bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Age-Related Mucus Barrier Dysfunction in Mice Is Related to the Changes in Muc2 Mucin in the Colon
Authors: Sang Xueqin , Wang Qingyu , Ning Yueyan , Wang Huihui , Zhang Rui , Li Yixuan , Fang Bing , Lv Cong , Zhang Yan , Wang Xiaoyu , Ren Fazheng
Published: April 2023

During aging, the protective function of mucus barrier is significantly reduced among which changes in colonic mucus barrier function received the most attention. Additionally, the incidence of colon-related diseases increases significantly in adulthood, posing a threat to the health of the elderly. However, the specific changes in colonic mucus barrier with aging and the underlying mechanisms have not been fully elucidated. To understand the effects of aging on the colonic mucus barrier, changes in the colonic mucus layer were evaluated in mice aged 2, 12, 18, and 24 months. Microbial invasion, thickness, and structure of colonic mucus in mice at different months of age were analyzed by in situ hybridization fluorescence staining, AB/PAS staining, and cryo-scanning electron microscopy. Results showed that the aged colon exhibited intestinal mucus barrier dys-function and altered mucus properties. During aging, microorganisms invaded the mucus layer to reach epithelial cells. Compared with young mice, the thickness of mucus layer in aged mice in-creased by 11.66 μm. And the contents of the main components and glycosylation structure of colon changed. Among them, the proportion of goblet cells decreased significantly in older mice, and the expression of spdef genes that regulate goblet cell differentiation decreased. Further, the expression of key enzymes involved in mucin core structure formation and glycan modification also changed with aging. The expression of core 1 β1,3-galactosyltransferase (C1GalT1) which is the key enzyme forming the main core structure increased by one time, while core 2 β1,6 N-acetylglucosaminyltransferase (C2GnT) and core 3 β1,3 N-acetylglucosaminyltransferase (C3GnT) decreased 2 to 6- and 2-fold, respectively. Also, the expression of sialyltransferase, one of the mucin-glycan modifying enzymes, was decreased by 1-fold. Overall, our results indicate that the goblet cells/glycosyltransferase/O-glycan axis plays an important role in maintaining the physicochemical properties of colonic mucus and the stability of intestinal environment.
How Many Diet-Related Non-Communicable Disease Deaths Could Be Averted or Delayed If Canadians Reduced Their Consumption of Calories Derived from Free Sugars Intake? A Macrosimulation Modeling Study
Authors: Flexner Nadia , Bernstein Jodi T. , Weippert Madyson V. , Labonté Marie-Ève , Christoforou Anthea K. , Ng Alena (Praneet) , L’Abbe Mary R.
Published: April 2023

Free sugars are a major source of calories in diets and contribute to the burden of many non-communicable diseases (NCDs). The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends reducing free sugars intake to less than 10% of total energy. This study aimed to estimate the number of diet-related NCD deaths which could be averted or delayed if Canadian adults were to reduce their calorie intake due to a systematic 20% reduction in the free sugars content in foods and beverages in Canada. We used the Preventable Risk Integrated ModEl (PRIME) to estimate the potential health impact. An estimated 6770 (95% UI 6184–7333) deaths due to diet-related NCDs could be averted or delayed, mostly from cardiovascular diseases (66.3%). This estimation would represent 7.5% of diet-related NCD deaths observed in 2019 in Canada. A 20% reduction in the free sugars content in foods and beverages would lead to a 3.2% reduction in calorie intake, yet an important number of diet-related NCD deaths could be averted or delayed through this strategy. Our findings can inform future policy decisions to support Canadians’ free sugars intake reduction, such as proposing target levels for the free sugars content in key food categories.
Service Users’ Perspectives on the Implementation of a Psychoeducation Group for People on the Waiting List of a Specialist ADHD Service: A Pilot Study
Authors: Gore Bethany , Omoni Frederick , Babiker Jemma , Painter Jon
Published: April 2023

In the UK, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and waits for assessment, diagnosis, and treatment are all growing problems. This study set out to gather service users’ suggestions as to how one specialist ADHD service could improve the experiences of people on their waiting list. Following a semi-structured focus group, an inductive thematic analysis of data yielded three themes: (1) support for psychoeducation in principle, (2) psychoeducation regarding the wider, holistic impact of ADHD, and (3) suggested structures and approaches, as well as (4) a set of general feedback that could inform service developments. Service users supported the notion of psychoeducation sessions to inform people on the waiting list about the wide range of potential impacts of ADHD, the most common psychiatric comorbidities, some potential coping strategies they could try, and the service they could ultimately expect to receive. Some form of one-to-one telephone support was also advocated, primarily to address their concerns about the lack of individualisation group psychoeducation could offer. The potential benefits of these suggestions combined with the low risk of adverse effects makes group psychoeducation a worthwhile waiting list initiative. However, as with any service development, it should be piloted and evaluated before being termed treatment as usual for the service.
Species Distribution and Antifungal Susceptibilities of Aspergillus Section Terrei Isolates in Clinical Samples from the United States and Description of Aspergillus pseudoalabamensis sp. nov.
Authors: Cañete-Gibas Connie F. , Patterson Hoja P. , Sanders Carmita J. , Mele James , Fan Hongxin , David Marjorie , Wiederhold Nathan P.
Published: April 2023

Aspergillus section Terrei consists of numerous cryptic species in addition to A. terreus sensu stricto. The treatment of invasive infections caused by these fungi may pose a unique challenge prior to diagnosis and species identification, in that they are often clinically resistant to amphotericin B, with poor outcomes and low survival rates in patients treated with this polyene. Data on the species distributions and susceptibility profiles of isolates within section Terrei from the United States (U.S.) are limited. Here, we report the species distributions and susceptibility profiles for amphotericin B, isavuconazole, itraconazole, posaconazole, voriconazole, and micafungin against 278 clinical isolates of this section from institutions across the U.S. collected over a 52-month period. Species identification was performed by DNA sequence analysis and phenotypic characterization. Susceptibility testing was performed using the CLSI broth microdilution method. The majority of isolates were identified as Aspergillus terreus sensu stricto (69.8%), although several other cryptic species were also identified. Most were cultured from specimens collected from the respiratory tract. Posaconazole demonstrated the most potent activity of the azoles (MIC range ≤ 0.03–1 mg/L), followed by itraconazole (≤0.03–2 mg/L), voriconazole, and isavuconazole (0.125–8 mg/L for each). Amphotericin B demonstrated reduced in vitro susceptibility against this section (MIC range 0.25–8 mg/L), although this appeared to be species-dependent. A new species within this section, A. pseudoalabamensis, is also described. Our results, which are specific to the U.S., are similar to previous surveillance studies of the Aspergillus section Terrei.
Pd(II) and Pt(II) Trinuclear Chelates with Spermidine: Selective Anticancer Activity towards TNBC-Sensitive and -Resistant to Cisplatin
Authors: Vojtek Martin , Martins Clara B. , Ramos Raquel , Duarte Sara Gomes , Ferreira Isabel M. P. L. V. O. , Batista de Carvalho Ana L. M. , Marques M. Paula M. , Diniz Carmen
Published: April 2023

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is one of the most aggressive forms of breast cancer and constitutes 10–20% of all breast cancer cases. Even though platinum-based drugs such as cisplatin and carboplatin are effective in TNBC patients, their toxicity and development of cancer drug resistance often hamper their clinical use. Hence, novel drug entities with improved tolerability and selectivity profiles, as well as the ability to surpass resistance, are needed. The current study focuses on Pd(II) and Pt(II) trinuclear chelates with spermidine (Pd3Spd2 and Pt3Spd2) for evaluating their antineoplastic activity having been assessed towards (i) cisplatin-resistant TNBC cells (MDA-MB-231/R), (ii) cisplatin-sensitive TNBC cells (MDA-MB-231) and (iii) non-cancerous human breast cells (MCF-12A, to assess the cancer selectivity/selectivity index). Additionally, the complexes’ ability to overcome acquired resistance (resistance index) was determined. This study revealed that Pd3Spd2 activity greatly exceeds that displayed by its Pt analog. In addition, Pd3Spd2 evidenced a similar antiproliferative activity in both sensitive and resistant TNBC cells (IC50 values 4.65–8.99 µM and 9.24–13.34 µM, respectively), with a resistance index lower than 2.3. Moreover, this Pd compound showed a promising selectivity index ratio: >6.28 for MDA-MB-231 cells and >4.59 for MDA-MB-231/R cells. Altogether, the data presently gathered reveal Pd3Spd2 as a new, promising metal-based anticancer agent, which should be further explored for the treatment of TNBC and its cisplatin-resistant forms.
Development of Imeglimin Electrospun Nanofibers as a Potential Buccal Antidiabetic Therapeutic Approach
Authors: Alamer Ali A. , Alsaleh Nasser B. , Aodah Alhassan H. , Alshehri Abdullah A. , Almughem Fahad A. , Alqahtani Sarah H. , Alfassam Haya A. , Tawfik Essam A.
Published: April 2023

The prevalence of type 2 diabetes (T2D) has been growing worldwide; hence, safe and effective antidiabetics are critically warranted. Recently, imeglimin, a novel tetrahydrotriazene compound, has been approved for use in T2D patients in Japan. It has shown promising glucose-lowering properties by improving pancreatic beta-cell function and peripheral insulin sensitivity. Nevertheless, it has several drawbacks, including suboptimal oral absorption and gastrointestinal (GI) discomfort. Therefore, this study aimed to fabricate a novel formulation of imeglimin loaded into electrospun nanofibers to be delivered through the buccal cavity to overcome the current GI-related adverse events and to provide a convenient route of administration. The fabricated nanofibers were characterized for diameter, drug-loading (DL), disintegration, and drug release profiles. The data demonstrated that the imeglimin nanofibers had a diameter of 361 ± 54 nm and DL of 23.5 ± 0.2 μg/mg of fibers. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) data confirmed the solid dispersion of imeglimin, favoring drug solubility, and release with improved bioavailability. The rate of drug-loaded nanofibers disintegration was recorded at 2 ± 1 s, indicating the rapid disintegration ability of this dosage form and its suitability for buccal delivery, with a complete drug release after 30 min. The findings of this study suggest that the developed imeglimin nanofibers have the potential to be given via the buccal route, thereby achieving optimal therapeutic outcomes and improving patient compliance.
Smuggling on the Nanoscale—Fusogenic Liposomes Enable Efficient RNA-Transfer with Negligible Immune Response In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Hoffmann Marco , Gerlach Sven , Takamiya Masanari , Tarazi Samar , Hersch Nils , Csiszár Agnes , Springer Ronald , Dreissen Georg , Scharr Hanno , Rastegar Sepand , Beil Tanja , Strähle Uwe , Merkel Rudolf , Hoffmann Bernd
Published: April 2023

The efficient and biocompatible transfer of nucleic acids into mammalian cells for research applications or medical purposes is a long-standing, challenging task. Viral transduction is the most efficient transfer system, but often entails high safety levels for research and potential health impairments for patients in medical applications. Lipo- or polyplexes are commonly used transfer systems but result in comparably low transfer efficiencies. Moreover, inflammatory responses caused by cytotoxic side effects were reported for these transfer methods. Often accountable for these effects are various recognition mechanisms for transferred nucleic acids. Using commercially available fusogenic liposomes (Fuse-It-mRNA), we established highly efficient and fully biocompatible transfer of RNA molecules for in vitro as well as in vivo applications. We demonstrated bypassing of endosomal uptake routes and, therefore, of pattern recognition receptors that recognize nucleic acids with high efficiency. This may underlie the observed almost complete abolishment of inflammatory cytokine responses. RNA transfer experiments into zebrafish embryos and adult animals fully confirmed the functional mechanism and the wide range of applications from single cells to organisms.
FACAM: A Fast and Accurate Clustering Analysis Method for Protein Complex Quantification in Single Molecule Localization Microscopy
Authors: Wu Cheng , Kuang Weibing , Zhou Zhiwei , Zhang Yingjun , Huang Zhen-Li
Published: April 2023

Single molecule localization microscopy (SMLM) enables the analysis and quantification of protein complexes at the nanoscale. Using clustering analysis methods, quantitative information about protein complexes (for example, the size, density, number, and the distribution of nearest neighbors) can be extracted from coordinate-based SMLM data. However, since a final super-resolution image in SMLM is usually reconstructed from point clouds that contain millions of localizations, current popular clustering methods are not fast enough to enable daily quantification on such a big dataset. Here, we provide a fast and accurate clustering analysis method called FACAM, which is modified from the Alpha Shape method (a point dataset analysis method used in many fields). By taking advantage of parallel computation, FACAM is able to process millions of localizations in less than an hour, which is at least 10 times faster than the popular DBSCAN method. Furthermore, FACAM adaptively determines the segmentation threshold, and thus overcomes the problem of user-defined parameters. Using simulation and experimental datasets, we verified the advantages of FACAM over other reported clustering methods (including Ripley’s H, DBSCAN, and ClusterViSu).
Elemental Composition and Implications on Brown Rice Flour Biofortified with Selenium
Authors: Marques Ana Coelho , Lidon Fernando C. , Coelho Ana Rita F. , Pessoa Cláudia Campos , Daccak Diana , Luís Inês Carmo , Simões Manuela , Scotti-Campos Paula , Almeida Ana Sofia , Guerra Mauro , Leitão Roberta G. , Bagulho Ana , Moreira José , Pessoa Maria F. , Legoinha Paulo , Ramalho José C. , Semedo José N. , Palha Lourenço , Silva Cátia , Silva Maria Manuela , Oliveira Karliana , Pais Isabel P. , Reboredo Fernando H.
Published: April 2023

Rice (Oryza sativa L.) is one of the most economically and socially important cereals in the world. Several strategies such as biofortification have been developed in a way eco-friendly and sustainable to enhance crop productivity. This study implemented an agronomic itinerary in Ariete and Ceres rice varieties in experimental fields using the foliar application of selenium (Se) to increase rice nutritional value. At strategic phases of the plant’s development (at the end of booting, anthesis, and at the milky grain stage), they were sprayed with sodium selenate (Na2SeO4) and sodium selenite (Na2SeO3). In the first foliar application plants were sprayed with 500 g Se·ha−1 and in the remaining two foliar applications were sprayed with 300 g Se·ha−1. The effects of Se in the level of micro and macronutrients in brown grains, the localization of Se in these grains, and the subsequent quality parameters such as colorimetric characteristics and total protein were considered. After grain harvesting, the application of selenite showed the highest enrichment in all grain with levels reaching 17.06 µg g−1 Se and 14.28 µg g−1 Se in Ariete and Ceres varieties, respectively. In the Ceres and Ariete varieties, biofortification significantly affected the K and P contents. Regarding Ca, a clear trend prevailed suggesting that Se antagonizes the uptake of it, while for the remaining elements in general (except Mn) no significant differences were noted. Protein content increased with selenite treatment in the Ariete variety but not in Ceres. Therefore, it was possible to conclude, without compromising quality, that there was an increase in the nutritional content of Se in brown rice grain.
Effects of OsRCA Overexpression on Rubisco Activation State and Photosynthesis in Maize
Authors: Feng Yujiao , Wu Hao , Liu Huanhuan , He Yonghui , Yin Zhitong
Published: April 2023

Ribulose–1,5–bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase (Rubisco) is the rate–limiting enzyme for photosynthesis. Rubisco activase (RCA) can regulate the Rubisco activation state, influencing Rubisco activity and photosynthetic rate. We obtained transgenic maize plants that overproduced rice RCA (OsRCAOE) and evaluated photosynthesis in these plants by measuring gas exchange, energy conversion efficiencies in photosystem (PS) I and PSII, and Rubisco activity and activation state. The OsRCAOE lines showed significantly higher initial Rubisco activity and activation state, net photosynthetic rate, and PSII photochemical quantum yield than wild–type plants. These results suggest that OsRCA overexpression can promote maize photosynthesis by increasing the Rubisco activation state.
Genome-Wide Analysis and Abiotic Stress-Responsive Patterns of COBRA-like Gene Family in Liriodendron chinense
Authors: Qiu Chen , Chen Jinhui , Wu Weihuang , Liao Bojun , Zheng Xueyan , Li Yong , Huang Jing , Shi Jisen , Hao Zhaodong
Published: April 2023

The COBRA gene encodes a plant-specific glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI)-anchored protein (GAP), which plays an important role in cell wall cellulose deposition. In this study, a total of 7 COBRA-like (COBL) genes were identified in the genome of the rare and endangered woody plant Liriodendron chinense (L. chinense). Phylogenetic analysis showed that these LcCOBL genes can be divided into two subfamilies, i.e., SF I and II. In the conserved motif analysis of two subfamilies, SF I contained 10 predicted motifs, while SF II contained 4–6 motifs. The tissue-specific expression patterns showed that LcCOBL5 was highly expressed in the phloem and xylem, indicating its potential role in cellulose biosynthesis. In addition, the cis-element analysis and abiotic stress transcriptomes showed that three LcCOBLs, LcCOBL3, LcCOBL4 and LcCOBL5, transcriptionally responded to abiotic stresses, including cold, drought and heat stress. In particular, the quantitative reverse-transcription PCR (qRT-PCR) analysis further confirmed that the LcCOBL3 gene was significantly upregulated in response to cold stress and peaked at 24–48 h, hinting at its potential role in the mechanism of cold resistance in L. chinense. Moreover, GFP-fused LcCOBL2, LcCOBL4 and LcCOBL5 were found to be localized in the cytomembrane. In summary, we expect these results to be beneficial for research on both the functions of LcCOBL genes and resistance breeding in L. chinense.
Preparation of a Microwave-Absorbing UV Coating Using a BaFe12O19-Polypyrrole Nanocomposite Filler
Authors: Lai Ting , Qin Wenzhen , Cao Caogui , Zhong Rong , Ling Yun , Xie Yu
Published: April 2023

BaFe12O19-polypyrrolenanocomposites were prepared via the in situ chemical oxidative polymerization of pyrrole monomers in the presence of BaFe12O19 powder, with ammonium persulfate as an oxidant and sodium dodecyl benzene sulfonate as a dopant. X-ray diffraction measurements and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy indicated that there were no chemical interactions between BaFe12O19 and polypyrrole. In addition, scanning electron microscopy showed that the composites exhibited a core–shell structure. Subsequently, the prepared nanocomposite was used as a filler to prepare a coating suitable for ultraviolet curing. The performance of the coating was investigated by evaluating its hardness, adhesion, absorbance, and resistance to acids and alkalis. Importantly, the addition of BaFe12O19-polypyrrole nanocomposites not only improved the coating hardness and adhesion but also produced a coating with a good microwave absorption performance. The results suggested that BaFe12O19/PPy composite has a lower reflection loss peak and a larger effective bandwidth at the X band when the proportion of the absorbent sample is 5–7%, when the absorption performance is the best. The reflection loss is in the range of 8.88–10.92 GHz below −10 dB.
A Three-Dimensional Analytical Solution of Stress Field in Casing-Cement-Stratum System Considering Initial Stress State
Authors: Wang Xiaoyang , Jiang Tingxue , Zhang Yayun , Zhou Jun , Xiao Hecheng , Li Wenda
Published: April 2023

Accurate stress field calculation of the casing-cement-stratum system is crucial for evaluating wellbore integrity. Previous models treated in-situ stress as boundary pressure loads, leading to unrealistic infinite displacements at infinity. This study presents a three-dimensional (3D) analytical solution for the stress field within the casing-cement-stratum system in inclined wells, considering in-situ stress and hydrostatic stress in cement as the initial stress state and taking into account stress components related to the axial direction. Assuming a plane strain condition and superimposing the in-plane plane strain problem, elastic uni-axial stress problem and anti-plane shear problem, a 3D analytical solution is obtained. Comparisons with previous models indicate that the existing model overestimates the absolute values of stress components and failure potential of casing and cement in both 2D and 3D scenarios. The presence of initial stress in cement greatly increases the absolute value of the compressive stress state but decreases the failure potential in cement, which has not been well studied. Additionally, a low Young’s modulus and high initial stress state of the cement benefits the cement’s integrity since the maximum Mises stress significantly decreases. The new 3D analytical solution can provide a benchmark for 3D numerical simulation and quick assessment for wellbore integrity.
Intelligent Diagnosis Model of Working Conditions in Variable Torque Pumping Unit Wells Based on an Electric Power Diagram
Authors: Zhang Ruichao , Chen Dechun , Lu Nu , Zhang Bo , Yang Yanjie
Published: April 2023

Because of the problems, such as the lack of an electric power diagram atlas under different working conditions and the difficulty in intelligent diagnosis of variable torqued pumping unit wells, this paper proposes a diagnosis model of working conditions based on feature recognition. The mathematical relationship model between the polished rod load and motor output power is derived based on the analysis of geometric structure, motion law, and process of energy transformation and transfer of the variable torque pumping unit. It can calculate the electric power diagram based on a dynamometer card. On this basis, the electric power diagram atlas is created, and the feature analysis and eigenvalue extraction of the electric power diagrams under different working conditions are carried out to realize the direct diagnosis of the working conditions in the variable torque pumping unit wells. The application and analysis of examples show that the electric power diagram atlas created in this paper has good practicability, and the working condition diagnosis model accuracy is high. It can provide a theoretical basis and technical support for the intelligent diagnosis of oil production working conditions and improve the intellectual management level of the oilfield, which is conducive to reducing production management costs and improving the oilfield’s production efficiency and benefits.
Monitoring and Mapping Floods and Floodable Areas in the Mekong Delta (Vietnam) Using Time-Series Sentinel-1 Images, Convolutional Neural Network, Multi-Layer Perceptron, and Random Forest
Authors: Lam Chi-Nguyen , Niculescu Simona , Bengoufa Soumia
Published: April 2023

The annual flood cycle of the Mekong Basin in Vietnam plays an important role in the hydrological balance of its delta. In this study, we explore the potential of the C-band of Sentinel-1 SAR time series dual-polarization (VV/VH) data for mapping, detecting and monitoring the flooded and flood-prone areas in the An Giang province in the Mekong Delta, especially its rice fields. Time series floodable area maps were generated from five images per month taken during the wet season (6–7 months) over two years (2019 and 2020). The methodology was based on automatic image classification through the application of Machine Learning (ML) algorithms, including convolutional neural networks (CNNs), multi-layer perceptrons (MLPs) and random forests (RFs). Based on the segmentation technique, a three-level classification algorithm was developed to generate maps of the development of floods and floodable areas during the wet season. A modification of the backscatter intensity was noted for both polarizations, in accordance with the evolution of the phenology of the rice fields. The results show that the CNN-based methods can produce more reliable maps (99%) compared to the MLP and RF (97%). Indeed, in the classification process, feature extraction based on segmentation and CNNs has demonstrated an effective improvement in prediction performance of land use land cover (LULC) classes, deriving complex decision boundaries between flooded and non-flooded areas. The results show that between 53% and 58% of rice paddies areas and 9% and 14% of built-up areas are affected by the flooding in 2019 and 2020 respectively. Our methodology and results could support the development of the flood monitoring database and hazard management in the Mekong Delta.
The Study of the Lithospheric Magnetic Field over Xinjiang and Tibet Areas Based on Ground, Airborne, and Satellite Data
Authors: Feng Yan , Nasir Abbas , Li Yijun , Zhang Jinyuan , Zhang Jiaxuan , Huang Ya
Published: April 2023

Combined with the ground, airborne, and CHAMP satellite data, the lithospheric field over Xinjiang and Tibet is modeled through the three-dimensional Surface Spline (3DSS) model, Regional Spherical Harmonic Analysis (RSHA) model, and CHAOS-7.11 model. Then, we compare the results with the original measuring data, NGDC720, LCS-1, and the newest SHA model with the degree to 1000 (SHA1000). Moreover, the error estimation and the geological analysis are carried out, and we investigate the possible correspondence between the lithospheric field and the surface heat flow. The results show that the 3DSS model can better describe the detailed distribution of the lithospheric field after comparing it with other models. Some new features are reflected, particularly in the areas of Southern Xinjiang and Tibet, such as a positive anomaly stripe in the southwest, its neighboring Tashkurgan–Hotan–Cele–Minfeng–Qiemo–Ruoqiang belt, and the middle edge of the Kunlun Mountains. The stripe, in terms of rock composition, has a shallow magnetic field source and is related to magnetic intrusions; the lithospheric field in Tibet is weak. Additionally, when the heat flow distribution is compared to our results, there is a good consistency between a positive stripe of heat flow and a positive stripe of the lithospheric field in southern Tibet. The large heat flow values may be related to the shallow Curie surface, which shows that demagnetization is happening close to the surface. However, more of a ferromagnetic mineral, Titanium magnetite, is found there.
Estimation of Root-Zone Soil Moisture in Semi-Arid Areas Based on Remotely Sensed Data
Authors: Guo Xiaomeng , Fang Xiuqin , Zhu Qiuan , Jiang Shanhu , Tian Jia , Tian Qingjiu , Jin Jiaxin
Published: April 2023

Soil moisture (SM) is a bridge between the atmosphere, vegetation and soil, and its dynamics reflect the energy exchange and transformation between the three. Among SM at different soil profiles, root zone soil moisture (RZSM) plays a significant role in vegetation growth. Therefore, reliable estimation of RZSM at the regional scale is of great importance for drought warning, agricultural yield estimation, forest fire monitoring, etc. Many satellite products provide surface soil moisture (SSM) at the thin top layer of the soil, approximately 2 cm from the surface. However, the acquisition of RZSM at the regional scale is still a tough issue to solve, especially in the semi-arid areas with a lack of in situ observations. Linking the dynamics of SSM and RZSM is promising to solve this issue. The soil moisture analytical relationship (SMAR) model can relate RZSM to SSM based on a simplified soil water balance equation, which is suitable for the simulation of soil moisture mechanisms in semi-arid areas. In this study, the Xiliaohe River Basin is the study area. The SMAR model at the pixels where in situ sites were located is established, and parameters (a, b, sw2, sc1) at these pixels are calibrated by a genetic algorithm (GA). Then the spatial parameters are estimated by the random forest (RF) regression method with the soil, meteorological and vegetation characteristics of the study area as explanatory variables. In addition, the importance of soil, climatic and vegetation characteristics for predicting SMAR parameters is analyzed. Finally, the spatial RZSM in the Xiliaohe River Basin is estimated by the SMAR model at the regional scale with the predicted spatial parameters, and the variation of the regional SMAR model performance is discussed. A comparison of estimated RZSM and in-situ RZSM showed that the SMAR model at the point and regional scales can both meet the RMSE benchmark from NASA of 0.06 cm3·cm−3, indicating that the method this study proposed could effectively estimate RZSM in semi-arid areas based on remotely sensed SSM data.
Extracting Mare-like Cryptomare Deposits in Cryptomare Regions Based on CE-2 MRM Data Using SVM Method
Authors: Tang Tianqi , Meng Zhiguo , Lian Yi , Wei Zhaoran , Dong Xuegang , Wang Yongzhi , Wang Mingchang , Cai Zhanchuan , Zhang Xiaoping , Gusev Alexander , Zhang Yuanzhi
Published: April 2023

A new kind of surface material is found and defined in the Balmer–Kapteyn (B-K) cryptomare region, Mare-like cryptomare deposits (MCD), representing highland debris mixed by mare deposits with a certain fraction. This postulates the presence of surface materials in the cryptomare regions. In this study, to objectively verify the existence of the MCD in the cryptomare regions, based on the Chang’E-2 microwave radiometer (MRM) data, the support vector machine (SVM) method was adopted, where the K-means algorithm was used to optimize the training samples and the random forest algorithm was used to select the proper band features. Finally, the extracted MCD is identified with the datasets including Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter Wide Angle Camera, Diviner, and Clementine UV–VIS. The main findings are as follows: (1) Compared to the range outlined via the TB counter, the range of the MCD is objectively extracted using the SVM method in the B-K cryptomare region, which is reasonably indicated by the FeO abundance, TiO2 abundance, and rock abundance distributions. (2) The MCDs were extracted in the Dewar, Lomonosov–Fleming (L-F), and Schiller–Schickard (S-S) regions, indicating that the MCDs are widely distributed in the cryptomaria. (3) The presence of MCDs is concentrated in a limited region, accounting for 64.9%, 52.3%, 76.4%, and 64%, respectively, in the range of Dewar, L-F, S-S, and B-K regions identified using the optical data. The occurrence of the MCD gives a new understanding of the surface evolution in the cryptomare regions.
A Systematic Review of International Affective Picture System (IAPS) around the World
Authors: Branco Diogo , Gonçalves Óscar F. , Badia Sergi Bermúdez i
Published: April 2023

Standardized Emotion Elicitation Databases (SEEDs) allow studying emotions in laboratory settings by replicating real-life emotions in a controlled environment. The International Affective Pictures System (IAPS), containing 1182 coloured images as stimuli, is arguably the most popular SEED. Since its introduction, multiple countries and cultures have validated this SEED, making its adoption on the study of emotion a worldwide success. For this review, 69 studies were included. Results focus on the discussion of validation processes by combining self-report and physiological data (Skin Conductance Level, Heart Rate Variability and Electroencephalography) and self-report only. Cross-age, cross-cultural and sex differences are discussed. Overall, IAPS is a robust instrument for emotion elicitation around the world.
Screening for Major Depressive Disorder Using a Wearable Ultra-Short-Term HRV Monitor and Signal Quality Indices
Authors: Sato Shohei , Hiratsuka Takuma , Hasegawa Kenya , Watanabe Keisuke , Obara Yusuke , Kariya Nobutoshi , Shinba Toshikazu , Matsui Takemi
Published: April 2023

To encourage potential major depressive disorder (MDD) patients to attend diagnostic sessions, we developed a novel MDD screening system based on sleep-induced autonomic nervous responses. The proposed method only requires a wristwatch device to be worn for 24 h. We evaluated heart rate variability (HRV) via wrist photoplethysmography (PPG). However, previous studies have indicated that HRV measurements obtained using wearable devices are susceptible to motion artifacts. We propose a novel method to improve screening accuracy by removing unreliable HRV data (identified on the basis of signal quality indices (SQIs) obtained by PPG sensors). The proposed algorithm enables real-time calculation of signal quality indices in the frequency domain (SQI-FD). A clinical study conducted at Maynds Tower Mental Clinic enrolled 40 MDD patients (mean age, 37.5 ± 8.8 years) diagnosed on the basis of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, and 29 healthy volunteers (mean age, 31.9 ± 13.0 years). Acceleration data were used to identify sleep states, and a linear classification model was trained and tested using HRV and pulse rate data. Ten-fold cross-validation showed a sensitivity of 87.3% (80.3% without SQI-FD data) and specificity of 84.0% (73.3% without SQI-FD data). Thus, SQI-FD drastically improved sensitivity and specificity.
TRD-YOLO: A Real-Time, High-Performance Small Traffic Sign Detection Algorithm
Authors: Chu Jinqi , Zhang Chuang , Yan Mengmeng , Zhang Haichao , Ge Tao
Published: April 2023

Traffic sign detection is an important part of environment-aware technology and has great potential in the field of intelligent transportation. In recent years, deep learning has been widely used in the field of traffic sign detection, achieving excellent performance. Due to the complex traffic environment, recognizing and detecting traffic signs is still a challenging project. In this paper, a model with global feature extraction capabilities and a multi-branch lightweight detection head is proposed to increase the detection accuracy of small traffic signs. First, a global feature extraction module is proposed to enhance the ability of extracting features and capturing the correlation within the features through self-attention mechanism. Second, a new, lightweight parallel decoupled detection head is proposed to suppress redundant features and separate the output of the regression task from the classification task. Finally, we employ a series of data enhancements to enrich the context of the dataset and improve the robustness of the network. We conducted a large number of experiments to verify the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm. The accuracy of the proposed algorithm is 86.3%, the recall is 82.1%, the mAP@0.5 is 86.5% and the mAP@0.5:0.95 is 65.6% in TT100K dataset, while the number of frames transmitted per second is stable at 73, which meets the requirement of real-time detection.
An Improved Magnetic Field Method to Locate the Grounding Conductor
Authors: Yang Fan , Liu Songlin , Lai Yijun , Hu Jiayuan , Wang Shaohua
Published: April 2023

The location of the grounding grid conductors is critical for performing corrosion diagnosis and maintenance work. An improved magnetic field differential method to locate the unknown grounding grid based on truncation errors and the round-off errors analysis is presented in this paper. It was proven that a different order of the magnetic field derivative can be used to determine the position of the grounding conductor according to the peak value of the derivative. Due to the accumulative error of higher differentiation, the truncation error and rounding error were used to analyze to accumulative error and to determine the optimal step size to measure and calculate the higher differentiation. The possible range and probability distribution of the two kinds of errors at each order are described, and the index of peak position error was derived, which can be used to locate the grounding conductor in the power substation.
Analyzing Sociodemographic Factors Influencing Citizen Participation: The Case of Infrastructure Planning in Khon Kaen, Thailand
Authors: Panyavaranant Peeranun , Lai Nguyen Thi Phuoc , San Santoso Djoen , Nitivattananon Vilas , Tsusaka Takuji W.
Published: April 2023

While public participation (PP) is a legal requirement for mega projects in most countries, some PP processes are perceived as the ceremonial fulfilment of obligations without the adequate involvement of citizens. However, limited empirical studies have explored the individual factors of PP in infrastructural development. To bridge this knowledge gap, this study investigated the sociodemographic factors influencing citizen participation in the light rail transit (LRT) project in Khon Kaen, Thailand by using sequential mixed methods to quantify and gain an in-depth understanding of citizen participation. Proportionate stratified random sampling was employed to select 505 respondents for the survey with a semi-structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were applied to elaborate the respondents’ participation level (non-participation, tokenism, and citizen power), while multinomial logistic regression (MLR) was used to analyze seven sociodemographic attributes potentially associated with the participation categories. The results showed that the majority (67%) of the respondents participated at the medium level of participation (tokenism). The MLR analysis revealed that residential location, age, occupation, and income had significant effects on the likelihood of participation at a high (citizen power) level. Meanwhile, age and occupation had significant effects on medium participation behavior (tokenism). The findings shed light on how PP can potentially be enhanced through sociodemographic targeting when designing citizen involvement in infrastructure planning.
Diverse Social Mobility Trajectories: Portrait of Children of New Immigrants in Taiwan
Authors: Tsou Tzung-Ruei
Published: April 2023

The present study examines the social mobility trajectories of children of new immigrants (those who have at least one new immigrant parent) in early adulthood (between the ages of 18 and 40) in Taiwan. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and online surveys. The findings demonstrate that there is no significant difference between the participating children of new immigrants and the general population in higher education attendance rate and annual income. Family socioeconomic status appears to be a significant factor in shaping their social mobility trajectories. Participants with a stable family financial situation are generally more advantaged, as seven out of eleven of them have graduated from a reputable university and have well-paid jobs. Nonetheless, there are some participants from a disadvantaged family background who have achieved upward mobility because their parents hold a positive attitude toward education and have found ways to support their education. There are other factors that have helped them overcome barriers posed by their family backgrounds such as supportive people, non-governmental organizations, and government policy. Although ethnic identity is trivial in this process generally, it is salient in certain situations thanks to relevant policy programs. The government’s recent emphasis on Southeast Asian languages and cultures and policy programs targeting children of new immigrants have made more choices available to them, which can be observed from their diverse social mobility trajectories.
Linking Sustainability-Driven Factors and Online Knowledge Sharing in Business: A PLS-SEM Analysis
Authors: Pînzaru Florina , Dobrescu Paul , Vițelar Alexandra , Moldoveanu Ion , Săniuță Adina
Published: April 2023

Over time, the concept of sustainable development may transform into a business practice that mandates organizations to contemplate the interconnectedness between economic, social, and environmental factors. For organizations to grow in a competitive market, they should adopt cohesive policies founded on reliable sustainability strategies and combine this with efficient knowledge sharing. This approach supports an organization’s growth and enhances its social reputation. That is, these elements may be considered important for an organization’s growth in a competitive market. Building upon this context, we used structural equation modeling (SEM) to examine the structural correlations between organizational sustainability policies, supplier sustainability, online knowledge sharing, and external factors that encourage sustainable practices. This study’s originality and novelty lie in its proposal of a conceptual model that connects all these factors within a coherent framework, thus extending the existing literature on this topic. Our results confirm that external factors have a positive relationship with sustainability policies and that sustainability policies positively impact supplier sustainability and online knowledge sharing. We emphasize the importance of considering internal and external factors when implementing sustainable procedures and the need for authentic communication with stakeholders to integrate sustainable practices successfully. The findings can assist managers in comprehending the factors that impact a company’s sustainability strategies and in adapting policies to address environmental and social concerns.
Flume Experiments and Numerical Simulation of a Barge Collision with a Bridge Pier Based on Fluid–Structure Interaction
Authors: Yao Changrong , Zhao Shida , Liu Qiaochao , Liu Dong , Qiang Bin , Li Yadong
Published: April 2023

Bridges across waterways are susceptible to failure from ship collisions. Therefore, to provide a reference for bridge design and protection, reported here is a study of the response of a bridge pier during a collision with a barge. First, sphere–cylinder collision experiments were conducted in a water flume, and the fluid–structure interaction (FSI) method was implemented in the LS-DYNA software to simulate the collision process. The numerical and experimental values of the peak impact force agreed within 10%, thereby validating the FSI method for simulating the sphere–cylinder collision. Next, the FSI method was used to simulate the barge–pier collision process, in which the effects of barge mass, speed, collision angle, and location were considered. The simulated collision results of impact force, crush depth of barge bow, and displacement are summarized and discussed in detail. Unlike the constant added mass (CAM) method, the FSI method considers fluid–structure coupling and reproduces the collision phenomena whereby the barge stops upon collision and then goes into reverse. The water then propels the barge forward to collide with the pier repeatedly. Therefore, the FSI method is more effective for simulating barge–pier collisions.
A Systematic Review of the Role of Land Use, Transport, and Energy-Environment Integration in Shaping Sustainable Cities
Authors: Alipour Dorsa , Dia Hussein
Published: April 2023

Land use, transport, and energy-environment integration (LUTEI) is receiving considerable attention as an elaborate approach to improving urban resilience. Research evidence on this multidisciplinary topic tends to be fragmented, hindering constructive analysis of its role in shaping sustainable cities. This paper addresses this by undertaking a holistic systematic review to consolidate diverse perspectives. The analysis of 195 reviewed papers identified four main clusters of knowledge that include methodological approaches, policy instruments, urban design elements, and impacts of interventions. The analysis revealed that a growing body of literature is increasingly focused on improving accessibility planning, transit-oriented development, and policy integration to achieve sustainable and healthy transport as a vital element of resilience in cities. The review found, however, that the integration of environment and energy into land use and transport models is still at a nascent stage of development and has largely been overlooked in traditional LUTI models. This can lead to unreliable assessments of the impacts of low-carbon mobility solutions, emerging green transport technologies, and long-term changes in energy consumption affecting sustainable mobility futures. This paper concludes by connecting LUTEI dimensions to the UN’s sustainable development goals (SDG), outlining future directions to ignite meaningful research on the topic and providing a transparent path for decision-makers to adopt LUTEI-informed planning.
Exploring the Characteristics of Green Travel and the Satisfaction It Provides in Cities Located in Cold Regions of China: An Empirical Study in Heilongjiang Province
Authors: Zhang Wenhui , Chen Hao , Zhou Hongzhuo , Wu Changhang , Song Ziwen
Published: April 2023

Green travel can decrease energy consumption and air pollution. Many cities in China have implemented measures encouraging residents to take public transport, ride bicycles, or walk. However, non-green travel is still popular in some northern cities due to prolonged cold weather. In order to understand the characteristics of green travel and its use by urban residents in Heilongjiang Province, a typically cold region, this study conducted traffic surveys in 13 cities in Heilongjiang Province. Through investigation and calculation of the data, we obtained key indicators such as the share rate of motorized travel for public transit and the satisfaction derived from green travel. According to the results of the data analysis, green energy buses are becoming increasingly popular in most cities in Heilongjiang Province. However, green travel infrastructure has failed to be updated on time, resulting in low satisfaction with travel in some cities, especially in terms of the waiting environment in winter. Results indicate the level of exploration and development of green transportation resources significantly differed across cities in Heilongjiang Province. By implementing targeted policies such as developing NEBs, obsoleting TEBs and old NEBs, and optimizing the bus network, old industrial cities can be reinvigorated. This will support governmental decisions and contribute to reducing carbon emissions.