3D Model Research Articles

Establishment of mangroves on a new mud bank by a combination of UAS SfM photogrammetry and LiDAR monitoring

Abstract. Understanding how mangroves respond to sea level rise is critical for coastal management and conservation. This study investigates the feasibility of two remote sensing techniques, Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) and Structure-from-Motion (SfM) photogrammetry, to monitor changes in mud elevation that are critical to mangrove establishment dynamics. SfM photogrammetry can provide low-cost 3D modeling from imagery, while LiDAR provides high-precision elevation and vegetation data. Our analysis shows that SfM photogrammetry provides reasonably accurate surface elevation data with a root mean square error (RMSE) of 0.14 meters and a significant correlation coefficient (r = 0.74) compared to LiDAR measurements. This highlights the complementarity between the two, as the effectiveness of SfM photogrammetry is in the early stages of colonization, and then the need to use LiDAR with dense vegetation as the mangroves mature. This shows that a simple method of photogrammetry can remain effective until the vegetation reaches a certain threshold, and this can be particularly useful in the perspective of using mud elevation as a first low-cost diagnosis for potential mangrove rehabilitation project to assess the colonization suitability of mudflats.

Feather keratin in Pavo cristatus: A tentative structure

Abstract Background F-keratin forms an evolutionary conserved nanocomposite which allows birds to fly. Structural models for F-keratin are all based on the pioneering X-ray diffraction studies on seagull F-keratin, first published in 1932, confirmed for other species and refined over the years. There is, however, no experimental proof because native F-keratin does not form a perfect molecular crystal as required for structure determination. Methods Peacock’s tail feathers were systematically re-investigated by taking diffraction patterns at different rotation angles. Using the recently developed AlphaFold algorithm, a collection of 3D models of arbitrarily truncated and multiplied Pavo cristatus F-keratin sequences was created. The shape, dimensions, density and interfacial exposure of functionally relevant amino acid side chains of the calculated 3D building blocks were used as the initial selection criteria for filamentous F-keratin precursors. Full reproducibility of in silico folding and agreement with previous results from mechanical testing, biochemical analyses and SAXS experiments was mandatory for suggesting the tentative structure for the novel F-keratin repeating unit. Results The filament of the F-keratin polymer is an alternating arrangement of two units called "N-block" and "C-block": Four strands AA 1–52 form a disulfide-stabilized twisted parallelepiped, with 89° internal rotation within eight levels of β-sandwiches. Four strands AA 81–100 form a two-level “β-sandwich” in which aromatic residues provide resilience, like vertebral discs in a spinal column. The pitch of an N+C-block octamer is 10 nm. Solidification may involve "C-blocks" to temporarily mold into "C-wedges" of 18° tilt, which align F-keratin into laterally amorphous fiber-reinforced composites of 9.5 nm axial periodicity. This experimentally significant distance corresponds to the fully stretched AA 53–80 matrix segment. The deformed “spinal column” unwinds under compression when F-keratin filaments perfectly align horizontally into stacked sheets in the solid state. Conclusions At present, the tentative structure presented here is without alternatives.

Laboratory Validation of 3D Model and Investigating Its Application to Wind Turbine Noise Propagation over Rough Ground

In an investigation into how wind turbine noise interacts with the surrounding terrain, its propagation over rough ground is simulated using a parabolic equation code using a modified effective impedance model, which characterizes the effects of a three-dimensional, rigid roughness within a relatively long wavelength limit (ka≤1). The model is validated by comparison to experiments conducted within an anechoic chamber wherein different source–receiver geometries are considered. The relative sound pressure level spectra from the parabolic equation code using the modified effective impedance model highlight a sensitivity to the roughness parameters. At a low frequency and far distance, the relative sound pressure level decreased as the roughness coverage increased. A difference of 4.9 dB has been reported. The simulations highlight how the roughness shifts the ground effect dips, resulting in the sound level at the distance of 2 km being altered. However, only the monochromatic wave has been discussed. Further work on broadband noise is desirable. Furthermore, due to the long wavelength limit, only a portion of audible wind turbine noise can be investigated.

High definition 3D models of small legume seed: a close up application to support ancient plant genomics

Abstract. Legume seeds are essential for nutrition and play crucial roles in food security, climate change mitigation, biodiversity conservation, and sustainability. Among them, the common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) is the most widely cultivated and vital to the food value chain. Originating in Mesoamerica and independently domesticated there and in the Andes about 8,000 years ago, common beans have adapted to diverse environments globally following the Columbian exchange. Ancient DNA (aDNA) sequencing offers insights into the bean’s adaptation and evolution, but traditional methods struggle with detailed 3D phenotypic analysis due to the beans’ small size and the destructive nature of aDNA extraction. Expensive high-detail optical instruments are not commonly available in genetic labs. This research proposes macro-photogrammetry as a low-cost technique for creating detailed 3D digital replicas of beans. By using samples from archaeological sites in northern Peru, this method preserves phenotypic information despite the destruction of physical samples during DNA extraction. The study details the process of capturing high-detail images with specialized equipment to build a digital phenotype library, preserving the morphological features of ancient beans for further study and future comparison with modern varieties.

The Application of Digital Construction Technology in the Process of Smart City Construction

Digital construction technology is essential to achieving high-quality construction in smart cities. This article introduces the application of digital construction technology in smart city construction from the background of smart cities, such as 3D modeling technology, digital twin technology, and artificial intelligence technology. This article conducts qualitative research through literature analysis, exploring the application process, significance, and value of digital construction technology in the process of smart city construction, then discussing its current situation and shortcomings and proposing suggestions. Digital construction technology has been extensively utilized in various fields such as intelligent manufacturing and smart cities and has been introduced into the construction industry. However, model accuracy, data effectiveness, real-time interaction, and comprehensiveness need to be improved, which cannot fulfill the requirements of deep-level applications. In the future, cities will further promote the upgrading of infrastructure and software for digital construction technology, as well as the integration and innovation of AI technology and digital construction technology. Smart cities are anticipated to reach an advanced level of city intelligence and achieve sustainable, efficient, and people-oriented high-quality city development.

Ischemic Risks Induced by Larger Orthodontic Forces on Dental Pulp and Neuro-Vascular Bundle in Reduced Periodontium

Background/Objectives: There are few data about the ischemic risks induced by the large orthodontic forces during periodontal breakdown in dental pulp and neuro-vascular bundle (NVB) and none on the individual tissular stress distribution, despite their great importance for orthodontic treatment planning. Our aim was to assess, by a numerical analysis, the biomechanical behavior of dental pulp and the NVB during a simulated horizontal periodontal breakdown (1–8 mm), under 2–4 N of applied orthodontic forces and five movements (rotation, translation, tipping, intrusion, and extrusion). Additionally, the ischemic and degenerative-resorptive risks were assessed. Methods: The analysis involved 72 3D models of nine patients, totaling 720 simulations. The models were CBCT-based, having the second lower premolar and surrounding periodontium, and they suffered 1 mm of gradual horizontal periodontal breakdown (up to 8 mm loss). Results: Both forces displayed a similar qualitative stress distribution in all five movements, but with a quantitative increase (doubling of stress amounts for 4 N when compared with 2 N). The highest amounts of stress were displayed at 8 mm of periodontal loss, which is lower than the 16 KPa of the maximum hydrostatic pressure. The NVB stress was higher than the pulpal stress. Rotation was the most stressful, closely followed by tipping, intrusion, and extrusion. Conclusions: A total of 4 N of applied force seems to not induce any ischemic or degenerative-resorptive risks for healthy intact teeth, in up to 8 mm of periodontal breakdown. Intrusion and extrusion determined the highest visible tissular deformation in the NVB, with potential ischemic and resorptive-generative risks for previously traumatized/injured teeth (i.e., occlusal trauma). Rotation and translation (in particular) showed the highest coronal and radicular pulpal stress with potential ischemic and resorptive-generative risks for previously injured/traumatized dental pulp (i.e., direct-indirect pulp capping). It seems that 4 mm of periodontal breakdown could signal a clinical stress increase with potential ischemic and degenerative-resorptive risks for the previously traumatized/injured tissues.

Investigation of the nature of the wind interaction in HD 93205 based on multi-epoch X-ray observations

The study of the X-ray emission from massive binaries constitutes a relevant approach to investigate shock physics. The case of short period binaries may turn out to be quite challenging, especially in very asymmetric systems where the primary wind may overwhelm that of the secondary in the wind interaction. Our objective consists in providing an observational diagnostic of the X-ray behavior of HD\,93205, which is a very good candidate with which to investigate these aspects. We analyzed 31 epochs of XMM-Newton X-ray data spanning about two decades to investigate its spectral and timing behavior. The X-ray spectrum is very soft along the full orbit, with a luminosity exclusively from the wind interaction region in the range of 2.3 -- 5.4\,times $. The light curve peaks close to periastron, with a rather wide pre-periastron low state coincident with the secondary's body hiding a part of the X-ray emitting region close to its surface. We determined a variability timescale of 6.0807\,pm \,0.0013\,d, in full agreement with the orbital period. Making use of a one-dimensional approach to deal with mutual radiative effects, our results point to a very likely hybrid wind interaction, with a wind photosphere occurring along most of the orbit, while a brief episode of wind-wind interaction may still develop close to apastron. Besides mutual radiative effects, the radiative nature of the shock that leads to some additional pre-shock obliquity of the primary wind flow certainly explains the very soft emission. HD\,93205 constitutes a relevant target to investigate shock physics in short period, asymmetric massive binary systems, where various mutual radiative effects and radiative shocks concur to display an instructive soft X-ray behavior. HD\,93205 should be considered as a valid, though challenging target for future three-dimensional modeling initiatives.

Dynamic Simulation Model of Miniature Tracked Forestry Tractor for Overturning and Rollover Safety Evaluation

This study proposes a method to construct a dynamic simulation model to implement the lateral overturning and backward rollover characteristics of an actual tractor. Based on theoretical analysis, factors affecting these characteristics are identified, which include tractor weight, track width, wheelbase, location of mass center, weight distribution, heights of front and rear axles, and geometric shapes. The location of the mass center of the actual tractor is measured based on the standard test procedure set by the International Organization for Standardization, and the remaining influencing factors are derived through measurements. A three-dimensional (3D) model of the tractor is constructed to reflect all these factors. Additionally, a simulation model utilizing this 3D model is developed using a commercial dynamic simulation software program. The ability of the model to simulate the overturning and rollover characteristics of the actual tractor is verified by comparing the static sidelong falling angle and minimum turning radius with those of the actual tractor. The errors between the characteristics of the actual tractor and those of the 3D model and dynamic simulations are shown to be less than 5%, thus indicating that the proposed method can effectively simulate the overturning and rollover characteristics of the actual tractor.

A novel approach to engineering three-dimensional bladder tumor models for drug testing.

Bladder cancer (BCa) poses a significant health challenge, particularly affecting men with higher incidence and mortality rates. Addressing the need for improved predictive models in BCa treatment, this study introduces an innovative 3D in vitro patient-derived bladder cancer tumor model, utilizing decellularized pig bladders as scaffolds. Traditional 2D cell cultures, insufficient in replicating tumor microenvironments, have driven the development of sophisticated 3D models. The study successfully achieved pig bladder decellularization through multiple cycles of immersion in salt solutions, resulting in notable macroscopic and histological changes. This process confirmed the removal of cellular components while preserving the native extracellular matrix (ECM). Quantitative analysis demonstrated the efficacy of decellularization, with a remarkable reduction in DNA concentration, signifying the removal of over 95% of cellular material. In the development of the in vitro bladder cancer model, muscle invasive bladder cancer patients' cells were cultured within decellularized pig bladders, yielding a three-dimensional cancer model. Optimal results were attained using an air-liquid interface technique, with cells injected directly into the scaffold at three distinct time points. Histological evaluations showcased characteristics resembling in vivo tumors derived from bladder cancer patients' cells. To demonstrate the 3D cancer model's effectiveness as a drug screening platform, the study treated it with Cisplatin (Cis), Gemcitabine (Gem), and a combination of both drugs. Comprehensive cell viability assays and histological analyses illustrated changes in cell survival and proliferation. The model exhibited promising correlations with clinical outcomes, boasting an 83.3% reliability rate in predicting treatment responses. Comparison with traditional 2D cultures and spheroids underscored the 3D model's superiority in reliability, with an 83.3% predictive capacity compared to 50% for spheroids and 33.3% for 2D culture. Acknowledging limitations, such as the absence of immune and stromal components, the study suggests avenues for future improvements. In conclusion, this innovative 3D bladder cancer model, combining decellularization and patient-derived cells, marks a significant advancement in preclinical drug testing. Its potential for predicting treatment outcomes and capturing patient-specific responses opens new avenues for personalized medicine in bladder cancer therapeutics. Future refinements and validations with larger patient cohorts hold promise for revolutionizing BCa research and treatment strategies.

Improved visualisation of ACP-engineered osteoblastic spheroids: a comparative study of contrast-enhanced micro-CT and traditional imaging techniques

This study investigates osteoblastic cell spheroid cultivation methods, exploring flat-bottom, U-bottom, and rotary flask techniques with and without amorphous calcium phosphate (ACP) supplementation to replicate the 3D bone tissue microenvironment. ACP particles derived from eggshell waste exhibit enhanced osteogenic activity in 3D models. However, representative imaging of intricate 3D tissue-engineered constructs poses challenges in conventional imaging techniques due to notable scattering and absorption effects in light microscopy, and hence limited penetration depth. We investigated contrast-enhanced micro-CT as a methodological approach for comprehensive morphological 3D-analysis of thein-vitromodel and compared the technique with confocal laser scanning microscopy, scanning electron microscopy and classical histology. Phosphotungstic acid and iodine-based contrast agents were employed for micro-CT imaging in laboratory and synchrotron micro-CT imaging. Results revealed spheroid shape variations and structural integrity influenced by cultivation methods and ACP particles. The study underscores the advantage of 3D spheroid models over traditional 2D cultures in mimicking bone tissue architecture and cellular interactions, emphasising the growing demand for novel imaging techniques to visualise 3D tissue-engineered models. Contrast-enhanced micro-CT emerges as a promising non-invasive imaging method for tissue-engineered constructs containing ACP particles, offering insights into sample morphology, enabling virtual histology before further analysis.

Unbiased Method to Determine Articular Cartilage Thickness Using a Three-Dimensional Model Derived from Laser Scanning: Demonstration on the Distal Femur

Measuring articular cartilage thickness from 3D models developed from laser scans has the potential to offer high accuracy. However, this potential has not been fulfilled, since generating these models requires that the cartilage be removed, and previous methods of removal have led to systematic errors (i.e., bias) due to changes in the overall dimensions of the underlying bone. The objectives were to present a new method for removing articular cartilage, quantify the bias error, and demonstrate the method on the distal (i.e., 0° flexion) and posterior (i.e., 90° flexion) articular surfaces of example human femurs. The method consisted of creating a 3D articular cartilage model from high-accuracy (i.e., precision = 0.087 mm) laser scans before and after cartilage removal using dermestid beetles to remove the cartilage. Fiducial markers were used to minimize errors in registering surfaces generated from the two laser scans. To demonstrate the method, the cartilage thickness was computed in distal and posterior subregions of each femoral condyle for three example cadaveric specimens. The use of dermestid beetles did not introduce measurable bias, and the previously reported precision achieved in 3D cartilage models with the laser scanner was 0.13 mm. For the different subregions, the cartilage thickness ranged from 1.5 mm to 2.0 mm. A method of imaging by means of laser scanning, cartilage removal by means of dermestid beetles, and 3D model registration by means of fiducial markers ensured that cartilage thickness on the articular surface of the long bones of the knee was determined with negligible bias and a precision of 0.13 mm. With this method, the potential to measure cartilage thickness with high accuracy based on 3D models developed from laser scans can be fully realized.

A multimodal in vitro approach to assess the safety of oral care products using 2D and 3D cellular models

IntroductionPeriodontitis, affecting approximately 3.9 billion individuals globally, significantly impacts quality of life and has raised interest in its potential systemic effects. Sodium perborate, a common component in oral care products for biofilm control, is widely used, though concerns about its safety persist. This study aimed to evaluate the in vitro toxicity of six commercial oral care products and varying concentrations of sodium perborate, utilizing human gingival fibroblasts (HGF) and keratinocytes (HaCat) as cell models.MethodsExperiments were performed in both 2D monolayer and 3D cultures using MTT and electrical impedance assays, adhering to the manufacturer’s recommended exposure time of 30–60 s for product testing. For the reconstructed epidermis model, a prolonged exposure time of 42 min was applied, following the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) Test Guideline 439.ResultsResults indicated that all products and sodium perborate at 1 mg/mL were cytotoxic in monolayer cultures. However, at concentrations relevant to commercial formulations (0.06 mg/mL sodium perborate), no significant toxicity was observed. In contrast, the 3D culture models, including spheroids and reconstructed epidermis, exhibited minimal to no cytotoxic effects for the commercial products, with sodium perborate showing no significant toxicity below 0.1 mg/mL. The reconstructed epidermis model, used as surrogate for oral mucosa, further confirmed that the products were non-irritating, in compliance with OECD TG 439 standards.DiscussionThis study highlights the importance of considering exposure time, dosage, and cellular model when assessing the safety of oral care products. While 2D models are useful for preliminary screenings, 3D models provide a more physiologically relevant assessment, emphasizing the need for robust testing protocols to ensure product safety.

Inhibiting ADAM17 enhances the efficacy of olaparib in ovarian cancer spheroids

Acquired or de novo resistance to poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitors (PARPi) is a major challenge to ovarian cancer treatment. Therefore, strategies to overcome PARPi resistance are critical to improve prognosis. The purpose of this study is to evaluate whether inhibition of ADAM17 sensitizes ovarian cancer to treatment with olaparib, a PARPi, thereby bypassing resistance mechanisms and improving treatment response. Thus, we analyzed the effect of olaparib in combination with the ADAM17 inhibitor GW280264X in ovarian cancer using a 2D monolayer and a 3D spheroid model followed by a multicontent readout (viability, caspase activation and cytotoxicity). To emphasize the translational aspect of our work, we performed corresponding experiments on primary cells derived from ovarian cancer patients initially screened for their mutation status of the breast cancer gene (BRCA 1/2). In 2D, we observed a significant reduction in cell viability and a subsequent increase in apoptosis of the combined treatment (olaparib + GW280264X) compared with olaparib mono-treatment. The combined treatment allows a substantial dose reduction of olaparib rendering a strong synergistic effect. Using a 3D spheroid model from primary cells, we confirmed the 2D monoculture results and demonstrated not only increased caspase activity under the combined treatment but also a substantial gain in cytotoxicity compared to the mono-treatment. Our study proposes ADAM17 inhibition sensitizing ovarian cancer to olaparib treatment and improving treatment response.

Accuracy of Three-Dimensional Neo Left Ventricular Outflow Tract Simulations With Transcatheter Mitral Valve Replacement in Different Mitral Phenotypes.

Transcatheter mitral valve replacement (TMVR) is emerging in the context of annular calcification (valve-in-MAC; ViMAC), failing surgical mitral annuloplasty (mitral-valve-in-ring; MViR) and failing mitral bioprosthesis (mitral-valve-in-valve; MViV). A notorious risk of TMVR is neo left ventricular outflow tract (neo-LVOT) obstruction. Three-dimensional computational models (3DCM) are derived from multi-slice computed tomography (MSCT) and aim to predict neo-LVOT area after TMVR. Little is known about the accuracy of these neo-LVOT predictions for various mitral phenotypes. Preprocedural 3DCMs were created for ViMAC, MViR and MViV cases. Throughout the cardiac cycle, neo-LVOT dimensions were semi-automatically calculated on the 3DCMs. We compared the predicted neo-LVOT area on the preprocedural 3DCM with the actual neo-LVOT as measured on the post-procedural MSCT. Across 12 TMVR cases and examining 20%-70% of the cardiac phase, the mean difference between predicted and post-TMVR neo-LVOT area was -23 ± 28 mm2 for MViR, -21 ± 34 mm2 for MViV and -73 ± 61 mm2 for ViMAC. The mean intra-class correlation coefficient for absolute agreement between predicted and post-procedural neo-LVOT area (throughout the whole cardiac cycle) was 0.89 (95% CI 0.82-0.94, p < 0.001) for MViR, 0.81 (95% CI 0.62-0.89, p < 0.001) for MViV, and 0.41 (95% CI 0.12-0.58, p = 0.002) for ViMAC. Three-dimensional computational models accurately predict neo-LVOT dimensions post TMVR in MViR and MViV but not in ViMAC. Further research should incorporate device host interactions and the effect of changing hemodynamics in these simulations to enhance accuracy in all mitral phenotypes.

Adaptive Granularity-Fused Keypoint Detection for 6D Pose Estimation of Space Targets

Estimating the 6D pose of a space target is an intricate task due to factors such as occlusions, changes in visual appearance, and background clutter. Accurate pose determination requires robust algorithms capable of handling these complexities while maintaining reliability under various environmental conditions. Conventional pose estimation for space targets unfolds in two stages: establishing 2D–3D correspondences using keypoint detection networks and 3D models, followed by pose estimation via the perspective-n-point algorithm. The accuracy of this process hinges critically on the initial keypoint detection, which is currently limited by predominantly singular-scale detection techniques and fails to exploit sufficient information. To tackle the aforementioned challenges, we propose an adaptive dual-stream aggregation network (ADSAN), which enables the learning of finer local representations and the acquisition of abundant spatial and semantic information by merging features from both inter-layer and intra-layer perspectives through a multi-grained approach, consolidating features within individual layers and amplifying the interaction of distinct resolution features between layers. Furthermore, our ADSAN implements the selective keypoint focus module (SKFM) algorithm to alleviate problems caused by partial occlusions and viewpoint alterations. This mechanism places greater emphasis on the most challenging keypoints, ensuring the network prioritizes and optimizes its learning around these critical points. Benefiting from the finer and more robust information of space objects extracted by the ADSAN and SKFM, our method surpasses the SOTA method PoET (5.8°, 8.1°/0.0351%, 0.0744%) by 0.5°, 0.9°, and 0.0084%, 0.0354%, achieving 5.3°, 7.2° in rotation angle errors and 0.0267%, 0.0390% in normalized translation errors on the Speed and SwissCube datasets, respectively.

Breakthrough and Challenging Application: Mixed Reality-Assisted Intracardiac Surgery

Background: While several studies investigate the utility and clinical value of 3D printing in aiding diagnosis, medical education, preoperative planning, and intraoperative guidance of surgical interventions, there is a scarcity of literature regarding concrete applications of mixed reality in the cardiovascular domain due to its nascent stage of study and expansion. This study goes beyond a mere three-dimensional visualization of the cardiac district, aiming to visualize the intracardiac structures within the scope of preoperative planning for cardiac surgery. Methods: The segmentation of the heart was performed through an open-source and a professional software and by applying different procedures. Each anatomical component of the heart, including the aortic valve, was accurately segmented and a 3D model was built to represent the entire heart. Results: Beyond the three-dimensional visualization of the cardiac region, the intracardiac structures were also segmented. A mixed-reality app was implemented with the possibility of exploding the model, interacting with it, and freely sectioning it with a plane. Conclusions: The proposed segmentation methodology allows a segmentation of the valve and the intracardiac structures. Furthermore, the mixed-reality app has confirmed the potential of this technology in diagnostic and preoperative planning, although some limitations should still be overcome.

Bioengineering the Junctional Epithelium in 3D Oral Mucosa Models

Two-dimensional (2D) culture models and animal experiments have been widely used to study the pathogenesis of periodontal and peri-implant diseases and to test new treatment approaches. However, neither of them can reproduce the complexity of human periodontal tissues, making the development of a successful 3D oral mucosal model a necessity. The soft-tissue attachment formed around a tooth or an implant function like a biologic seal, protecting the deeper tissues from bacterial infection. The aim of this review is to explore the advancements made so far in the biofabrication of a junctional epithelium around a tooth-like or an implant insert in vitro. This review focuses on the origin of cells and the variety of extracellular components and biomaterials that have been used for the biofabrication of 3D oral mucosa models. The existing 3D models recapitulate soft-tissue attachment around implant abutments and hydroxyapatite discs. Hereby, the qualitative and quantitative assessments performed for evidencing the soft-tissue attachment are critically reviewed. In perspective, the design of sophisticated 3D models should work together for oral immunology and microbiology biofilms to accurately reproduce periodontal and peri-implant diseases.

Methodology for 3D Management of University Faculties Using Integrated GIS and BIM Models: A Case Study

Three-dimensional virtual modeling is one of the tools being rapidly implemented in the construction industry, leading to the need for strategies based on intelligent 3D models of cities and/or digital twins, which allow simulation by interacting with their real physical counterparts, anticipating the outcomes of decision making. In practice, problems arise when creating and managing these twins, as different data, models, technology, and tools must be used, and they cannot all be combined as desired due to certain incompatibilities. On the other hand, today’s traditional building management demands a more optimized process to prevent errors and enable timely reactions to failures and defects. Managing and using a large amount of complex and disparate data are required, which is why the use of CMMS-type software is common (Computerized Maintenance Management System). However, such software is rarely designed for management in a 3D format, often due to the absence of three-dimensional models of the assets. This research aims to contribute to the technological development of the digitalization of the built environment, providing a simple methodology for generating and managing 3D models of cities. To achieve this, the tools and information useful for generating an integrated GIS 3D and BIM model, and for Computer-Aided Maintenance Management in a three-dimensional format (CMMS-3D), are identified. The final model obtained is used to optimize the three-dimensional management of a classroom building on the “Campus de Las Llamas” at the University of Cantabria in Spain. The results demonstrate that it is possible to integrate digital models with simple linking mechanisms between the existing tools, thus achieving an optimal three-dimensional management model.

Novel hook plate for radial semilunar lip facet fragment fixation: a finite element analysis

Intra-articular fractures of the distal radius require anatomical reduction and stable fixation. When the fracture encompasses the articular facet of the bone, maintaining the reduction is challenging due to the fragment’s size and high instability. While specific implants have been developed to fix this fragment, their effectives have been limited. This study evaluates the mechanical performance of a novel hook plate conceived to stabilize the small fragment of the semilunar facet of the radius in non-osteoporotic bones. A simulated lunate facet fracture was created in an adult radius in a virtual model, and a modification of a hook plate was developed using computer-aided design (CAD). Two groups were established for the finite element method (FEM) simulation: a control group (standard plate Medartis™ (Switzerland, A-5500.23) and an angled plate with hooks set at 60º, 90º and 120º. In the FEM simulation, an axial load of 100 N was applied in the Z-axis direction on the fragment. Fracture displacement along the Z axis was more pronounced in the control model (0.32 mm) and less in the angled models, ranging from 0.22 to 0.28 mm. Notably, the plate with a 90° angle showed a more effective reduction in fragment displacement. The distribution of stresses in the system showed the highest levels of stress in the control group (59.31 MPa), followed by the subgroup with a 60° angle (55.78 MPa).In the side view, the control model showed a higher concentration of stresses (59.74 MPa), while the model with a 90° angle showed a lower value of stresses (18.87 MPa). Critical stress regions were identified in the bolts of the control and 120° models (59.47 MPa and 57.64 MPa, respectively). However, in the 90° model, no critical regions were observed in the bolts, which showed lower stress values, reaching 26.33 MPa. In the bone, the greatest concentration of stress occurred in the region where the plate was anchored. Our results showed that the 90° hook plate had a superior mechanical performance in fixing simulate lunate facet fractures at the distal radius. This angle led to minor displacements and minimized stress concentrations in the hardware, thus contributing to enhance the stability of this specific fracture.

Comparison of the safety of flexible ureteroscopy with the different irrigation methods in a 3D print kidney model.

To compare intrarenal pressure (IRP) and irrigation flow by varying suspended water heights and hand-held pressure pumping during flexible ureteroscopy using an in vitro 3D printed kidney model. A 3D-printed silicone model was used to simulate the kidney. The ureteral access sheath(UAS) was connected to the kidney model and positioned at the ureteropelvic junction. Central venous pressure tubing was used to monitor the pressure in the renal pelvis under different conditions. Sheath sizes of 12Fr and 14Fr were tested with flexible ureteroscope (fURS) sizes of 7.5, 8.5, and 9.5Fr, respectively. The irrigation was gravity-based, with suspended water heights set at 60, 90, 120, 150, and 180cm. The manual pumping as another set of measurement is used to measure the maximum intrarenal pressure. Using a 12Fr sheath with a 9.5Fr fURS loading without additional accessories resulted in IRP ranging from 8.4 to 17.5 cmH2O, while manual pumping perfusion pressure exceeded 60 cmH2O. Loading a 200-um laser fiber reduced the pressure to 6.4-10.5 cmH2O, and using a stone basket decreased it to 4.0-5.0 cmH2O. Using a 14Fr sheath with a 9.5Fr fURS resulted in an IRP of 2.5-6.0 cmH2O, compared to 17 cmH2O with manual pumping. With a 12Fr sheath and a 7.5Fr fURS, the IRP ranged from 5.4 to 8.2 cmH2O, while manual pumping resulted in 25.5 cmH2O. With a 14Fr sheath and a 7.5Fr fURS, the IRP ranged from 1.5 to 4.3 cmH2O, and manual pumping resulted in 9.0 cmH2O. When using a UAS in a flexible ureteroscopy, the IRP can be maintained within a safe range with different fURS/UAS combos with a suspended water height of less than 180cm. However, with specific fURS/UAS(9.5Fr/12Fr) combos, the IRP exceeded the safe limit when using manual pumping. Gravity irrigation with a suspended water height of less than 180cm is safe in this simulated clinical environment.