Report
Authors: Sakai Katsuya , Kawasaki Tsubasa , Kiminarita Hiroya , Ikeda Yumi
Published: July 2023

Background and Objectives: This report described two cases with clear longitudinal changes in motor estimation error (difference between the motor imagery and motor execution) and their progression and motor and activities of daily living (ADL) function changes in patients with PD. Materials and Methods: Patient 1 was a 68-year-old man (Hoehn and Yahr [H and Y] stage: IV, diagnosed with PD for 11.8 years) and patient 2 was a 68-year-old woman (H and Y stage: II, diagnosed with PD for 9.6 years). Imagined two-step test (iTST), two-step test (TST), and PD-related assessments (Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale [UPDRS], and Freezing of Gait Questionnaire [FOGQ]) were assessed at baseline and after 6 months. Motor estimation error was calculated as the iTST distance minus TST distance. Results: In patient 1, motor estimation error was greater after 6 months (baseline: 5.7 [4.8%]/after 6 months: 25.7 cm [26.1%]). Moreover, UPDRS and FOGQ total scores deteriorated after 6 months (UPDRS total: 29/34 point, and FOGQ: 9/16 point). Conversely, in patient 2, motor estimation error did not change notably (−3.6 [7.6%]/−2.5 cm [7.0%]), while UPDRS and FOGQ total scores improved after 6 months (UPDRS total: 17/12 point, and FOGQ: 6/1 point). Conclusions: This report indicated that greater motor estimation error may be associated with declining motor and ADL function and disease progression in patients with PD.
Simulation of Mechanical and Thermal Loads and Microtexturing of Ceramic Cutting Inserts in Turning a Nickel-Based Alloy
Authors: Volosova Marina A. , Okunkova Anna A. , Hamdy Khaled , Malakhinsky Alexander P. , Gkhashim Khasan I.
Published: July 2023

This paper is devoted to the problem of wear resistance in square Si3N4 ceramic cutting inserts, which exhibit high hardness and strength, in combination with brittleness, and are subject to increased mechanical and thermal loads in machining super alloys for aviation purposes (e.g., a nickel-based alloy of Inconel 718 type). Microtextures were proposed to reduce the intensity of the contact loads on the pad between the cutting edge and the workpiece. The simulation of the mechanical and thermal loads demonstrated the superior ability of the faces with the preformed microgrooves (125 µm in width) compared to microwells (ø100 µm). The tense state was 4.97 times less, and deformations were 2.96 times fewer. The microtextures hamper the development of thermal fields at 900 °C. Two types of microtextures (210 µm-wide microgrooves and microwells 80 µm in diameter) were produced on the rake faces of the cutting inserts via an innovative and integrated approach (the electrical discharge machining of dielectrics using a multifunctional electro-conductive assisted and wear-resistant TiN coating and TiO2 powder mixed suspension). The TiN coating was deposited via magnetron vacuum plasma sputtering (95%N2/5%Ar). The failure criterion in turning was 400 µm. An increase of 30% in tool wear resistance was demonstrated.