bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diet-Related Disease Prevention in a Rural Australian Setting: Understanding Barriers, Enablers, and the Role of Rural Health Services in Supporting Changes in Local Rural Food Environments
Authors: Wheaton Nikita , Alston Emily , Versace Vincent L. , Field Michael , Wong Shee Anna , Jacobs Jane , Backholer Kathryn , Allender Steven , Nichols Melanie , Needham Cindy , Bolton Kristy A. , Blake Miranda R. , Stewart Fletcher , Close Evelyn , Alston Laura
Published: December 2023

Bold and comprehensive action is needed to prevent diet-related diseases in rural areas, which includes improving food environments to enable healthier dietary practices. Rural health services are integral to the health of rural populations, yet their role in community disease prevention is not swell understood. This study sought to understand health service, local government, and food outlet stakeholders’ perspectives on (1) the drivers of unhealthy retail environments in a rural setting; (2) the role of rural health services in supporting changes in local food environments; and to (3) identify characteristics of potential interventions. Two Group Model Building workshops were held with health service and local government leaders (n = 9), and interviews were conducted with local food outlet participants (n = 13). Key themes included ‘enablers to healthier food environments’, ‘barriers to healthier food environments’, ‘Rural health services are a leading broker of knowledge for healthy food environments’, and ‘characteristics of desirable healthy food environment interventions.’. Rural health services can play a key role in addressing the current barriers to healthy food environments in rural areas. Effective promotion of healthier diets in rural populations will require consideration of key stakeholder perspectives and the development of further evidence on the role that rural health services can play in improving the healthiness of food environments.
Mental Health Conditions, Including Depression and Stress, Are Associated with Increased Odds of Gastric Cancer—Insights into the Role of Diet: A Case-Control Study
Authors: Vahid Farhad , Rahmani Wena , Davoodi Sayed Hossein , Bohn Torsten
Published: December 2023

Several risk factors, including nutritional/lifestyle ones, play a role in gastric cancer etiology. Further interactions with mental health have also been emphasized. We hypothesized that individuals with mental disorders would exhibit compromised nutrient intake, increasing their risk of gastric cancer. The state of mental health was evaluated in 82 patients with gastric cancer and 95 healthy controls using the 21-item Depression–Anxiety–Stress Scale. The participants’ dietary intakes were evaluated by a 168-item food frequency questionnaire. Based on fully adjusted logistic regressions, there was a significant association between depression (OR = 1.938, CI 95%: 1.009–3.723) and stress (OR = 2.630, CI 95%: 1.014–6.819) with increased odds of gastric cancer. According to fully adjusted multinomial regressions, vitamins A and B6, beta-carotene, and black tea decreased the odds of depression, based on comparing the control group with cases of depression, while sugar and salt increased its odds. The highest significant association was found for salt intake and anxiety in cases with present anxiety (OR = 4.899, 95% CI: 2.218–10.819), and the highest significant protective effect was found for vitamin B6 and depression in cases with present depression (OR = 0.132, 95% CI: 0.055–0.320). However, considering causal relationships and clarifying the underlying mechanisms is imperative and requires further investigation. Advising healthy dietary patterns, e.g., a Mediterranean diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals such as vitamin A, B6, beta-carotene, and fiber, is expected to reduce the odds of gastric cancer, possibly related to lower levels of anxiety and depression.
How Can We Find Out What Indigenous Children and Their Families Need to Manage Weight? Lessons from Formative Nutrition Intervention Research with First Australians
Authors: Williams Lauren T. , Somerville Mari , Wright Fiona , Atkins Heidi , Rogany Ayala , Bell Kristie L. , Vincze Lisa
Published: December 2023

In Australia, Indigenous children have rates of overweight and obesity 1.5 times those of non-Indigenous children. Culturally safe and effective nutrition interventions are needed for this group. This paper aims to describe a Community-based Participatory Action Research (CPAR) approach to designing formative nutrition intervention research with First Australian children and their families and to reflect on the challenges arising from this process. After obtaining ethical approvals, a Steering Committee (SC), including nine Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people experienced in delivering or receiving health care, was established as a project governance body to develop culturally safe project materials and methods. The Indigenous research method of yarning circles was chosen by the SC for the community consultation, and the First Australian SC members were trained to collect the data. They liaised with community organizations to recruit yarning circle participants. Individual interviews conducted by an Aboriginal research assistant replaced yarning circles due to the COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns. While the CPAR approach to formative research was successful, the pandemic and other factors tripled the study duration. To authentically, ethically and safely engage First Australians in research, researchers need to decolonize their methodological approach, and funding bodies need to allow adequate time and resources for the process.
Lactobacillus paragasseri OLL2809 Improves Premenstrual Psychological Symptoms in Healthy Women: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study
Authors: Sato Asako , Fukawa-Nagira Akika , Sashihara Toshihiro
Published: December 2023

Lactobacillus paragasseri OLL2809 has been shown to ameliorate stress. This study employed a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, parallel-group design to assess the efficacy of continuous ingestion of OLL2809 for managing menstrual symptoms in healthy women. Eighty healthy adult women aged 25–40 years who experienced premenstrual and menstrual symptoms were randomly assigned to either the OLL2809 or placebo group (n = 40 each) and ingested tablets containing OLL2809 or placebo for three menstrual cycles. The OLL2809 group exhibited a significantly greater change in premenstrual ‘arousal’ scores on the menstrual distress questionnaire compared to the placebo group after the three menstrual cycles. Specifically, changes in the ‘activity’ subfactor were significantly higher in the OLL2809 group than in the placebo group. Additionally, the OLL2809 group reported significantly lower premenstrual irritability on the visual analog scale than the placebo group. These results suggest that OLL2809 may contribute to enhancing the quality of life of women.
Neuroprotective Effects of N-methyl-(2S, 4R)-trans-4-hydroxy-L-proline (NMP) against Amyloid-β-Induced Alzheimer’s Disease Mouse Model
Authors: Ali Jawad , Khan Amjad , Park Jun Sung , Tahir Muhammad , Ahmad Waqas , Choe Kyonghwan , Kim Myeong Ok
Published: December 2023

Alzheimer’s disease (AD), is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that involves the deposition of β-amyloid plaques and the clinical symptoms of confusion, memory loss, and cognitive dysfunction. Despite enormous progress in the field, no curative treatment is available. Therefore, the current study was designed to determine the neuroprotective effects of N-methyl-(2S, 4R)-Trans-4-hydroxy-L-proline (NMP) obtained from Sideroxylon obtusifolium, a Brazilian folk medicine with anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative properties. Here, for the first time, we explored the neuroprotective role of NMP in the Aβ1–42-injected mouse model of AD. After acclimatization, a single intracerebroventricular injection of Aβ1–42 (5 µL/5 min/mouse) in C57BL/6N mice induced significant amyloidogenesis, reactive gliosis, oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, and synaptic and memory deficits. However, an intraperitoneal injection of NMP at a dose of (50 mg/kg/day) for three consecutive weeks remarkably decreased beta secretase1 (BACE-1) and Aβ, activated the astrocyte and microglia expression level as well as downstream inflammatory mediators such as pNF-ĸB, TNF-α, and IL-1β. NPM also strongly attenuated oxidative stress, as evaluated by the expression level of NRF2/HO-1, and synaptic failure, by improving the level of both the presynaptic (SNAP-25 and SYN) and postsynaptic (PSD-95 and SNAP-23) regions of the synapses in the cortexes and hippocampi of the Aβ1–42-injected mice, contributing to cognitive improvement in AD and improving the behavioral deficits displayed in the Morris water maze and Y-maze. Overall, our data suggest that NMP provides potent multifactorial effects, including the inhibition of amyloid plaques, oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, and cognitive deficits.
Brown Seaweed Consumption as a Promising Strategy for Blood Glucose Management: A Comprehensive Meta-Analysis
Authors: Kim Yu Rim , Park Min Ju , Park Soo-yeon , Kim Ji Yeon
Published: December 2023

Diabetes is a chronic condition that can lead to various complications; therefore, there is a need to emphasize prevention and management. Dietary interventions, such as the Mediterranean diet or calorie-restricted regimens, coupled with exercise-induced weight reduction, have been recommended for enhancing diabetes management. Seaweeds contain various functional components, such as polyphenols and fucoidan, which have been reported to exert multiple benefits, including blood glucose regulation, improved intestinal health, and enhanced of lipid profiles. The association between blood glucose and seaweed consumption has been established in previous research. We searched the PubMed, RISS, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, and Cochrane Library databases to identify relevant studies after applying the selection/exclusion criteria, and 23 studies were ultimately included in this analysis. Comprehensive Meta-Analysis (CMA) software version 4.0 was used to assess statistical significance and heterogeneity. In this meta-analysis, postprandial blood glucose, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), and Homeostatic Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR) levels demonstrated significant improvements in the seaweed group compared to the control group. Conversely, fasting blood glucose and insulin levels did not show significant associations with seaweed consumption. Subgroup analysis revealed that a high dose (1000 mg or more) was more beneficial than a low dose, and seaweeds such as Laminaria digitata, Undaria pinnatifida, Acophyllum nodosum, and Fucus vesiculosus were found to be more effective at improving blood glucose levels than control treatments. Therefore, based on our research, seaweed supplementation appears to be a promising strategy for reducing postprandial blood glucose, HbA1c, and HOMA-IR levels, thereby enabling better blood glucose management and leading to a decreased risk of type 2 diabetes.
Modifiable Risk Factors and Trends in Changes in Glucose Regulation during the First Three Years Postdelivery: The St Carlos Gestational Diabetes Mellitus Prevention Cohort
Authors: Arnoriaga-Rodriguez Maria , Melero Verónica , Barabash Ana , Valerio Johanna , del Valle Laura , O’Connor Rocio Martin , de Miguel Paz , Diaz José A. , Familiar Cristina , Moraga Inmaculada , Duran Alejandra , Jimenez Inés , Cuesta Martín , Torrejon María José , Martinez-Novillo Mercedes , Runkle Isabelle , Pazos Mario , Rubio Miguel A. , Matia-Martín Pilar , Calle-Pascual Alfonso L.
Published: December 2023

Objective: Evaluation of the influence of potential risk factors (RFs) on glycemic changes at 3 years postpartum. Methods: The glycemic status of 1400 women, in absence of a new pregnancy, was evaluated at 3 months (3 m) and 3 years (3 y) postpartum, after participation in the St. Carlos Gestational Study (2228 normoglycemic pregnant women followed from before gestational week 12 to delivery, from 2015–2017). Abnormal glucose regulation (AGR) was defined as fasting serum glucose ≥ 100 mg/dL and/or HbA1c ≥ 5.7% and/or 2 h 75 g OGTT glucose ≥ 140 mg/dL. In total, 12 modifiable and 3 unmodifiable RFs were analyzed. Results: 3 m postpartum, 110/1400 (7.9%) women had AGR; 3 y postpartum, 137 (9.8%) women exhibited AGR (110 with 3 m normal glucose tolerance [NGT]); 1263 (90.2%) had NGT (83 with 3 m AGR). More women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) progressed to AGR at 3 y (OR: 1.60 [1.33–1.92]) than women without GDM. Yet, most women with 3 m and/or 3 y AGR had no GDM history. Having ≥2 unmodifiable RFs was associated with increased risk for progression to AGR (OR: 1.90 [1.28–2.83]) at 3 y postpartum. Having >5/12 modifiable RFs was associated with increased progression from NGT to AGR (OR: 1.40 [1.00–2.09]) and AGR persistence (OR: 2.57 [1.05–6.31]). Pregestational BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2 (OR: 0.59 [0.41–0.85]), postdelivery weight gain (OR: 0.53 [0.29–0.94]), and waist circumference > 89.5 cm (OR: 0.54 [0.36–0.79]) reduced the likelihood of NGT persisting at 3 y. Conclusions: 3-month and/or 3-year postpartum AGR can be detected if sought in women with no prior GDM. Modifiable and unmodifiable RF predictors of AGR at 3 y postpartum were identified. Universal screening for glycemic alterations should be considered in all women following delivery, regardless of prior GDM. These findings could be useful to design personalized strategies in women with risk factors for 3 y AGR.
Influence of Maceration Solvent on Chemical Composition of Gemmotherapy Macerates—A Case Study on Olea europaea Young Shoots
Authors: Bréard Dimitri , Esselin Hélène , Bugeia Lucie , Boisard Séverine , Guilet David , Richomme Pascal , Le Ray Anne-Marie , Ripoll Christophe
Published: December 2023

Gemmotherapy, a natural therapy based on bud macerates, has recently gained importance in the field of food supplements. However, two coexisting extraction methods employ a glycerin-based solvent, either in a binary or ternary solvent mixture. The absence of an official method for bud preparation leads to non-standardized bud macerates. Given this context, this study aimed to (i) assess the influence of solvent composition on the chemical profile of olive young shoot macerates obtained using glycerin-based solvents or using different solvent extractions and (ii) to compare the two coexisting traditional bud extraction methods described by Dr Pol Henry and by the European Pharmacopoeia. A comprehensive phytochemical analysis of all macerates was conducted using HPLC-DAD-ELSD-MS2, identifying 50 metabolites divided into 7 classes through dereplication. The extracts obtained with the solvent described by the European Pharmacopoeia (ethanol/glycerin) and by Dr Pol Henry (water/ethanol/glycerin) appeared to be the most diversified in terms of metabolite distribution and possessed higher rates of secondary metabolites. These observations reinforce the interest in a glycerin-based solvent mixture for bud extraction in gemmotherapy. In addition, the difference in composition between the two traditional solvents was highlighted. Indeed, iridoids were predominant in both macerates, representing about 50% of the chemical composition, but differences were observed from one macerate to another regarding the proportions of the other chemical classes. This emphasizes the necessity for standardized gemmotherapy macerates.
Epidemiological Assessment of African Swine Fever Spread in the Dominican Republic
Authors: Schambow Rachel A. , Hussain Syed , Antognoli Maria C. , Kreindel Silvia , Reyes Raysa , Perez Andres M.
Published: December 2023

Since African Swine Fever (ASF) was detected in the Dominican Republic in July 2021, it has negatively impacted the country’s swine industry. Assessing the epidemiological situation is crucial to helping local authorities and industry stakeholders control the disease. Here, data on 155 reported outbreaks in the Dominican Republic from November 2022 to June 2023 were evaluated. Descriptive spatiotemporal analysis was performed to characterize disease distribution and spread, and between-herd R0 was calculated for the study period. The Knox test and a space–time permutation model were used to evaluate clustering. Data on clinical presentation, biosecurity measures, and suspected reasons for introduction were categorized and summarized. The majority (78%) of outbreaks occurred on backyard farms which generally had low biosecurity. Across farm types, the majority of pigs were still alive at the time of depopulation. Spatiotemporal findings and R0 estimates suggest an endemic pattern of disease geographically located centrally within the country. Clustering was detected even at small temporal and spatial distances due to outbreaks amongst neighboring backyard farms. These results provide critical information on the current state of the ASF epidemic in the Dominican Republic and will aid government officials and swine industry leaders in developing effective ASF control strategies.
Advances in the Evaluation of Gastrointestinal Absorption Considering the Mucus Layer
Authors: Miyazaki Kaori , Sasaki Akira , Mizuuchi Hiroshi
Published: December 2023

Because of the increasing sophistication of formulation technology and the increasing polymerization of compounds directed toward undruggable drug targets, the influence of the mucus layer on gastrointestinal drug absorption has received renewed attention. Therefore, understanding the complex structure of the mucus layer containing highly glycosylated glycoprotein mucins, lipids bound to the mucins, and water held by glycans interacting with each other is critical. Recent advances in cell culture and engineering techniques have led to the development of evaluation systems that closely mimic the ecological environment and have been applied to the evaluation of gastrointestinal drug absorption while considering the mucus layer. This review provides a better understanding of the mucus layer components and the gastrointestinal tract’s biological defense barrier, selects an assessment system for drug absorption in the mucus layer based on evaluation objectives, and discusses the overview and features of each assessment system.
Nano-Based Drug Delivery Systems: Potential Developments in the Therapy of Metastatic Osteosarcoma—A Narrative Review
Authors: Luo Yuanrui , Sun Minghao , Tan Linyun , Li Tao , Min Li
Published: December 2023

Osteosarcoma, a predominant malignant bone tumor, poses significant challenges due to its high metastatic and recurrent nature. Although various therapeutic strategies are currently in use, they often inadequately target osteosarcoma metastasis. This review focuses on the potential of nanoscale drug delivery systems to bridge this clinical gap. It begins with an overview of the molecular mechanisms underlying metastatic osteosarcoma, highlighting the limitations of existing treatments. The review then transitions to an in-depth examination of nanoscale drug delivery technologies, emphasizing their potential to enhance drug bioavailability and reduce systemic toxicity. Central to this review is a discussion of recent advancements in utilizing nanotechnology for the potential intervention of metastatic osteosarcoma, with a critical analysis of several preclinical studies. This review aims to provide insights into the potential applications of nanotechnology in metastatic osteosarcoma therapy, setting the stage for future clinical breakthroughs and innovative cancer treatments.
Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Grain Size, Shape, and Weight-Related QTLs Identified Using GWAS with Multiple GAPIT Models and High-Density SNP Chip DNA Markers
Authors: Kabange Nkulu Rolly , Dzorkpe Gamenyah Daniel , Park Dong-Soo , Kwon Youngho , Lee Sais-Beul , Lee So-Myeong , Kang Ju-Won , Jang Seong-Gyu , Oh Ki-Won , Lee Jong-Hee
Published: December 2023

This study investigated novel quantitative traits loci (QTLs) associated with the control of grain shape and size as well as grain weight in rice. We employed a joint-strategy multiple GAPIT (Genome Association and Prediction Integrated Tool) models [(Bayesian-information and Linkage-disequilibrium Iteratively Nested Keyway (BLINK)), Fixed and random model Circulating Probability Uniform (FarmCPU), Settlement of MLM Under Progressive Exclusive Relationship (SUPER), and General Linear Model (GLM)]–High-Density SNP Chip DNA Markers (60,461) to conduct a Genome-Wide Association Study (GWAS). GWAS was performed using genotype and grain-related phenotypes of 143 recombinant inbred lines (RILs). Data show that parental lines (Ilpum and Tung Tin Wan Hein 1, TTWH1, Oryza sativa L., ssp. japonica and indica, respectively) exhibited divergent phenotypes for all analyzed grain traits), which was reflected in their derived population. GWAS results revealed the association between seven SNP Chip makers and QTLs for grain length, co-detected by all GAPIT models on chromosomes (Chr) 1–3, 5, 7, and 11, were qGL1-1BFSG (AX-95918134, Chr1: 3,820,526 bp) explains 65.2–72.5% of the phenotypic variance explained (PVE). In addition, qGW1-1BFSG (AX-273945773, Chr1: 5,623,288 bp) for grain width explains 15.5–18.9% of PVE. Furthermore, BLINK or FarmCPU identified three QTLs for grain thickness independently, and explain 74.9% (qGT1Blink, AX-279261704, Chr1: 18,023,142 bp) and 54.9% (qGT2-1Farm, AX-154787777, Chr2: 2,118,477 bp) of the observed PVE. For the grain length-to-width ratio (LWR), the qLWR2BFSG (AX-274833045, Chr2: 10,000,097 bp) explains nearly 15.2–32% of the observed PVE. Likewise, the major QTL for thousand-grain weight (TGW) was detected on Chr6 (qTGW6BFSG, AX-115737727, 28,484,619 bp) and explains 32.8–54% of PVE. The qTGW6BFSG QTL coincides with qGW6-1Blink for grain width and explained 32.8–54% of PVE. Putative candidate genes pooled from major QTLs for each grain trait have interesting annotated functions that require functional studies to elucidate their function in the control of grain size, shape, or weight in rice. Genome selection analysis proposed makers useful for downstream marker-assisted selection based on genetic merit of RILs.
Phenotypic Diversity and Genetic Parameters of Coffea canephora Clones
Authors: Bezerra Caroline de Souza , Tomaz Jennifer Souza , Valente Mágno Sávio Ferreira , Espindula Marcelo Curitiba , Marques Ricardo Lívio Santos , Tadeu Hugo Cesar , Ferreira Fábio Medeiros , Silva Gabriel de Sousa , Meneses Carlos Henrique Salvino Gadelha , Lopes Maria Teresa Gomes
Published: December 2023

The simultaneous analysis of the maximum number of chemical elements present in plant tissues provides more comprehensive information about their chemical constitution and increases the number of characteristics for the selection process in various plant breeding programs. The objective of this study was to analyze productivity, grain yield, and concentration of chemical elements in tissues of Coffea canephora clones to study phenotypic diversity and estimate genetic parameters for use in breeding. This experiment was carried out in Manaus, Amazonas, Brazil, in randomized blocks with four replications. The concentrations of elements in various organs were quantified using total reflection X-ray fluorescence (TXRF). Genetic parameters and genetic divergence were estimated, and genotypes were clustered using the UPGMA hierarchical method and non-metric multidimensional scaling analysis. The study allowed us to differentiate the performance of the clones in terms of the absorption of essential and non-essential chemical elements for plant development and to analyze the correlation of the characteristics in the selection process. TXRF efficiently characterizes the presence and concentration of multiple elements, aiding genotype discrimination for C. canephora improvement.
Curing Behavior of Sucrose with p-Toluenesulfonic Acid
Authors: Sakai Shunsuke , Chen Shuoye , Matsuo-Ueda Miyuki , Umemura Kenji
Published: December 2023

With respect to the fossil resources shortage, the development of bio-based wood adhesives is an important research topic in wood science. There has been research on using sucrose for bio-based adhesives. However, a high acid catalyst content and a high hot-pressing temperature are required when manufacturing particleboards. In this study, to explore the possibility of p-toluenesulfonic acid (PTSA) as a promising acid catalyst for sucrose-based adhesives, the curing behavior of sucrose with PTSA (Suc-PTSA) was clarified. The thermal analysis results showed that the thermal properties of sucrose decreased significantly with the addition of PTSA. Based on the results of the insoluble matter rate, the optimal mixture ratio and heating conditions were determined to be 95:5 and 180 °C for 10 min, respectively. According to the results of FT−IR, the heat-treated Suc-PTSA contained furan compounds. In the context of the dynamic viscoelasticity, the onset temperature at which the storage modulus (E′) begins to rise was significantly lower than those of the other sucrose-based adhesives. PTSA has the potential to cure sucrose more efficiently and at lower temperatures than previous sucrose-based adhesives, making it a promising acid catalyst for sucrose.
Recent Progress in the Field of Intrinsic Self-Healing Elastomers
Authors: Yang Wengang , Wu Mengqi , Xu Ting , Deng Mingxiao
Published: December 2023

Self-healing elastomers refer to a class of synthetic polymers that possess the unique ability to autonomously repair from internal and external damages. In recent years, significant progress has been made in the field of self-healing elastomers. In particular, intrinsic self-healing elastomers have garnered a great deal of attention. This mini-review outlines recent advancements in the mechanisms, preparation methods, and properties of various intrinsic self-healing elastomers based on non-covalent bond systems, reversible covalent bond systems, and multiple dynamic bond composite systems. We hope that this review will prove valuable to researchers in order to facilitate the development of novel strategies and technologies for preparing high-performance self-healing elastomers for advanced applications.
Enhanced Dynamic Impact Resistance of 3D-Printed Continuous Optical Fiber-Reinforced Helicoidal Polylactic Acid Composites
Authors: Wang Aiqiu , Liu Ying , Yan Rui , Wang Yuye , Luo Pengjun , Li Yangbo
Published: December 2023

Characterized by light weight and high strength, composites are widely used as protective materials in dynamic impact loading under extreme conditions, such as high strain rates. Therefore, based on the excellent tensile properties of continuous fiber and the good flexibility and toughness of the bionic spiral structure, this study uses a multi-material 3D printer to incorporate continuous fiber, and then modifies the G-CODE file to control the printing path to achieve the production of a continuous fiber-reinforced Polylactic Acid composite helicoidal (spiral angle 60°) structure (COF-HP). Dynamic behavior under high-strain-rate impact experiments have been conducted using the Split Hopkinson Pressure Bar (SHPB). Stress–strain curves, impact energy curves and high-speed camera photographs with different strain rates at 680 s−1 and 890 s−1 have been analyzed to explore the dynamic process and illustrate the damage evolution. In addition, some detailed simulation models considering the incorporation of continuous optical fiber (COF) and different strain rates have been established and verified for deeper investigations. The results show that the COF does enhance the impact resistance of the laminates. When the porosity is reduced, the maximum stress of the continuous fiber-reinforced composite material is 4~7% higher than that of the pure PLA material. Our findings here expand the application of COF and provide a new method for designing protective materials, which have broad application prospects in the aerospace and automotive industries.
Effects of ZIF-L Morphology on PI@PDA@PEI/ZIF-L Composite Membrane’s Adsorption and Separation Properties for Heavy Metal Ions
Authors: Cao Hui , Jiang Ziyue , Tang Jing , Zhou Qiong
Published: December 2023

Composite polymolecular separation membranes were prepared by combining multi-branched ZIF-L with high-porosity electrospinning nanofibers PI. Meanwhile, PDA and PEI were introduced into the membrane in order to improve its adhesion. The new membrane is called the “PI@PDA@PEI/ZIF-L-4” composite membrane. Compared with the PI@PDA@PEI/ZIF-8 composite membrane, the new membrane’s filtration rates for heavy metal ions such as Cd2+, Cr3+, and Pb2+ were increased by 7.0%, 6.6%, and 9.3%, respectively. Furthermore, the new membrane has a permeability of up to 1140.0 L·m−2·h−1·bar−1, and displayed a very stable performance after four repeated uses. The separation mechanism of the PI@PDA@PEI/ZIF-L composite membrane was analyzed further in order to provide a basis to support the production of separation membranes with a high barrier rate and high flux.
What Is Psychological Spin? A Thermodynamic Framework for Emotions and Social Behavior
Authors: Deli Eva K.
Published: December 2023

One of the most puzzling questions in neuroscience is the nature of emotions and their role in consciousness. The brain’s significant energy investment in maintaining the resting state indicates its essential role as the ground state of consciousness, the source of the sense of self. Emotions, the brain’s homeostatic master regulators, continuously measure and motivate the recovery of the psychological equilibrium. Moreover, perception’s information-energy exchange with the environment gives rise to a closed thermodynamic cycle, the reversible Carnot engine. The Carnot cycle forms an exothermic process; low entropy and reversible resting state turn the focus to the past, causing regret and remorse. The endothermic reversed Carnot cycle creates a high entropy resting state with irreversible activations generating novelty and intellect. We propose that the cycle’s direction represents psychological spin, where the endothermic cycle’s energy accumulation forms up-spin, and the energy-wasting exothermic cycle represents down-spin. Psychological spin corresponds to attitude, the determining factor in cognitive function and social life. By applying the Pauli exclusion principle for consciousness, we can explain the need for personal space and the formation of hierarchical social structures and animals’ territorial needs. Improving intuition about the brain’s intelligent computations may allow new treatments for mental diseases and novel applications in robotics and artificial intelligence.
NOAA MODIS SST Reanalysis Version 1
Authors: Jonasson Olafur , Ignatov Alexander , Petrenko Boris , Pryamitsyn Victor , Kihai Yury
Published: December 2023

The first NOAA full-mission reanalysis (RAN1) of the sea surface temperature (SST) from the two Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometers (MODIS) onboard Terra (24 February 2000–present) and Aqua (4 July 2002–present) was performed. The dataset was produced using the NOAA Advanced Clear-Sky Processor for Ocean (ACSPO) enterprise SST system from Collection 6.1 brightness temperatures (BTs) in three MODIS thermal emissive bands centered at 3.7, 11, and 12 µm with a spatial resolution of 1 km at nadir. In the initial stages of reprocessing, several instabilities in the MODIS SST time series were observed. In particular, Terra SSTs and corresponding BTs showed three ‘steps’: two on 30 October 2000 and 2 July 2001 (due to changes in the MODIS operating mode) and one on 25 April 2020 (due to a change in its nominal blackbody temperature, BBT, from 290 to 285 K). Additionally, spikes up to several tenths of a kelvin were observed during the quarterly warm-up/cool-down (WUCD) exercises, when the Terra MODIS BBT was varied. Systematic gradual drifts of ~0.025 K/decade were also seen in both Aqua and Terra SSTs over their full missions due to drifting BTs. These calibration instabilities were mitigated by debiasing MODIS BTs using the time series of observed minus modeled (‘O-M’) BTs. The RAN1 dataset was evaluated via comparisons with various in situ SSTs. The data meet the NOAA specifications for accuracy (±0.2 K) and precision (0.6 K), often by a wide margin, in a clear-sky ocean domain of 19–21%. The long-term SST drift is typically less than 0.01 K/decade for all MODIS SSTs, except for the daytime ‘subskin’ SST, for which the drift is ~0.02 K/decade. The MODIS RAN1 dataset is archived at NOAA CoastWatch and updated monthly in a delayed mode with a latency of two months. Additional archival with NASA JPL PO.DAAC is being discussed.
Multi-Objective Optimization in Air-to-Air Communication System Based on Multi-Agent Deep Reinforcement Learning
Authors: Lin Shaofu , Chen Yingying , Li Shuopeng
Published: December 2023

With the advantages of real-time data processing and flexible deployment, unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV)-assisted mobile edge computing systems are widely used in both civil and military fields. However, due to limited energy, it is usually difficult for UAVs to stay in the air for long periods and to perform computational tasks. In this paper, we propose a full-duplex air-to-air communication system (A2ACS) model combining mobile edge computing and wireless power transfer technologies, aiming to effectively reduce the computational latency and energy consumption of UAVs, while ensuring that the UAVs do not interrupt the mission or leave the work area due to insufficient energy. In this system, UAVs collect energy from external air-edge energy servers (AEESs) to power onboard batteries and offload computational tasks to AEESs to reduce latency. To optimize the system’s performance and balance the four objectives, including the system throughput, the number of low-power alarms of UAVs, the total energy received by UAVs and the energy consumption of AEESs, we develop a multi-objective optimization framework. Considering that AEESs require rapid decision-making in a dynamic environment, an algorithm based on multi-agent deep deterministic policy gradient (MADDPG) is proposed, to optimize the AEESs’ service location and to control the power of energy transfer. While training, the agents learn the optimal policy given the optimization weight conditions. Furthermore, we adopt the K-means algorithm to determine the association between AEESs and UAVs to ensure fairness. Simulated experiment results show that the proposed MODDPG (multi-objective DDPG) algorithm has better performance than the baseline algorithms, such as the genetic algorithm and other deep reinforcement learning algorithms.
Improved Frequency Sweep Keying CDMA Using Faster R-CNN for Extended Ultrasonic Crosstalk Reduction
Authors: Park Ga-Rin , Park Sang-Ho , Baek Kwang-Ryul
Published: December 2023

Ultrasonic sensors are inexpensive and provide highly accurate measurements, even with simple hardware configurations, facilitating their use in various fields. When multiple ultrasonic sensors exist in the measurement space, crosstalk occurs due to other nodes, which leads to incorrect measurements. Crosstalk includes not only receiving homogeneous signals from other nodes, but also overlapping by other signals and interference by heterogeneous signals. This paper proposes using frequency sweep keying modulation to provide robustness against overlap and a faster region-based convolutional neural network (R-CNN) demodulator to reduce the interference caused by heterogeneous signals. The demodulator works by training Faster R-CNN with the spectrograms of various received signals and classifying the received signals using Faster R-CNN. Experiments implementing an ultrasonic crosstalk environment showed that, compared to on–off keying (OOK), phase-shift keying (PSK), and frequency-shift keying (FSK), the proposed method can implement CDMA even with shorter codes and is robust against overlap. Compared to correlation-based frequency sweep keying, the time-of-flight error was reduced by approximately 75%. While the existing demodulators did not consider heterogeneous signals, the proposed method ignored approximately 99% of the OOK and PSK signals and approximately 79% of the FSK signals. The proposed method performed better than the existing methods and is expected to be used in various applications.
Design of Low-Noise CMOS Image Sensor Using a Hybrid-Correlated Multiple Sampling Technique
Authors: Youn Seung Ju , Yun Su Yeon , Lee Hoyeon , Park Kwang Jin , Kim Jiwon , Kim Soo Youn
Published: December 2023

We present a 320 × 240 CMOS image sensor (CIS) using the proposed hybrid-correlated multiple sampling (HMS) technique with an adaptive dual-gain analog-to-digital converter (ADC). The proposed HMS improves the noise characteristics under low illumination by adjusting the ADC gain according to the incident light on the pixels. Depending on whether it is less than or greater than 1/4 of the full output voltage range from pixels, either correlated multiple sampling or conventional-correlated double sampling (CDS) is used with different slopes of the ramping signals. The proposed CIS achieves 11-bit resolution of the ADC using an up-down counter that controls the LSB depending on the ramping signals used. The sensor was fabricated using a 0.11 μm CIS process, and the total chip area was 2.55 mm × 4.3 mm. Compared to the conventional CDS, the measurement results showed that the maximum dark random noise was reduced by 26.7% with the proposed HMS, and the maximum figure of merit was improved by 49.1%. The total power consumption was 5.1 mW at 19 frames per second with analog, pixel, and digital supply voltages of 3.3 V, 3.3 V, and 1.5 V, respectively.
Enhanced GNSS Reliability on High-Dynamic Platforms: A Comparative Study of Multi-Frequency, Multi-Constellation Signals in Jamming Environments
Authors: Elmezayen Abdelsatar , Karaim Malek , Elghamrawy Haidy , Noureldin Aboelmagd
Published: December 2023

The global navigation satellite system (GNSS) signals are vulnerable to disruption sources, such as signal jamming. This, in turn, can cause severe degradation or discontinuities of the GNSS-based position, navigation, and timing services. The availability of multi-frequency signals from multi-constellation GNSS systems, such as Galileo and GLONASS, along with the modernization of GPS with multi-frequency signals, has the potential to increase the immunity of GNSS-based navigation systems to signal jamming. Despite various studies completed on the utilization of multi-frequency and multi-constellation global navigation satellite system (GNSS) signals to resist receiver jamming, there is still an urge to further investigate this concern under different circumstances. This paper presents an experimental evaluation of the advantages of the employment of multi-frequency multi-constellation GNSS signals for better GNSS receivers’ performance during signal jamming situations for high-dynamic platforms such as aircraft/drones. Additionally, the study examines the effects of both simulated and real jamming signals on all possible combinations of the GPS, Galileo, and GLONASS signal frequencies and constellations. Two airplane trajectory routes were built, and their corresponding RF signals were generated using the Spirent and Orolia GNSS signal simulators. The results indicated that the GPS multi-frequency-based solution maintains reliable positioning performance to some extent under low jamming scenarios. However, the combination of GPS, Galileo, and GLONASS signals proved its ability to provide a continuous and accurate positioning solution during both low and high jamming scenarios.
Decreased Visual Search Behavior in Elderly Drivers during the Early Phase of Reverse Parking, But an Increase during the Late Phase
Authors: Kim Siyeong , Kondo Ken , Noguchi Naoto , Akiyama Ryoto , Ibe Yoko , Yang Yeongae , Lee Bumsuk
Published: December 2023

The aim of this study was to assess the characteristics of visual search behavior in elderly drivers in reverse parking. Fourteen healthy elderly and fourteen expert drivers performed a perpendicular parking task. The parking process was divided into three consecutive phases (Forward, Reverse, and Straighten the wheel) and the visual search behavior was monitored using an eye tracker (Tobii Pro Glasses 2). In addition, driving-related tests and quality of life were evaluated in elderly drivers. As a result, elderly drivers had a shorter time of gaze at the vertex of the parking space both in direct vision and reflected in the driver-side mirror during the Forward and the Reverse phases. In contrast, they had increased gaze time in the passenger-side mirror in the Straighten the wheel phase. Multiple regression analysis revealed that quality of life could be predicted by the total gaze time in the Straighten the wheel phase (β = −0.45), driving attitude (β = 0.62), and driving performance (β = 0.58); the adjusted R2 value was 0.87. These observations could improve our understanding of the characteristics of visual search behavior in parking performance and how this behavior is related to quality of life in elderly drivers.
Delayed Response and Random Backoff First for Low-Power Random Access of IoT Devices with Poor Channel Conditions
Authors: Rim Minjoong
Published: December 2023

As IoT services become more active, the density of IoT devices is increasing, and massive connectivity technology is needed to support numerous devices simultaneously. In addition, IoT devices are often battery-powered, and during random access, it is necessary to reduce the power consumption to extend the lifetime of the devices. In particular, devices with poor channels need to send at a very low transmission rate through a large number of repetitions, and longer packet lengths can increase the probability of collisions, increasing the power consumption while shortening the lifetime of the IoT system. Dividing devices into groups based on the number of repetitions and allocating different resources to each group can reduce collisions for bad-channel devices, but it can be difficult to support large connections, due to the inefficient use of resources. This paper proposes schemes to reduce the collision probability of bad-channel devices while allowing IoT devices to use shared resources, instead of dividing resources by groups. There are two versions of the proposed schemes. The first method reduces collisions by delaying the response of a bad-channel device, and in the meantime, eliminating interference from other devices, assuming that the bad-channel device is not sensitive to delay. Instead of checking the response, and then, performing a random backoff when no acknowledgement packet is received, the second proposed method reverses the order of response checking and random backoff, that is, it first performs a random backoff, and then, checks the response to decide whether to retransmit. The proposed method can increase the lifetime of the IoT system by reducing the collision probability of a bad-channel device, without degrading the performance of other devices.
Inverted Molding with Porous Skeleton Nickel Foam for Preparing Flexible Multi-Wall Carbon Nanotubes Pressure Sensors
Authors: Liao Ruijie , Zhao Xuhui , Liu Mengran
Published: December 2023

The application of traditional pressure sensors in health monitoring is limited by their initial rigidity. Flexible pressure sensors have thus received extensive attention owing to their excellent device flexibility. In this paper, we demonstrate a method of constructing flexible pressure sensors by inverting porous skeleton nickel foam based on multi-wall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS). MWCNTs and PDMS were mixed to form a composite conductive film, and the mass fraction of MWCNTs was optimized by evaluating the resistance change rate of the composite film. The optimized value of the mass fraction was 5%, which was used to prepare the flexible pressure sensors. The response, hysteresis, and stability of the sensors were further characterized. Pulse signals of humans were detected through flexible sensors, which can be used to evaluate cardiovascular conditions of the human body. These performance characteristics and the application demonstration show that our flexible pressure sensors have good prospects in human health care.
The Trajectories That Remain to Be Told: Civic Participation, Immigrant Organizations, and Women’s Leadership in Portugal
Authors: Topa Joana , Cerqueira Carla
Published: December 2023

This study focuses on migrant women and their civic participation in civil society organizations and/or immigrant associations. Despite women’s migration having a long global history and being of academic interest, extensive knowledge of this situation has increased substantially in recent decades; research on the civic participation of immigrant women in Portugal is still incipient. The structural conditions affecting these women’s mobility processes remain overlooked, concealing their vulnerabilities. Additionally, success stories of migrant women, which could serve as inspirations for others, are often invisible. This exploratory research examines the role of female immigrant leaders and the demands they face in facilitating immigrants’ integration into Portuguese society. Eight qualitative interviews were conducted with diverse immigrant organizations in Portugal, advocating for immigrant rights and promoting integration through various strategies. The results reveal that migrant women’s experiences and participation in leadership roles are shaped not only by their migrant background and their qualifications but also by the difficulties they encountered upon arrival in Portugal. These leaders tend to focus on constraints, particularly regarding the organization’s sustainability, rather than emphasizing opportunities for civic participation. Nevertheless, this study also reveals that participation in IOs leads to increased autonomy and a heightened sense of empowerment for these women. It grants them a voice, visibility, and recognition both in the host society and their own communities. Overall, the study sheds light on the significance of recognizing immigrant women’s contributions and challenges, as well as the crucial role played by immigrant organizations in promoting integration and advocating for immigrants’ rights in Portugal. It also emphasizes the need for the government to financially support these organizations.
Process Monitoring Using Truncated Gamma Distribution
Authors: Ali Sajid , Rajput Shayaan , Shah Ismail , Houmani Hassan
Published: December 2023

The time-between-events idea is commonly used for monitoring high-quality processes. This study aims to monitor the increase and/or decrease in the process mean rapidly using a one-sided exponentially weighted moving average (EWMA) chart for the detection of upward or downward mean shifts using a truncated gamma distribution. The use of the truncation method helps to enhance and improve the sensitivity of the proposed chart. The performance of the proposed chart with known and estimated parameters is analyzed by using the run length properties, including the average run length (ARL) and standard deviation run length (SDRL), through extensive Monte Carlo simulation. The numerical results show that the proposed scheme is more sensitive than the existing ones. Finally, the chart is implemented in real-world situations to highlight the significance of the proposed chart.