bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High-Spatial-Resolution Dynamic Strain Measurement Based on Brillouin Optical Correlation-Domain Sensors
Authors: Wang Yahui , Chen Jing , Ma Jinglian , Niu Lintao , Zhang Mingjiang
Published: November 2023

Brillouin-scattering-based sensors have been widely applied in distributed temperature or strain measurement in recent 20 years. Brillouin optical correlation-domain technology has extensive development and application prospects because of its millimeter-level spatial resolution, distribution measurement, and high accuracy. Traditional Brillouin-scattering-based sensors, requiring a time-consuming frequency-sweep process, struggle to achieve dynamic strain measurement. In this article, Brillouin optical correlation-domain analysis and reflectometry based on fast-sweep frequency and slope-assisted methods will be reviewed. The main merits, drawbacks, and performances of these schemes are compared, and the avenues for future research and development of these two technologies are also explored.
Post-Transcriptional Gene Silencing of Glucanase Inhibitor Protein in Phytophthora cinnamomi
Authors: Ferreira Patrick , Chahed Abdessalem , Estevinho Letícia M. , Seixas Natália , Costa Rodrigo , Choupina Altino
Published: November 2023

Ink disease is considered one of the most significant causes contributing to the decline of chestnut orchards. The reduced yield of Castanea sativa Mill can be attributed to two main species: Phytophthora cinnamomi and Phytophthora cambivora, with the first being the main pathogen responsible for ink disease in Portugal. P. cinnamomi is a highly aggressive and widely distributed plant pathogen, capable of infecting nearly 1000 host species. This oomycete causes substantial economic losses and is accountable for the decline of numerous plant species in Europe and worldwide. To date, no effective treatments are available to combat these pathogens. Given chestnut’s economic and ecological significance, particularly in Portugal, it is crucial to investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying the interaction between Phytophthora species and host plants. This can be achieved through the study of the glucanase inhibitor protein (GIP) produced by P. cinnamomi during infection. The technique of RNA interference (RNAi) was employed to suppress the GIP gene of P. cinnamomi. The resulting transformants, carrying the silenced gene, were used to infect C. sativa, allowing for the assessment of the effects of gene silencing on the plant’s phenotype. Additionally, bioinformatics tools predicted the secretion of GIP protein. The obtained results validate RNAi as a potential alternative tool for studying molecular factors and for controlling and managing P. cinnamomi.
Using Mediterranean Native Plants for the Phytoremediation of Mining Sites: An Overview of the Past and Present, and Perspectives for the Future
Authors: Boi Maria Enrica , Fois Mauro , Podda Lina , Porceddu Marco , Bacchetta Gianluigi
Published: November 2023

Mining exploitation in the Mediterranean Basin has left evident scars on the environment, and poses serious risks for human health and biodiversity, especially when mine wastes are left abandoned. This review analysed the main issues of metal(loid)s pollution related to mine exploitation in the Mediterranean Basin. Here, a list of Mediterranean native plant species studied for phytoremediation is given and, considering their biological forms, vegetational types, and ecology, we categorised them into halotolerant and hydro/hygrophilous vegetation, annual and perennial meadows, garrigues and maquis, and high maquis and woods. The main conclusions of the review are as follows: (1) plant communities established on mine environments are often rich in endemic taxa which ensure a high biodiversity and landscape value, and can help in the psychophysical health of local inhabitants; (2) political and land management should take greater account of the use of native plants for the remediation of contaminated soils; (3) a multidisciplinary approach that includes, among others, studies on biochemical response to metal(loid)s as well as the application of innovative soil amendments gives better results; (4) phytoextraction applications require a detailed recovery plan that takes into consideration several issues, including the negative influence on biodiversity due to extensive use of monotypic plantations, disposal of harvested hazardous plants, and the risk of phytoextracts entering the food chain; and (5) more studies are necessary to increase knowledge and to detect suitable species—especially halophytic ones—for phytoremediation purposes.
Plant Adaptation to Flooding Stress under Changing Climate Conditions: Ongoing Breakthroughs and Future Challenges
Authors: Aslam Amna , Mahmood Athar , Ur-Rehman Hafeez , Li Cunwu , Liang Xuewen , Shao Jinhua , Negm Sally , Moustafa Mahmoud , Aamer Muhammad , Hassan Muhammad Umair
Published: November 2023

Climate-change-induced variations in temperature and rainfall patterns are a serious threat across the globe. Flooding is the foremost challenge to agricultural productivity, and it is believed to become more intense under a changing climate. Flooding is a serious form of stress that significantly reduces crop yields, and future climatic anomalies are predicted to make the problem even worse in many areas of the world. To cope with the prevailing flooding stress, plants have developed different morphological and anatomical adaptations in their roots, aerenchyma cells, and leaves. Therefore, researchers are paying more attention to identifying developed and adopted molecular-based plant mechanisms with the objective of obtaining flooding-resistant cultivars. In this review, we discuss the various physiological, anatomical, and morphological adaptations (aerenchyma cells, ROL barriers (redial O2 loss), and adventitious roots) and the phytohormonal regulation in plants under flooding stress. This review comprises ongoing innovations and strategies to mitigate flooding stress, and it also provides new insights into how this knowledge can be used to improve productivity in the scenario of a rapidly changing climate and increasing flood intensity.
Resistant or Susceptible? How Central European Oat (A. sativa L.) Cultivars React to B. graminis f. sp. avenae Infection
Authors: Cieplak Magdalena , Okoń Sylwia
Published: November 2023

In accordance with the postulates of integrated plant protection, the use of cultivars with genetically determined resistance is one of the main strategies for preventing losses caused by fungal pathogens. The development of breeding programs aimed at increasing resistance to pathogens should be preceded by a characterization of the resistance of cultivars grown in a given area. This allows us to determine the number of genes used in breeding and their effectiveness. It also allows us to estimate the pressure that the pathogen may exert on varieties with specific resistance genes. The presented work aimed to determine the level of resistance of oat varieties currently cultivated in Central Europe and the number of effective powdery mildew resistance genes currently used in oat breeding programs. The research showed that out of 46 varieties, only 5 were resistant to powdery mildew. Analysis of the infection profiles allowed us to postulate the presence of the Pm7 gene in four of them. In the Merlin variety from the Czech Republic, it was not possible to determine which of the previously described genes determines resistance to powdery mildew. Due to the observed climate changes and the rapid adaptation of pathogens to new environmental conditions, it is crucial to introduce a wider pool of genes that determine the pathogen resistance of cultivars.
Calcium-Dependent Protein Kinase 5 (OsCPK5) Overexpression in Upland Rice (Oryza sativa L.) under Water Deficit
Authors: da Cruz Thaís Ignez , Rocha Dhiôvanna Corrêia , Lanna Anna Cristina , Dedicova Beata , Vianello Rosana Pereira , Brondani Claudio
Published: November 2023

Water deficit significantly affects global crop growth and productivity, particularly in water-limited environments, such as upland rice cultivation, reducing grain yield. Plants activate various defense mechanisms during water deficit, involving numerous genes and complex metabolic pathways. Exploring homologous genes that are linked to enhanced drought tolerance through the use of genomic data from model organisms can aid in the functional validation of target species. We evaluated the upland rice OsCPK5 gene, an A. thaliana AtCPK6 homolog, by overexpressing it in the BRSMG Curinga cultivar. Transformants were assessed using a semi-automated phenotyping platform under two irrigation conditions: regular watering, and water deficit applied 79 days after seeding, lasting 14 days, followed by irrigation at 80% field capacity. The physiological data and leaf samples were collected at reproductive stages R3, R6, and R8. The genetically modified (GM) plants consistently exhibited higher OsCPK5 gene expression levels across stages, peaking during grain filling, and displayed reduced stomatal conductance and photosynthetic rate and increased water-use efficiency compared to non-GM (NGM) plants under drought. The GM plants also exhibited a higher filled grain percentage under both irrigation conditions. Their drought susceptibility index was 0.9 times lower than that of NGM plants, and they maintained a higher chlorophyll a/b index, indicating sustained photosynthesis. The NGM plants under water deficit exhibited more leaf senescence, while the OsCPK5-overexpressing plants retained their green leaves. Overall, OsCPK5 overexpression induced diverse drought tolerance mechanisms, indicating the potential for future development of more drought-tolerant rice cultivars.
Potential Impacts of Certain N2-Fixing Bacterial Strains and Mineral N Doses for Enhancing the Growth and Productivity of Maize Plants
Authors: Shalaby Moustafa , Elbagory Mohssen , EL-Khateeb Nagwa , Mehesen Ahlam , EL-Sheshtawy Omaima , Elsakhawy Tamer , Omara Alaa El-Dein
Published: November 2023

The enhancing effect of N2-fixing bacterial strains in the presence of mineral N doses on maize plants in pots and field trials was investigated. The OT-H1 of 10 isolates maintained the total nitrogen, nitrogenase activities, IAA production, and detection of NH3 in their cultures. In addition, they highly promoted the germination of maize grains in plastic bags compared to the remainder. Therefore, OT-H1 was subjected for identification and selected for further tests. Based on their morphological, cultural, and biochemical traits, they belonged to the genera Azotobacter. The genomic sequences of 16S rRNA were, thus, used to confirm the identification of the genera. Accordingly, the indexes of tree and similarity for the related bacterial species indicated that genera were exactly closely linked to Azotoacter salinestris strain OR512393. In pot (35 days) and field (120 days) trials, the efficiencies of both A. salinestris and Azospirillum oryzea SWERI 111 (sole/dual) with 100, 75, 50, and 25% mineral N doses were evaluated with completely randomized experimental design and three repetitions. Results indicated that N2-fixing bacteria in the presence of mineral N treatment showed pronounced effects compared to controls. A high value of maize plants was also noticed through increasing the concentration of mineral N and peaked at a dose of 100%. Differences among N2-fixing bacteria were insignificant and were observed for A. oryzea with different mineral N doses. Thus, the utilization of A. oryzea and A. salinestris in their dual mix in the presence of 75 followed by 50% mineral N was found to be the superior treatments, causing the enhancement of vegetative growth and grain yield parameters of maize plants. Additionally, proline and the enzyme activities of both polyphenol oxidase (PPO) and peroxidase (PO) of maize leaves were induced, and high protein contents of maize grains were accumulated due to the superior treatments. The utilization of such N2-fixing bacteria was, therefore, found to be effective at improving soil fertility and to be an environmentally safe strategy instead, or at least with low doses, of chemical fertilizers.
Comparison of the Efficiency of Hyperspectral and Pulse Amplitude Modulation Imaging Methods in Pre-Symptomatic Virus Detection in Tobacco Plants
Authors: Grishina Alyona , Sherstneva Oksana , Zhavoronkova Anna , Ageyeva Maria , Zdobnova Tatiana , Lysov Maxim , Brilkina Anna , Vodeneev Vladimir
Published: November 2023

Early detection of pathogens can significantly reduce yield losses and improve the quality of agricultural products. This study compares the efficiency of hyperspectral (HS) imaging and pulse amplitude modulation (PAM) fluorometry to detect pathogens in plants. Reflectance spectra, normalized indices, and fluorescence parameters were studied in healthy and infected areas of leaves. Potato virus X with GFP fluorescent protein was used to assess the spread of infection throughout the plant. The study found that infection increased the reflectance of leaves in certain wavelength ranges. Analysis of the normalized reflectance indices (NRIs) revealed indices that were sensitive and insensitive to infection. NRI700/850 was optimal for virus detection; significant differences were detected on the 4th day after the virus arrived in the leaf. Maximum (Fv/Fm) and effective quantum yields of photosystem II (ΦPSII) and non-photochemical fluorescence quenching (NPQ) were almost unchanged at the early stage of infection. ΦPSII and NPQ in the transition state (a short time after actinic light was switched on) showed high sensitivity to infection. The higher sensitivity of PAM compared to HS imaging may be due to the possibility of assessing the physiological changes earlier than changes in leaf structure.
The Impact of Post-Fire Smoke on Plant Communities: A Global Approach
Authors: Zahed Mahboube , Bączek-Kwinta Renata
Published: November 2023

Smoke is one of the fire-related cues that can alter vegetation communities’ compositions, by promoting or excluding different plant species. For over 30 years, smoke-derived compounds have been a hot topic in plant and crop physiology. Research in this field was initiated in fire-prone areas in Australia, South Africa and some countries of both Americas, mostly with Mediterranean-type climates. Then, research extended to regions with moderate climates, like Central European countries; this was sometimes determined by the fact that in those regions, extensive prescribed or illegal burning (swailing) occurs. Hence, this review updates information about the effects of smoke compounds on plant kingdoms in different regions. It also focuses on research advances in the field of the physiological effects of smoke chemicals, mostly karrikins, and attempts to gather and summarize the current state of research and opinions on the roles of such compounds in plants’ lives. We finish our review by discussing major research gaps, which include issues such as why plants that occur in non-fire-prone areas respond to smoke chemicals. Have recent climate change and human activities increased the risk of wildfires, and how may these affect local plant communities through physiologically active smoke compounds? Is the response of seeds to smoke and smoke compounds an evolutionarily driven trait that allows plants to adapt to the environment? What can we learn by examining post-fire smoke on a large scale?
Indonesian Euphorbiaceae: Ethnobotanical Survey, In Vitro Antibacterial, Antitumour Screening and Phytochemical Analysis of Euphorbia atoto
Authors: Wirasisya Dyke Gita , Kincses Annamária , Vidács Lívia , Szemerédi Nikoletta , Spengler Gabriella , Barta Anita , Mertha I Gde , Hohmann Judit
Published: November 2023

Indonesia is among the countries with the most significant biodiversity globally. Jamu, the traditional medicine of Indonesia, predominantly uses herbal materials and is an integral component of the Indonesian healthcare system. The present study reviewed the ethnobotanical data of seven Indonesian Euphorbiaceae species, namely Euphorbia atoto, E. hypericifolia, Homalanthus giganteus, Macaranga tanarius, Mallotus mollissimus, M. rufidulus, and Shirakiopsis indica, based on the RISTOJA database and other literature sources. An antimicrobial screening of the plant extracts was performed in 15 microorganisms using the disk diffusion and broth microdilution methods, and the antiproliferative effects were examined in drug-sensitive Colo 205 and resistant Colo 320 cells by the MTT assay. The antimicrobial testing showed a high potency of M. tanarius, H. giganteus, M. rufidulus, S. indica, and E. atoto extracts (MIC = 12.5–500 µg/mL) against different bacteria. In the antitumour screening, remarkable activities (IC50 0.23–2.60 µg/mL) were demonstrated for the extracts of H. giganteus, M. rufidulus, S. indica, and E. atoto against Colo 205 cells. The n-hexane extract of E. atoto, with an IC50 value of 0.24 ± 0.06 µg/mL (Colo 205), was subjected to multistep chromatographic separation, and 24-methylene-cycloartan-3β-ol, jolkinolide E, tetra-tert-butyl-diphenyl ether, α-tocopherol, and β-sitosterol were isolated.
Production of Phenolic Compounds and Antioxidant Activity in Hairy Root Cultures of Salvia plebeia
Authors: Choi Minsol , Yoon Jiwon , Yang So Hwi , Kim Jae Kwang , Park Sang Un
Published: November 2023

Salvia plebeia (Lamiaceae) is a medicinal plant containing diverse bioactive constituents that have biological properties. In this study, we determined the optimal conditions (media and auxin) for the hairy root culture of S. plebeia for the growth and accumulation of phenolic compounds and evaluated its antioxidant activities. Rosmarinic acid and five phenylpropanoids were detected using high-performance liquid chromatography. The hairy roots grown in 1/2 SH medium with 1 mg/L NAA had a high level of rosmarinic acid content. Hairy roots cultured in 1 mg/L NAA had the highest total content of five phenylpropanoids. Compared to wild-type roots grown in the field, hairy roots (NAA 1) expressed similar levels of rosmarinic acid but significantly enhanced phenylpropanoid accumulation. Furthermore, the total phenolic content and total flavonoid content of hairy roots (NAA 1) were 2.22 and 1.73 times higher than those of wild-type roots. In the results of DPPH, ABTS, and reducing power assays, the hairy roots (NAA 1) showed higher free radical scavenging effects and reduction potential than the wild-type roots. These results suggest that S. plebeia hairy roots cultured under optimal conditions, which exhibit enhanced phenolic compound accumulation and antioxidant activity, can potentially be used as sources of antioxidants.
Recent Challenges and Trends of Polyhydroxyalkanoate Production by Extremophilic Bacteria Using Renewable Feedstocks
Authors: Możejko-Ciesielska Justyna , Ray Subhasree , Sankhyan Shivangi
Published: November 2023

Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) are biodegradable polymers with immense potential in addressing the global plastic pollution crisis and advancing sustainable bioplastics production. Among the various microbes known for PHA production, extremophilic bacteria possess unique capabilities to thrive under extreme conditions, making them attractive candidates for PHA synthesis. Furthermore, the utilization of renewable feedstocks for PHA production aligns with the growing demand for sustainable bioplastic alternatives. A diverse range of extremophilic bacteria, especially halophiles and thermophiles, has provided cost-competitive platforms for producing customized PHA polymers. Extremophilic bacteria offer unique advantages over mesophiles due to their contamination resistance, high cell density growth, and unique culture conditions. The current status of Halomonas spp. as a chassis further allows exploration of metabolic engineering approaches to overcome the challenges associated with current industrial biotechnology. This article especially focuses on extremophilic bacteria and explores recent advances in utilizing renewable feedstocks such as lignocellulosic biomass, agro-industrial residues, and waste streams for PHA production. The integration of biorefinery concepts and circular economy principles in PHA manufacturing is also examined. This review is an attempt to provide an understanding of renewable substrates as feedstocks and emerging trends in PHA production by extremophilic bacteria. It underscores the pivotal role of extremophiles and sustainable feedstock sources in advancing the feasibility and eco-friendliness of PHAs as a promising biopolymer alternative.
Modifications of Phase Morphology, Physical Properties, and Burning Anti-Dripping Performance of Compatibilized Poly(butylene succinate)/High-Density Polyethylene Blend by Adding Nanofillers
Authors: Behera Kartik , Tsai Chien-Hsing , Chang Yen-Hsiang , Chiu Fang-Chyou
Published: November 2023

A twin-screw extruder was used to fabricate poly(butylene succinate) (PBS)/high-density polyethylene (HDPE) blends (7:3 weight ratio) and blend-based nanocomposites. Carbon nanotubes (CNTs), graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs), and organoclays (15A and 30B) served as the nanofiller, while maleated HDPE (PEgMA) acted as an efficient compatibilizer for the blend. In the composites, individual nanofillers were mostly localized in HDPE domains, but some fillers were also observed at PBS–HDPE interfaces. The sea–island morphology of the compatibilized blend evolved into a pseudo-co-continuous morphology in the composites. Differential scanning calorimetry results confirmed that PEgMA with HDPE evidently accelerated the crystallization of PBS in the blend. The possible nucleation effect of added fillers on PBS crystallization was obscured by the formation of quasi-connected HDPE domains, causing fewer PBS nucleation sites. The presence of nanofillers improved the thermal stability and burning anti-dripping behavior of the parent blend. The anti-dripping efficiency of added fillers followed the sequence CNT > 15A > 30B > GNP. The rigidity of the blend was increased after the formation of nanocomposites. In particular, adding GNP resulted in 19% and 31% increases in the Young’s modulus and flexural modulus, respectively. The development of a pseudo-network structure in the composites was confirmed by measurement of rheological properties. The electrical resistivity of the blend was reduced by more than six orders of magnitude at 3 phr CNT loading, demonstrating the achievement of double percolation morphology.
Evaluation of the Addition of Humicola Grisea Cellulase to Broiler Chicken Rations for a 21-Day Period
Authors: Souza Dênia Oliveira de , Ulhoa Cirano José , Silva Weslane Justina da , Rodrigues Denise Russi , Bonifácio Nadielli Pereira , Santos Fabiana Ramos dos , Silva Fabiano Guimarães , Minafra Cibele Silva
Published: November 2023

This study aimed to evaluate the addition of liquid cellulose, produced by Humicola grisea, in 21-day-old broiler chickens’ diets. The treatments comprised control rations of corn and soybean meal and rations to which 500 mL/t and 1000 mL/t of cellulase were added. A total of 180 male broiler chickens were used, distributed in a completely randomized design, with three treatments and six replicates. Broiler chicken performance was monitored during the period from 1 to 21 days old. Significant effects were detected for digestibility only between four and seven days old, when a reduced dry matter nitrogen intake was recorded, and for nitrogen digestibility in the broilers fed cellulase-supplemented rations at a dose of 1000 m/L. Among the analyzed digestive organs, only the biometrics of the large intestine were affected significantly at seven days old. The absolute weights of the liver and pancreas and the activities of amylase, alkaline phosphatase, and transaminases were not affected significantly, indicating that cellulase did not affect the metabolism of these organs. No significant effect was detected in the serum for electrolytes, total protein, or alkaline phosphatase. So, the addition of liquid cellulase produced by Humicola grisea did not affect performance and metabolism in 21-day-old broiler chickens.
Effects of Metabolizable Energy Intake and Body-Weight Restriction on Layer Pullets: 1-Growth, Uniformity, and Efficiency
Authors: Noetzold Thiago L. , Chew Jo Ann , Korver Douglas R. , Kwakkel René P. , Star Laura , Zuidhof Martin J.
Published: November 2023

This study aimed to determine the effects of dietary energy and body-weight (BW) restriction on layer pullets’ growth, uniformity, and feed efficiency. Two experiments were conducted using a precision feeding (PF) system (Experiment 1) and a conventional feeding (CON) system (Experiment 2). Experiment 1 consisted of a 2 × 4 factorial arrangement (eight treatments) with two feed allocation (FA) levels: meal every visit (MEV) or restricted to the lower boundary of Lohmann Brown-Lite pullets; and three dietary metabolizable energy (ME) levels: Low, Standard (Std), and High (2600, 2800, and 3000 kcal/kg, respectively); the fourth treatment enabled birds to choose from the three diets (Choice). Experiment 2 consisted of a 2 × 3 factorial arrangement (six treatments): two FA levels (ad libitum or restricted) and three dietary ME levels (Low, Std, and High). In each experiment, BW, coefficient of variation (CV), average daily feed intake (ADFI), average daily metabolizable energy intake (MEI), and feed conversion ratio (FCR) were recorded. Diet ADFI preferences and feeding motivation were determined only in the PF experiment. ANOVA was conducted on each experiment with the two main effects as fixed factors (FA and dietary ME), and age or period as the sources of variation. Differences were reported at p ≤ 0.05. MEV (PF experiment) and ad libitum-fed (CON experiment) pullets had greater BW compared to restricted-fed pullets (p < 0.05). The lowest CV was observed in the restricted-fed pullets from the PF experiment (p < 0.05). ADFI was greater in pullets fed the Low ME diet in the PF experiment compared to all the other groups, and the lower the dietary ME, the greater the ADFI in the CON experiment (p < 0.05). Choice-feeding pullets preferred feed with greater ME content in the PF experiment (p < 0.05). The lower the dietary ME, the greater the FCR in the CON experiment (p < 0.05). Restricted-fed pullets had greater daily visits, and lower daily meals, meal size, and successful visits to the PF system (p < 0.05). In conclusion, the results of this trial indicated that lower dietary ME increased FCR and ADFI, whereas feed restriction decreased BW and increased feeding motivation. Future steps after this trial will include examining the effects of dietary energy and feed restriction on carcass composition and sexual maturation.
Analysis of the Effects of Surfactants on Extracellular Polymeric Substances
Authors: Zhang Hongyu , Zheng Xuecheng , Lai Dongmin
Published: November 2023

Reservoirs after chemical flooding usually have residual chemicals, which can affect the driving effect of subsequent microbial drives. Among them, the effect of surfactants on the metabolites of oil-recovering bacteria is the most obvious. Therefore, this paper investigates the influence mechanism of sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) on the nature and structure of Extracellular Polymeric Substances (EPS) produced by metabolism of Enterobacter cloacae, through a variety of characterization to analysis the components and structure of EPS under SDS stress. The results showed that Enterobacter cloacae was identified as a glycolipid-producing strain, the main components of EPS were polysaccharides and proteins. The polysaccharide composition (%: w/w) was glucosamine, 37.2; glucose, 31.5; rhamnose, 26.3; xylose, 1.7; and unidentified sugar, 3.3; and the main component of proteins was polyglutamic acid. EPS under the stress of SDS showed an increase in the content of functional groups such as -C=O and -COOH and an increase in the cellular particle size, and production of EPS increased by 10.69 × 103 mg/L when the SDS concentration was 2.5 × 102 mg/L; 3D-EEM results showed that the components of all three types of EPS The 3D-EEM results showed that all three types of EPS fractions contained tryptophan and protein-like substances, humic acid-like substances were only distributed in the solubilized extracellular polymers (SL-EPS), and aromatic proteins were only present in the loosely bound type (LB-EPS) and tightly bound type (TB-EPS). In addition, the peaks representing humic-like substances showed a blue shift, indicating that SDS had the greatest effect on SL-EPS. This study provides a guidance for refining the mechanism of strain EPS response to reservoir residual surfactant SDS, and provides a more comprehensive and in-depth understanding of surfactant-protein interactions.
Total Organic Carbon Logging Evaluation of Shale Hydrocarbon Source Rocks in the Shan 1 Section of the Sulige Gas Field, Ordos Basin, China
Authors: Wang Tong , Xu Bo , Song Ting , Chen Yatong , Deng Liangguang , Du Hongmei
Published: November 2023

The mass fraction of total organic carbon (TOC) is one of the key indicators for evaluating the hydrocarbon generation potential of shale source rocks. Experimental measurements to evaluate the TOC content require significant cost and time. Furthermore, the experimental data are often fragmented and may not provide an accurate depiction of the source rocks throughout the entire block. To solve the above problems, this paper proposes to use the combination of conventional logging data and experimental data after an in-depth study of the geophysical characteristics of hydrocarbon source rocks in the Ordos Basin. A quantitative model between logging data and source rocks is established, and then the continuous distribution value of the TOC content in the hydrocarbon source rock interval is calculated. Firstly, the mud shale formation of the Permian–Shanxi Formation in the Upper Paleozoic, located in the Jingbian area of the Ordos Basin, is selected as the research target using the “Jinqiang method”. The model is constructed by selecting appropriate logging curves (acoustic time difference logging, resistivity logging, and density logging) and experimental results based on the response relationship between logging data and TOC data. This method provides more accurate and comprehensive data for source rock studies, combining experimental sampling to contribute to a better evaluation of TOC in source rock. The shale hydrocarbon source rock logging data from 10 wells are selected, and the model is used to realize the full-well section of the logging data to find the hydrocarbon source rock TOC, which is compared with the TOC data from the experimental core tested at a sampling point. The results demonstrate that the model is highly effective and accurate, with a mere 2.7% percentage error observed across 185 sample data points. This method greatly improves the accuracy and completeness of TOC evaluation compared with the results of previous studies and provides a guide for subsequent TOC logging evaluation of source rocks in other areas. With the study in this paper, continuous TOC values of source rocks are obtained, discarding the TOC values representing the whole set of hydrocarbon source rocks with a limited number of sample averages. This method can reflect the contribution of the layers with high and low organic matter abundance, and the calculated reserves are more accurate. By utilizing the measured TOC values of the study area to invert the model to find the parameters, this study contributes to the decision-making of hydrocarbon exploration in domestic and international basins.
Data-Driven Investigation of Inflation Concerns Caused by COVID-19 Pandemic in the U.S.
Authors: Zhang Cheng , Tang Joanna , Jiang Ethan , Chen Willa , Guo Anthony , Huang Zuyi
Published: November 2023

While the end of the COVID-19 pandemic was declared in May 2023, it is necessary to analyze data collected by the Household Pulse Survey (HPS) to understand Americans’ perceptions of inflation during the COVID-19 pandemic. A total of 574,265 samples were analyzed with ANOVA, Tukey’s Multiple Comparison tests, and dominance analysis to explore disparities in expense difficulty across various demographic and socioeconomic groups. Results revealed significant racial disparities, with Black individuals facing the most challenges, followed by mixed-race, White, and Asian respondents. Transgender individuals encountered the highest hurdles among genders. Separated individuals experienced the most financial challenges based on marital status, while renters struggled more than homeowners regarding property status. Geographical variances revealed that the District of Columbia experienced the simplest challenges while Mississippi faced the most difficult ones. Dominance analysis highlighted household income and education levels as pivotal factors and indicated an inverse correlation between total household income and expense difficulty among low-income households. Disparities arose when oil and gas prices decreased, while the difficulty of paying full energy bills did not follow that trend. The most substantial discrepancy was observed between people’s difficulty with expenses and CPI data, which implied questions about the accuracy of CPI in reflecting consumer trends. Future research that considers additional variables would be helpful to gain a more comprehensive understanding of individuals’ perceptions of inflation during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Chastity in Temperance’s Images
Authors: Montesinos Castañeda María
Published: November 2023

Ancient thinking conceived Temperance as the enemy of pleasures and excesses, mainly bodily pleasures. This idea was the source of Temperance’s depictions in the Middle Ages. Attributes such as the torch and jug, castle, tower, bit, salamander, ermine, or the presence of Cupid accompany Temperance’s personification as controlling elements of bodily pleasures. The combinations of attributes relative to chastity give rise to two different iconographic types. These iconographic types translate theoretical considerations about this virtue visually.
The Growth, Decline, and Transformation of the Diaconal Ministry and the Role of Women Deaconesses in the Early Churches
Authors: Kim Eunha
Published: November 2023

The objective of this article is to restore the credibility of the church within society by reestablishing its public role. Through the study of the lives and activities of women ministers in early Christianity, the research reveals that early Christianity initially granted equal authority to the ministries of diakonia (service to society) and the ministry of the Word, but gradually diminished the role of diakonia while stripping women of their status and authority. Therefore, to fully reinstate the genuine spirit of Christ, it is emphasized that the Korean church must regain the church’s public presence and recover the spirit of Jesus within the scattered congregations that currently exist.
Dual-Quaternion-Based SLERP MPC Local Controller for Safe Self-Driving of Robotic Wheelchairs
Authors: Wang Daifeng , Cao Wenjing , Takanishi Atsuo
Published: November 2023

In this work, the motion control of a robotic wheelchair to achieve safe and intelligent movement in an unknown scenario is proposed. The primary objective is to develop a comprehensive framework for a robotic wheelchair that combines a global path planner and a model predictive control (MPC) local controller. The A* algorithm is employed to generate a global path. To ensure safe and directional motion for the wheelchair user, an MPC local controller is implemented taking into account the via points generated by an approach combined with dual quaternions and spherical linear interpolation (SLERP). Dual quaternions are utilized for their simultaneous handling of rotation and translation, while SLERP enables smooth and continuous rotation interpolation by generating intermediate orientations between two specified orientations. The integration of these two methods optimizes navigation performance. The system is built on the Robot Operating System (ROS), with an electric wheelchair equipped with 3D-LiDAR serving as the hardware foundation. The experimental results reveal the effectiveness of the proposed method and demonstrate the ability of the robotic wheelchair to move safely from the initial position to the destination. This work contributes to the development of effective motion control for robotic wheelchairs, focusing on safety and improving the user experience when navigating in unknown environments.
Glacial Lake Outburst Flood Monitoring and Modeling through Integrating Multiple Remote Sensing Methods and HEC-RAS
Authors: Yang Liye , Lu Zhong , Ouyang Chaojun , Zhao Chaoying , Hu Xie , Zhang Qin
Published: November 2023

The Shishapangma region, situated in the middle of the Himalayas, is rich in glacial lakes and glaciers. Hence, glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs) have become a top priority because of the severe threat posed by GLOFs to the downstream settlements. This study presents a comprehensive analysis of GLOF hazards using multi-source remote sensing datasets and designs a flood model considering the different breaching depths and release volumes for the Galong Co region. Based on high-resolution optical images, we derived the expanding lake area and volume of glacial lakes. We monitored deformation velocity and long-term deformation time series around the lake dam with Small BAseline Subset Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (SBAS-InSAR). The glacier thinning trend was obtained from the difference in the Digital Elevation Model (DEM). We identified potential avalanche sources by combining topographic slope and measurable deformation. We then carried out flood modeling under three different scenarios using the hydrodynamic model HEC-RAS for Galong Co, which is formed upstream of Nyalam. The results show that the Nyalam region is exposed to high-intensity GLOFs in all scenarios. The larger breaching depth and release volumes caused a greater flow depth and peak discharge. Overall, the multiple remote sensing approaches can be applied to other glacial lakes, and the modeling can be used as a basis for GLOF mitigation.
The Impact and Correction of Sensitive Environmental Factors on Spectral Reflectance Measured In Situ
Authors: Zhao Huijie , Wang Ziwei , Jia Guorui , Tian Jia , Jin Shuliang , Liang Shuneng , Liu Yumeng
Published: November 2023

The spectral reflectance measured in situ is often regarded as the “truth” of objects, which plays an important role in Earth observation applications. However, in situ measurements are influenced by several factors such as atmospheric conditions, illumination and view geometry (I&VG), cloud coverage, and adjacency effects. In order to avoid the influence of these factors, in situ measurements are usually carried out under sunny days and close to noon. However, the impact of I&VG is still present in most cases. At present, people still know little about the influence mechanism of I&VG. Moreover, correcting the impact of I&VG is also a problem that needs to be urgently solved in reflectance spectroscopy. In this work, experiments are carried out using the multi-directional hyperspectral remote sensing simulation facility (MHSRS2F), which allows adjustment and control of the I&VG parameters. This paper proposes an uncertainty evaluation model for I&VG and quantifies the uncertainty caused by different I&VG parameters. Then, the sensitivity of reflectance to I&VG at different wavelengths is explored based on uncertainty models. Finally, a correction model for reflectance under different I&VG conditions is proposed. The results reveal that the uncertainty and sensitivity caused by observation height are relatively high, regardless of the surface heterogeneity. It directly affects the size of the field of view and the physicochemical characteristics of the object. For objects that approximate the Lambertian surface, more attention should be paid to the selection and variation of solar and view zenith angles and view azimuth angles. For objects with surface heterogeneity, the selection and variation of solar azimuth angle, view azimuth angle, and solar zenith angle are more crucial. The correction model proposed in this paper has a 41.25% correction effect on different view zenith angles, but the correction effect on other environmental factors is not significant.
On-Board Geometric Rectification for Micro-Satellite Based on Lightweight Feature Database
Authors: Wang Linhui , Xiang Yuming , Wang Zhenzhou , You Hongjian , Hu Yuxin
Published: November 2023

On-board processing is increasingly prevalent due to its efficient utilization of satellite resources. Among these resources, geometric rectification can significantly enhance positioning accuracy for subsequent tasks, such as object detection. This approach mitigates the heavy burden on downlink bandwidth and minimizes time delays by transmitting targeted patches rather than raw data. However, existing rectification methods are often unsuitable due to the limitations and conditions imposed on satellites. Factors like hardware quality, heat dissipation, storage space, and geographic positioning are frequently constrained and prone to inaccuracies. This paper proposes a novel on-board rectification method. The method introduces a two-step matching framework to address substantial positioning errors and incorporates a feature-compression strategy to reduce the storage space of reference patches. Quantitative and practical experiments demonstrate the method’s efficacy in terms of storage space, time efficiency, and geometric rectification accuracy.
An Adaptive Learning Approach for Tropical Cyclone Intensity Correction
Authors: Chen Rui , Toumi Ralf , Shi Xinjie , Wang Xiang , Duan Yao , Zhang Weimin
Published: November 2023

Tropical cyclones (TCs) are dangerous weather events; accurate monitoring and forecasting can provide significant early warning to reduce loss of life and property. However, the study of tropical cyclone intensity remains challenging, both in terms of theory and forecasting. ERA5 reanalysis is a benchmark data set for tropical cyclone studies, yet the maximum wind speed error is very large (68 kts) and is still 19 kts after simple linear correction, even in the better sampled North Atlantic. Here, we develop an adaptive learning approach to correct the intensity in the ERA5 reanalysis, by optimising the inputs to overcome the problems caused by the poor data quality and updating the features to improve the generalisability of the deep learning-based model. Specifically, we use understanding of TC properties to increase the representativeness of the inputs so that the general features can be learned with deep neural networks in the sample space, and then use domain adaptation to update the general features from the known domain with historical storms to the specific features for the unknown domain of new storms. This approach can reduce the error to only 6 kts which is within the uncertainty of the best track data in the international best track archive for climate stewardship (IBTrACS) in the North Atlantic. The method may have wide applicability, such as when extending it to the correction of intensity estimation from satellite imagery and intensity prediction from dynamical models.
A Review of Selected Applications of GNSS CORS and Related Experiences at the University of Palermo (Italy)
Authors: Pipitone Claudia , Maltese Antonino , Lo Brutto Mauro , Dardanelli Gino
Published: November 2023

Services from the Continuously Operating Reference Stations (CORS) of the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) provide data and insights to a range of research areas such as physical sciences, engineering, earth and planetary sciences, computer science, and environmental science. Even though these fields are varied, they are all linked through the GNSS operational application. GNSS CORS have historically been deployed for three-dimensional positioning but also for the establishment of local and global reference systems and the measurement of ionospheric and tropospheric errors. In addition to these studies, CORS is uncovering new, emerging scientific applications. These include real-time monitoring of land subsidence via network real-time kinematics (NRTK) or precise point positioning (PPP), structural health monitoring (SHM), earthquake and volcanology monitoring, GNSS reflectometry (GNSS-R) for mapping soil moisture content, precision farming with affordable receivers, and zenith total delay to aid hydrology and meteorology. The flexibility of CORS infrastructure and services has paved the way for new research areas. The aim of this study is to present a curated selection of scientific papers on prevalent topics such as network monitoring, reference frames, and structure monitoring (like dams), along with an evaluation of CORS performance. Concurrently, it reports on the scientific endeavours undertaken by the Geomatics Research Group at the University of Palermo in the realm of GNSS CORS over the past 15 years.
Attention-Assisted Feature Comparison and Feature Enhancement for Class-Agnostic Counting
Authors: Dong Liang , Yu Yian , Zhang Di , Huo Yan
Published: November 2023

In this study, we address the class-agnostic counting (CAC) challenge, aiming to count instances in a query image, using just a few exemplars. Recent research has shifted towards few-shot counting (FSC), which involves counting previously unseen object classes. We present ACECount, an FSC framework that combines attention mechanisms and convolutional neural networks (CNNs). ACECount identifies query image–exemplar similarities, using cross-attention mechanisms, enhances feature representations with a feature attention module, and employs a multi-scale regression head, to handle scale variations in CAC. ACECount’s experiments on the FSC-147 dataset exhibited the expected performance. ACECount achieved a reduction of 0.3 in the mean absolute error (MAE) on the validation set and a reduction of 0.26 on the test set of FSC-147, compared to previous methods. Notably, ACECount also demonstrated convincing performance in class-specific counting (CSC) tasks. Evaluation on crowd and vehicle counting datasets revealed that ACECount surpasses FSC algorithms like GMN, FamNet, SAFECount, LOCA, and SPDCN, in terms of performance. These results highlight the robust dataset generalization capabilities of our proposed algorithm.