bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation of Thermal, Mechanical and Shape Memory Properties of 3D-Printed Functionally Graded Nanocomposite Materials
Authors: Alsaadi Mohamad , Hinchy Eoin P. , McCarthy Conor T. , Moritz Vicente F. , Portela Alexandre , Devine Declan M.
Published: September 2023

In this study, a 3D-printed photocurable resin was developed by incorporating graphene nanoplatelets functionalised with melamine to investigate the thermal, mechanical, fracture and shape memory behaviours. The objective of this work was to produce a printed functionally graded nanocomposite material that has a smart temperature-responsive structure; presents good thermal stability, strength and fracture toughness; and can demonstrate shape-changing motions, such as sequential transformations, over time. The functionalised graphene nanoplatelets were examined via thermogravimetric analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy and ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy. Thermogravimetric analysis showed that the degradation temperature of the nanocomposite containing 0.1 wt% of functionalised graphene nanoplatelets at the weight loss of 5% was 304 °C, greater than that of the neat one by 29%. Dynamic mechanical analysis results showed property enhancements of the storage modulus and glass transition temperature. Fracture toughness, tensile strength and impact resistance were improved by 18%, 35% and 78%, respectively. The shape memory tests were performed to obtain the temperature-time recovery behaviour of the 3D-printed structures. The addition of functionalised graphene nanoplatelets demonstrated an enhancement in the shape recovery ratios. Generally, the five subsequent cycles were notably stable with a high recovery ratio of 97–100% for the flat shape and circular shape of the M-GNP specimens. On the other hand, these values were between 91% and 94% for the corresponding neat specimens.
Examination of an Online Cooking Education Program to Improve Shopping Skills, Attitudes toward Cooking, and Cooking Confidence among WIC Participants
Authors: Herman Dena R. , Kimmel Rachel , Shodahl Skye , Vargas Jose H.
Published: September 2023

The present study examined if adapting the Cooking Matters (CM) curriculum to be used in an online format would improve participants’ shopping skills, attitudes toward cooking, and feelings of cooking confidence, similar to the traditionally offered method, which is conducted in person. Results from factor analyses indicated that the online CM program demonstrated construct and content reliability compared to in-person (Cronbach’s α ≥ 0.70). Repeated-measures ANOVA revealed a decrease in shopping skills overall (F = 5.91; p ≤ 0.05), consistent across age groups (F = 3.2; p ≤ 0.05) and food security status (F = 7.48; p < 0.01), with larger impacts on the food insecure (FI). Positive cooking attitudes increased with income (F = 2.86; p ≤ 0.05), especially among the <$20,000 and $30–39,000 income brackets. Cooking confidence increased post-intervention (F = 27.2, p < 0.001), with an interaction effect for food security status (F = 7.45; p ≤ 0.01), with greater improvement for households with food insecurity. These findings provide evidence to program and policymakers that virtual nutrition and cooking education services for the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) should continue to be supported beyond the pandemic as they reduce barriers to receiving program benefits, nutrition education, and may lead to reductions in household food insecurity.
Nutritional Strategies to Prevent Weight Gain and Obesity
Authors: Allman-Farinelli Margaret
Published: September 2023

It has now been 25 years since the World Health Organisation (Geneva, Switzerland) drew attention to the obesity epidemic (later becoming a pandemic) [...]
Iodized Salt May Not Be Sufficient to Guarantee an Adequate Iodine Intake in Pregnant Women
Authors: Spina Vincenzo , Baldini Enke , Cardarelli Silvia , Oliva Cosimo , Venarubea Stefano , Faraoni Franca , Pastore Giovanni , Tittoni Rachele , Musella Angela , Squarcella Antonia , Lori Eleonora , Renzi Elisabetta , Feroci Roberta , Mastrodonato Flavia , Ciferri Fabiola , Virili Camilla , Centanni Marco , Fabiani Cristina , Rago Rocco , Schiavi Michele Carlo , Palazzetti Pierluigi , D’Armiento Eleonora , Cantisani Vito , Sorrenti Salvatore , Ulisse Salvatore
Published: September 2023

Adequate iodine intake is of crucial importance in pregnancy to meet the thyroid hormone needs of both mother and fetus. In the present study, undertaken as a part of the surveillance actions following the introduction in Italy of a national salt iodination program in 2005, the iodine intake was investigated in 123 pregnant women and 49 control women living in the same area of central Italy. All the participants were screened for urinary iodine concentration (UIC), serum level of thyrotropin, free-thyroxine, free-triiodothyronine, and thyroid volume. Moreover, they were provided with a questionnaire on the use of iodine-containing salt or supplements. Control women had a median UIC of 102 µg/L, consistent with an iodine sufficiency, while in pregnant women the median UIC value was 108 µg/L, lower than the endorsed UIC of 150 µg/L. In addition, pregnant women showed a significantly increased median thyroid volume compared to controls. Interestingly, the median UIC did not differ between pregnant women not using iodine-containing salt or supplements and those regularly consuming iodized salt alone, while pregnant women with a daily intake of iodine-containing supplements had an adequate median UIC (168 µg/L). In conclusion, the data reported here showed that pregnant women and their fetuses are still exposed to the detrimental effects of iodine deficiency and that the consumption of iodine-containing supplements should be recommended in pregnancy.
Effects of Recombinant IL-13 Treatment on Gut Microbiota Composition and Functional Recovery after Hemisection Spinal Cord Injury in Mice
Authors: Hamad Ibrahim , Van Broeckhoven Jana , Cardilli Alessio , Hellings Niels , Strowig Till , Lemmens Stefanie , Hendrix Sven , Kleinewietfeld Markus
Published: September 2023

In recent years, the gut–central nervous system axis has emerged as a key factor in the pathophysiology of spinal cord injury (SCI). Interleukin-13 (IL-13) has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects in SCI. The aim of this study was to investigate the changes in microbiota composition after hemisection injury and to determine whether systemic recombinant (r)IL-13 treatment could alter the gut microbiome, indirectly promoting functional recovery. The gut microbiota composition was determined by 16S rRNA gene sequencing, and correlations between gut microbiota alterations and functional recovery were assessed. Our results showed that there were no changes in alpha diversity between the groups before and after SCI, while PERMANOVA analysis for beta diversity showed significant differences in fecal microbial communities. Phylogenetic classification of bacterial families revealed a lower abundance of the Bacteroidales S24-7 group and a higher abundance of Lachnospiraceae and Lactobacillaceae in the post-SCI group. Systemic rIL-13 treatment improved functional recovery 28 days post-injury and microbiota analysis revealed increased relative abundance of Clostridiales vadin BB60 and Acetitomaculum and decreased Anaeroplasma, Ruminiclostridium_6, and Ruminococcus compared to controls. Functional assessment with PICRUSt showed that genes related to glyoxylate cycle and palmitoleate biosynthesis-I were the predominant signatures in the rIL-13-treated group, whereas sulfolactate degradation super pathway and formaldehyde assimilation-I were enriched in controls. In conclusion, our results indicate that rIL-13 treatment promotes changes in gut microbial communities and may thereby contribute indirectly to the improvement of functional recovery in mice, possibly having important implications for the development of novel treatment options for SCI.
Aronia in the Type 2 Diabetes Treatment Regimen
Authors: Christiansen Christine B. , Jeppesen Per B. , Hermansen Kjeld , Gregersen Søren
Published: September 2023

Aronia melanocarpa berries are rich in antioxidants and possess a high antioxidant capacity. Aronia berries have shown potential in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) treatment, and previous studies indicate improvements in glycemia after supplementation. Unfortunately, the effectiveness of aronia berries is limited by the low bioavailability of aronia, which fermentation could potentially overcome. The objective of this study was to compare the effects of fermented or non-fermented aronia pulp with placebo in subjects with T2DM. This study was a triple-blinded, triple-crossover study with eight-week intervention periods with fermented aronia extract (FAE), non-fermented aronia extract (AE), and placebo. Extracts were incorporated in snack bars with 37% aronia (FAE or AE) or wheat bran (placebo) and 63% raisins and coconut oil. Pre- and post-treatment period, we did fasting blood samples, including hemoglobin A1c, fructosamine, insulin, glucose, glucagon-like peptide-1, glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide (GIP) and glucagon, oral glucose tolerance tests, and anthropometric measurements. Of 36 randomized participants, 23 completed the trial. Aside from a higher increase in GIP after FAE supplementation compared to after placebo supplementation, aronia extracts had no effect. The increase in GIP levels after FAE supplementation may hold potential benefits, but the overall clinical impact remains unclear.
Research Progress of Selenium-Enriched Foods
Authors: Chen Zhenna , Lu Yiqing , Dun Xiaoling , Wang Xinfa , Wang Hanzhong
Published: September 2023

Selenium is an essential micronutrient that plays a crucial role in maintaining human health. Selenium deficiency is seriously associated with various diseases such as Keshan disease, Kashin–Beck disease, cataracts, and others. Conversely, selenium supplementation has been found to have multiple effects, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer functions. Compared with inorganic selenium, organic selenium exhibits higher bioactivities and a wider range of safe concentrations. Consequently, there has been a significant development of selenium-enriched foods which contain large amounts of organic selenium in order to improve human health. This review summarizes the physiological role and metabolism of selenium, the development of selenium-enriched foods, the physiological functions of selenium-enriched foods, and provides an analysis of total selenium and its species in selenium-enriched foods, with a view to laying the foundation for selenium-enriched food development.
The Kelch/Nrf2 Antioxidant System as a Target for Some Marine Fungal Metabolites
Authors: Yurchenko Ekaterina A. , Khmel Olga O. , Nesterenko Liliana E. , Aminin Dmitry L.
Published: September 2023

Marine fungal metabolites often exhibit antioxidant activity, but their effects on the Keap1/Nrf2 cellular system are rarely studied, possibly due to insufficient isolated amounts. In this work, we used a bioinformatics approach to evaluate the ability of some promising cytoprotective compounds to bind Kelch domain of Keap1 protein, and thus inhibit its interaction with Nrf2. The molecular docking data suggested that gliorosein, niveoglaucin A, 6-hydroxy-N-acetyl-β-oxotryptamine, 4-hydroxyscytalone and 4-hydroxy-6-dehydroxyscytalone can form the hydrogen building with Arg415 or Arg483 amino acid residues of P1-P2 sub-pockets in the Nrf2 binding site of Keap1′s Kelch domain. These positions of the small molecules in the Kelch domain of Keap1 can inhibit the interaction of Keap1 with Nrf2 and enhance the nuclear translocation of Nrf2 from cytosol that can result in overexpression of relative genes. This assumption, based on virtual screening of a number of low molecular weight metabolites of marine fungi, makes them promising for further studies.
Soloxolone Methyl Reduces the Stimulatory Effect of Leptin on the Aggressive Phenotype of Murine Neuro2a Neuroblastoma Cells via the MAPK/ERK1/2 Pathway
Authors: Odarenko Kirill V. , Salomatina Oksana V. , Chernikov Ivan V. , Salakhutdinov Nariman F. , Zenkova Marina A. , Markov Andrey V.
Published: September 2023

Despite the proven tumorigenic effect of leptin on epithelial-derived cancers, its impact on the aggressiveness of neural crest-derived cancers, notably neuroblastoma, remains largely unexplored. In our study, for the first time, transcriptome analysis of neuroblastoma tissue demonstrated that the level of leptin is elevated in neuroblastoma patients along with the severity of the disease and is inversely correlated with patient survival. The treatment of murine Neuro2a neuroblastoma cells with leptin significantly stimulated their proliferation and motility and reduced cell adhesion, thus rendering the phenotype of neuroblastoma cells more aggressive. Given the proven efficacy of cyanoenone-bearing semisynthetic triterpenoids in inhibiting the growth of neuroblastoma and preventing obesity in vivo, the effect of soloxolone methyl (SM) on leptin-stimulated Neuro2a cells was further investigated. We found that SM effectively abolished leptin-induced proliferation of Neuro2a cells by inducing G1/S cell cycle arrest and restored their adhesiveness to extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins to near control levels through the upregulation of vimentin, zonula occludens protein 1 (ZO-1), cell adhesion molecule L1 (L1cam), and neural cell adhesion molecule 1 (Ncam1). Moreover, SM significantly suppressed the leptin-associated phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) and ribosomal protein S6 kinase A1 (p90RSK), which are key kinases that ensure the survival and proliferation of cancer cells. Further molecular modeling studies demonstrated that the inhibitory effect of SM on the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)/ERK1/2 signaling pathway can be mediated by its direct interaction with ERK2 and its upstream regulators, son of sevenless homolog 1 (SOS) and mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase 1 (MEK1). Taken together, our findings in murine Neuro2a cells provide novel evidence of the stimulatory effect of leptin on the aggressiveness of neuroblastoma, which requires further detailed studies in human neuroblastoma cells and relevant animal models. The obtained results indicate that SM can be considered a promising drug candidate capable of reducing the impact of adipokines on tumor progression.
Detectable Vancomycin Stool Concentrations in Hospitalized Patients with Diarrhea Given Intravenous Vancomycin
Authors: Eubank Taryn A. , Hu Chenlin , Gonzales-Luna Anne J. , Garey Kevin W.
Published: September 2023

Vancomycin is not appreciably passaged via the colonic membrane to the gastrointestinal (GI) tract in persons with an intact gut epithelium due to its large chemical structure. However; hospitalized patients with diarrhea often have a disrupted GI tract. The aim of this study was to determine the frequency of detectable vancomycin concentrations in the stool of patients with antibiotic-associated diarrhea receiving IV vancomycin. This was a multicenter cohort study of hospitalized patients with stool samples collected for Clostridioides difficile testing. Leftover stool samples were collected from patients who had received at least 3 days of IV vancomycin. Fecal vancomycin was quantified by high-performance liquid chromatography. The study cohort included 33 unique patients, majority female (54.5%) aged 60 years (range 23–84). Eighteen of thirty-three patients (54.5%) tested positive for C. difficile toxins. The average duration of systemic vancomycin administration prior to stool collection was 3.5 (range 2–15) days. Three of 33 (9%) stool samples had a detectable vancomycin concentration (range 1.2–13.2 mcg/mL). These concentrations may promote the development of vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus or van mutations in C. difficile, leading to vancomycin resistance. Further studies on implications are warranted.
COVID-19 Patients’ Medication Management during Transition of Care from Hospital to Virtual Care: A Cross-Sectional Survey and Audit
Authors: Hattingh H. Laetitia , Edmunds Catherine , Buksh Saberina , Cronin Sean , Gillespie Brigid M.
Published: September 2023

Background: Virtual models of care were implemented to ease hospital bed pressure during COVID-19. We evaluated the medication management of COVID-19 patients transferred to virtual models of care. Method: A retrospective audit of COVID-19 patients transferred from inpatient units to virtual care during January 2022 and surveys from patients transferred during December 2021–February 2022 was carried out. Results: One hundred patients were randomly selected: mean age 59 years (SD: 19.8), mean number of medicines at admission 4.3 (SD: 4.03), mean length of virtual ward stay 4.4 days (SD: 2.1). Pharmacists reviewed 43% (43/100) of patients’ medications during their hospital stay and provided 29% (29/100) with discharge medicine lists at transfer. Ninety-two (92%) patients were prescribed at least one new high-risk medicine whilst in hospital, but this was not a factor considered to receive a pharmacist medication review. Forty patients (40%) were discharged on newly commenced high-risk medicines, and this was also not a factor in receiving a pharmacist discharge medication list. In total, 25% of patient surveys (96/378) were returned: 70% (66/96) reported adequate medicine information at transfer and 55% (52/96) during the virtual model period. Conclusion: Patient survey data show overall positive experiences of medication management and support. Audit data highlight gaps in medication management during the transfer to a virtual model, highlighting the need for patient prioritisation.
Casimir Effect Invalidates the Drude Model for Transverse Electric Evanescent Waves
Authors: Klimchitskaya Galina L. , Mostepanenko Vladimir M.
Published: September 2023

We consider the Casimir pressure between two metallic plates and calculate the four contributions to it determined by the propagating and evanescent waves and by the transverse magnetic and transverse electric polarizations of the electromagnetic field. The range of interplate separations is considered where nearly the whole pressure has its origin in the electromagnetic response of conduction electrons. In the Casimir physics, this response is described either by the dissipative Drude model resulting in contradictions with the measurement data or by the experimentally consistent but dissipationless plasma model. It is shown that the total transverse magnetic contribution to the Casimir pressure due to both the propagating and evanescent waves and the transverse electric contribution due to only the propagating waves, computed by means of the Drude model, correlate well with the corresponding results obtained using the plasma model. We conclude that the disagreement between the theoretical predictions obtained using the Drude model and precision measurements of the Casimir force is not caused by the account of dissipation in itself, but arises from an incorrect description of the response of metals to the low-frequency transverse electric evanescent waves by this model. It is demonstrated that the Drude model has no supporting experimental evidence in the range of transverse electric evanescent waves, so that the above conclusion is consistent with all available information. The alternative test of the Drude model for the transverse electric evanescent waves suggested in the framework of classical electrodynamics is discussed.
Cellulose-Based Intelligent Responsive Materials: A Review
Authors: Chang Sisi , Weng Zhangzhao , Zhang Chunmei , Jiang Shaohua , Duan Gaigai
Published: September 2023

Due to the rapid development of intelligent technology and the pursuit of green environmental protection, responsive materials with single response and actuation can no longer meet the requirements of modern technology for intelligence, diversification, and environmental friendliness. Therefore, intelligent responsive materials have received much attention. In recent years, with the development of new materials and technologies, cellulose materials have become increasingly used as responsive materials due to their advantages of sustainability and renewability. This review summarizes the relevant research on cellulose-based intelligent responsive materials in recent years. According to the stimuli responses, they are divided into temperature-, light-, electrical-, magnetic-, and humidity-responsive types. The response mechanism, application status, and development trend of cellulose-based intelligent responsive materials are summarized. Finally, the future perspectives on the preparation and applications of cellulose-based intelligent responsive materials are presented for future research directions.
Applications of Polymer Electrolytes in Lithium-Ion Batteries: A Review
Authors: Chattopadhyay Jayeeta , Pathak Tara Sankar , Santos Diogo M. F.
Published: September 2023

Polymer electrolytes, a type of electrolyte used in lithium-ion batteries, combine polymers and ionic salts. Their integration into lithium-ion batteries has resulted in significant advancements in battery technology, including improved safety, increased capacity, and longer cycle life. This review summarizes the mechanisms governing ion transport mechanism, fundamental characteristics, and preparation methods of different types of polymer electrolytes, including solid polymer electrolytes and gel polymer electrolytes. Furthermore, this work explores recent advancements in non-aqueous Li-based battery systems, where polymer electrolytes lead to inherent performance improvements. These battery systems encompass Li-ion polymer batteries, Li-ion solid-state batteries, Li-air batteries, Li-metal batteries, and Li-sulfur batteries. Notably, the advantages of polymer electrolytes extend beyond enhancing safety. This review also highlights the remaining challenges and provides future perspectives, aiming to propose strategies for developing novel polymer electrolytes for high-performance Li-based batteries.
Optimisation of 3D Printing for Microcellular Polymers
Authors: Griffiths Christian Andrew , Rees Andrew , Morgan Adam , Korkees Feras
Published: September 2023

Polymers are extensively used in various industries due to their versatility, durability and cost-effectiveness. To ensure functionality and longevity, polymer parts must have sufficient strength to endure external forces without deformation or breakage. Traditional approaches to increasing part strength involve adding more material; however, balancing strength to weight relationships is challenging. This paper explorers the viability of manufacturing lightweight components using a microcellular foaming polymer. Microcellular foaming has emerged as a helpful tool to achieve an optimal strength-to-weight ratio; offering advantages such as lightweight, improved mechanical properties, reduced material usage, better insulation and improved cost-effectiveness. It can also contribute to improved fuel efficiency and reduced carbon emissions, making them environmentally favourable. The combination of additive manufacturing (AM) and microcellular foaming has opened new possibilities for design innovation. This text highlights the challenges and efforts in incorporating foaming techniques into 3D printing processes, specifically fused filament fabrication (FFF). This study reveals that microcellular polymers are a viable option when balancing part strength and weight. The experiments completed during the formulation of this paper demonstrated that lightweight LW-PLA parts were significantly lighter than standard PLA parts and that a design of experiments approach can be used to optimise strength properties and provide insights into optimising manufacturability. Microcellular polymers present an opportunity for lighter and stronger 3D printed parts, offering potential energy and material savings for sustainable manufacturing practices.
Dry Friction and Wear Behavior of Laser-Sintered Graphite/Carbon Fiber/Polyamide 12 Composite
Authors: Gadelmoula Abdelrasoul , Aldahash Saleh Ahmed
Published: September 2023

Carbon fiber-reinforced polymers (CFRPs) are being used extensively in modern industries that require a high strength-to-weight ratio, such as aerospace, automotive, motorsport, and sports equipment. However, although reinforcement with carbon fibers improves the mechanical properties of polymers, this comes at the expense of abrasive wear resistance. Therefore, to efficiently utilize CFRPs in dry sliding contacts, solid lubricant is used as a filler. Further, to facilitate the fabrication of objects with complex geometries, selective laser sintering (SLS) can be employed. Accordingly, in the present work, graphite-filled carbon fiber-reinforced polyamide 12 (CFR-PA12) specimens were prepared using the SLS process to explore the dry sliding friction and wear characteristics of the composite. The test specimens were aligned along four different orientations in the build chamber of the SLS machine to determine the orientation-dependent tribological properties. The experiments were conducted using a pin-on-disc tribometer to measure the coefficient of friction (COF), interface temperature, friction-induced noise, and specific wear rate. In addition, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) of tribo-surfaces was conducted to specify the dominant wear pattern. The results indicated that the steady-state COF, contact temperature, and wear pattern of graphite-filled CFR-PA12 are orientation-independent and that the contact temperature is likely to approach an asymptote far below the glass transition temperature of amorphous PA12 zones, thus eliminating the possibility of matrix softening. Additionally, the results showed that the Z-oriented specimen exhibits the lowest level of friction-induced noise along with the highest wear resistance. Moreover, SEM of tribo-surfaces determined that abrasive wear is the dominant wear pattern.
In Vitro Biological Properties of Cyclodextrin-Based Polymers: Interaction with Human Serum Albumin, Red Blood Cells and Bacteria
Authors: Yakupova Linara R. , Skuredina Anna A. , Kopnova Tatina Yu. , Kudryashova Elena V.
Published: September 2023

The aim of this work was to investigate the physico-chemical and biological properties of cyclodextrin-based polymers by the example of interaction with human serum albumin, erythrocytes, and bacteria to understand the prospects of their application as drug delivery systems. We synthesized polymers based on one of cyclodextrin derivatives with nonpolar (-CH3) or polar (-CH2CH(OH)CH3) substituents by crosslinking with 1,6-hexamethylene diisocyanate or succinic anhydride. The polymers form particles with an average size of ~200 nm in the aqueous solutions; their structures were confirmed by FTIR and 1H NMR. Cyclodextrin derivatives and their polymers did not affect the secondary structure content of human serum albumin, which might mean a mild effect on the structural and functional properties of the main blood plasma protein. Polymers extract drug molecules from albumin + drug complex by 8–10%, which was demonstrated using ibuprofen and bromophenol blue as model bioactive molecules for site I and site II in protein; thus, the nanoparticles might slightly change the drug’s pharmacokinetics. Using the hemolysis test, we found that polymers interact with red blood cells and can be assigned to non-hemolytic and slightly hemolytic groups as biocompatible materials, which are safe for in vivo use. The cyclodextrins and their polymers did not extract proteins from bacterial cell walls and did not demonstrate any antibacterial activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative strains. Thus, the cyclodextrin-based polymers possess variable properties depending on the substituent in the monomer and linker type; demonstrated biocompatibility, biodegradability, and negligible toxicity that opens up prospects for their application in biomedicine and ecology.
Comparative Study of Adsorption of Methylene Blue and Basic Red 9 Using Rice Husks of Different Origins
Authors: Sukmana Hadid , Tombácz Etelka , Ballai Gergő , Kozma Gábor , Kónya Zoltán , Hodúr Cecilia
Published: September 2023

Methylene blue (MB) and basic red 9 (BR9) are cationic dyes that are commonly used in the dye industry and negatively affect humans and other living organisms. This study compares the performance of Indonesian rice husk (IRH) and Hungarian rice husk (HRH) as bio-adsorbents for removing MB and BR9 from aqueous solutions. Chemical content, zeta potential, and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy analyses were used to characterize the rice husks (RHs). Adsorption studies were performed through batch experiments involving several parameters, namely, pH, adsorbent dose, initial dye concentration, contact time, and temperature to observe the self-association (aggregation) of MB and BR9. Adsorption kinetic studies showed that maximum dye removal was achieved at a contact time of 120 min. MB and BR9 adsorption followed a pseudo-second order kinetic model, and the BET multilayer isotherm model provided a better fit to the experimental data of MB and BR9 adsorption. The IRH adsorption capacities were 15.0 mg/g for MB and 7.2 mg/g for BR9, whereas those of HRH were 24.4 mg/g for MB and 8.3 mg/g for BR9. Therefore, these RHs are potential bio-adsorbents for removing MB and BR9 from aqueous solutions.
Comparative Verification of Leaf Area Index Products for Different Grassland Types in Inner Mongolia, China
Authors: Shen Beibei , Guo Jingpeng , Li Zhenwang , Chen Jiquan , Fang Wei , Kussainova Maira , Amarjargal Amartuvshin , Pulatov Alim , Yan Ruirui , Anenkhonov Oleg A. , Zhou Wenneng , Xin Xiaoping
Published: September 2023

Leaf area index (LAI) is a key indicator of vegetation structure and function, and its products have a wide range of applications in vegetation condition assessment and usually act as important input parameters for ecosystem modeling. Grassland plays an important role in regional climate change and the global carbon cycle and numerous studies have focused on the product-based analysis of grassland vegetation changes. However, the performance of various LAI products and their discrepancies across different grassland types in drylands remain unclear. Therefore, it is critical to assess these products prior to application. We evaluated the accuracy of four commonly used LAI products (GEOV2, GLASS, GLOBMAP, and MODIS) using LAI reference maps based on both bridging and cross-validation approaches. Under different grassland types, the GLASS LAI performed better in meadow steppe (R2 = 0.26, RMSE = 0.41 m2/m2) and typical steppe (R2 = 0.32, RMSE = 0.38 m2/m2); the GEOV2 LAI performed better in desert steppe (R2 = 0.39, RMSE = 0.30 m2/m2). When we assessed their spatial and temporal discrepancies during the period from 2010 to 2019, the four LAI products overall showed a high spatial and temporal consistency across the region. Compared with GLASS LAI, the most consistent to least consistent correlations can be ordered by GEOV2 LAI (R2 = 0.94), MODIS LAI (R2 = 0.92), and GLOBMAP LAI (R2 = 0.87). The largest differences in LAI throughout the year occurred in July for all grassland types. Limited by the location and number of sample plots, we mainly focused on spatial and temporal variations. The spatial heterogeneity of land surface is pervasive, especially in vast grassland areas with rich grassland types, and the results of this study can provide a basis for the application of the product in different grassland types. Furthermore, it is essential to develop highly accurate and reliable satellite-based LAI products focused on grassland from the regional to the global scale according to these popular approaches, which is the next step in our work plan.
Initial Growth of Gmelina arborea and Efficacy of RGB Image to Capture Canopy Area in a Large Range of Stockings
Authors: Hakamada Rodrigo , Prados-Coronado Jesus , Lages Cassiano , Vrechi Arthur , Zuñiga-Grajeda Virgilio , Villota-Gonzalez Freddy Hernan , Sulbaran-Rangel Belkis
Published: September 2023

At present, there is a high demand for carbon (C) sequestration alternatives; thus, understanding tree growth and the efficacy of remote sensing techniques to capture forest plantation ecophysiology is crucial. This study evaluated the effect of contrasting stockings of Gmelina arborea on its initial growth and aboveground Carbon stock, and the efficacy of aerial images obtained using drones to capture the crown cover at different stockings. The results indicated that denser stockings showed greater tree heights and stem diameter increments, contrary to traditional measurements. The C storage capacity of Gmelina arborea was promising, with an aboveground estimated C stock of about 13 Mg ha−1 in 9 months, making it a valuable and promising species for CO2 sequestration under the context of climate change. The use of simple Red-Green-Blue (RGB) cameras and drones to detect and estimate crown areas in young plantations was mainly viable within the commercial range of stockings (500–2000 trees ha−1), and can be used as a powerful tool to better understand tree initial growth. The results showed effective discrimination without weeds independently of the stocking level; however, when weeds were present, the effectiveness decreased. This research provides valuable insights into forest management and improves the understanding of the silviculture behavior of a potential native species for reforestation in the tropics.
Remote Surveillance of Differential Deformation for Kazakhstan Offshore Kashagan Oilfield Using Microwave Satellite Remote Sensing
Authors: Bayramov Emil , Tessari Giulia , Kada Martin , Aliyeva Saida , Buchroithner Manfred
Published: September 2023

The primary objective of this study was to assess differential vertical and horizontal deformations for the offshore Kashagan oilfield located in the Northern Caspian Sea. Sentinel-1 (SNT1) and COSMO-SkyMed (CSK) synthetic-aperture radar (SAR) images (9 January 2018–6 April 2022) were processed using persistent scatterer interferometric SAR (PS-InSAR) technique with further 2D decomposition of line-of-sight (LOS) measurements to differential vertical and horizontal deformations. Differential vertical deformation velocity was observed to be between −4 mm/y and 4 mm/y, whereas horizontal was between −4 mm/y and 5 mm/y during 2018–2022. However, it was possible to observe the spatial deformation patterns with the subsidence hotspots reaching differential cumulative vertical displacement of −20 mm from both satellite missions. PS-InSAR differential vertical deformation measurements derived from SNT1 and CSK satellite images showed identical spatial patterns with moderate agreement, whereas poor agreement was observed for differential horizontal deformations. The differential vertical deformation hotspots were observed for the oilfield areas installed on piles with obviously higher vulnerability to dynamic movements. Through this study, based on the interferometric measurements, marine geotechnical expert feedback, and no reported deformation-related incidents since 2013, it was possible to conclude that the Kashagan oilfield had not been impacted by significant differential vertical and horizontal deformations on the oilfield. However, since long-term GPS measurements were not accessible from the oilfield to be used as the reference for PS-InSAR measurements, we were not able to judge the long-term displacements of the entire oilfield or possible oscillations, even though it is built on the artificial island. Considering the broad range of PS-InSAR measurements using time-series radar images, the interferometric measurements could play a significant role in the prioritization of insitu risk assessment activities, operational cost reduction, strengthening of safety factors, and planning of further targeted insitu measurements.
A GAN-Based Augmentation Scheme for SAR Deceptive Jamming Templates with Shadows
Authors: Lang Shinan , Li Guiqiang , Liu Yi , Lu Wei , Zhang Qunying , Chao Kun
Published: September 2023

To realize fast and effective synthetic aperture radar (SAR) deception jamming, a high-quality SAR deception jamming template library can be generated by performing sample augmentation on SAR deception jamming templates. However, the current sample augmentation schemes of SAR deception jamming templates face certain problems. First, the authenticity of the templates is low due to the lack of speckle noise. Second, the generated templates have a low similarity to the target and shadow areas of the input templates. To solve these problems, this study proposed a sample augmentation scheme based on generative adversarial networks, which can generate a high-quality library of SAR deception jamming templates with shadows. The proposed scheme solved the two aforementioned problems from the following aspects. First, the influence of the speckle noise was considered in the network to avoid the problem of reduced authenticity in the generated images. Second, a channel attention mechanism module was used to improve the network’s learning ability of the shadow features, which improved the similarity between the generated template and the shadow area in the input template. Finally, the single generative adversarial network (SinGAN) scheme, which is a generative adversarial network capable of image sample augmentation for a single SAR image, and the proposed scheme were compared regarding the equivalent number of looks and the structural similarity between the target and shadow in the sample augmentation results. The comparison results demonstrated that, compared to the templates generated by the SinGAN scheme, those generated by the proposed scheme had targets and shadow features similar to those of the original image and could incorporate speckle noise characteristics, resulting in a higher authenticity, which helps to achieve fast and effective SAR deception jamming.
Real-Time Sensor-Embedded Neural Network for Human Activity Recognition
Authors: Shakerian Ali , Douet Victor , Shoaraye Nejati Amirhossein , Landry René
Published: September 2023

This article introduces a novel approach to human activity recognition (HAR) by presenting a sensor that utilizes a real-time embedded neural network. The sensor incorporates a low-cost microcontroller and an inertial measurement unit (IMU), which is affixed to the subject’s chest to capture their movements. Through the implementation of a convolutional neural network (CNN) on the microcontroller, the sensor is capable of detecting and predicting the wearer’s activities in real-time, eliminating the need for external processing devices. The article provides a comprehensive description of the sensor and the methodology employed to achieve real-time prediction of subject behaviors. Experimental results demonstrate the accuracy and high inference performance of the proposed solution for real-time embedded activity recognition.
Vehicle Detection and Tracking with Roadside LiDAR Using Improved ResNet18 and the Hungarian Algorithm
Authors: Lin Ciyun , Sun Ganghao , Wu Dayong , Xie Chen
Published: September 2023

By the end of the 2020s, full autonomy in autonomous driving may become commercially viable in certain regions. However, achieving Level 5 autonomy requires crucial collaborations between vehicles and infrastructure, necessitating high-speed data processing and low-latency capabilities. This paper introduces a vehicle tracking algorithm based on roadside LiDAR (light detection and ranging) infrastructure to reduce the latency to 100 ms without compromising the detection accuracy. We first develop a vehicle detection architecture based on ResNet18 that can more effectively detect vehicles at a full frame rate by improving the BEV mapping and the loss function of the optimizer. Then, we propose a new three-stage vehicle tracking algorithm. This algorithm enhances the Hungarian algorithm to better match objects detected in consecutive frames, while time–space logicality and trajectory similarity are proposed to address the short-term occlusion problem. Finally, the system is tested on static scenes in the KITTI dataset and the MATLAB/Simulink simulation dataset. The results show that the proposed framework outperforms other methods, with F1-scores of 96.97% and 98.58% for vehicle detection for the KITTI and MATLAB/Simulink datasets, respectively. For vehicle tracking, the MOTA are 88.12% and 90.56%, and the ID-F1 are 95.16% and 96.43%, which are better optimized than the traditional Hungarian algorithm. In particular, it has a significant improvement in calculation speed, which is important for real-time transportation applications.
Can Osmopriming Induce Cross-Tolerance for Abiotic Stresses in Solanum paniculatum L. Seeds? A Transcriptome Analysis Point of View
Authors: da Silva Pedro Bento , Vaz Tatiana Arantes Afonso , Acencio Marcio Luis , Bovolenta Luiz Augusto , Hilhorst Henk W. M. , da Silva Edvaldo A. Amaral
Published: September 2023

Solanum paniculatum L. belongs to the Solanaceae family and has the ability to grow and develop under unfavorable environmental conditions such as drought and salt stress, acid soils and soils poor in nutrients. The present work aimed to analyze S. paniculatum seed transcriptome associated with induced tolerance to drought stress by osmopriming. Seeds subjected to osmopriming (−1.0 MPa) displayed a higher germination and normal seedling percentage under drought stress when compared with unprimed seeds. RNA-seq transcriptome profiles of osmoprimed and unprimed seeds were determined and the potential proteins involved in the drought tolerance of S. paniculatum were identified. From the 34,640 assembled transcripts for both osmoprimed and unprimed seeds, only 235 were differentially expressed and, among these, 23 (10%) transcripts were predicted to code for proteins potentially involved in response to stress, response to abiotic stimulus and response to chemical. The possible mechanisms by which these stress-associated genes may confer tolerance to osmoprimed Solanum paniculatum seeds to germinate under water deficit was discussed and may help to find markers for the selection of new materials belonging to the Solanaceae family that are more tolerant to stress during and following germination.
Depression and Anxiety among Gay and Bisexual Men: Testing a Mediated Moderation Model of Mindfulness and Adult Attachment
Authors: Sizemore K. Marie , Gray Shannon S. , Samrock Steven , Millar Brett M. , Grov Christian , Rendina H. Jonathon
Published: September 2023

For sexual minority men (SMM), attachment anxiety and attachment avoidance are evidenced to predict poor mental health (e.g., depression and anxiety). While mindfulness is known to mediate this relationship among the general population, it has yet to be examined among SMM. This study examined the interaction of attachment anxiety and avoidance, and the mediating effect of mindfulness, in predicting symptoms of depression and anxiety among a sample of gay and bisexual men (GBM) in the U.S. We used regression-based path analyses to test the interaction of attachment anxiety and avoidance on symptoms of anxiety and depression. Attachment anxiety and avoidance were positively associated with mental health symptoms. In the model predicting anxiety, we found a significant interaction, indicating that individuals high in attachment anxiety and avoidance had the highest BSI scores. In model 2, direct effects for attachment anxiety and avoidance remained significant, and mindfulness was negatively associated with both mental health symptoms. Significant indirect effects from attachment anxiety and attachment avoidance, through mindfulness, to both depressive and anxiety symptoms were observed. No evidence of mediated moderation was found. Our findings show that attachment is an important predictor of mental health among GBM and support previous research on the mediating role of mindfulness in this association.
A Digital Certificate System That Complies with International Standards: Taiwan Digital COVID-19 Certificate
Authors: Yu Tzu-Chia , Parng I-Ming , Yeh Jing-Sun , Cao Gang-Wei , Wang Fu-Chung
Published: September 2023

The first reported infections from COVID-19 were in 2019 and, since then, an outbreak has spread rapidly to other parts of the world, resulting in many deaths. As a result, governments began to implement border restrictions and quarantine measures, bringing the travel industry to a halt and plunging the global economy into a severe contraction. Many regions chose to coexist with COVID-19 and gradually eased their border restrictions with certain conditions, such as using personal health status certificates, vaccination certificates, etc. Digital certificates are becoming a global trend, and Taiwan has invested in developing related tools. This paper presents a technical evaluation from the government’s point of view. Taiwan uses the European Union (EU) Digital COVID Certificate as a basis to build a digital certificate that can fully meet the residents’ current international business and tourism needs. The government hopes that this digital proof will promote the public’s return to normal life and overcome the inconveniences brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. In the post-pandemic era, finding a way to coexist with the virus while gradually relaxing border and community epidemic-prevention policies without impacting our Taiwan’s medical capacity is a significant challenge. Providing key technological solutions to assist in risk stratification is essential in addressing this issue.
Assessing Rural Production Space Quality and Influencing Factors in Typical Grain-Producing Areas of Northeastern China
Authors: Chen Lintao , Chen Xiaohong , Pan Wei , Wang Ying , An Yongle , Gu Yue , Liu Haihan , Yang Fan
Published: September 2023

Rural production spaces are important sites for agricultural activities, and high-quality rural production space is of great significance for guaranteeing food security and revitalizing rural areas. This study used Songnen Plain, a typical grain-producing area in Northeast China, as the study area and analyzed the spatial and temporal patterns of rural production space quality and its influencing factors from 2005 to 2020 using the rural production space quality assessment model, spatial autocorrelation analysis, and Geodetector. The results showed that: (1) The rural production space quality in the Songnen Plain has undergone a general process of change with 2015 as the node, showing an overall increase followed by a small decrease in some counties. Input–output efficiency exhibited a pattern with a high center and low perimeter, and rural production space quality exhibited a high in the south and low in the north pattern for all the years. (2) The spatial distribution of rural production quality in the Songnen Plain is highly correlated, and H-H and L-L zones had obvious spatial clustering characteristics. There were slight variations in spatial correlations of quality in each year, but the overall spatial quality exhibited a stable pattern of high in the south and low in the north. (3) The purchasing power for means of production, the level of infrastructure, and the level of agricultural mechanization were the main factors affecting the rural production space quality in the Songnen Plain, and the influence of population contraction and urbanization was gradually increasing. The results of the study can provide support for the sustainable development of rural production space and rural revitalization in Northeast China.