bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Combination of Two-Dimensional Nanomaterials with Metal Oxide Nanoparticles for Gas Sensors: A Review
Authors: Li Tao , Yin Wen , Gao Shouwu , Sun Yaning , Xu Peilong , Wu Shaohua , Kong Hao , Yang Guozheng , Wei Gang
Published: March 2022

Metal oxide nanoparticles have been widely utilized for the fabrication of functional gas sensors to determine various flammable, explosive, toxic, and harmful gases due to their advantages of low cost, fast response, and high sensitivity. However, metal oxide-based gas sensors reveal the shortcomings of high operating temperature, high power requirement, and low selectivity, which limited their rapid development in the fabrication of high-performance gas sensors. The combination of metal oxides with two-dimensional (2D) nanomaterials to construct a heterostructure can hybridize the advantages of each other and overcome their respective shortcomings, thereby improving the sensing performance of the fabricated gas sensors. In this review, we present recent advances in the fabrication of metal oxide-, 2D nanomaterials-, as well as 2D material/metal oxide composite-based gas sensors with highly sensitive and selective functions. To achieve this aim, we firstly introduce the working principles of various gas sensors, and then discuss the factors that could affect the sensitivity of gas sensors. After that, a lot of cases on the fabrication of gas sensors by using metal oxides, 2D materials, and 2D material/metal oxide composites are demonstrated. Finally, we summarize the current development and discuss potential research directions in this promising topic. We believe in this work is helpful for the readers in multidiscipline research fields like materials science, nanotechnology, chemical engineering, environmental science, and other related aspects.
Polyphenols from Olive-Mill Wastewater and Biological Activity: Focus on Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Authors: Curci Francesca , Corbo Filomena , Clodoveo Maria Lisa , Salvagno Lara , Rosato Antonio , Corazza Ivan , Budriesi Roberta , Micucci Matteo , Mattioli Laura Beatrice
Published: March 2022

Waste represents a cost for companies, in particular for agro-food companies, which can become a resource as a secondary material. In this work, we examine three products of olive-oil waste water, named MOMAST® (Plus30, PW25, and HY100). Based on the chemical composition, obtained with different methods, we hypothesized a possible application as food supplements in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). We therefore studied MOMASTs on some targets linked to this pathology: antioxidant action and spontaneous and induced intestinal contractility of the ileum and colon. Plus30, which showed a more promising biological of activity also for its oleuropein content, was characterized by an interesting action against some microorganisms. The results highlighted the ability of Plus30 to modulate spontaneous and induced contractility, to exert a good antioxidant action, and to significantly act on various microorganisms. These effects are synergistic in the presence of antibiotics. In conclusion, we can confirm that Plus30 could be a great candidate as a food supplement in patients with IBS.
Eating out of Home: Influence on Nutrition, Health, and Policies: A Scoping Review
Authors: Gesteiro Eva , García-Carro Alberto , Aparicio-Ugarriza Raquel , González-Gross Marcela
Published: March 2022

Eating out of home (EOH) is a common practice worldwide but research gaps have been identified. The aims of this review were (a) to find a common definition for EOH, (b) to determine the nutritional contribution of EOH, and (c) to analyze the relationship of EOH with health parameters in adults. Fifty-seven articles were finally selected. The definition of EOH was not harmonized between researchers and the comparison between studies was quite difficult. Restaurant and fast food were the terms most used, followed by chain restaurant, à la carte, sit-down restaurant, eating at table, full service, ready to eat, takeaway, buffet and buffet by weight, bar, cafes, and cafeterias, either alone or attached to at least one of the above. The profile of the main EOH participant was a highly educated, high-income, and unmarried young man. EOH was related to a body mass index (BMI) or being overweight in a different way depending on age, sex, or EOH frequency. A high rate of EOH led to poorer diet quality, characterized by higher intakes of energy, total and saturated fats, sugar, and sodium, as well as lower intakes of fiber, dairy, fruit, vegetables, and micronutrients. Regarding beverages, a higher intake of soft drinks, sugar-sweetened beverages, fruit juices, beer, and other alcohol was observed when EOH. There is a need for a methodological consensus for analyzing the impact of EOH on dietary intake and health to avoid bias. Additionally, measures and policies should be utilized to help consumers to make healthier choices when EOH is compatible with business regarding those running EOH establishments.
Host–Pathogen Interactions: Organotypic Cultures to Unravel the Mysteries of the Primordial Hostility among Organisms
Authors: Marrazzo Pasquale , Fischer Natalie , Nastasi Claudia , Cricca Monica , Fusco Daniela
Published: March 2022

The interaction of humans with microorganisms represents a subtle balance between harm and good [...]
Medical Cannabis in Pediatric Oncology: Friend or Foe?
Authors: Malach Megan , Kovalchuk Igor , Kovalchuk Olga
Published: March 2022

The antineoplastic effects of cannabis have been known since 1975. Since the identification of the components of the endogenous cannabinoid system (ECS) in the 1990s, research into the potential of cannabinoids as medicine has exploded, including in anti-cancer research. However, nearly all of this research has been on adults. Physicians and governing bodies remain cautious in recommending the use of cannabis in children, since the ECS develops early in life and data about cannabis exposure in utero show negative outcomes. However, there exist many published cases of use of cannabis in children to treat pediatric epilepsy and chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) that show both the safety and efficacy of cannabis in pediatric populations. Additionally, promising preclinical evidence showing that cannabis has anti-cancer effects on pediatric cancer warrants further investigation of cannabis’ use in pediatric cancer patients, as well as other populations of pediatric patients. This review aims to examine the evidence regarding the potential clinical utility of cannabis as an anti-cancer treatment in children by summarizing what is currently known about uses of medical cannabis in children, particularly regarding its anti-cancer potential.
Tumor Suppressive Role of miR-342-5p and miR-491-5p in Human Osteosarcoma Cells
Authors: Veys Clément , Jammes Manon , Rédini Françoise , Poulain Laurent , Denoyelle Christophe , Legendre Florence , Galera Philippe
Published: March 2022

Osteosarcomas are the most common type of malignant bone tumor. These tumors are characterized by the synthesis of an osteoid matrix. Current treatments are based on surgery and combination chemotherapy. However, for metastatic or recurrent tumors, chemotherapy is generally ineffective, and osteosarcomas are sometimes unresectable. Thus, the use of microRNAs (miRNAs) may represent an attractive alternative for the development of new therapies. Using high-throughput functional screening based on impedancemetry, we previously selected five miRNAs with potential chemosensitizing or antiproliferative effects on chondrosarcoma cells. We validated the tumor-suppressive activity of miR-491-5p and miR-342-5p in three chondrosarcoma cell lines. Here, we carried out individual functional validation of these five miRNAs in three osteosarcoma cell lines used as controls to evaluate their specificity of action on another type of bone sarcoma. The cytotoxic effects of miR-491-5p and miR-342-5p were also confirmed in osteosarcoma cells. Both miRNAs induced apoptosis. They increased Bcl-2 homologous antagonist killer (Bak) protein expression and directly targeted Bcl-2 lymphoma-extra large (Bcl-xL). MiR-342-5p also decreased B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) protein expression, and miR-491-5p decreased that of Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR). MiR-342-5p and miR-491-5p show tumor-suppressive activity in osteosarcomas. This study also confirms the potential of Bcl-xL as a therapeutic target in osteosarcomas.
pH-Sensitive Peptide Hydrogels as a Combination Drug Delivery System for Cancer Treatment
Authors: Liu Yuanfen , Ran Yingchun , Ge Yu , Raza Faisal , Li Shasha , Zafar Hajra , Wu Yiqun , Paiva-Santos Ana Cláudia , Yu Chenyang , Sun Meng , Zhu Ying , Li Fei
Published: March 2022

Conventional antitumor chemotherapeutics generally have shortcomings in terms of dissolubility, selectivity and drug action time, and it has been difficult to achieve high antitumor efficacy with single-drug therapy. At present, combination therapy with two or more drugs is widely used in the treatment of cancer, but a shortcoming is that the drugs do not reach the target at the same time, resulting in a reduction in efficacy. Therefore, it is necessary to design a carrier that can release two drugs at the same site. We designed an injectable pH-responsive OE peptide hydrogel as a carrier material for the antitumor drugs gemcitabine (GEM) and paclitaxel (PTX) that can release drugs at the tumor site simultaneously to achieve the antitumor effect. After determining the optimal gelation concentration of the OE polypeptide, we conducted an in vitro release study to prove its pH sensitivity. The release of PTX from the OE hydrogel in the medium at pH 5.8 and pH 7.4 was 96.90% and 38.98% in 7 days. The release of GEM from the OE hydrogel in media with pH of 5.8 and 7.4 was 99.99% and 99.63% in 3 days. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and circular dichroism (CD) experiments were used to observe the microstructure of the peptides. The circular dichroism of OE showed a single negative peak shape when under neutral conditions, indicating a β-folded structure, while under acidic conditions, it presented characteristics of a random coil. Rheological experiments were used to investigate the mechanical strength of this peptide hydrogel. Furthermore, the treatment effect of the drug-loaded peptide hydrogel was demonstrated through in vitro and in vivo experiments. The results show that the peptide hydrogels have different structures at different pH values and are highly sensitive to pH. They can reach the tumor site by injection and are induced by the tumor microenvironment to release antitumor drugs slowly and continuously. This biologically functional material has a promising future in drug delivery for combination drugs.
Chemically Modified Extracellular Vesicles and Applications in Radiolabeling and Drug Delivery
Authors: N’Diaye Elisa-Racky , Orefice Nicola Salvatore , Ghezzi Catherine , Boumendjel Ahcène
Published: March 2022

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have been exploited as bio-inspired drug delivery systems (DDS) in the biomedical field. EVs have more advantages than synthetic nanoparticles: they are naturally equipped to cross extra- and intra-cellular barriers. Furthermore, they can deliver functional biomolecules from one cell to another even far away in the body. These advantages, along with obtained promising in vivo results, clearly evidenced the potential of EVs in drug delivery. Nevertheless, due to the difficulties of finding a chemical approach that is coherent with EVs’ rational clinical therapeutic use, those in the drug delivery community are expecting more from EVs’ use. Therefore, this review gathered knowledge of the current chemical approaches dealing with the conjugation of EVs for drugs and radiotracers.
Hepatoprotective Effect of Carob Pulp Flour (Ceratonia siliqua L.) Extract Obtained by Optimized Microwave-Assisted Extraction
Authors: Martić Nikola , Zahorec Jana , Stilinović Nebojša , Andrejić-Višnjić Bojana , Pavlić Branimir , Kladar Nebojša , Šoronja-Simović Dragana , Šereš Zita , Vujčić Miodrag , Horvat Olga , Rašković Aleksandar
Published: March 2022

To examine antioxidant capacity and the hepatoprotective effect of carob pulp flour, microwave-assisted extraction was performed. The influence of ethanol concentration (0–40% w/w), extraction time (5–25 min) and irradiation power (400–800 W) on DPPH, FRAP and ABTS antioxidant activity of carob pulp flour extract was evaluated. The strongest influence was that of the ethanol concentration, followed by extraction time. Optimal process parameters for maximizing total antioxidant activity were determined, using response surface methodology: ethanol concentration 40%, time 25 min and power 800 W. Carob extract obtained at optimal conditions (CE) was analyzed in vivo using a paracetamol-induced hepatotoxicity model in mice. Treatment with CE attenuated the parameters of liver injury, especially aspartate and alanine aminotransferase activity, and prevented paracetamol-induced increase in malondialdehyde levels. Pretreatment with CE reversed the activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase and glutathione S-transferase enzymes after the high dose of paracetamol in the liver. Hepatotoxicity induced using a toxic dose of paracetamol was also seen through histopathological alterations, which were significantly reduced in the groups treated with CE prior to paracetamol. Still, the number of Kupffer cells and macrophages did not differ among groups. Finally, pretreatment of mice with CE and paracetamol significantly decreased the expression of cytochrome P450 2E1 (CYP2E1) in hepatocytes.
Jet Transport Coefficient at the Large Hadron Collider Energies in a Color String Percolation Approach
Authors: Mishra Aditya Nath , Sahu Dushmanta , Sahoo Raghunath
Published: March 2022

Within the color string percolation model (CSPM), jet transport coefficient, q^, is calculated for various multiplicity classes in proton-proton and centrality classes in nucleus-nucleus collisions at the Large Hadron Collider energies for a better understanding of the matter formed in ultra-relativistic collisions. q^ is studied as a function of final state charged particle multiplicity (pseudorapidity density at midrapidity), initial state percolation temperature and energy density. The CSPM results are then compared with different theoretical calculations from the JET Collaboration those incorporate particle energy loss in the medium.
Genome-Wide Identification and Expression Profile Reveal Potential Roles of Peanut ZIP Family Genes in Zinc/Iron-Deficiency Tolerance
Authors: Zhang Zhen , Chen Nannan , Zhang Zheng , Shi Gangrong
Published: March 2022

Zinc/iron-regulated transporter-like protein (ZIP) family genes play crucial roles in metal uptake and transport in plants. However, little is known about their functions in peanut. Here, genome-wide analysis identified 30 peanut AhZIP genes that were divided into four classes. Most AhZIPs experienced whole-genome or segmental duplication. AhZIP proteins harbored 3–8 transmembrane domains and a typical ZIP domain, showing considerable homology with BbZIP from Bordetella bronchiseptica. Clustered AhZIPs generally share similar gene/protein structures; however, unique features were found in AhIRT1.2, AhZIP1.2, AhZIP3.5 and AhZIP7.8. RNA-seq data revealed that AhZIP2.1/2.2, AhZIP4.1/4.2 and AhZIP11.1/11.2 were highly and preferentially expressed in roots, nodule and reproductive tissues. RT-qPCR analysis indicated that transcriptional responses of AhZIPs to Fe/Zn deficiency are cultivar dependent. The expressions of AhIRT1.1, AhIRT1.2 and AhZIP6.1 were closely related to Fe uptake and translocation. AhIRT1.1 and AhZIP7.2 expression were significantly correlated with Zn accumulation. The expression of AhIRT1.1, AhIRT1.2, AhZIP3.6, AhZIP6.1 and AhZIP11.1 was associated with Mn uptake and translocation. The results confirmed that AhZIP genes play crucial roles in the uptake and transport of Fe, Zn and Mn in peanut, providing clues to further functionally characterize AhZIP genes in the future.
Alpha Lipoic Acid as a Protective Mediator for Regulating the Defensive Responses of Wheat Plants against Sodic Alkaline Stress: Physiological, Biochemical and Molecular Aspects
Authors: Ramadan Khaled M. A. , Alharbi Maha Mohammed , Alenzi Asma Massad , El-Beltagi Hossam S. , Darwish Doaa Bahaa Eldin , Aldaej Mohammed I. , Shalaby Tarek A. , Mansour Abdallah Tageldein , El-Gabry Yasser Abd El-Gawad , Ibrahim Mohamed F. M.
Published: March 2022

Recently, exogenous α-Lipoic acid (ALA) has been suggested to improve the tolerance of plants to a wide array of abiotic stresses. However, there is currently no definitive data on the role of ALA in wheat plants exposed to sodic alkaline stress. Therefore, this study was designed to evaluate the effects of foliar application by ALA at 0 (distilled water as control) and 20 µM on wheat seedlings grown under sodic alkaline stress (50 mM 1:1 NaHCO3 & Na2CO3; pH 9.7. Under sodic alkaline stress, exogenous ALA significantly (p ≤ 0.05) improved growth (shoot fresh and dry weight), chlorophyll (Chl) a, b and Chl a + b, while Chl a/b ratio was not affected. Moreover, leaf relative water content (RWC), total soluble sugars, carotenoids, total soluble phenols, ascorbic acid, K and Ca were significantly increased in the ALA-treated plants compared to the ALA-untreated plants. This improvement was concomitant with reducing the rate of lipid peroxidation (malondialdehyde, MDA) and H2O2. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) demonstrated greater activity in the ALA-treated plants compared to the non-treated ones. Conversely, proline, catalase (CAT), guaiacol peroxidase (G-POX), Na and Na/K ratio were significantly decreased in the ALA-treated plants. Under sodic alkaline stress, the relative expression of photosystem II (D2 protein; PsbD) was significantly up-regulated in the ALA treatment (67% increase over the ALA-untreated plants); while Δ pyrroline-5-carboxylate synthase (P5CS), plasma membrane Na+/H+ antiporter protein of salt overly sensitive gene (SOS1) and tonoplast-localized Na+/H+ antiporter protein (NHX1) were down-regulated by 21, 37 and 53%, respectively, lower than the ALA-untreated plants. These results reveal that ALA may be involved in several possible mechanisms of alkalinity tolerance in wheat plants.
Influence of Ascophyllum nodosum Extract Foliar Spray on the Physiological and Biochemical Attributes of Okra under Drought Stress
Authors: Ali Jawad , Jan Ibadullah , Ullah Hidayat , Ahmed Nazeer , Alam Mukhtar , Ullah Rafi , El-Sharnouby Mohamed , Kesba Hosny , Shukry Mustafa , Sayed Samy , Nawaz Taufiq
Published: March 2022

Drought stress restricts the growth of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.) primarily by disrupting its physiological and biochemical functions. This study evaluated the role of Ascophyllum nodosum extract (ANE) in improving the drought tolerance of okra. Drought stress (3 days (control), 6 days (mild stress), and 9 days (severe stress)) and 4 doses of ANE (0, 0.1%, 0.2%, and 0.3%) were imposed after 30 days of cultivation. The results indicate that drought stress decreases the chlorophyll content (total chlorophyll, chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, and carotenoid) but increases the activity of anthocyanin, proline, and antioxidant enzymes such as ascorbate peroxidase (APX), peroxidase (POD), and catalase (CAT). Physiological and biochemical plant disturbances and visible growth reduction in okra under drought stress were significantly decreased by the application of ANE foliar spray. ANE spray (0.3%) significantly increased the chlorophyll abundance and activity of anthocyanin, proline, and antioxidants (APX, POD, and CAT). ANE regulated and improved biochemical and physiological functions in okra under both drought and control conditions. The results of the current study show that ANE foliar spray may improve the growth performance of okra and result in the development of drought tolerance in okra.
Antioxidant Contents in a Mediterranean Population of Plantago lanceolata L. Exploited for Quarry Reclamation Interventions
Authors: Sanna Federico , Piluzza Giovanna , Campesi Giuseppe , Molinu Maria Giovanna , Re Giovanni Antonio , Sulas Leonardo
Published: March 2022

Plantago lanceolata L. (plantain) is an interesting multipurpose perennial species whose aerial parts are used in herbal medicine due to its precious phytochemicals and are palatable to animals. Moreover, peculiar traits such as drought tolerance, an extended growth season and a deep root system, make plantain a promising pioneer plant for quarry reclamation based on the use of native species. This study evaluated the effects of different environmental conditions and seasons on the accumulation of the bioactive compounds of its aerial organs. An autochthonous plantain population was grown in three locations in Sardinia (Italy). Leaves, peduncles and inflorescences were collected between October 2020 and July 2021. Phenolic contents and antioxidant capacity were determined. The analysis of the individual phenolic compounds was performed using liquid chromatography. In leaves, the content of total phenolics, antioxidant capacity and total flavonoids were significantly influenced by location and season. Total phenolic content ranged from 65 to 240 g gallic acid equivalent kg−1, whereas total flavonoids were from 16 to about 89 g catechin equivalent kg−1. Neochlorogenic, chlorogenic, cryptochlorogenic acids, verbascoside, diosmin and luteolin were identified in the methanolic extracts of leaves, peduncles and inflorescences. Verbascoside was the main antioxidant isolated from plantain extracts. Results evidenced an increasing accumulation pattern of phenolics from vegetative stage to flowering, followed by a decrement towards the seed ripening as well as site-specific differences with amounts of phenolics even 25% higher for same plantain accession.
Influence of Short Glass Fibre Reinforcement on Mechanical Properties of 3D Printed ABS-Based Polymer Composites
Authors: R. Mohan Kumar H. , Benal Maha Gundappa M. , G. S. Pradeep Kumar , Tambrallimath Vijay , H.R. Geetha , Khan T. M. Yunus , Rajhi Ali A. , Baig Maughal Ahmed Ali
Published: March 2022

One of the most promising and widely used additive manufacturing technologies, fused deposition modelling (FDM), is based on material extrusion and is most commonly used for producing thermoplastic parts for functional applications with the objectives of low cost, minimal waste and ease of material conversion. Considering that pure thermoplastic materials have a significantly poor mechanical performance, it is necessary to enhance the mechanical properties of thermoplastic parts generated using FDM technology. One of the conceivable techniques is to incorporate reinforcing materials such as short glass fibre (SGF) into the thermoplastic matrix in order to produce a polymer composite that can be used in engineering applications, such as structural applications. The morphological and mechanical properties of SGF (short glass fibre) reinforced ABS- (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) based polymer composites created via the method of FDM (fused deposition modelling) were investigated in this work. Properties were evaluated at three different weight percentages (0, 15 and 30 wt%). The composite filaments were developed using the process of twin screw extrusion. The comparison was made between ABS + SGF (short glass fibre) composites and pure ABS of mechanical properties that include surface roughness, tensile strength and low-velocity impact. The tests were carried out to analyze the properties as per ASTM standards. It has been found that the impact strength and tensile strength show an improvement in glass fibre inclusion; moreover, alongside the direction of build, the surface roughness had been reduced. The studies also focused on studying the dispersion characters of SGF in ABS matrix and its impact on the properties. Strength and modulus of SGF reinforced ABS composite has been significantly improved along with reduction of ductility. A 57% increase in tensile strength has been noted for 30 wt% addition of SGF to ABS in comparison to pure ABS. It was also interesting to note the reduction in surface roughness with every incremental addition of SGF to ABS. A 40% reduction in surface roughness has been observed with a 30 wt% addition of SGF to ABS in comparison to pure ABS.
Chitosan Hydrogels Based on the Diels–Alder Click Reaction: Rheological and Kinetic Study
Authors: Ruiz-Pardo Cinthya , Silva-Gutiérrez Luisa , Lizardi-Mendoza Jaime , López-Franco Yolanda , Peniche-Covas Carlos , Argüelles-Monal Waldo
Published: March 2022

The Diels–Alder reaction is recognized to generate highly selective and regiospecific cycloadducts. In this study, we carried out a rheological and kinetic study of N-furfuryl chitosan hydrogels based on the Diels–Alder click reaction with different poly(ethylene)glycol-maleimide derivatives in dilute aqueous acidic solutions. It was possible to prepare clear and transparent hydrogels with excellent mechanical properties. Applying the Winter and Chambon criterion the gel times were estimated at different temperatures, and the activation energy was calculated. The higher the temperature of gelation, the higher the reaction rate. The crosslinking density and the elastic properties seem to be controlled by the diffusion of the polymer segments, rather than by the kinetics of the reaction. An increase in the concentration of any of the two functional groups is accompanied by a higher crosslinking density regardless maleimide:furan molar ratio. The hydrogel showed an improvement in their mechanical properties as the temperature increases up to 70 °C. Above that, there is a drop in G’ values indicating that there is a process opposing to the Diels–Alder reaction, most likely the retro-Diels–Alder.
Influence of Materials Parameters of the Coil Sheet on the Formation of Defects during the Manufacture of Deep-Drawn Cups
Authors: Baran Wojciech , Regulski Krzysztof , Milenin Andrij
Published: March 2022

During the process of deep drawing of cylindrical thin-walled products from aluminum sheets, the occurrence of product defects in the form of breaking the material continuity is observed. This has a very large impact on the efficiency of production lines and the number of generated scraps. The number of defects depends on many factors, including the material and the process properties. Because the problem appears after changing one material to another, while the process parameters do not change, it was assumed that the material has the main influence on the number of defects. To reduce the number of defects, a tool is needed to predict threats to the process. Decision tree models were used for this purpose. Using the tree interaction algorithms, the influence of the chemical composition and strength parameters of the 3xxx series aluminum alloy on the number of generated defects was investigated. Increased Silicon (Si) and Iron (Fe) values generated a higher number of defects. Increased yield strength (YS) and decreased elongation (E) also generated a higher number of defects. Based on the results, a defect prediction tool was created, where after entering the parameters of the material, it is possible to predict production hazards.
Optimal Current Allocation Strategy for Hybrid Hierarchical HVDC System with Parallel Operation of High-Voltage and Low-Voltage DC Lines
Authors: Yang Zhichao , Gao Bingtuan , Cao Zeyu
Published: March 2022

For long-distance and bulk-power delivery of new energy, high-voltage direct current (HVDC) is a more effective way than high-voltage alternative current (HVAC). In view of the current capacity disparity between line commutated converter (LCC) and voltage source converter (VSC), a hybrid hierarchical HVDC topology with parallel operation of 800 kV and 400 kV DC lines is investigated. The optimal current allocation method for hybrid hierarchical HVDC is proposed distinct from the same rated current command configuration method of high-voltage and low-voltage converters in traditional topology. Considering the transmission loss reduction of the HVDC system, a multi-order fitting function of transmission loss including LCC converter stations, VSC converter stations and DC lines is established. To minimize the transmission loss and the voltage deviation of key DC nodes comprehensively, a multi-objective genetic algorithm and maximum satisfaction method are utilized to obtain the optimal allocation value of rated current command for high-voltage and low-voltage converters. Through the optimization model, an improved constant current controller based on the current allocation strategy is designed. The hybrid hierarchical HVDC system model is built in PSCAD software, and simulation results verify the effectiveness of the proposed topology and optimal current allocation strategy.
Phytosterol, Tocopherol and Carotenoid Retention during Commercial Processing of Brassica napus (Canola) Oil
Authors: Flakelar Clare L. , Adjonu Randy , Doran Gregory , Howitt Julia A. , Luckett David J. , Prenzler Paul D.
Published: March 2022

Brassica napus (canola) seed is a rich source of phytosterols, tocopherols and carotenoids, which all have recognized health benefits, although these are reduced or lost during crude oil refinement. Many studies are now outdated, so new research to monitor bioactive retention through current processing techniques is warranted. In this work, canola seed, in-process seed, and oil samples were collected from the major stages of five commercial canola oil processes. Analysis of phytosterols, tocopherols and carotenoids indicated seed pre-treatment enhanced bioactive concentrations in the crude oil. Although the bleaching step in each process eliminated all carotenoids, high concentrations of phytosterols and tocopherols remained in the refined oil across all processes, with losses notably lower than those found in previous reports. Moreover, crude oil samples from a two-stage cold pressing process showed greatly enriched concentrations of tocopherols (+122%), sterols (+140%) and carotenoids (+217%). The results show that modern Australian canola oil processing retains high phytosterol and tocopherol concentrations and warrants further investigation into bioactive enrichment strategies. Given the growing interest in health-enhanced foods, this study provides opportunities for nutrition and health-enhanced oil products and the potential for adding value in the edible oil industry.
Rhetorical Questions in the Daodejing: Argument Construction, Dialogical Insertion, and Sentimental Expression
Authors: Yuan Ai
Published: March 2022

This paper provides a typology of rhetorical questions in the Daodejing and examines their functions on rhetorical effects and argumentative construction. This paper argues against a reading of rhetorical questions that translates them directly into propositional statements. Instead, the fact that rhetorical questions appear in one version of the text but not in others shows us the unique subtleties of meaning that rhetorical questions deliver. An awareness of the performative and dialogical functions elicited through rhetorical questions deepens our understanding of the persuasive power of the Daodejing. Furthermore, emotional sentiments within the text can be detected through the use of rhetorical questions which function to impress the readers/listeners while urging a point. A study of rhetorical questions in the Daodejing reveals textual differences across versions that transcend their wording, all the while motivating a new understanding of rhetorical questions based on classical Chinese texts enriches current definitions proposed in the field at large.
The Refined Gravity Field Models for Height System Unification in China
Authors: Zhang Panpan , Li Zhicai , Bao Lifeng , Zhang Peng , Wang Yongshang , Wu Lin , Wang Yong
Published: March 2022

A unified height datum is essential for global geographic information resource construction, ecological environment protection, and scientific research. The goal of this paper is to derive the geopotential value for the Chinese height datum (CNHD) in order to realize the height datum unification in China. The estimation of height datum geopotential value usually depends on high-precision global gravity field models (GFMs). The satellite gravity missions of the Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) and Gravity field and steady-state Ocean Circulation Exploration (GOCE) provide high-accuracy, medium–long-wavelength gravity field spectra, but satellite-only GFMs are limited to medium–long wavelengths, which will involve omission errors. To compensate for the omission errors in satellite-only GFMs, a spectral expansion approach is used to obtain the refined gravity field models using the EGM2008 (Earth Gravitational Model 2008) and residual terrain model (RTM) technique. The refined GFMs are evaluated by using high-quality GNSS/leveling data, the results show that the quasi-geoid accuracy of the refined DIR_R6_EGM2008_RTM model in China has optimal accuracy and, compared with the EGM2008 model and the DIR_R6 model, this refined model in China is improved by 9.6 cm and 21.8 cm, and the improvement ranges are 35.7% and 55.8%, respectively. Finally, the geopotential value of the Chinese height datum is estimated to be equal to 62,636,853.29 m2s−2 with respect to the global reference level defined by W0 = 62,636,853.4 m2s−2 by utilizing the refined DIR_R6_EGM2008_RTM model and 1908 high-quality GNSS/leveling datapoints.
Neighbourhood Species Richness Reduces Crown Asymmetry of Subtropical Trees in Sloping Terrain
Authors: Perles-Garcia Maria D. , Kunz Matthias , Fichtner Andreas , Meyer Nora , Härdtle Werner , von Oheimb Goddert
Published: March 2022

Reforestation in sloping terrain is an important measure for soil erosion control and sustainable watershed management. The mechanical stability of such reforested stands, however, can be low due to a strong asymmetric shape of tree crowns. We investigated how neighbourhood tree species richness, neighbourhood pressure, tree height, and slope inclination affect crown asymmetry in a large-scale plantation biodiversity-ecosystem functioning experiment in subtropical China (BEF-China) over eight years. We took the advantage of terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) measurements, which provide non-destructive, high-resolution data of tree structure without altering tree interactions. Neighbourhood species richness significantly reduced crown asymmetry, and this effect became stronger at steeper slopes. Our results suggest that tree diversity promotes the mechanical stability of forest stands in sloping terrain and highlight the importance of TLS-data for a comprehensive understanding of the role of tree diversity in modulating crown interactions in mixed-species forest plantations.
High-Precision Registration of Lunar Global Mapping Products Based on Spherical Triangular Mesh
Authors: Bo Zheng , Di Kaichang , Liu Bin , Wang Jia , Liu Zhaoqin , Xin Xin , Cheng Ziqing , Yin Jinkuan
Published: March 2022

Lunar global mapping products provide a solid data foundation for lunar scientific research and exploration. As the widespread geometric inconsistencies among multi-source mapping products seriously affect the synergistic use of the products, high-precision registration of multiple lunar global products is critical, and it is highly challenging due to large coverage and complex local geometric inconsistencies. In this research, we propose a spherical triangular-mesh-based method for high-precision registration of lunar global mapping products, which involves four steps: data preprocessing, feature point extraction and matching, spherical Delaunay triangulation, and geometric correction with spherical barycentric coordinates. This global registration method avoids map projection distortions by using spherical coordinates directly, and achieves high precision by confining the geometric models to spherical triangular facets. Experiments are conducted using two groups of different types of mapping products to verify the proposed method quantitatively and qualitatively. The results show that the geometric inconsistencies are reduced from hundreds of pixels to sub-pixel level globally after the registration, demonstrating the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Inkjet-Printed Functionalization of CMUT-Based CO2 Sensors
Authors: Barauskas Dovydas , Pelenis Donatas , Dzikaras Mindaugas , Mikolajunas Marius , Vanagas Gailius , Virzonis Darius
Published: March 2022

The trade-off between the functionalization shift of the informative parameters and sensitivity of capacitive micromachined ultrasound transducers (CMUT)-based CO2 sensors is addressed, and the CMUT surface modification process by thin inkjet-printed polyethyleneimine (PEI) films is optimized. It was shown that by the proper preparation of the active CMUT surface and properly diluted PEI solution, it is possible to minimize the functionalization shift of the resonance frequency and the quality of the resonance and preserve the sensitivity potential. So, after optimization, we demonstrated 23.2 kHz frequency shift readings of the sensor with 16 MHz nominal frequency while in the gas chamber and switching between pure N2 and CO2. After testing the sensors with different PEI film thickness, it was confirmed that a 200 nm average thickness of a PEI film is an optimum, because this is the practical limit of CO2 absorption depth at given conditions. Additionally, we note that modification of the hydrophilic/hydrophobic properties of the CMUT surface allows changing the nanoscale surface roughness of the printed PEI film and controlling the area resolution of the inkjet functionalization by reducing the diameter of a single dot down to 150 μm by a commercially available printer cartridge.
Sensors and Instruments for Brix Measurement: A Review
Authors: Jaywant Swapna A. , Singh Harshpreet , Arif Khalid Mahmood
Published: March 2022

Quality assessment of fruits, vegetables, or beverages involves classifying the products according to the quality traits such as, appearance, texture, flavor, sugar content. The measurement of sugar content, or Brix, as it is commonly known, is an essential part of the quality analysis of the agricultural products and alcoholic beverages. The Brix monitoring of fruit and vegetables by destructive methods includes sensory assessment involving sensory panels, instruments such as refractometer, hydrometer, and liquid chromatography. However, these techniques are manual, time-consuming, and most importantly, the fruits or vegetables are damaged during testing. On the other hand, the traditional sample-based methods involve manual sample collection of the liquid from the tank in fruit/vegetable juice making and in wineries or breweries. Labour ineffectiveness can be a significant drawback of such methods. This review presents recent developments in different destructive and nondestructive Brix measurement techniques focused on fruits, vegetables, and beverages. It is concluded that while there exist a variety of methods and instruments for Brix measurement, traits such as promptness and low cost of analysis, minimal sample preparation, and environmental friendliness are still among the prime requirements of the industry.
Fast Kinematic Re-Calibration for Industrial Robot Arms
Authors: Kana Sreekanth , Gurnani Juhi , Ramanathan Vishal , Turlapati Sri Harsha , Ariffin Mohammad Zaidi , Campolo Domenico
Published: March 2022

Accurate kinematic modelling is pivotal in the safe and reliable execution of both contact and non-contact robotic applications. The kinematic models provided by robot manufacturers are valid only under ideal conditions and it is necessary to account for the manufacturing errors, particularly the joint offsets introduced during the assembling stages, which is identified as the underlying problem for position inaccuracy in more than 90% of the situations. This work was motivated by a very practical need, namely the discrepancy in terms of end-effector kinematics as computed by factory-calibrated internal controller and the nominal kinematic model as per robot datasheet. Even though the problem of robot calibration is not new, the focus is generally on the deployment of external measurement devices (for open loop calibration) or mechanical fixtures (for closed loop calibration). On the other hand, we use the factory-calibrated controller as an ‘oracle’ for our fast-recalibration approach. This allows extracting calibrated intrinsic parameters (e.g., link lengths) otherwise not directly available from the ‘oracle’, for use in ad-hoc control strategies. In this process, we minimize the kinematic mismatch between the ideal and the factory-calibrated robot models for a Kinova Gen3 ultra-lightweight robot by compensating for the joint zero position error and the possible variations in the link lengths. Experimental analysis has been presented to validate the proposed method, followed by the error comparison between the calibrated and un-calibrated models over training and test sets.
Structural Damage Detection through EMI and Wave Propagation Techniques Using Embedded PZT Smart Sensing Units
Authors: Gayakwad Himanshi , Thiyagarajan Jothi Saravanan
Published: March 2022

Lead Zirconate Titanate (PZT) sensors have become popular in structural health monitoring (SHM) using the electromechanical impedance (EMI) technique for damage identification. The vibrations generated during the casting process in concrete structures substantially impact the conductance signature’s (real part of admittance) magnitude and sensitivity. The concept of smart sensing units (SSU) is presented, composed of a PZT patch, an adhesive layer, and a steel plate. It is embedded in the concrete structure to study the impact of damage since it has high sensitivity to detect any structural changes, resulting in a high electrical conductance signature. The conductance signatures are obtained from the EMI technique at the damage state in the 10–500 kHz high-frequency range. The wave propagation technique proposes implementing the novel embedded SSUs to detect damage in the host structure. The numerical simulation is carried out with COMSOL multiphysics, and the received voltage signal is compared between the damaged and undamaged concrete beam with the applied actuation signal. A five-cycle sine burst modulated by a Hanning window is employed as the transient excitation signal. For numerical investigation, six cases are explored to better understand how the wave travels when a structural discontinuity is accounted for. The changes in the received signal during actuator–receiver mode in the damage state of the host structure are quantified using time of flight (TOF). Furthermore, the numerical studies are carried out by combining the EMI-WP technique, which implies synchronous activation of EMI-based measurements and wave stimulation. The fundamental idea is to implement EMI-WP to improve the effectiveness of SSU patches in detecting both near-field and far-field damage in structures. One SSU is used as an EMI admittance sensor for local damage identification. Meanwhile, the same EMI admittance sensor is used to acquire elastic waves generated by another SSU to monitor damages outside the EMI admittance sensor’s sensing area. Finally, the experimental validation is carried out to verify the proposed methodology. The results show that combining both techniques is an effective SHM method for detecting damage in concrete structures.
Fast Multi-UAV Path Planning for Optimal Area Coverage in Aerial Sensing Applications
Authors: Luna Marco Andrés , Ale Isaac Mohammad Sadeq , Ragab Ahmed Refaat , Campoy Pascual , Flores Peña Pablo , Molina Martin
Published: March 2022

This paper deals with the problems and the solutions of fast coverage path planning (CPP) for multiple UAVs. Through this research, the problem is solved and analyzed with both a software framework and algorithm. The implemented algorithm generates a back-and-forth path based on the onboard sensor footprint. In addition, three methods are proposed for the individual path assignment: simple bin packing trajectory planner (SIMPLE-BINPAT); bin packing trajectory planner (BINPAT); and Powell optimized bin packing trajectory planner (POWELL-BINPAT). The three methods use heuristic algorithms, linear sum assignment, and minimization techniques to optimize the planning task. Furthermore, this approach is implemented with applicable software to be easily used by first responders such as police and firefighters. In addition, simulation and real-world experiments were performed using UAVs with RGB and thermal cameras. The results show that POWELL-BINPAT generates optimal UAV paths to complete the entire mission in minimum time. Furthermore, the computation time for the trajectory generation task decreases compared to other techniques in the literature. This research is part of a real project funded by the H2020 FASTER Project, with grant ID: 833507.
Capturing Upper Body Kinematics and Localization with Low-Cost Sensors for Rehabilitation Applications
Authors: Sarker Anik , Emenonye Don-Roberts , Kelliher Aisling , Rikakis Thanassis , Buehrer R. Michael , Asbeck Alan T.
Published: March 2022

For upper extremity rehabilitation, quantitative measurements of a person’s capabilities during activities of daily living could provide useful information for therapists, including in telemedicine scenarios. Specifically, measurements of a person’s upper body kinematics could give information about which arm motions or movement features are in need of additional therapy, and their location within the home could give context to these motions. To that end, we present a new algorithm for identifying a person’s location in a region of interest based on a Bluetooth received signal strength (RSS) and present an experimental evaluation of this and a different Bluetooth RSS-based localization algorithm via fingerprinting. We further present algorithms for and experimental results of inferring the complete upper body kinematics based on three standalone inertial measurement unit (IMU) sensors mounted on the wrists and pelvis. Our experimental results for localization find the target location with a mean square error of 1.78 m. Our kinematics reconstruction algorithms gave lower errors with the pelvis sensor mounted on the person’s back and with individual calibrations for each test. With three standalone IMUs, the mean angular error for all of the upper body segment orientations was close to 21 degrees, and the estimated elbow and shoulder angles had mean errors of less than 4 degrees.