bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Advances in the Application of Bi-Based Compounds in Photocatalytic Reduction of CO2
Authors: Zuo Cheng , Su Qian , Jiang Zaiyong
Published: May 2023

Bi-based semiconductor materials have special layered structure and appropriate band gap, which endow them with excellent visible light response ability and stable photochemical characteristics. As a new type of environment-friendly photocatalyst, they have received extensive attention in the fields of environmental remediation and energy crisis resolution and have become a research hotspot in recent years. However, there are still some urgent issues that need to be addressed in the practical large-scale application of Bi-based photocatalysts, such as the high recombination rate of photogenerated carriers, limited response range to visible spectra, poor photocatalytic activity, and weak reduction ability. In this paper, the reaction conditions and mechanism of photocatalytic reduction of CO2 and the typical characteristics of Bi-based semiconductor materials are introduced. On this basis, the research progress and application results of Bi-based photocatalysts in the field of reducing CO2, including vacancy introduction, morphological control, heterojunction construction, and co-catalyst loading, are emphasized. Finally, the future prospects of Bi-based photocatalysts are prospected, and it is pointed out that future research directions should be focused on improving the selectivity and stability of catalysts, deeply exploring reaction mechanisms, and meeting industrial production requirements.
The Potential of Ginkgo biloba as a Source of Biologically Active Compounds—A Review of the Recent Literature and Patents
Authors: Biernacka Patrycja , Adamska Iwona , Felisiak Katarzyna
Published: May 2023

Ginkgo biloba is a relict tree species showing high resistance to adverse biotic and abiotic environmental factors. Its fruits and leaves have high medicinal value due to the presence of flavonoids, terpene trilactones and phenolic compounds. However, ginkgo seeds contain toxic and allergenic alkylphenols. The publication revises the latest research results (mainly from 2018–2022) regarding the chemical composition of extracts obtained from this plant and provides information on the use of extracts or their selected ingredients in medicine and food production. A very important section of the publication is the part in which the results of the review of patents concerning the use of Ginkgo biloba and its selected ingredients in food production are presented. Despite the constantly growing number of studies on its toxicity and interactions with synthetic drugs, its health-promoting properties are the reason for the interest of scientists and motivation to create new food products.
Food Polyphenols and Type II Diabetes Mellitus: Pharmacology and Mechanisms
Authors: Naz Rabia , Saqib Fatima , Awadallah Samir , Wahid Muqeet , Latif Muhammad Farhaj , Iqbal Iram , Mubarak Mohammad S.
Published: May 2023

Type II diabetes mellitus and its related complications are growing public health problems. Many natural products present in our diet, including polyphenols, can be used in treating and managing type II diabetes mellitus and different diseases, owing to their numerous biological properties. Anthocyanins, flavonols, stilbenes, curcuminoids, hesperidin, hesperetin, naringenin, and phenolic acids are common polyphenols found in blueberries, chokeberries, sea-buckthorn, mulberries, turmeric, citrus fruits, and cereals. These compounds exhibit antidiabetic effects through different pathways. Accordingly, this review presents an overview of the most recent developments in using food polyphenols for managing and treating type II diabetes mellitus, along with various mechanisms. In addition, the present work summarizes the literature about the anti-diabetic effect of food polyphenols and evaluates their potential as complementary or alternative medicines to treat type II diabetes mellitus. Results obtained from this survey show that anthocyanins, flavonols, stilbenes, curcuminoids, and phenolic acids can manage diabetes mellitus by protecting pancreatic β-cells against glucose toxicity, promoting β-cell proliferation, reducing β-cell apoptosis, and inhibiting α-glucosidases or α-amylase. In addition, these phenolic compounds exhibit antioxidant anti-inflammatory activities, modulate carbohydrate and lipid metabolism, optimize oxidative stress, reduce insulin resistance, and stimulate the pancreas to secrete insulin. They also activate insulin signaling and inhibit digestive enzymes, regulate intestinal microbiota, improve adipose tissue metabolism, inhibit glucose absorption, and inhibit the formation of advanced glycation end products. However, insufficient data are available on the effective mechanisms necessary to manage diabetes.
Applications of Catalytic Nanomaterials in Energy and Environment
Authors: Li Hongda , Jian Shuai , Baalousha Mohammed
Published: May 2023

Nanotechnology is a crucial technology for the development of science and technology [...]
Preparation, Characterization and Industrial Application of Nanocellulose
Authors: Delgado-Aguilar Marc , Negro Carlos
Published: May 2023

The international research community has made significant efforts in the production, characterization, and application of cellulose nanofibers (CNFs) in many sectors [...]
Adsorptive Elimination of Heavy Metals from Aqueous Solution Using Magnetic Chitosan/Cellulose-Fe(III) Composite as a Bio-Sorbent
Authors: Khalid Aina , Hossain Md. , Khalil Nor , Zulkifli Muzafar , Arafath Md. , Shaharun Maizatul , Ayub Rashid , Ahmad Yahaya Ahmad , Ismail Norli
Published: May 2023

Magnetic chitosan/cellulose nanofiber-Fe(III) [M-Ch/CNF-Fe(III)] composites were isolated for the elimination of Cr(VI), Cu(II), and Pb(II) from aqueous solution. Various analytical methods, such as field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) were employed to determine the morphological, physicochemical, and thermal properties of the isolated M-Ch/CNF-Fe(III) composites. It was found that the M-Ch/CNF-Fe(III) composites were porous materials, and they have the potential to be implemented as an adsorbent for heavy metals removal. The adsorption efficiency of M-Ch/CNF-Fe(III) composites was determined for Cr(VI), Cu(II), and Pb(II) elimination with changing pH (pH 1.0–8.0), adsorbent doses (0.05–1.0 g), time (15–90 min), and temperature (28–80 °C). In addition, isothermal and kinetics studies were conducted to assess the adsorption behavior and mass transfer phenomena of M-Ch/CNF-Fe(III) composites as an adsorbent for Cr(VI), Cu(II) and Pb(II) elimination from aqueous solution. The outcomes of the present study reveal that the M-Ch/CNF-Fe(III) composites could be utilized as an adsorbent for the Cr(VI), Cu(II), and Pb(II) elimination from industrial effluents.
Parental Nutritional Knowledge and Type of Diet as the Key Factors Influencing the Safety of Vegetarian Diets for Children Aged 12–36 Months
Authors: Kostecka Malgorzata , Kostecka Julianna , Jackowska Izabella , Iłowiecka Katarzyna
Published: May 2023

There are some concerns about the adequacy of vegetarian diets for pregnant women, infants, and young children because diets that exclude meat and other animal-based products increase the risk of nutrient deficiencies. The aim of the present study was to assess the nutritional knowledge of parents raising 12- to 36-month-old children on vegetarian diets and to evaluate the children’s diets based on the recommendations formulated in the model food ration. The study involved a questionnaire survey that was completed by 326 women raising their children on various types of vegetarian diets and 198 women raising their children on an omnivorous diet. Mothers raising children on a lacto-ovo-vegetarian diet had the highest nutritional knowledge scores (15.8 points on average), whereas control group mothers and women raising children on a vegan diet had the lowest nutritional knowledge scores (average of 13.6 points). Parents who raised their children on more restrictive vegetarian diets were more aware of the risk of nutritional deficiencies and administered dietary supplements more frequently. A vegetarian diet can be safe for young children, but parents should be educated about the risk of nutritional deficiencies and the principles of healthy nutrition regardless of the administered diet, and effective communication between parents, pediatricians, and dietitians should be the cornerstone of every nutritional strategy in the management of vegetarian children.
Diet, Exercise and Gestational Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Moholdt Trine
Published: May 2023

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is defined as hyperglycaemia with blood glucose values above normal, but below those diagnostic of diabetes, and is the most common metabolic disease in pregnancy [...]
Diet and Exercise Exert a Differential Effect on Glucose Metabolism Markers According to the Degree of NAFLD Severity
Authors: Bianco Antonella , Franco Isabella , Curci Ritanna , Bonfiglio Caterina , Campanella Angelo , Mirizzi Antonella , Fucilli Fabio , Di Giovanni Giuseppe , Giampaolo Nicola , Pesole Pasqua Letizia , Osella Alberto Ruben
Published: May 2023

Background: Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) and Type 2 Diabetes (T2D) are highly prevalent diseases worldwide. Insulin Resistance (IR) is the common denominator of the two conditions even if the precise timing of onset is unknown. Lifestyle change remains the most effective treatment to manage NAFLD. This study aimed to estimate the effect of the Low Glycemic Index Mediterranean Diet (LGIMD) and exercise (aerobic and resistance) over a one-year period on the longitudinal trajectories of glucose metabolism regulatory pathways. Materials and Methods: In this observational study, 58 subjects (aged 18–65) with different degrees of NAFLD severity were enrolled by the National Institute of Gastroenterology—IRCCS “S. de Bellis”, to follow a 12-month program of combined exercise and diet. Results: The mean age was 55 ± 7 years old. Gender was equally distributed among NAFLD categories. There was a statistically significant main effect of time for glycosylated hemoglobin (Hb1Ac) over the whole period (−5.41, 95% CI: −7.51; −3.32). There was a steady, statistically significant decrease of HbA1c in participants with moderate and severe NAFLD whereas this effect was observed after the 9th month in those with mild NAFLD. Conclusions: The proposed program significantly improves glucose metabolism parameters, especially HbA1c.
2-Hydroxyoleic Acid as a Self-Assembly Inducer for Anti-Cancer Drug-Centered Nanoparticles
Authors: Antoniou Antonia I. , Nordio Giulia , Paolo Maria Luisa Di , Colombo Eleonora , Gaffuri Beatrice , Polito Laura , Amenta Arianna , Seneci Pierfausto , Dalla Via Lisa , Perdicchia Dario , Passarella Daniele
Published: May 2023

A potent nontoxic antitumor drug, 2-hydroxyoleic acid (6, 2OHOA) used for membrane lipid therapy, was selected as a self-assembly inducer due to its ability to form nanoparticles (NPs) in water. For this purpose, it was conjugated with a series of anticancer drugs through a disulfide-containing linker to enhance cell penetration and to secure drug release inside the cell. The antiproliferative evaluation of the synthesized NP formulations against three human tumor cell lines (biphasic mesothelioma MSTO-211H, colorectal adenocarcinoma HT-29, and glioblastoma LN-229) showed that nanoassemblies 16–22a,bNPs exhibit antiproliferative activity at micromolar and submicromolar concentrations. Furthermore, the ability of the disulfide-containing linker to promote cellular effects was confirmed for most nanoformulations. Finally, 17bNP induced intracellular ROS increase in glioblastoma LN-229 cells similarly to free drug 8, and such elevated production was decreased by pretreatment with the antioxidant N-acetylcysteine. Also, nanoformulations 18bNP and 21bNP confirmed the mechanism of action of the free drugs.
Annona cherimola Miller and Its Flavonoids, an Important Source of Products for the Treatment of Diabetes Mellitus: In Vivo and In Silico Evaluations
Authors: Calzada Fernando , Valdes Miguel , Martínez-Solís Jesús , Velázquez Claudia , Barbosa Elizabeth
Published: May 2023

The antihyperglycemic activity of ethanolic extract from Annona cherimola Miller (EEAch) and its products were evaluated using in vivo and in silico assays. An α-glucosidase inhibition was evaluated with oral sucrose tolerance tests (OSTT) and molecular docking studies using acarbose as the control. SGLT1 inhibition was evaluated with an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) and molecular docking studies using canagliflozin as the control. Among all products tested, EEAc, the aqueous residual fraction (AcRFr), rutin, and myricetin reduced the hyperglycemia in DM2 mice. During the carbohydrate tolerance tests, all the treatments reduced the postprandial peak such as the control drugs. In the molecular docking studies, rutin showed more affinity in inhibiting α-glucosidase enzymes and myricetin in inhibiting the SGLT1 cotransporter, showing ∆G values of −6.03 and −3.32 kcal/mol−1, respectively, in α-glucosidase enzymes. In the case of the SGLT1 cotransporter, molecular docking showed ∆G values of 22.82 and −7.89 in rutin and myricetin, respectively. This research sorts in vivo and in silico pharmacological studies regarding the use of A. cherimola leaves as a source for the development of new potential antidiabetic agents for T2D control, such as flavonoids rutin and myricetin.
Real-Time Monitoring Platform for Ocular Drug Delivery
Authors: Awwad Sahar , Ibeanu Nkiruka , Liu Tianyang , Velentza-Almpani Angeliki , Chouhan Nerisha , Vlatakis Stavros , Khaw Peng Tee , Brocchini Steve , Bouremel Yann
Published: May 2023

Real-time measurement is important in modern dissolution testing to aid in parallel drug characterisation and quality control (QC). The development of a real-time monitoring platform (microfluidic system, a novel eye movement platform with temperature sensors and accelerometers and a concentration probe setup) in conjunction with an in vitro model of the human eye (PK-Eye™) is reported. The importance of surface membrane permeability when modelling the PK-Eye™ was determined with a “pursing model” (a simplified setup of the hyaloid membrane). Parallel microfluidic control of PK-Eye™ models from a single source of pressure was performed with a ratio of 1:6 (pressure source:models) demonstrating scalability and reproducibility of pressure-flow data. Pore size and exposed surface area helped obtain a physiological range of intraocular pressure (IOP) within the models, demonstrating the need to reproduce in vitro dimensions as closely as possible to the real eye. Variation of aqueous humour flow rate throughout the day was demonstrated with a developed circadian rhythm program. Capabilities of different eye movements were programmed and achieved with an in-house eye movement platform. A concentration probe recorded the real-time concentration monitoring of injected albumin-conjugated Alexa Fluor 488 (Alexa albumin), which displayed constant release profiles. These results demonstrate the possibility of real-time monitoring of a pharmaceutical model for preclinical testing of ocular formulations.
Pharmacist Preceptor Exposure, Comfort and Awareness of Resources to Address the Social Determinants of Health—A Pilot Study
Authors: Kiles Tyler Marie , Kodweis Karl R. , George Christa , Watts Chelsea Danielle , Lock Adalis , Crill Catherine
Published: May 2023

As preceptors are responsible for the experiential education of future pharmacists, it is important to assess understanding and identify knowledge gaps for preceptor development. The purpose of this pilot study was to assess the exposure to social determinants of health (SDOH), comfort in addressing social needs, and awareness of social resources among the preceptors at one college of pharmacy. A brief online survey was sent to all affiliated pharmacist preceptors with screening criteria for pharmacists who had regular one-on-one patient interactions. Of 166 preceptor respondents (response rate = 30.5%), 72 eligible preceptors completed the survey. Self-reported SDOH exposure increased along the educational continuum (with increasingly more emphasis from the didactic to experiential to residency). Preceptors who graduated after 2016, practiced in either community or clinic settings and served >50% of underserved patients were the most comfortable addressing social needs and the most aware of social resources. Preceptor understanding of SDOH has implications for their ability to educate future pharmacists. Colleges of pharmacy should evaluate practice site placement as well as preceptor knowledge and comfort in addressing social needs in order to ensure that all students are exposed to the SDOH throughout the continuum of learning. Best practices for up-skilling preceptors in this area should also be explored.
Radially Phased-Locked Hermite–Gaussian Correlated Beam Array and Its Properties in Oceanic Turbulence
Authors: Zhu Peiying , Wang Guiqiu , Yin Yan , Zhong Haiyang , Wang Yaochuan , Liu Dajun
Published: May 2023

The descriptions of a radially phased-locked Hermite–Gaussian correlated beam array are introduced, the equation of this beam array in oceanic turbulence is derived, and the intensity profiles of this beam array are shown and analyzed. The results imply that the evolutions of the sub-beam of this beam array in free space are the same as the Hermite–Gaussian correlated beam, while the intensity of this beam array can be adjusted by controlling the initial beam radius R and the coherence length. The intensity profiles of this beam array in free space have multiple spots during propagation, while the same beam array in oceanic turbulence can become a beam spot due to the influences of R and oceanic turbulence. The beam array with smaller coherence length in oceanic turbulence retains the splitting properties better during propagation.
Physiological Responses of Two Olive Cultivars to Salt Stress
Authors: Boussadia Olfa , Zgallai Hatem , Mzid Nada , Zaabar Rihem , Braham Mohamed , Doupis Georgios , Koubouris Georgios
Published: May 2023

The olive tree (Olea europaea L.) is the main fruit tree in most of the arid and semi-arid regions of Tunisia, which is where the problem of salinity is more pronounced. Salinity is one of the main factors that affects the productivity of olive trees, so the objective of this experiment was to study the effects of salinity on the photosynthesis, water relations, mineral status, and enzymatic activity of two cultivars of Olea europaea L., ‘Chemlali’ and ‘Koroneiki’. The trial was conducted under controlled conditions in a greenhouse for a period of 49 days and included two treatments: T0 control and T100 (irrigation with 100 mM of NaCl solution). Under salinity stress, the photosynthesis, stomatal conductance, and leaves of both cultivars were negatively affected. ‘Chemlali’ showed greater tolerance to NaCl salinity, based on a progressive decrease in osmotic potential (Ψπ) followed by a progressive and synchronous decrease in gs, without a comparable decrease in photosynthesis. The water use efficiency (WUE) improved as a result. In addition, the K+/Na+ ratio in ‘Chemlali’ rose. This appears to be crucial for managing stress. Conversely, enzymatic activity showed an accumulation of glutathione peroxidase (GPX) in stressed plants. The catalase (CAT) and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) content decreased in both stressed varieties. It can be concluded that the cultivar ‘Koroneiki’ is more susceptible to salt stress than the cultivar ‘Chemlali’, because the accumulation of GPX and the decreases in CAT and APX were more pronounced in this cultivar.
Terrestrial and Floating Aquatic Plants Differ in Acclimation to Light Environment
Authors: López-Pozo Marina , Adams William W. , Polutchko Stephanie K. , Demmig-Adams Barbara
Published: May 2023

The ability of plants to respond to environmental fluctuations is supported by acclimatory adjustments in plant form and function that may require several days and development of a new leaf. We review adjustments in photosynthetic, photoprotective, and foliar vascular capacity in response to variation in light and temperature in terrestrial plants. The requirement for extensive acclimation to these environmental conditions in terrestrial plants is contrasted with an apparent lesser need for acclimation to different light environments, including rapid light fluctuations, in floating aquatic plants for the duckweed Lemna minor. Relevant features of L. minor include unusually high growth rates and photosynthetic capacities coupled with the ability to produce high levels of photoprotective xanthophylls across a wide range of growth light environments without compromising photosynthetic efficiency. These features also allow L. minor to maximize productivity and avoid problems during an abrupt experimental transfer of low-light-grown plants to high light. The contrasting responses of land plants and floating aquatic plants to the light environment further emphasize the need of land plants to, e.g., experience light fluctuations in their growth environment before they induce acclimatory adjustments that allow them to take full advantage of natural settings with such fluctuations.
Productivity of Three Pea (Pisum sativum L.) Varieties as Influenced by Nutrient Supply and Meteorological Conditions in Boreal Environmental Zone
Authors: Janusauskaite Daiva
Published: May 2023

In order to grow crops that reduce the negative impact on the environment, as well as meet the nutritional needs of the increasing human population, it is necessary to include new and more sustainable production strategies into current agricultural systems. The aim of our study was to evaluate the optimal nutritional conditions of semi-leafless pea productivity and ascertain the influence of meteorological factors on the productivity of these plants under boreal environmental conditions. The test involved three semi-leafless pea varieties, one of which was a new variety, and eight N fertilization treatments were used: (1) without fertilizers (N0), (2) without N fertilizers (N0), (3) N15, (4) N30, (5) N45, (6) N15+15, (7) N60, and (8) N60. Plots of the second–seventh treatment received a base application of P40K80; the eighth treatment received P80K160. Fertilizer efficiency depended on the meteorological conditions. Based on their productivity, the pea varieties were arranged in the following descending order: Ieva DS ˃ Respect ˃ Simona. Compared with unfertilized peas, NPK fertilizers enhanced the seed yield by 10.6–12.9% on average. Splitting the N30 rate and applying N60, under a background of P40K80, was not efficient. The optimal rate of N15–45P40K80 fertilizers for peas was determined. Meteorological factors significantly influenced seed yield by 75.2%, 44.1%, and 79.9% for varieties Ieva DS, Simona, and Respect, respectively.
A Label-Free Electrochemical Biosensor for Homocysteine Detection Using Molecularly Imprinted Polymer and Nanocomposite-Modified Electrodes
Authors: Kongintr Unchalee , Lertanantawong Benchaporn , Promptmas Chamras
Published: May 2023

An essential biomarker for the early detection of cardiovascular diseases is serum homocysteine (Hcy). In this study, a molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) and nanocomposite were used to create a label-free electrochemical biosensor for reliable Hcy detection. A novel Hcy-specific MIP (Hcy-MIP) was synthesized using methacrylic acid (MAA) in the presence of trimethylolpropane trimethacrylate (TRIM). The Hcy-MIP biosensor was fabricated by overlaying the mixture of Hcy-MIP and the carbon nanotube/chitosan/ionic liquid compound (CNT/CS/IL) nanocomposite on the surface of a screen-printed carbon electrode (SPCE). It showed high sensitivity, with a linear response of 5.0 to 150 µM (R2 of 0.9753) and with a limit of detection (LOD) at 1.2 µM. It demonstrated low cross-reactivity with ascorbic acid, cysteine, and methionine. Recoveries of 91.10–95.83% were achieved when the Hcy-MIP biosensor was used for Hcy at 50–150 µM concentrations. The repeatability and reproducibility of the biosensor at the Hcy concentrations of 5.0 and 150 µM were very good, with coefficients of variation at 2.27–3.50% and 3.42–4.22%, respectively. This novel biosensor offers a new and effective method for Hcy assay compared with the chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay at the correlation coefficient (R2) of 0.9946.
Multi-Target CFAR Detection Method for HF Over-The-Horizon Radar Based on Target Sparse Constraint in Weibull Clutter Background
Authors: Zhang Wenhao , Li Yajun , Zheng Zhengqi , Xu Lin , Wang Zhicheng
Published: May 2023

High frequency radar has a wide monitoring range and low range resolution. It may contain multiple targets or outlier interference phenomena in different clutter regions of the range–Doppler (RD) spectrum in detected background. The key to the performance of target detection in multi target backgrounds is the ability to determine the attributes of targets or outliers. Our previous research shows that the number of targets belongs to an absolute minority compared to the number of background units. In this paper, we propose a new method for multi-target detection building on the ordered statistics constant false alarm detector (OS-CFAR). The new method fully utilizes the sparse characteristics of the target and uses the idea of introducing regularization processing to eliminate interfering targets, and obtain an estimate of shape parameters for target detection. To further improve the performance of the algorithm, a correction method is proposed for the inaccurate selection of the k value. Upon estimating the distribution parameters, the detection threshold is calculated, and the target’s constant false alarm detection is completed. Simulation and measured data show that our algorithm can effectively counter the interference of multiple targets and maintain a constant false alarm characteristic under different conditions, providing a reliable target detection method.
A Unified Physically Based Method for Monitoring Grassland Nitrogen Concentration with Landsat 7, Landsat 8, and Sentinel-2 Satellite Data
Authors: Dehghan-Shoar Mohammad Hossain , Pullanagari Reddy R. , Kereszturi Gabor , Orsi Alvaro A. , Yule Ian J. , Hanly James
Published: May 2023

The increasing number of satellite missions provides vast opportunities for continuous vegetation monitoring, crucial for precision agriculture and environmental sustainability. However, accurately estimating vegetation traits, such as nitrogen concentration (N%), from Landsat 7 (L7), Landsat 8 (L8), and Sentinel-2 (S2) satellite data is challenging due to the diverse sensor configurations and complex atmospheric interactions. To address these limitations, we developed a unified and physically based method that combines a soil–plant–atmosphere radiative transfer (SPART) model with the bottom-of-atmosphere (BOA) spectral bidirectional reflectance distribution function. This approach enables us to assess the effect of rugged terrain, viewing angles, and illumination geometry on the spectral reflectance of multiple sensors. Our methodology involves inverting radiative transfer model variables using numerical optimization to estimate N% and creating a hybrid model. We used Gaussian process regression (GPR) to incorporate the inverted variables into the hybrid model for N% prediction, resulting in a unified approach for N% estimation across different sensors. Our model shows a validation accuracy of 0.35 (RMSE %N), a mean prediction interval width (MPIW) of 0.35, and an R2 of 0.50, using independent data from multiple sensors collected between 2016 and 2019. Our unified method provides a promising solution for estimating N% in vegetation from L7, L8, and S2 satellite data, overcoming the limitations posed by diverse sensor configurations and complex atmospheric interactions.
Evaluation of SST Data Products from Multi-Source Satellite Infrared Sensors in the Bohai-Yellow-East China Sea
Authors: Feng Changlong , Yin Wenbin , He Shuangyan , He Mingjun , Li Xiaoxia
Published: May 2023

The measurement of sea surface temperature (SST) is of utmost importance in the realm of oceanography. The increasing utilization of satellite data in SST research has highlighted the crucial need to compare and evaluate various satellite data sources. Using iQuam2 in situ SST data, this study aims to assess the accuracy of SST datasets obtained from three polar-orbiting satellites (AVHRR, Modis-Aqua, and Modis-Terra) and one geostationary satellite (Himawari-8) in the Bohai-Yellow-East China Sea (BYECS) throughout 2019. The results showed a strong correlation between satellite and in situ data, with R correlation coefficients exceeding 0.99. However, the accuracy of the satellite datasets exhibited some variability, with Himawari-8 showing the highest deviation error and MODIS-Aqua showing the least. Subsequently, the Modis-Aqua data were used as a benchmark to evaluate the SST data of the other three satellites over the previous six years (July 2015–June 2021). The results indicate that, in addition to intricate temporal variations, the deviations of the three satellites from Modis-Aqua also show significant spatial disparities due to the effect of seawater temperature. Compared to Modis-Aqua, the deviation of Himawari-8 generally displayed a negative trend in BYECS and showed pronounced seasonal variation. The deviation of AVHRR showed a negative trend across all regions except for a substantial positive value in the coastal region, with the time variation exhibiting intricate features. The SST values obtained from MODIS-Terra exhibited only marginal disparities from MODIS-Aqua, with positive values during the day and negative values at night. All three satellites showed significantly abnormal bias values after December 2020, indicating that the MODIS-Aqua-derived SST reference dataset may contain outliers beyond this period. In conclusion, the accuracy of the four satellite datasets varies across different regions and time periods. However, they could be effectively utilized and integrated with relevant fusion algorithms to synthesize high-precision datasets in the future.
An Image Planar Positioning Method Base on Fusion of Dual-View Airborne SAR Data
Authors: Zhang Ben , Yu Anxi , Chen Xing , Tang Feixiang , Zhang Yongsheng
Published: May 2023

Effective utilization of airborne synthetic-aperture (Airborne SAR) imagery often requires precise location of each image pixel. Historically, the positioning of airborne SAR imagery either relies on the use of reliable reference points to determine the relative position of the image, or requires the precise motion information of the aircraft and the characteristics of the SAR data collection system as input to determine the absolute position of the image. However, for many applications, the accuracy of traditional positioning methods is not high due to the challenge in obtaining the accurate geographic positions of reliable reference points and the inaccuracy of the recorded aircraft motion information. This study introduces an airborne SAR image planar positioning approach based on the premise that the systematic positioning error of the dual-view airborne SAR images are relatively consistent. The suggested planar positioning method applies the positioning auxiliary parameters of the initial ground-range airborne SAR image to ascertain the transformation relationship between the target’s initial geographic position and pixel position, and it then uses the equivalent equation for the position of the homologue point to assess the systematic positioning error of the SAR image and determine the geographic position of a pixel in a digital SAR image. This approach has advantages over previous techniques in that it requires no precise geographic position information of the ground reference points, and on the basis of using the RD model to accomplish coarse positioning of four corners of SAR image, it no longer needs aircraft trajectory data. Tests were conducted using two airborne SAR images actually captured, and the experimental results indicate that the proposed method can achieve high precision planar positioning of dual-view airborne SAR images. Error sources are analyzed and recommendations are given to improve image positioning accuracy in future airborne SARs.
The Development of a Cost-Effective Imaging Device Based on Thermographic Technology
Authors: Stančić Ivo , Kuzmanić Skelin Ana , Musić Josip , Cecić Mojmil
Published: May 2023

Thermal vision-based devices are nowadays used in a number of industries, ranging from the automotive industry, surveillance, navigation, fire detection, and rescue missions to precision agriculture. This work describes the development of a low-cost imaging device based on thermographic technology. The proposed device uses a miniature microbolometer module, a 32-bit ARM microcontroller, and a high-accuracy ambient temperature sensor. The developed device is capable of enhancing RAW high dynamic thermal readings obtained from the sensor using a computationally efficient image enhancement algorithm and presenting its visual result on the integrated OLED display. The choice of microcontroller, rather than the alternative System on Chip (SoC), offers almost instantaneous power uptime and extremely low power consumption while providing real-time imaging of an environment. The implemented image enhancement algorithm employs the modified histogram equalization, where the ambient temperature sensor helps the algorithm enhance both background objects near ambient temperature and foreground objects (humans, animals, and other heat sources) that actively emit heat. The proposed imaging device was evaluated on a number of environmental scenarios using standard no-reference image quality measures and comparisons against the existing state-of-the-art enhancement algorithms. Qualitative results obtained from the survey of 11 subjects are also provided. The quantitative evaluations show that, on average, images acquired by the developed camera provide better perception quality in 75% of tested cases. According to qualitative evaluations, images acquired by the developed camera provide better perception quality in 69% of tested cases. The obtained results verify the usability of the developed low-cost device for a range of applications where thermal imaging is needed.
Balance Assessment Using a Smartwatch Inertial Measurement Unit with Principal Component Analysis for Anatomical Calibration
Authors: Presley Benjamin M. , Sklar Jeffrey C. , Hazelwood Scott J. , Berg-Johansen Britta , Klisch Stephen M.
Published: May 2023

Balance assessment, or posturography, tracks and prevents health complications for a variety of groups with balance impairment, including the elderly population and patients with traumatic brain injury. Wearables can revolutionize state-of-the-art posturography methods, which have recently shifted focus to clinical validation of strictly positioned inertial measurement units (IMUs) as replacements for force-plate systems. Yet, modern anatomical calibration (i.e., sensor-to-segment alignment) methods have not been utilized in inertial-based posturography studies. Functional calibration methods can replace the need for strict placement of inertial measurement units, which may be tedious or confusing for certain users. In this study, balance-related metrics from a smartwatch IMU were tested against a strictly placed IMU after using a functional calibration method. The smartwatch and strictly placed IMUs were strongly correlated in clinically relevant posturography scores (r = 0.861–0.970, p < 0.001). Additionally, the smartwatch was able to detect significant variance (p < 0.001) between pose-type scores from the mediolateral (ML) acceleration data and anterior-posterior (AP) rotation data. With this calibration method, a large problem with inertial-based posturography has been addressed, and wearable, “at-home” balance-assessment technology is within possibility.
A Novel Closed-Loop Control to Solve Light Source Power Fluctuations in the Fiber-Optic Gyroscope
Authors: Zheng Shijie , Ren Mengyu , Luo Xin , Zhang Hangyu , Feng Guoying
Published: May 2023

The performance of a gyroscope is directly affected by the fluctuations in the light source power (LSP) in an interferometric fiber-optic gyroscope (IFOG). Therefore, it is important to compensate for fluctuations in the LSP. When the feedback phase generated by the step wave completely cancels the Sagnac phase in real-time, the error signal of the gyroscope is linearly related to the differential signal of the LSP, otherwise, the error signal of the gyroscope is uncertain. Herein, we present two compensation methods to compensate for the error of the gyroscope when the error is uncertain, which are double period modulation (DPM) and triple period modulation (TPM). Compared with the TPM, DPM has better performance, but it increases the requirements for the circuit. TPM has lower requirements for the circuit and is more suitable for small fiber- coil applications. The experimental results show that, when the frequency of the LSP fluctuation is relatively low (1 kHz and 2 kHz), DPM and TPM do not differ significantly in terms of performance; both of them can achieve an improvement of about 95% in bias stability. When the frequency of the LSP fluctuation is relatively high (4 kHz, 8 kHz and 16 kHz), DPM and TPM can achieve about 95% and 88% improvement in bias stability, respectively.
NeuronAlg: An Innovative Neuronal Computational Model for Immunofluorescence Image Segmentation
Authors: Giacopelli Giuseppe , Migliore Michele , Tegolo Domenico
Published: May 2023

Background: Image analysis applications in digital pathology include various methods for segmenting regions of interest. Their identification is one of the most complex steps and therefore of great interest for the study of robust methods that do not necessarily rely on a machine learning (ML) approach. Method: A fully automatic and optimized segmentation process for different datasets is a prerequisite for classifying and diagnosing indirect immunofluorescence (IIF) raw data. This study describes a deterministic computational neuroscience approach for identifying cells and nuclei. It is very different from the conventional neural network approaches but has an equivalent quantitative and qualitative performance, and it is also robust against adversative noise. The method is robust, based on formally correct functions, and does not suffer from having to be tuned on specific data sets. Results: This work demonstrates the robustness of the method against variability of parameters, such as image size, mode, and signal-to-noise ratio. We validated the method on three datasets (Neuroblastoma, NucleusSegData, and ISBI 2009 Dataset) using images annotated by independent medical doctors. Conclusions: The definition of deterministic and formally correct methods, from a functional and structural point of view, guarantees the achievement of optimized and functionally correct results. The excellent performance of our deterministic method (NeuronalAlg) in segmenting cells and nuclei from fluorescence images was measured with quantitative indicators and compared with those achieved by three published ML approaches.
Narrowband Thermal Terahertz Emission from Homoepitaxial GaAs Structures Coupled with Ti/Au Metasurface
Authors: Grigelionis Ignas , Čižas Vladislovas , Karaliūnas Mindaugas , Jakštas Vytautas , Ikamas Kȩstutis , Urbanowicz Andrzej , Treideris Marius , Bičiūnas Andrius , Jokubauskis Domas , Butkutė Renata , Minkevičius Linas
Published: May 2023

We report on the experimental evidence of thermal terahertz (THz) emission tailored by magnetic polariton (MP) excitations in entirely GaAs-based structures equipped with metasurfaces. The n-GaAs/GaAs/TiAu structure was optimized using finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) simulations for the resonant MP excitations in the frequency range below 2 THz. Molecular beam epitaxy was used to grow the GaAs layer on the n-GaAs substrate, and a metasurface, comprising periodic TiAu squares, was formed on the top surface using UV laser lithography. The structures exhibited resonant reflectivity dips at room temperature and emissivity peaks at T=390 °C in the range from 0.7 THz to 1.3 THz, depending on the size of the square metacells. In addition, the excitations of the third harmonic were observed. The bandwidth was measured as narrow as 0.19 THz of the resonant emission line at 0.71 THz for a 42 μm metacell side length. An equivalent LC circuit model was used to describe the spectral positions of MP resonances analytically. Good agreement was achieved among the results of simulations, room temperature reflection measurements, thermal emission experiments, and equivalent LC circuit model calculations. Thermal emitters are mostly produced using a metal-insulator-metal (MIM) stack, whereas our proposed employment of n-GaAs substrate instead of metal film allows us to integrate the emitter with other GaAs optoelectronic devices. The MP resonance quality factors obtained at elevated temperatures (Q≈3.3to5.2) are very similar to those of MIM structures as well as to 2D plasmon resonance quality at cryogenic temperatures.
Swietenia mahagoni Leaves Extract: Antifungal, Insecticidal, and Phytochemical Analysis
Authors: Khamis Wael M. , Heflish Ahmed A. , El-Messeiry Sarah , Behiry Said I. , Al-Askar Abdulaziz A. , Su Yiming , Abdelkhalek Ahmed , Gaber Mohamed K.
Published: May 2023

In this study, we investigated the antifungal properties of an acetone extract derived from the leaves of Swietenia mahagoni (SMAL) against two isolated fungi, Fusarium equiseti (OQ820153) and Rhizoctonia solani (OQ820152), from rice sheath. The extract was effective in inhibiting the growth of both fungi at the highest concentration tested, 3000 μg·mL−1. Laboratory tests on the LC20 of SMAL extract (49.86 mg·L−1) versus pyriproxyfen 10% EC (1.96 mg·L−1) were accomplished on Aphis gossypii Glover. The extract potently reduced the survival of the nymphs (49.58%) more than the other treatments. The longevity of nymphs treated with the extract had the highest prolongation at 9.67 days. The olfactory choice test exhibited the lowest aphid attraction percentage (23.33%). The HPLC of SMAL extract contained various phenolic compounds, and the most abundant found were catechin (752.64 µg·g−1), gallic acid, and chlorogenic acid, as well as flavonoids such as rutin (585.24 µg·g−1) and naringenin. A GC–MS analysis revealed n-hexadecanoic acid (37.1%) as the major compound, followed by oleic acid. These results suggest that SMAL extract has the potential to help plants fight against fungal and insect infections, making it a promising natural and renewable solution for long-term plant pest regulation.
Navigating Regional Barriers to Job Mobility: The Role of Opportunity Structures in Individual Job-to-Job Transitions
Authors: Rickmeier Katrin
Published: May 2023

Job-to-job transitions are associated with career progression and wage gains. Thus, regional differences in job mobility potentially contribute to and reinforce regional and social inequalities. This study aims to close the research gap in the understanding of the regional contexts in which individual job mobility occurs. Using the theoretical concept of regional opportunity structures, three key aspects of region-related job changes are investigated: regional determinants of (1) general job mobility; (2) job mobility with wage gains; and (3) simultaneous job and residential mobility. This study is based on individual data from the German Socio-Economic Panel study, enriched with regional indicators. The results show that job changes are negatively associated with labour market tightness, indicating that workers are less likely to change jobs in regions with a high ratio of job vacancies to unemployed workers. Fewer job-to-job transitions in tighter labour markets suggests that regional factors such as job availability and security play an important role in shaping job mobility, and that policies aimed at promoting job transitions may need to consider the specificities of local labour markets. The effects of other indicators of economic opportunities remain insignificant, and there are no clear effects of other aspects of regional opportunity structures.
Annual Effect of the VRF Control Algorithm in Response to the TOU Rate Plan
Authors: Lee Je-Hyeon , Song Young-hak
Published: May 2023

Many countries adopt a time-of-use (TOU) rate system, in which electricity rates vary by season and time of day, to reduce power usage during peak power consumption hours. South Korea offers a TOU rate plan that depends on the electricity usage of a building and its contracted power; in this plan, the electricity rate reaches up to 300% depending on the time of day. Hence, electrically powered variable refrigerant flow (VRF) systems are increasingly being installed in small- and medium-sized buildings requiring individual cooling and heating operations. This study aims to develop a new control algorithm to reduce electricity consumption and electricity rates for cooling and heating by VRF systems in university buildings adopting the TOU rate plan and apply it to actual buildings to verify the reduction effect. The proposed control algorithm primarily consists of a module that controls the refrigerant evaporation temperature (cooling) and high pressure (heating) according to the indoor heat load and a module that controls the indoor set temperature based on the hourly electricity rate. The developed algorithm was installed in the controller of a VRF system installed in an actual university building and the annual effect was verified using the method proposed by the International Performance Measurement and Verification Protocol. As a result, power consumption was reduced by 17.8% for heating and 4.0% for cooling due to the application of the control algorithm, and the electricity rates reduced by 19.2% and 7.3%, respectively.
Noise Dosimetries during Active Transport in Montevideo, Uruguay: Evaluation of Potential Influencing Factors from Experimental Data
Authors: González Alice Elizabeth , D’Angelo Mauro , Colistro Valentina , Franchi Ignacio , Vera Ana Clara , Alemán Alicia
Published: May 2023

This article presents a case study related to environmental noise exposure of cyclists in Montevideo (Uruguay), as a part of a wider interdisciplinary research project. The main objective of this study was to find the most important parameters related to cyclists’ noise exposure in the city. Two monitoring routes were defined, and their traffic flows were characterized. After that, noise dosimetries were carried out along the monitoring routes, determining a set of relevant parameters for each measurement: LAeq, LAF,10, LAF,90, noise climate (LAF,10–LAF,90), kurtosis, occupational and environmental noise doses, exceedance time for each dose, and traffic flow by categories met during cycling. A total of 66 noise dosimetries were carried out: 34 on Route N°1 and 32 on Route N°2. LAeq was lower in Route N°1. With a basis in multivariate tests, the main variables related to noise exposure of cyclists were found to be the following: kurtosis; noise climate; total traffic; and number of trucks met during the trip. Noise doses were lower on Route N°1, as well as exceedance times, presenting this route with lower traffic flow and fewer trucks but narrower streets and higher street aspect ratio values. Better knowledge in terms of selecting healthier places for cycling routes was obtained: traffic flow—and not urban geometric characteristics—was found to be the main urban determinant of high noise doses.