bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Obesity, Insulin Resistance, Caries, and Periodontitis: Syndemic Framework
Authors: Ladeira Lorena Lúcia Costa , Nascimento Gustavo Giacomelli , Leite Fábio Renato Manzolli , Alves-Costa Silas , Barbosa Janaína Maiana Abreu , Alves Claudia Maria Coelho , Thomaz Erika Barbara Abreu Fonseca , Batista Rosangela Fernandes Lucena , Ribeiro Cecilia Claudia Costa
Published: August 2023

(1) Background: To investigate the grouping of obesity and insulin resistance with caries and periodontitis from a syndemic perspective through pathways of socioeconomic inequalities, smoking, alcohol, and high sugar consumption in adolescence. (2) Methods: The population-based RPS Cohort study, São Luís, Brazil, in ages 18–19 years (n = 2515) was used. The outcomes were the grouping of pbesity and Insulin Resistance Phenotype (latent variable formed by Triglycerides/HDL ratio, TyG index, and VLDL) and the Chronic Oral Disease Burden (latent variable comprising caries, bleeding on probing, probing depth ≥ 4 mm, clinical attachment level ≥ 3 mm, and visible plaque index ≥ 15%). Socioeconomic Inequalities influencing the Behavioral Risk Factors (latent variable formed by added sugar, smoking, and alcohol) were analyzed using structural equation modeling. (3) Results: Socioeconomic Inequalities were associated with the Chronic Oral Disease Burden [Standardized Coefficient (SC) = 0.222, p < 0.001]. Behavioral Risk Factors were associated with increased Chronic Oral Disease Burden (SC = 0.103; p = 0.013). Obesity was associated with the Insulin Resistance Phenotype (SC = 0.072; p < 0.001) and the Chronic Oral Disease Burden (SC = 0.066; p = 0.005). The Insulin Resistance Phenotype and the Chronic Oral Disease Burden were associated (SC = 0.053; p = 0.032). (4) Conclusion: The grouping of obesity and early events of diabetes with caries and periodontitis call for a syndemic approach in adolescence.
Beneficial Effects of Limosilactobacillus reuteri PBS072 and Bifidobacterium breve BB077 on Mood Imbalance, Self-Confidence, and Breastfeeding in Women during the First Trimester Postpartum
Authors: Vicariotto Franco , Malfa Patrizia , Torricelli Michela , Lungaro Lisa , Caio Giacomo , De Leo Vincenzo
Published: August 2023

Background: The post-delivery period could be characterized by psychological distress (e.g., anxiety, sadness, and irritability), leading to postpartum depression (PPD). Objective: The present clinical study assesses the effect of probiotic supplementation containing Limosilactobacillus reuteri PBS072 and Bifidobacterium breve BB077 (4 × 109 CFU/day) on the mother’s mood and breastfeeding quality during the first trimester after delivery. Methods: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Controlled (RDBPC) trial was carried out on 200 healthy new mothers divided into an active group taking a supplement containing Limosilactobacillus reuteri PBS072 and Bifidobacterium breve BB077 (4 × 109 CFU/day) plus multivitamins and a control group (multivitamin complex only) for 90 days. Symptoms related to maternal depression and breastfeeding quality were evaluated at days 45 and 90 using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) and the Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scale—Short Form (BSES-SF). Results: At days 45 and 90, the probiotic treatment significantly ameliorated the mothers’ mood compared to the control treatment (p < 0.001). Likewise, the breastfeeding quality and the baby’s cries significantly improved in the probiotic group (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Microbiota alterations could influence a post-delivery woman’s mental state. According to our results, L. reuteri PBS072 and B. breve BB077 are potential candidates that are able to improve stress resilience in the postpartum period.
Rice Bran Supplementation Ameliorates Gut Dysbiosis and Muscle Atrophy in Ovariectomized Mice Fed with a High-Fat Diet
Authors: Huang Pei-Xin , Yeh Chiu-Li , Yang Suh-Ching , Shirakawa Hitoshi , Chang Chao-Lin , Chen Li-Hsin , Chiu Yen-Shuo , Chiu Wan-Chun
Published: August 2023

Rice bran, a byproduct of rice milling, is rich in fiber and phytochemicals and confers several health benefits. However, its effects on gut microbiota and obesity-related muscle atrophy in postmenopausal status remain unclear. In this study, we investigated the effects of rice bran on gut microbiota, muscle synthesis, and breakdown pathways in estrogen-deficient ovariectomized (OVX) mice receiving a high-fat diet (HFD). ICR female mice were divided into five groups: sham, OVX mice receiving control diet (OC); OVX mice receiving HFD (OH); OVX mice receiving control diet and rice bran (OR); and OVX mice receiving HFD and rice bran (OHR). After twelve weeks, relative muscle mass and grip strength were high in rice bran diet groups. IL-6, TNF-α, MuRf-1, and atrogin-1 expression levels were lower, and Myog and GLUT4 were higher in the OHR group. Rice bran upregulated the expression of occludin and ZO-1 (gut tight junction proteins). The abundance of Akkermansiaceae in the cecum was relatively high in the OHR group. Our finding revealed that rice bran supplementation ameliorated gut barrier dysfunction and gut dysbiosis and also maintained muscle mass by downregulating the expression of MuRf-1 and atrogin-1 (muscle atrophy-related factors) in HFD-fed OVX mice.
Prenatal and Neonatal Bone Health: Updated Review on Early Identification of Newborns at High Risk for Osteopenia
Authors: Perrone Serafina , Caporilli Chiara , Grassi Federica , Ferrocino Mandy , Biagi Eleonora , Dell’Orto Valentina , Beretta Virginia , Petrolini Chiara , Gambini Lucia , Street Maria Elisabeth , Dall’Asta Andrea , Ghi Tullio , Esposito Susanna
Published: August 2023

Bone health starts with maternal health and nutrition, which influences bone mass and density already in utero. The mechanisms underlying the effect of the intrauterine environment on bone health are partly unknown but certainly include the ‘foetal programming’ of oxidative stress and endocrine systems, which influence later skeletal growth and development. With this narrative review, we describe the current evidence for identifying patients with risk factors for developing osteopenia, today’s management of these populations, and screening and prevention programs based on gestational age, weight, and morbidity. Challenges for bone health prevention include the need for new technologies that are specific and applicable to pregnant women, the foetus, and, later, the newborn. Radiofrequency ultrasound spectrometry (REMS) has proven to be a useful tool in the assessment of bone mineral density (BMD) in pregnant women. Few studies have reported that transmission ultrasound can also be used to assess BMD in newborns. The advantages of this technology in the foetus and newborn are the absence of ionising radiation, ease of use, and, above all, the possibility of performing longitudinal studies from intrauterine to extrauterine life. The use of these technologies already in the intrauterine period could help prevent associated diseases, such as osteoporosis and osteopenia, which are characterised by a reduction in bone mass and degeneration of bone structure and lead to an increased risk of fractures in adulthood with considerable social repercussions for the related direct and indirect costs.
Barriers to and Facilitators of Providing Care for Adolescents Suffering from Rare Diseases: A Mixed Systematic Review
Authors: Tsitsani Pelagia , Katsaras Georgios , Soteriades Elpidoforos S.
Published: August 2023

Rare Diseases (RDs) in adolescents are characterized by low frequency and clinical heterogeneity, are chronic and deliberating and demand a multidisciplinary approach as well as costly and specialized treatments. Comprehending patients’ and parents’ needs through a mixed systematic review is essential for healthcare system planning. This mixed systematic review explored barriers to and facilitators of effective care for adolescents with RDs as perceived by patients and their parents. Three databases (2008–2023) were searched and twenty-five articles were selected and critically appraised with the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT; version 2018). The review followed a convergent integrated approach for data extraction according to Joanna Briggs Institute’s (JBI) mixed method systematic review (MMSR) methodology. Subsequent reflexive thematic analysis categorized the barriers and facilitators into five levels (intrapersonal, interpersonal, institutional, community and public policy) following the conceptual framework of the socio-ecological model for healthcare promotion. Barriers on the institutional and public policy level stood out as the most frequently reported, resulting in unmet care needs and frustrating family dynamics. National and regional healthcare policies are rarely actually linked to pragmatic intervention programs with a measurable impact on patients’ welfare. Targeted strategies involving primary care infrastructure and personnel for better coordination and management of the disease are discussed.
Design and Synthesis of New Anthranyl Phenylhydrazides: Antileishmanial Activity and Structure–Activity Relationship
Authors: do Carmo Maquiaveli Claudia , da Silva Edson Roberto , Hild de Jesus Barbara , Oliveira Monteiro Caio Eduardo , Rodrigues Navarro Tiago , Pereira Branco Luiz Octavio , Souza dos Santos Isabela , Figueiredo Reis Nanashara , Portugal Arieli Bernardo , Mendes Wanderley João Luiz , Borges Farias André , Correia Romeiro Nelilma , de Lima Evanoel Crizanto
Published: August 2023

Leishmaniasis is a neglected tropical disease affecting millions of people worldwide. A centenary approach to antimonial-based drugs was first initiated with the synthesis of urea stibamine by Upendranath Brahmachari in 1922. The need for new drug development led to resistance toward antimoniates. New drug development to treat leishmaniasis is urgently needed. In this way, searching for new substances with antileishmanial activity, we synthesized ten anthranyl phenylhydrazide and three quinazolinone derivatives and evaluated them against promastigotes and the intracellular amastigotes of Leishmania amazonensis. Three compounds showed good activity against promastigotes 1b, 1d, and 1g, with IC50 between 1 and 5 μM. These new phenylhydrazides were tested against Leishmania arginase, but they all failed to inhibit this parasite enzyme, as we have shown in a previous study. To explain the possible mechanism of action, we proposed the enzyme PTR1 as a new target for these compounds based on in silico analysis. In conclusion, the new anthranyl hydrazide derivatives can be a promising scaffold for developing new substances against the protozoa parasite.
Alvespimycin Exhibits Potential Anti-TGF-β Signaling in the Setting of a Proteasome Activator in Rats with Bleomycin-Induced Pulmonary Fibrosis: A Promising Novel Approach
Authors: Mohammed Osama A. , Abdel-Reheim Mustafa Ahmed , Saleh Lobna A. , Alamri Mohannad Mohammad S. , Alfaifi Jaber , Adam Masoud I. E. , Farrag Alshaimaa A. , AlQahtani AbdulElah Al Jarallah , BinAfif Waad Fuad , Hashish Abdullah A. , Abdel-Ghany Sameh , Elmorsy Elsayed A. , El-wakeel Hend S. , Doghish Ahmed S. , Hamad Rabab S. , Saber Sameh
Published: August 2023

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is an irreversible and life-threatening lung disease of unknown etiology presenting only a few treatment options. TGF-β signaling orchestrates a cascade of events driving pulmonary fibrosis (PF). Notably, recent research has affirmed the augmentation of TGF-β receptor (TβR) signaling via HSP90 activation. HSP90, a molecular chaperone, adeptly stabilizes and folds TβRs, thus intricately regulating TGF-β1 signaling. Our investigation illuminated the impact of alvespimycin, an HSP90 inhibitor, on TGF-β-mediated transcriptional responses by inducing destabilization of TβRs. This outcome stems from the explicit interaction of TβR subtypes I and II with HSP90, where they are clients of this cellular chaperone. It is worth noting that regulation of proteasome-dependent degradation of TβRs is a critical standpoint in the termination of TGF-β signal transduction. Oleuropein, the principal bioactive compound found in Olea europaea, is acknowledged for its role as a proteasome activator. In this study, our aim was to explore the efficacy of a combined therapy involving oleuropein and alvespimycin for the treatment of PF. We employed a PF rat model that was induced by intratracheal bleomycin infusion. The application of this dual therapy yielded a noteworthy impediment to the undesired activation of TGF-β/mothers against decapentaplegic homologs 2 and 3 (SMAD2/3) signaling. Consequently, this novel combination showcased improvements in both lung tissue structure and function while also effectively restraining key fibrosis markers such as PDGF-BB, TIMP-1, ACTA2, col1a1, and hydroxyproline. On a mechanistic level, our findings unveiled that the antifibrotic impact of this combination therapy likely stemmed from the enhanced degradation of both TβRI and TβRII. In conclusion, the utilization of proteasomal activators in conjunction with HSP90 inhibitors ushers in a promising frontier for the management of PF.
Identification of Drug Targets and Their Inhibitors in Yersinia pestis Strain 91001 through Subtractive Genomics, Machine Learning, and MD Simulation Approaches
Authors: Ali Hamid , Samad Abdus , Ajmal Amar , Ali Amjad , Ali Ijaz , Danial Muhammad , Kamal Masroor , Ullah Midrar , Ullah Riaz , Kalim Muhammad
Published: August 2023

Yersinia pestis, the causative agent of plague, is a Gram-negative bacterium. If the plague is not properly treated it can cause rapid death of the host. Bubonic, pneumonic, and septicemic are the three types of plague described. Bubonic plague can progress to septicemic plague, if not diagnosed and treated on time. The mortality rate of pneumonic and septicemic plague is quite high. The symptom-defining disease is the bubo, which is a painful lymph node swelling. Almost 50% of bubonic plague leads to sepsis and death if not treated immediately with antibiotics. The host immune response is slow as compared to other bacterial infections. Clinical isolates of Yersinia pestis revealed resistance to many antibiotics such as tetracycline, spectinomycin, kanamycin, streptomycin, minocycline, chloramphenicol, and sulfonamides. Drug discovery is a time-consuming process. It always takes ten to fifteen years to bring a single drug to the market. In this regard, in silico subtractive proteomics is an accurate, rapid, and cost-effective approach for the discovery of drug targets. An ideal drug target must be essential to the pathogen’s survival and must be absent in the host. Machine learning approaches are more accurate as compared to traditional virtual screening. In this study, k-nearest neighbor (kNN) and support vector machine (SVM) were used to predict the active hits against the beta-ketoacyl-ACP synthase III drug target predicted by the subtractive genomics approach. Among the 1012 compounds of the South African Natural Products database, 11 hits were predicted as active. Further, the active hits were docked against the active site of beta-ketoacyl-ACP synthase III. Out of the total 11 active hits, the 3 lowest docking score hits that showed strong interaction with the drug target were shortlisted along with the standard drug and were simulated for 100 ns. The MD simulation revealed that all the shortlisted compounds display stable behavior and the compounds formed stable complexes with the drug target. These compounds may have the potential to inhibit the beta-ketoacyl-ACP synthase III drug target and can help to combat Yersinia pestis-related infections. The dataset and the source codes are freely available on GitHub.
Pluronic F-68 and F-127 Based Nanomedicines for Advancing Combination Cancer Therapy
Authors: Khaliq Nisar Ul , Lee Juyeon , Kim Sangwoo , Sung Daekyung , Kim Hyungjun
Published: August 2023

Pluronics are amphiphilic triblock copolymers composed of two hydrophilic poly (ethylene oxide) (PEO) chains linked via a central hydrophobic polypropylene oxide (PPO). Owing to their low molecular weight polymer and greater number of PEO segments, Pluronics induce micelle formation and gelation at critical micelle concentrations and temperatures. Pluronics F-68 and F-127 are the only United States (U.S.) FDA-approved classes of Pluronics and have been extensively used as materials for living bodies. Owing to the fascinating characteristics of Pluronics, many studies have suggested their role in biomedical applications, such as drug delivery systems, tissue regeneration scaffolders, and biosurfactants. As a result, various studies have been performed using Pluronics as a tool in nanomedicine and targeted delivery systems. This review sought to describe the delivery of therapeutic cargos using Pluronic F-68 and F-127-based cancer nanomedicines and their composites for combination therapy.
Targeted Doxorubicin-Loaded Dendronized Gold Nanoparticles
Authors: Dockery Lance T. , Daniel Marie-Christine
Published: August 2023

Dendronized nanoparticles, also called nanoparticle-cored dendrimers, combine the advantages of nanoparticles and dendrimers. These very stable and polyvalent nanoparticles can be used for diverse applications. One such application is drug delivery, because the dendrons can enhance the density of the payload. In this report, we describe the design of multifunctional gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) coated with poly(propylene imine) (PPI) dendrons that contain both prostate cancer active targeting and chemotherapeutic drugs. The PPI dendron is a good candidate for the design of drug delivery vehicles because of its ability to induce a proton sponge effect that will enhance lysosomal escape and intracellular therapeutic delivery. The chemotherapeutic drug used is doxorubicin (DOX), and it was linked to the dendron through a hydrazone acid-sensitive bond. Subsequent acidification of the AuNP system to a pH of 4–5 resulted in the release of 140 DOX drugs per nanoparticles. In addition, the PPI dendron was conjugated via “click” chemistry to an EphA2-targeting antibody fragment that has been shown to target prostate cancer cells. In vitro cell viability assays revealed an IC50 of 0.9 nM for the targeted DOX-bearing AuNPs after 48 h incubation with PC3 cells. These results are very promising upon optimization of the system.
Etoricoxib-Cannabidiol Combo: Potential Role in Glioblastoma Treatment and Development of PLGA-Based Nanoparticles
Authors: Kuźmińska Joanna , Sobczak Agnieszka , Majchrzak-Celińska Aleksandra , Żółnowska Izabela , Gostyńska Aleksandra , Jadach Barbara , Krajka-Kuźniak Violetta , Jelińska Anna , Stawny Maciej
Published: August 2023

Background: Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most frequently occurring primary malignant central nervous system tumor, with a poor prognosis and median survival below two years. Administration of a combination of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and natural compounds that exhibit a curative or prophylactic effect in cancer is a new approach to GBM treatment. This study aimed to investigate the synergistic antitumor activity of etoricoxib (ETO) and cannabidiol (CBD) in a GBM cell line model, and to develop poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA)-based nanoparticles (NPs) for these two substances. Methods: The activity of ETO+CBD was determined using the MTT test, cell-cycle distribution assay, and apoptosis analysis using two GBM cell lines, namely, T98G and U-138 MG. The PLGA-based NPs were developed using the emulsification and solvent evaporation method. Their physicochemical properties, such as shape, size, entrapment efficiency (EE%), in vitro drug release, and quality attributes, were determined using scanning electron microscopy, diffraction light scattering, high-performance liquid chromatography, infrared spectroscopy, and differential scanning calorimetry. Results: The combination of ETO and CBD reduced the viability of cells in a dose-dependent manner and induced apoptosis in both tested GBM cell lines. The developed method allowed for the preparation of ETO+CBD-NPs with a spherical shape, mean particle size (MPS) below 400 nm, zeta potential (ZP) values from −11 to −17.4 mV, polydispersity index (PDI) values in the range from 0.029 to 0.256, and sufficient EE% of both drugs (78.43% for CBD, 10.94% for ETO). Conclusions: The combination of ETO and CBD is a promising adjuvant therapeutic in the treatment of GBM, and the prepared ETO+CBD-NPs exhibit a high potential for further pharmaceutical formulation development.
iRGD-Targeted Peptide Nanoparticles for Anti-Angiogenic RNAi-Based Therapy of Endometriosis
Authors: Egorova Anna , Petrosyan Mariya , Maretina Marianna , Bazian Elena , Krylova Iuliia , Baranov Vladislav , Kiselev Anton
Published: August 2023

Anti-angiogenic RNAi-based therapy can be considered as a possible strategy for the treatment of endometriosis (EM), which is the most common gynecological disease. Targeted delivery of siRNA therapeutics is a prerequisite for successful treatment without adverse effects. Here we evaluated the RGD1-R6 peptide carrier as a non-viral vehicle for targeted siRNA delivery to endothelial cells in vitro and endometrial implants in vivo. The physicochemical properties of the siRNA complexes, cellular toxicity, and GFP and VEGFA gene silencing efficiency were studied, and anti-angiogenic effects were proved in cellular and animal models. The modification of siRNA complexes with iRGD ligand resulted in a two-fold increase in gene knockdown efficiency and three-fold decrease in endothelial cells’ migration in vitro. Modeling of EM in rats with the autotransplantation of endometrial tissue subcutaneously was carried out. Efficiency of anti-angiogenic EM therapy in vivo by anti-VEGF siRNA/RGD1-R6 complexes was evaluated by the implants’ volume measurement, CD34 immunohistochemical staining, and VEGFA gene expression analysis. We observed a two-fold decrease in endometriotic implants growth and a two-fold decrease in VEGFA gene expression in comparison with saline-treated implants. RNAi-mediated therapeutic effects were comparable with Dienogest treatment efficiency in a rat EM model. Taken together, these findings demonstrate the advantages of RGD1-R6 peptide carrier as a delivery system for RNAi-based therapy of EM.
Cavitation-Mediated Immunomodulation and Its Use with Checkpoint Inhibitors
Authors: Maardalen Matilde , Carlisle Robert , Coussios Constantin
Published: August 2023

The promotion of anti-tumour immune responses can be an effective route to the complete remission of primary and metastatic tumours in a small proportion of patients. Hence, researchers are currently investigating various methods to further characterise and enhance such responses to achieve a beneficial impact across a wider range of patients. Due to its non-invasive, non-ionising, and targetable nature, the application of ultrasound-mediated cavitation has proven to be a popular method to enhance the delivery and activity of immune checkpoint inhibitors. However, to optimise this approach, it is important to understand the biological and physical mechanisms by which cavitation may promote anti-tumour immune responses. Here, the published literature relating to the role that cavitation may play in modulating anti-tumour immunity is therefore assessed.
Phase-Separated Structure of NBR/PVC Blends with Different Acrylonitrile Contents Investigated Using STEM–EDS Mapping Analysis
Authors: Komori Yuka , Taniguchi Aoi , Shibata Haruhisa , Goto Shinya , Saito Hiromu
Published: August 2023

We investigated the phase-separated structure of nitrile butadiene rubber (NBR)/polyvinyl chloride (PVC) blends with different acrylonitrile (AN) contents in the NBR, using dynamic mechanical analysis measurements and scanning-transmission-electron-microscopy (STEM)–energy-dispersive-X-ray-spectroscopy (EDS) elemental analysis. Two separate sharp tan δ peaks were observed in the blend at the lower AN content of 18.0%, whereas a broad peak was observed in the blends with the higher AN contents of 29.0 and 33.5%, due to the increase in miscibility, as expected from the decrease in the solubility parameter difference with the increasing AN content. The STEM–EDS elemental analysis for the concentration distribution showed that the NBR was mixed in the large PVC domains with a diameter of several micrometers, and the excluded PVC existed around the interface of the domain–matrix phases in the blend with the lower AN content, whereas small domains with a diameter of several tens of nanometers were dispersed in the blend with the higher AN content. The concentration difference in PVC between the PVC domain and the NBR matrix became smaller with increasing miscibility as the AN content increased although the blends contained the same PVC content of 40 wt%.
Improving Printability of Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) with the Help of Plasma Pre-Treatment
Authors: Olariu Marius Andrei , Herrero Rakel , Astanei Dragoș George , Jofré Lisandro , Morentin Javier , Filip Tudor Alexandru , Burlica Radu
Published: August 2023

Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) is a potential candidate for the fabrication of flexible electronics devices and electronics with applications in various extreme environments, mainly due to its outstanding chemical and physical properties. However, to date, the utilization of PTFE in printing trials has been limited due to the material’s low surface tension and wettability, which do not ensure good adhesion of the printing ink at the level of the substrate. Within this paper, successful printing of PTFE is realized after pre-treating the surface of the substrate with the help of dielectric barrier discharge non-thermal plasma. The efficiency of the pre-treatment is demonstrated with respect to both silver- and carbon-based inks that are commercially available, and finally, the long-lasting pre-treatment effect is demonstrated for periods of time spanning from minutes to days. The experimental results are practically paving the way toward large-scale utilization of PTFE as substrate in fabricating printed electronics in harsh working environments. After 3 s of plasma treatment of the foil, the WCA decreased from approximately 103° to approximately 70°. The resolution of the printed lines of carbon ink was not time dependent and was unmodified, even if the printing was realized within 1 min from the time of applying the pre-treatment or 10 days later. The evaluation of the surface tension (σ) measured with Arcotest Ink Pink showed an increase in σ up to 40 < σ < 42 mN/m for treated Teflon foil and from σ < 30 mN/m corresponding to the untreated substrate. The difference in resolution was distinguishable when increasing the width of the printed lines from 500 μm to 750 μm, but when increasing the width from 750 μm to 1000 μm, the difference was minimal.
Visco-Elastic Honeycomb Structures with Increased Energy Absorption and Shape Recovery Performance Using Buckling Initiators
Authors: Murray Colleen M. , Mao Min , Park Jungjin , Howard John , Wereley Norman M.
Published: August 2023

Energy-absorbing materials have extensive applications in aerospace and automotive applications. Research has shown buckling initiators, or triggers, in energy-absorbing tubular structures increase the energy absorbed by encouraging the side panels to fold when loaded out of plane in compression conditions. Additively manufactured TPE honeycombs were designed in this study to include these buckling initiators, which introduced a slight decrease in initial weight, as well as initial stress concentrations, while improving crashworthiness characteristics. The samples with buckling initiators (1BI) showed an increase in crush efficiency when directly compared to their no buckling initiator (0BI) counterparts. The 1BI samples maintained an increased crush efficiency regardless of the strain rate used. The samples with 1BI were able to better equilibrate the peak stress with the plateau stress. These honeycomb samples were found to maintain their crush efficiency, even after multiple rounds of compression testing. The quasi-static 0BI samples experienced a 23.4% decrease in the peak stress after multiple rounds of compression testing, while the 1BI samples saw approximately a 23.0% decrease. The 1BI samples averaged a decrease in crush efficiency of 0.5%, while the 0BI samples saw a decrease in crush efficiency of 5%. As the strain rate increased, the crush efficiency for the 1BI samples showed an increase in performance, with a smaller degradation in crush efficiency over multiple uses. Visco-elastic honeycomb with buckling initiators has a higher energy absorption than samples with no buckling initiators when exposed to multiple impact cycles.
Axial Compressive Properties of Fiber-Reinforced Polymer–High-Water Material–Polyvinyl Chloride Plastic Double-Wall Hollow Column
Authors: Yin Haojie , Chen Hui , Hu Hongqian , Zhang Lei , Li Huwei
Published: August 2023

To further enrich the side-filling structure system of goaf-retaining roadways and explore the compression reaction mechanism of the composite in the support environment of underground mine roadways, this paper introduces a double-wall hollow composite pier structure (FPRSC structure) that is composed of the fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) composite and polyvinyl chloride plastic (PVC) as restraint materials and the infill material featured with a high water-to-powder ratio. A total of 16 circular specimens with a diameter and height of 100 mm were tested to explore the axial performance of the combined support structure. The main control variables in the present research included the water-to-cement ratio of the high-water material (e.g., 2:1, 3:1, and 4:1), the thickness of the FRP pipe (i.e., 6 mm and 3 mm), the inner diameter of the PVC pipe (i.e., 29 mm and 22 mm), as well as the thickness of the PVC pipe (1.5 mm and 5 mm). Test results showed that the high-water material was under triaxial stress due to the double-wall tube binding, and the bearing capacity of the composite was higher than that of the single material. Meanwhile, the FPRSC structure exhibited obvious strain-hardening characteristics when the infill material is under the combined constraints of double-wall hollow tubes. Moreover, the ratio of PVC-c, FRP-A, and high-water material with a water–cement ratio of 3:1 shows the best axial mechanical properties. The new composite pier structure with high toughness and strength has wide application prospects in the field of goaf retention in deep underground mines.
Experimental Study on Convection and Heat Conduction Heating of an Air-Conditioned Bed System under Winter Lunch Break Mode
Authors: Jin Junjie , Duan Peiyao , Liu Yu , Chen Honglin , Yu Tingting
Published: August 2023

In this paper, an experimental study of a system for heating an air-conditioned bed during a 2 h lunch was carried out. The results show that the power consumption of heat conduction heating was only 0.34 kW·h and that the average heat dissipation was 81.3 W, while the power consumption of convection heating was 1.43 kW·h, accompanied by an average heat dissipation of 748.7 W. Regardless of the power consumption or the heat dissipation, the convection heating was significantly higher than the heat conduction heating. As a result, the room air temperature increased from 12.3 °C to 17.3 °C under convection heating, but only increased from 14.4 °C to 15.2 °C under heat conduction heating. The study results indicate that when using heat conduction heating, water temperatures in the range of 38~40 °C could meet the thermal comfort needs of the human body; however, a higher temperature range was required when using convection heating. In contrast, the grade of the hot water required for heat conduction heating was lower. It was also found that the temperature under convection heating rises faster, but it tends to lead to a dry feeling after a long time, while the conductive heating showed a slower temperature rise. There was a cool feeling for 20 min when the heating started, and then the thermal comfort improved. The air-conditioning system in this paper was investigated in a heating experiment in the winter lunch break mode and compared with convection heating. The heat conduction heating resulted in better thermal comfort and higher energy efficiency. It is suggested to adopt the heat conduction heating mode in the winter heating operation of this system.
Preliminary Report on the Efficacy of Music Therapy to Optimize the Compliance of Rett Syndrome Patients Attending Oral Hygiene Procedures
Authors: Tortoriello Mario , Frosolini Andrea , Pianigiani Sara , Cascino Flavia , Gabriele Guido , Gennaro Paolo , Parrini Stefano , Viviano Massimo
Published: August 2023

Background: Individuals with intellectual developmental disability (IDD) often face barriers in accessing dental care. The main aim of the present study was to test the feasibility and the outcome of oral hygiene (OH) procedures in Rett syndrome (RS) patients, and a secondary aim was to test the utility of music therapy during dental hygiene procedures. Methods: A case group (Group 1) of female patients with RS (stage 3 of disease, age > 5 years and <18 years) and a control group of age-matched healthy females (Group 0) were formed, and subgroups received the intervention of oral hygiene combined with a music therapy (Subgroup 1M and Subgroup 0M) or standard oral hygiene (subgroup 1W and subgroup 0W). The Simplified Oral Hygiene Index (OHI-S) was used to assess the effectiveness of oral hygiene measures. Results: The OHI-S at T0 was 1.41 in Group 1 and 2.58 in Group 0 (p value < 0.001). The mean duration of the oral hygiene treatment was 7018″ (SD 3272″) in Group 1 and 873″ (SD 161″) in Group 0 (p value < 0.001). The mean duration of OH was significantly higher in Subgroup 1M and Subgroup 0M. Discussion: Based on the results of our case-control study, OH procedures can be successfully performed in RS patients with good compliance and efficacy. In addition, our study provides preliminary evidence to suggest that music therapy may be a useful adjunct, as it appears to improve patient cooperation.
Gauging the Media Discourse and the Roots of Islamophobia Awareness in Spain
Authors: Corral Alfonso , De Coninck David , Mertens Stefan , d’Haenens Leen
Published: August 2023

This article analyses the media discourse about Islamophobia in Spain. Specifically, an overview of all the appearances of the term in four Spanish newspapers (ABC, El Mundo, El País, and La Vanguardia) is provided with the aim of finding out when the term was first used and became standard language. The study also demonstrates the links with the public interest and identifies the ideological and terminological attitudes in the discourse of each newspaper. The corpus includes 1475 news articles since the first reference (in 1987) to the term Islamophobia and May 2022, which were quantitatively examined in two steps. While the first was manual and served to document the historical background, the second allowed us to monitor the media content by means of Sketch Engine. Furthermore, the searches for the term “islamofobia” in Google Trends from Spain were also reviewed. The main findings show that both terrorist attacks in Western countries and the controversies surrounding freedom of speech are key to the emergence and normalisation of the concept, particularly since 2015. However, the interest of each newspaper differs, with El País covering the topic most frequently. This left-wing newspaper offers some notable variations in terminology as well. While the three right-wing newspapers consistently relate Islamophobia to threat, the vocabulary used in El País underpins the victimisation of the Arab-Islamic population. According to the Sketch Engine analysis, the usual terms that occur in combination with Islamophobia are racism, terrorism, violence, hate, anti-semitism, and xenophobia. Finally, Google Trends data confirmed the peak in public interest in the Barcelona and Cambrils attacks (17A).
RockSeg: A Novel Semantic Segmentation Network Based on a Hybrid Framework Combining a Convolutional Neural Network and Transformer for Deep Space Rock Images
Authors: Fan Lili , Yuan Jiabin , Niu Xuewei , Zha Keke , Ma Weiqi
Published: August 2023

Rock detection on the surface of celestial bodies is critical in the deep space environment for obstacle avoidance and path planning of space probes. However, in the remote and complex deep environment, rocks have the characteristics of irregular shape, being similar to the background, sparse pixel characteristics, and being easy for light and dust to affect. Most existing methods face significant challenges to attain high accuracy and low computational complexity in rock detection. In this paper, we propose a novel semantic segmentation network based on a hybrid framework combining CNN and transformer for deep space rock images, namely RockSeg. The network includes a multiscale low-level feature fusion (MSF) module and an efficient backbone network for feature extraction to achieve the effective segmentation of the rocks. Firstly, in the network encoder, we propose a new backbone network (Resnet-T) that combines the part of the Resnet backbone and the transformer block with a multi-headed attention mechanism to capture the global context information. Additionally, a simple and efficient multiscale feature fusion module is designed to fuse low-level features at different scales to generate richer and more detailed feature maps. In the network decoder, these feature maps are integrated with the output feature maps to obtain more precise semantic segmentation results. Finally, we conduct experiments on two deep space rock datasets: the MoonData and MarsData datasets. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed model outperforms state-of-the-art rock detection algorithms under the conditions of low computational complexity and fast inference speed.
Joint Posterior Probability Active Learning for Hyperspectral Image Classification
Authors: Li Shuying , Wang Shaowei , Li Qiang
Published: August 2023

Active learning (AL) is an approach that can reduce the dependence on the labeled set significantly. However, most current active-learning methods are only concerned with the first two columns of the posterior probability matrix during the sampling phase. When the difference between the first and second-largest posterior probabilities of several samples is proximate, these approaches fail to distinguish them further. To improve these deficiencies, we propose an active-learning algorithm, joint posterior probabilistic active learning combined with conditional random field (JPPAL_CRF). In the active-learning sampling phase, a new sampling decision function is built by jointing all the information in the posterior probability matrix. By doing so, the variability between different samples is refined, which makes the selected samples more meaningful for classification. Then, a conditional random field (CRF) approach is applied to mine the regional spatial information of the hyperspectral image and optimize the classification results. Experiments on two common hyperspectral datasets validate the effectiveness of JPPAL_CRF.
SRTM DEM Correction Using Ensemble Machine Learning Algorithm
Authors: Ouyang Zidu , Zhou Cui , Xie Jian , Zhu Jianjun , Zhang Gui , Ao Minsi
Published: August 2023

The Shuttle Radar Topographic Mission (SRTM) digital elevation model (DEM) is a widely utilized product for geological, climatic, oceanic, and ecological applications. However, the accuracy of the SRTM DEM is constrained by topography and vegetation. Using machine learning models to correct SRTM DEM with high-accuracy reference elevation observations has been proven to be useful. However, most of the reference observation-aided approaches rely on either parametric or non-parametric regression (e.g., a single machine learning model), which may lead to overfitting or underfitting and limit improvements in the accuracy of SRTM DEM products. In this study, we presented an algorithm for correcting SRTM DEM using a stacking ensemble machine learning algorithm. The proposed algorithm is capable of learning how to optimally combine the predictions from multiple well-performing machine learning models, resulting in superior performance compared to any individual model within the ensemble. The proposed approach was tested under varying relief and vegetation conditions in Hunan Province, China. The results indicate that the accuracy of the SRTM DEM productions improved by approximately 46% using the presented algorithm with respect to the original SRTM DEM. In comparison to two conventional algorithms, namely linear regression and artificial neural network models, the presented algorithm demonstrated a reduction in root-mean-square errors of SRTM DEM by 28% and 12%, respectively. The approach provides a more robust tool for correcting SRTM DEM or other similar DEM products over a wide area.
Daytime Sea Fog Identification Based on Multi-Satellite Information and the ECA-TransUnet Model
Authors: Lu He , Ma Yi , Zhang Shichao , Yu Xiang , Zhang Jiahua
Published: August 2023

Sea fog is a weather hazard along the coast and over the ocean that seriously threatens maritime activities. In the deep learning approach, it is difficult for convolutional neural networks (CNNs) to fully consider global context information in sea fog research due to their own limitations, and the recognition of sea fog edges is relatively vague. To solve the above problems, this paper puts forward an ECA-TransUnet model for daytime sea fog recognition, which consists of a combination of a CNN and a transformer. By designing a two-branch feed-forward network (FFN) module and introducing an efficient channel attention (ECA) module, the model can effectively take into account long-range pixel interactions and feature channel information to capture the global contextual information of sea fog data. Meanwhile, to solve the problem of insufficient existing sea fog detection datasets, we investigated sea fog events occurring in the Yellow Sea and Bohai Sea and their territorial waters, extracted remote sensing images from Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) data at corresponding times, and combined data from the Cloud-Aerosol Lidar and Infrared Pathfinder Satellite Observation (CALIPSO), cloud and sea fog texture features, and waveband feature information to produce a manually annotated sea fog dataset. Our experiments showed that the proposed model achieves 94.5% accuracy and an 85.8% F1 score. Compared with the existing models relying only on CNNs such as UNet, FCN8s, and DeeplabV3+, it achieves state-of-the-art performance in sea fog recognition.
A Systematic Comparison between the Ethereum and Hyperledger Fabric Blockchain Platforms for Attribute-Based Access Control in Smart Home IoT Environments
Authors: Pancari Stefan , Rashid Anik , Zheng Jason , Patel Shirali , Wang Yi , Fu Jian
Published: August 2023

Despite the lack of blockchain systems being utilized in modern IoT environments, the prevalence of blockchain technology is increasing, due to its high level of security and accountability. The integration of blockchain technology and access control in a decentralized system for smart home networks is a promising solution to this issue. This paper compares the implementation of attribute-based access control (ABAC) with two popular blockchain platforms, Ethereum and Hyperledger Fabric, for a smart home internet of things (IoT) environment. We present a comprehensive summary of access-control and blockchain-access-control methods, to provide the necessary background for this study. Additionally, we present an original ABAC smart contract for Ethereum, and the modification of a pre-existing Hyperledger Fabric ABAC smart contract, for this comparison. Through the simulation of both implementations, the advantages and limitations will be considered, to determine which is better suited for a smart home IoT environment.
Towards the Cognitive Factory in Industry 5.0: From Concept to Implementation
Authors: Cotta Wagner Augusto Aranda , Lopes Sérgio Ivan , Vassallo Raquel Frizera
Published: August 2023

Industry 5.0 (I5.0) represents a shift towards a human-centered industry and emphasizes the integration of human and machine capabilities. A highly compatible concept for enabling the I5.0 implementation is intelligent spaces (ISs), i.e., physical spaces equipped with a network of sensors, which obtains information about the place it observes, and a network of actuators, which enables changes in the environment through computing services. These spaces can sense, interpret, recognize user behavior, adapt to preferences, and provide natural interactions between humans and intelligent systems, using the IoT, AI, computer vision, data analytics, etc., to create dynamic and adaptive environments in real time. The integration of ISs and I5.0 has paved the way for the development of cognitive factories, which transform industrial environments into ISs. In this context, this article explores the convergence of IS and I5.0 concepts and aims to provide insights into the technical implementation challenges of cognitive factories. It discusses the development and implementation of a laboratory replica of a cognitive cell as an example of a segment of a cognitive factory. By analyzing the key points and challenges associated with cognitive cell implementation, this article contributes to the knowledge base surrounding the advanced manufacturing paradigm of I5.0.
Sustainable Global Supply Chain Management from an International Perspective
Authors: Tirkolaee Erfan Babaee , Goli Alireza , Golpîra Hêriş , Santibañez Gonzalez Ernesto D. R.
Published: August 2023

Over the last decade, sustainable supply chain management (SSCM) has become a very pronounced topic, receiving increasing attention from different communities [...]
Pollution Analysis and Health Implications of Heavy Metals under Different Urban Soil Types in a Semi-Arid Environment
Authors: Rezapour Salar , Azizi Mehri , Nouri Amin
Published: August 2023

A fundamental requirement for the effective prevention and management of soil contamination involves the determination of heavy metal contamination levels and the assessment of associated health risks for human populations. In this study, an analysis was conducted to evaluate the pollution levels and health risks associated with heavy metals in urban soils, specifically focusing on four distinct soil types, namely Calcisols, Cambisols, Fluvisols, and Regosols. The mean values of five heavy metals (Zn, Cu, Cd, Pb, and Ni), some soil pollution indices, and human health risk indices were determined. Pollution indices including the integrated Newerow pollution index (PIN), single pollution index (PI), and pollution load index (PLI) showed a moderate pollution class in most soil samples. The non-carcinogen risk index of elements (HI) in each exposure pathway and the total of the exposure pathways (THI) was <1 for three different population groups (children, adult females, and adult males) and in all soils. This shows the lack of non-cancerous risk for local residents in the study site. The variations in HI and THI for the three population groups and three different exposure pathways was in the order of adult males > adult females > children and ingestion > dermal contact > inhalation. The carcinogenicity risk (CR) of Cd, Pb, and Ni through exposure by ingestion was >1 × 10−4 for children in all soils, meaning that soil ingestion is hazardous to children in the study region. For all three population groups and all soil types, Pb was most effective in HI and THI, whereas Cd had the highest carcinogenicity potential.