Biometric Evaluation Research Articles

Development of Speech Recognition in Wireless Mobile Networks for An Intelligent Learning System in Language Education

Communication has been crucial to human existence, society, and globalization for millennia. Speech Recognition (SR) technologies include biometric evaluation, security, safety, medical care, and smart cities. Most research has primarily focused on English; others neglect other lower-asset dialects like Uzbek, neglecting its research unaddressed. This study examines the efficacy of peer and ASR response in wireless mobile networks-assisted pronouncing training. This study proposes a Deep Neural Network (DNN) and Hidden Markov Method (HMM) based ASR model to develop a voice recognition system utilizing a combination of Connected Time-based Categorization (CTC)-attending networks for the Uzbek words and their variants. The suggested method diminishes training duration and enhances SR precision by efficiently employing the CTC goal function in attentiveness modeling. The research assessed the results of both linguistic experts and native speakers on the Uzbek database, which was compiled for this research. The data were gathered through a pronunciation assessment and a discussion. The participant was further instructed in the classroom. Test outcomes indicate that the suggested method attained a word error rate of 13.1%, utilizing 210 hours of records as a learning dataset for the Uzbek dialect. The proposed technique can significantly enhance students' pronunciation qualities. It might inspire pupils to participate in pronunciation learning.

Optimizing axial length measurement success in advanced cataract patients through pupil dilation.

To evaluate the impact of pharmacologic pupil dilation on axial length (AL) measurement in patients with dense cataracts and previous failed AL measurements carried out without pupil dilation. Retrospective case series. All participants underwent swept-source optical coherence tomography (SS-OCT) biometry. Patients with unsuccessful AL measurements due to dense cataract underwent an additional SS-OCT biometric evaluation after pupil dilation, and the SS-OCT AL measurement was compared to the immersion ultrasound. The study included 3668 eyes of 3668 patients who underwent SS-OCT between October 2021 and March 2023. Of them, 102 eyes (2.8%) had failed AL measurements because of dense cataract. Eighty-seven of those 102 eyes underwent a repeat SS-OCT biometric exam following pharmacologic pupil dilation, after which AL measurements were successfully achieved in 27 (31.0%) of the 87 eyes. These measurements were found to be consistent with immersion ultrasound, supporting the validity of SS-OCT biometer measurements post dilation. Pharmacologic pupil dilation improved the rate of successful SS-OCT biometrically measured AL in patients with failed AL measurement due to dense cataract.

Prevalence and prediction of intraoperative floppy iris syndrome in patients with pseudoexfoliation syndrome

ObjectiveTo investigate the incidence of intraoperative floppy iris syndrome (IFIS) in patients with pseudoexfoliation syndrome (PXF) and analyze preoperative ocular predicting factors. DesignA retrospective case-control study MethodsThe study included 224 eyes with PXF and 287 control eyes without PXF. One eye per patient, who underwent cataract surgery at the Wolfson Medical Center between January 2020 to December 2021, was included. Medical records of the patients were reviewed. Data collected included demographic characteristics, medical history, preoperative comprehensive ophthalmic examination, biometry, surgical procedure details, and IFIS occurrence. The association of IFIS with preoperative ocular parameters was analyzed through both univariant and multivariant analyses. ResultsPatients with PXF were older and had a higher prevalence of glaucoma (77.6 ± 6.4 years vs 74.2±7.6 years; p < 0.001, and 20.1 % vs 9.8 %, p < 0.001, respectively). Prevalence of α-blockers treatment was similar in both groups. IFIS rate among the PXF group was 12.5% (n = 28) compared to 7.3% (n = 21) in the control group (p < 0.05). When omitting patients exposed to α-blockers, the PXF group exhibited a significantly higher IFIS rate (9.9% vs 4.8%; p < 0.05). Pupil dilation diameter was significantly lower among PXF patients (5.8 ± 1.1 mm vs 6.9 ± 0.99 mm; p < 0.001). Biometric evaluation revealed significant differences in anterior segment depth (ACD) and lens thickness (LT). Multivariate analysis indicated that PXF and decreased mydriatic pupil size remained significant predictors of IFIS. ConclusionThis study establishes an association between PXF and an increased risk of IFIS during cataract surgery, independent of α-blockers treatment.

Biometric analysis of Palmer mangoes

damages, resulting in a substantial waste of approximately 30% of the production. Among widely marketed varieties, the 'Palmer' cultivar stands out due to its flavor and coloration. The efficiency in the transportation and storage of these fruits is intricately linked to various attributes, especially their physical characteristics. In this context, the present study conducted a biometric evaluation of 145 'Palmer' mangoes harvested in Coxim, Mato Grosso do Sul. Parameters such as weight, length, width, and thickness of the fruits were analyzed using a semi-analytical balance and caliper. The results revealed that the mangoes produced in Coxim weigh around 396 g, with a length of 13 cm, width of 8 cm, and thickness of 7.5 cm. These measurements are smaller than the commercially marketed fruits of the same variety but larger than those of the Espada, Rosa, and Van Dyke varieties. Additionally, all analyzed variables showed a positive correlation, indicating that as one variable increases, the others also increase. This underscores the importance of special care in handling fruits throughout the supply chain, given their density of 0.534 g/cm³ and extensive contact area. These findings emphasize the pressing need for improvements in packaging, transportation, and storage processes to reduce losses and waste, thereby contributing to a more efficient and sustainable management in the mango supply chain.

Customizable Presentation Attack Detection for Improved Resilience of Biometric Applications Using Near-Infrared Skin Detection.

Due to their user-friendliness and reliability, biometric systems have taken a central role in everyday digital identity management for all kinds of private, financial and governmental applications with increasing security requirements. A central security aspect of unsupervised biometric authentication systems is the presentation attack detection (PAD) mechanism, which defines the robustness to fake or altered biometric features. Artifacts like photos, artificial fingers, face masks and fake iris contact lenses are a general security threat for all biometric modalities. The Biometric Evaluation Center of the Institute of Safety and Security Research (ISF) at the University of Applied Sciences Bonn-Rhein-Sieg has specialized in the development of a near-infrared (NIR)-based contact-less detection technology that can distinguish between human skin and most artifact materials. This technology is highly adaptable and has already been successfully integrated into fingerprint scanners, face recognition devices and hand vein scanners. In this work, we introduce a cutting-edge, miniaturized near-infrared presentation attack detection (NIR-PAD) device. It includes an innovative signal processing chain and an integrated distance measurement feature to boost both reliability and resilience. We detail the device's modular configuration and conceptual decisions, highlighting its suitability as a versatile platform for sensor fusion and seamless integration into future biometric systems. This paper elucidates the technological foundations and conceptual framework of the NIR-PAD reference platform, alongside an exploration of its potential applications and prospective enhancements.

Computed tomography-based evaluation of skull measurements and eye biometrics in brachycephalic vs. non-brachycephalic cats

Computed tomography-based evaluation of skull measurements and eye biometrics in brachycephalic vs. non-brachycephalic cats

Biostimulants promoting growth of Vicia faba L. seedlings: inulin coated ZnO nanoparticles

In the present contribution, inulin coated ZnO nanoparticles (ZnO@inu NPs) were investigated for their potential application on crop production systems, by appraisal of their biostimulating effects on Vicia faba L (faba bean). Naked and coated ZnO NPs were synthesized according to purposely implemented eco-friendly protocols and characterized with multiple techniques to determine their crystallographic phase, average particle size, and degree of coating. Faba beans were grown in culture medium supplemented with NPs at 50 or 100 mg kg−1, using ZnO NPs alone, inulin alone, a mixture of the two, or ZnO@inu NPs. Seed germination rate and biometric evaluations on seedlings were carried out, together with Zn localization in the plant tissues. Cellular and molecular effects were ascertained by analyses of photosynthetic pigments, cytotoxicity, genotoxicity, viability, induction of oxidative stress and tissue damage, antioxidant response, and modulation of gene expression. These combined studies indicated a potential role of ZnO@inu NPs in promoting growth and development of V. faba seedlings, acting at a post-germinative phase, probably by stimulating the stem cell mitosis. Finally, inulin as a coating agent for the ZnO NPs favored the bioavailability and adsorption of the nanomaterials into the plant tissues, without altering their bioactivity but mitigating any adverse side effect.Graphical

Canavalia ensiformis enhances the phytoremediation of remineralized and sulfentrazone-contaminated tropical soils

The objective of the study was to assess the phytoremediation potential in two remineralized soils contaminated with sulfentrazone. Two soil types were evaluated: Oxisol (clayey) and Inceptisol (sandy loam), in pots, with and without the incorporation of the rock powder, at rates of 0, 4, and 8 t ha−1. Following this, sulfentrazone was applied at rates of 200, 400, 600, and 800 g a. i. ha−1, in addition to the control treatment without herbicide application, followed by the sowing of Canavalia ensiformis (jack bean). Injury level (IL) was assessed at 42 days after emergence (DAE), and biometric evaluations of the phytoremediating species were conducted at 70 and 120 DAE in the Oxisol and Inceptisol, respectively, for the following variables: height (HT), diameter (DM), trifoliate leaf number (TN), leaf area (LA), above-ground dry biomass (DB), and root dry biomass (RDB). At the end of the phytoremediation experiment, the soils were analyzed using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and with Sorghum bicolor (sorghum) as a bioindicator to verify the residue of sulfentrazone. IL and DB assessments of the bioindicator species were conducted at 21 DAE. In both soils, higher herbicide rates (600 and 800 g a. i. ha−1) resulted in greater IL and reduced HT, LA, DB, and RDB of the phytoremediating species. C. ensiformis reduced the sulfentrazone residues in the soils. Although it did not directly influence phytoremediation, the rock powder improved soil fertility. In conclusion, C. ensiformis has the potential for effective phytoremediation of soils contaminated with sulfentrazone, providing safety for cultivating sensitive crops and benefiting the environment.

Integrated Thermal Rehabilitation Care: An Intervention Study.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of integrated thermal rehabilitation care (ITRC) on postural balance and health-related quality of life in subjects with basic autonomy. From June to December 2021, a total of 50 individuals with six points on the Katz Index of Independence in Activities of Daily Living (ADL) and a mean age of 66 (DS ± 12), comprising 27 (54%) males and 23 (46%) females, were selected. This study was carried out at the Thermal Medical Center of Castelnuovo della Daunia (Foggia, Italy), which operates within the National Health Service. The outcome measures were baropodometry (static exam, dynamic exam, and stabilometric exam), a biometric evaluation system, and the EuroQol 5-Dimension (EQ-5D-5L). Statistical analysis of the data showed how balance affected postural control and how ITRC was able to reduce the body's imbalance and improve quality of life. The vertical angles in frontal projection displayed an increment in the values (head/shoulder, p = 0.009; head/pelvis, p = 0.001; right hip/knee, p = 0.01; right hip/ankle, p = 0.008). In a dynamic analysis, the podalic weight percentage was shown to have a reduction in imbalance on both sides (left side, p = 0.01; right side, p = 0. 01). EQ-5D-5L showed a statistically significant improvement in quality of life and perception of quality of life. Indeed, the health status score improved in all items and in the total rate of the EQ index. In all subjects, walking motility (p = 0.005), self-care (p = 0.002), and habitual activity (p = 0.002) showed statistically significant increments in their values. Pain/discomfort (p = 0.001) and anxiety (p = 0.006) were also reduced. In addition, there was a statistically significant increment in the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) score (p = 0.001) for life perception. The ITRC approach showed how small adjustments and postural rebalancing led to a significant improvement in quality of life. ITRC can be considered an effective treatment with good tolerability for a variety of musculoskeletal disorders.

Potential of green manure in the phytoremediation of the herbicide indaziflam after different times of application

The identification of species that promote phytoremediation of herbicides is of great relevance to reduce the impact of these products on the environment. This study aims to evaluate the efficiency of plant species in the phytoremediation of the indaziflam herbicide. The phytoremediation potential for indaziflam of 15 species of green manure was evaluated at different sowing times of the Phaseolus vulgaris (bioindicator), after the herbicide application. P. vulgaris was sown after the removal of the aerial part of the selected green manure. The experiment was conducted in a greenhouse, and each green manure species was evaluated separately in a completely randomized design, with four replications. The treatments were arranged in a 3 x 5 factorial layout, consisting of three doses of indaziflam (0, 75 and 100g a.i. ha-¹) and five sowing times (5, 30, 60, 90 and 120 days after the herbicide application). According to the phytotoxicity and biometric evaluations of green manure, the potential species for the phytoremediation of the indaziflam were selected. The results showed that, apart from the species Lupinus albus, Canavalis ensiformis and Mucuna cinerea, the other green manure evaluated were highly susceptible to the herbicide indaziflam. However, although these potential species presented less control by indaziflam, none of them were effective in their soil phytoremediation. The bioindicator showed high phytotoxicity and reduction of dry mass due to the herbicide, regardless of the green manure sowing season on both doses of indaziflam. As a phytoremediator, none of the green manure species were effective for indaziflam even after 120 days of the herbicide application.

Privacy-preserving continuous authentication using behavioral biometrics

Continuous authentication modalities collect and utilize users’ sensitive data to authenticate them continuously. Such data contain information about user activities, behaviors, and other demographic information, which causes privacy concerns. In this paper, we propose two privacy-preserving protocols that enable continuous authentication while preventing the disclosure of user-sensitive information to an authentication server. We utilize homomorphic cryptographic primitives that protect the privacy of biometric features with an oblivious transfer protocol that enables privacy-preserving information retrieval. We performed the biometric evaluation of the proposed protocols on two datasets, a swipe gesture dataset and a keystroke dynamics dataset. The biometric evaluation shows that the protocols have very good performance. The execution time of the protocols is measured by considering continuous authentication using: only swipe gestures, keystroke dynamics, and hybrid modalities. The execution time proves the protocols are very efficient, even on high-security levels.

Prospective analysis of anatomic features predisposing patients to intraoperative floppy iris syndrome.

To aid preoperative risk assessment by identifying anatomic parameters corresponding with a higher risk of intraoperative floppy iris syndrome (IFIS) during cataract surgery. Prospective cohort study of 55 patients with α1-adrenergic receptor antagonist (α1-ARA) treatment and 55 controls undergoing cataract surgery. Anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT), video pupilometer, and biometry measurements were performed preoperatively and analyzed regarding anatomic parameters that corresponded with a higher rate of IFIS. Those statistically significant parameters were evaluated with logistic regression analysis and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. Pupil diameter was significantly smaller in patients who developed IFIS compared to those who did not develop IFIS (AS-OCT 3.29 ± 0.85 vs. 3.63 ± 0.68, p = 0.03; Pupilometer 3.56 ± 0,87 vs. 3.95 ± 0.67, p = 0.02). Biometric evaluation revealed shallower anterior chambers in the IFIS group (ACD 3.12 ± 0.40 vs. 3.32 ± 0.42, p = 0.02). Cutoff values for 50% IFIS probability (p = 0.5) were PD = 3.18mm for pupil diameter and ACD = 2.93mm for anterior chamber depth. ROC curves of combined parameters were calculated for α1-ARA medication with pupil diameter and anterior chamber depth, which yielded an AUC of 0.75 for all IFIS grades. The combination of biometric parameters with history of α1-ARA medication can improve assessment of risk stratification for IFIS incidence during cataract surgery.

Isotopic turnover of carbon δ13C and nitrogen δ15N in the muscle tissue of tambaqui Colossoma macropomum juveniles fed diets containing different levels of digestible protein

The technique that uses natural stable isotopes rises as a safe alternative to evaluate the deposition of potential food constituents’ elements. Diets with distinct isotopic signatures can be used to measure turnover rates in all animal tissues, improving knowledge of metabolic processes in fish nutrition. The aim of the study was to evaluate the growth and turnover of stable isotopes of carbon and nitrogen in the muscle tissue of tambaqui juveniles fed diets containing different levels of digestible protein. A total of 1750 tambaquis were used (weight 6.53 ± 0.43 g and length 7.58 ± 0.18 cm) and distributed in 35 tanks (450 L), with a density of 50 fish per tank. Seven isoenergetic (3378.4 cal g−1) experimental diets were formulated with digestible protein (DP) levels of 14%, 17%, 20%, 23%, 26%, 29% and 32%. During 120 days of experiment, the animals grew over time in all treatments (P < 0.05); and in the evaluated periods, the protein levels of 29% and 32% stood out from the first biometric evaluations, at 30 days, with similar weight averages (P > 0.05) and higher than the averages in the other treatments (P < 0.05). The speed of isotopic changes in muscle tissue was influenced by the characteristics of the diets, and the rates of carbon and nitrogen turnover were more accelerated the higher the protein level. The trial period of 120 days was sufficient for the fish to reflect the isotopic composition of the diets in all treatments (P < 0.05). However, the isotopic contribution of the diet to the tissue as a function of time was different, with indices that reached about 96–97% in 49–63 days of feeding for the diets of 29% and 32% DP and indices of 81–82% for diets of 14% and 17% DP in the same period. The isotopic data analyzed by exponential equations and exploratory analysis showed the formation of three groups with homogeneous characteristics in response to the effects of protein levels: a grouping of diets with 14%, 17% and 20% DP (P > 0.05); another with intermediate levels (23% and 26%); and a third with the highest levels (29% and 32%). Thus, the diet containing 29% of digestible protein proved to be the most attractive for the productive performance of tambaqui juveniles in the growth phase studied.

IMI-Management and Investigation of High Myopia in Infants and Young Children.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the epidemiology, etiology, clinical assessment, investigation, management, and visual consequences of high myopia (≤-6 diopters [D]) in infants and young children. High myopia is rare in pre-school children with a prevalence less than 1%. The etiology of myopia in such children is different than in older children, with a high rate of secondary myopia associated with prematurity or genetic causes. The priority following the diagnosis of high myopia in childhood is to determine whether there is an associated medical diagnosis that may be of greater overall importance to the health of the child through a clinical evaluation that targets the commonest features associated with syndromic forms of myopia. Biometric evaluation (including axial length and corneal curvature) is important to distinguishing axial myopia from refractive myopia associated with abnormal development of the anterior segment. Additional investigation includes ocular imaging, electrophysiological tests, genetic testing, and involvement of pediatricians and clinical geneticists is often warranted. Following investigation, optical correction is essential, but this may be more challenging and complex than in older children. Application of myopia control interventions in this group of children requires a case-by-case approach due to the lack of evidence of efficacy and clinical heterogeneity of high myopia in young children. High myopia in infants and young children is a rare condition with a different pattern of etiology to that seen in older children. The clinical management of such children, in terms of investigation, optical correction, and use of myopia control treatments, is a complex and often multidisciplinary process.

Biometric evaluation of Puntius sophore (Hamilton, 1822) from Eastern India

Biometric evaluation of Puntius sophore (Hamilton, 1822) from Eastern India

Biometric evaluation of the freshwater snail Pila globosa (Swainson, 1822) from the river Ganga in Bihar, India

Length-frequency distribution, morphometry, length-weight relationship, relative condition factor and sex ratio of the apple snail Pila globosa (Swainson, 1822) were studied from the river Ganga. A total of 922 specimens were collected during July 2020 to June 2021, ranging from 3.53 to 62.99 g and from 16.49 to 59.78 mm (shell length). Length-frequency distribution revealed that more than 50% of male and female specimens were within 35 to 45 mm in length and only few (1.58%) female specimens were observed in the higher length (&gt;55 mm). Females have significantly longer shells and are heavier than males. Shell length has the strongest correlation with shell width (r=0.974) and the least with penultimate whorl length (r=0.855). Length-weight relationship, indicated that the species has negative allometric growth (b&lt;3). The relative condition factor was 1.07 for males, 1.00 for females and 1.01 for pooled data. Sex ratio (M:F) statistically deviated from the hypothetical ratio of 1:1, indicating a heterogeneous snail population (1:1.9, p&lt;0.05). Keywords: Ganga River, Growth pattern, Shell morphology, Snail Sex ratio

Quantitative analysis of retinal microvascular structure and correlation with ocular parameters: A normative database of pediatric OCT angiography.

To analyze the vascular structure of the healthy pediatric population using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA), and to investigate its relationship with ocular parameters. This cross-sectional, prospective study included 142 eyes of 71 healthy subjects aged 8-18 years. All patients underwent a complete ocular assessment, biometric evaluation and OCTA analysis. Anterior chamber depth, axial length, corneal thickness values were also reported and their relationship with OCTA measurements was evaluated. There was no statistical difference between girls and boys in terms of demographic characteristics (p>0.05). Neither vascular density in the deep and superficial capillary plexus nor FAZ area was significantly related to the ocular parameters or age of any patient in the study. Despite the relatively small number of participants, this study may represent normative data for the Turkish pediatric population. It was also shown that vascular density and FAZ area in childhood are not affected by age, axis length, anterior chamber depth, cornea and foveal thickness.

A New Post-Processing Proposal for Improving Biometric Gait Recognition Using Wearable Devices.

In this work, a novel Window Score Fusion post-processing technique for biometric gait recognition is proposed and successfully tested. We show that the use of this technique allows recognition rates to be greatly improved, independently of the configuration for the previous stages of the system. For this, a strict biometric evaluation protocol has been followed, using a biometric database composed of data acquired from 38 subjects by means of a commercial smartwatch in two different sessions. A cross-session test (where training and testing data were acquired in different days) was performed. Following the state of the art, the proposal was tested with different configurations in the acquisition, pre-processing, feature extraction and classification stages, achieving improvements in all of the scenarios; improvements of 100% (0% error) were even reached in some cases. This shows the advantages of including the proposed technique, whatever the system.

Development and Characterization of Thermal Water Gel Comprising Helichrysum italicum Essential Oil-Loaded Chitosan Nanoparticles for Skin Care

Helichrysum italicum essential oil (H. italicum EO) is recognized for its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and wound-healing properties. The main goal of the present work was the development and characterization of a gel formulation comprising H. italicum EO loaded in chitosan nanoparticles (NPs) for dermatological applications. H. italicum EO-loaded chitosan NPs presented hydrodynamic diameter and PdI of about 300 nm and 0.28, respectively, and a surface charge of +19 mV. The H. italicum EO-loaded chitosan NPs were prepared by means of ionic gelation and then incorporated into a thermal water gel formulation. The organoleptic and physicochemical properties of the developed gel were studied. The gel remained stable under accelerated test conditions, maintaining pH, viscosity and organoleptic properties. In addition, the formulation presented pH, viscosity and spreadability properties suitable for topical application. Finally, the performance of the gel in topical application was evaluated on the skin of volunteers using non-invasive methods, particularly, by means of biometric evaluation. These assays showed that the properties of the developed thermal water-based gel formulation with H. italicum EO-loaded chitosan NPs can improve skin hydration and maintain healthy skin conditions, demonstrating its putative role for distinct dermatological applications.

Brycon hilarii produced in hapas: effects in allometric growth.

Biometric evaluations are essential to determine the growth characteristics related to the weight and length of fish. This study aimed to determine the growth patterns of juvenile piraputangas (Brycon hilarii) produced in hapas within an excavated pond. The piraputangas were anesthetized and micro-chipped and their biometric characteristics were measured. Subsequently, the fish were distributed in six hapas of eight m3 at the density of 20 fish/hapa, totaling 120 animals. During the experimental period six months, the fish were fed twice (5% of the biomass) a day. Every 30 days, all fish were sampled to measure the biometric characteristics of body weight (g); standard length; total length; head height; head length; body height and body width (cm). The calculations of the weight ratio with the biometric characteristics were determined using allometric equation and estimated by linear regression according to the equation log Y = log a + b log X. All tested relationships were significant by the Student t-test (p < 0.05). Allometric growth was positive for: weight x total length; standard weight x length; weight x head height; weight x head length and weight x body height. The relative condition factor of piraputangas observed in this study was 1.00. The study provided information on the allometric parameters of juvenile Brycon hilarii produced in hapas, and the relative condition factor indicated good growth conditions for piraputangas with positive allometric growth.